A Primer to Hand Sewing: 17 Lessons for Beginners

We’ve all heard about how difficult it is to master sewing. Sewing with hands can prove a challenge initially. That’s why we’ve made this article a hand-sewing tutorial for beginners.

No matter if you’re new to sewing or have completed a few projects in your repertoire We’re sure you’ll discover something you’ve never tried here.

The basic hand sewing classes according to the order you’ll attempt the techniques. The first nine tips are the most fundamental ones that will help you choose your thread and how to pull it through the needle. The following eight lessons cover different kinds of stitches that you can perform using your hands. No machine necessary! Therefore let’s start from the beginning.

Lesson #1: Choosing the Thread

A majority of people’s first sewing tasks are patching holes in their clothes or bags. Since we’ll be working on these kinds of projects, to start with, we’ll have to choose the appropriate thread for the fabric we’re working with.

In most cases polyester or cotton threads be a perfect choice for any kind of mending or sewing that we have to carry out. Although it’s the most widely used fabric, it’s not the strongest thread you can use. Nylon makes for a more durable thread, and that’s exactly the kind of thread you’ll need to sew leather, like.

However in the case of blankets, it’s not a good idea to use nylon. It’s much better to choose wool thread. Of course, our fabric should be considered when choosing the thread.

There’s also an infinite assortment of colors to choose from, including invisible nylon thread as well as metallic colors. We recommend to match the thread’s color to the predominant hue of the fabric at the very least, when you’re starting out. If a match colour isn’t available it is possible to go one or two shades more dark. Once you’ve learned to sew straight stitches then you can switch to sewing using contrast thread.

The last thing you need to be aware of about thread will be the amount of length that you’ll require. If you’re making repairs to a small tear you’ll need around 10 inches longer in length than what the tear is. But if the material is thicker, such as corduroy, it’s possible to increase the length. In the end, the thread will weave through the fabric and you’ll have to leave a little to tie the stitch by knotting it.

Lesson #2: Choosing a Hand Sewing Needles

Once you’ve identified the best thread to complete your work, the following step you’ll need to consider will be the right needle. Hand sewing is actually a lot greater control over machine stitching than hand sewing. This is the reason when it comes down to needles, we have nearly the same amount of choices like we did when choosing thread!

But, before we inform you more about hand sewing needles we’ll discuss how they differ from sewing machine needles. In reality, hand sewing needles are well-known and you shouldn’t have any trouble in recognizing them. They are both narrow and long with the point at one side as well as the eyes of needles on the opposite. Contrarily sewing machine needles have the eye and point on one side and the mechanism for attachment which is integrated into the machine on the opposite side.

Anyone who is just beginning should have a variety of hand sewing tools on the hand. hand sewing needles are available in different dimensions and points, or more precisely, lengths and levels in clarity. They also come with different sizes of eyes. Therefore, if you’ve faced a number of issues threading needles previously it’s possible to pick ones with big eyes.

Additionally you can also find self-threading needles available for those who find threading difficult. After our next class, we’ll be able to thread needles exactly like professional.

Lesson #3: Threading a Hand Sewing Needle

After you’ve picked the best needle and the right thread to use then you’ll need to understand what to do to get it threaded. In the beginning, the thread should not exceed 2 feet as it’s likely to tangle when you work. If you’ve taken the proper measurements of a length, you’ll be able to get straight in the process of threading. There are some tried and tested methods you’ll use frequently.

Inserting the thread into your needle’s eye requires solid hands as well as a keen and sharp eye. It is recommended to keep the needle with firmness between the thumb and the pointer of one hand, with the eye pointed towards you. However it is important to grip the thread as close to the point in the longest length is possible.

In this stage it is important to ensure that the thread isn’t stretched at all ends. This will make it harder to get it through the eye. Fraying is the reason you should cut your thread using scissors, not ripping or tearing it off of the spool.

Utilizing a sharp-cutting tool will ensure that your thread has sharp ends and also. If you notice some fraying, you can moisten your thread (most people do this by licking it, however, you could dip it into water if you like). Then, you can roll the wet end between your fingers to form a round end which is easily able to slip into the needle’s eye.

If all of this seems like too too much it is possible to make use of needle threaders. The small metal wire will be threaded through the majority of the eyes on the majority of needles. Whatever way you choose when you have the thread through you can take it out and secure it by knotting it.

Lesson #4: Thimbles

You’ve got the thread inside your needle and your fabric in your standby. All you have to do is to pull the fabric. If you’re new to sewing and want to practice the lessons today on the scraps of fabric that you aren’t interested in. If you’re tempted to get right into the stitching, we recommend caution as your fingers could be too soft for the task.

Anyone who has never done any sewing using their hands before may find it challenging to get used to the process. It’s not because of complicated stitches, however -You’ll discover that the stitches are simple enough to perform. Instead, it’s their hands which aren’t able to handle the stress. If the needle as well as the fabric are thicker it is possible that you’ll be applying more force than your fingers can handle. If that is the scenario, we suggest using the Thimble.

Contrary to what many believe We don’t utilize thimbles for the hand that’s taking the needle, or under the fabric. In fact, we need them to safeguard the finger pushing the needle into one side of the. Most likely, it will occur on the middle fingers of the dominant hand. If you are inclined to push using fingers on your index, then you’ll put the thimble on the index finger.

However, many people feel that the traditional thimbles made of metal restrict their control over their fabrics. There are a variety of different types available today. You can purchase one with a cap or an open-top one, or an elastic plastic one. Some quilters use leather thimbles which cover their entire finger.

It is crucial to get the thimble you use to be loose to your finger. There’s many sizes available. When you’re shopping, it is important to know your personal way of sewing.

Lesson #5: How to Baste

Before using any stitch that is real it is necessary to understand how to join the pieces of fabric. We refer to this loose temporarily stitch “basting,” although you can also use pins to achieve the same effect.

If you don’t wish to deal with pins, there’s nothing simpler than straight baste stitches. Let us explain it in the most simple terms that we can. Let’s say you’re creating an easy shirt and you need to stitch a seam on the side. It’s best to take two pieces of fabric –both the front and back , and set the two pieces against one another with their facings outwards to the inside. Like always, you’ll need stitch inside-out.

After you’ve aligned your parts of the fabric you are able to thread a needle in any color thread you want. In fact, you can even choose a contrast one to be able to see clearly the baste. Begin by placing the needle approximately half an inch towards the border of the material begin weaving the needle upwards and downwards in a zigzag pattern. This doesn’t have to be perfect or dense stitch. It is, however, it does need to be sufficiently tight to keep the fabric in place exactly where you want you want it.

Once you’ve baste your fabric after which you can stitch the seam on the side without worry about creating an unsymmetrical shirt.

Lesson #6: How to Sew on a Shank Button

After sewing, attaching buttons can be the popular kind of sewing project that novices have to tackle. The most commonly used kinds of buttons you’ll be dealing with are shank button as well as flat ones.

These are the kinds of button with an elongated top and a stem that is fitted with an opening in the middle beneath. If you’ve ever had the pleasure of seeing one, you’ll be able to tell the difference between these kinds of buttons and the flat ones. For instance, shank buttons do not have holes at the top, but rather beneath the part that is visible button.

When sewing buttonslike, say for example, on a blouseyou’ll require your area marked appropriately with markers that are water-soluble. Once you’ve threaded your needle with approximately 8 inches worth of doubled thread it’s time to start. In the beginning, you’ll need take a little bit of fabric right there using the needle. Then take it and pull it all way to the point where the knot you’ve tied at the end is snared by the fabric. This is the point where you can trim any thread that is left following the knot using tiny scissors.

After you’ve sifted across the material, push the needle through the hole of the button. Then, bring your needle back to where the knot of your thread is, and then pull it through the same area till the button sits completely flush with the material. Continue to pass it through the holes of the button, before passing it through the fabric underneath it several times.

If you are satisfied with the result If you’re satisfied with the results, take the thread and pull it through one more time, without tightening it. Take your needle and slide across the fabric loop that haven’t tightened. The knot will then be formed that secures the button however you may do it again to ensure your safety.

Lesson #7: How To Sew on a Flat Button

The most common button is the flat button that may have four or two holes at the top. You’ll also need 8 inches worth of doubled thread (so 16 inches total) and tie knots at the end. The needle should be poked through a small piece of fabric around your desired location and then draw the thread in until it reaches the knot. You may also trim any thread left over after you tie the knot.

Then, move the needle upwards from the bottom of the button, and then into holes on the other face of the button. If your button is equipped with more than four holes in it, swap the holes to create an X. After pushing down on the button, it will identify the exact area in the fabric. Pull the thread until the button is pulled against the fabric.

In this stage there are many who prefer to use a toothpick to cover the button, in between the two holes, in order to make sure there’s a little space after they’re completed. In the end, you’ll need to be able pull your button out of the hole and place it against the fabric’s top layer.

Continue pulling it through fabric up through the top of one hole and out through the second hole. After you’ve done this enough times, you’ll be able to pull your needle into the cloth another time, but without passing into the button. The thread will be wound counterclockwise beneath the button several times, then remove the toothpick and then go on to wind the thread a few more times. This will help you maintain that distance in between your button and fabric.

Then, move the needle through the fabric, then up to form an elongated loop. With the thread not pulled tightly, pull the needle down once more, and tie it into knots.

Lesson #8: How to Sew a Basic Fabric Yo-Yo

The process of making a fabric yoyo is not just fun and simple to create, but could also be a fantastic and distinctive accessory.

Pick any lightweight or rag fabric that you have and thread your needle using any shade of thread. We suggest using fabrics with fun patterns as you’ll be able put the result on an elastic headband or use it for decoration for your home. Lay the fabric flat (iron in the event of need) and then use the glass or a hoop for an arc pattern. But, remember that the finished yo-yos will be about half as large as the circle you’ve chosen to use.

Place the glass’s rim on the fabric and trace around it using an ink-soluble marker. Cut the outline and put it on the floor before you. The thread you choose should be slightly longer than the diameter of the circle, and soft enough to be able to pull it on. We suggest you use nylon or polyester thread.

Create a running stitch using that same up and down motion that we employ for basting, to all the corners of your circle. Continue folding the edge inward and stitching, but keep in mind that the longer the stitch you stitch, the better you’ll be able close your yo-yo. Once you’ve stitched the entire circle, remove the needle and thread and pull the yo’yo closed. Put your fingers against the middle of your Yo-yo to flatten it out and form it into a shape.

After that, you’ll be able to make a few stitch to tie the center knot, then take the thread off. If you’d like to use an yo-yo made of fabric for decoration, you can stack yo-yos in different dimensions on top of each the other and add decorative buttons on top of them.

Lesson #9: Knotting the End of the Thread

The method you use to knot your thread after you’ve completed a stitch can alter the entire piece. There aren’t any rules in the law regarding your final knots, some methods are more noticeable as opposed to others.

If you’re working on double threads you can tie it off by cutting off the thread from the needle and knotting the two threads several times. Make sure to place it over the fabric, and it isn’t possible for the knot to pass through it.

However If you’re working on a single thread, you’ll need connect it to it. Wrap the thread around itself, then secure the thread at the point where it emerged from the cloth. When your thread is tightened the knot will remain close to the fabric, exactly where you want it to be.

You can also make a loop instead of knotting it like you would do with buttons. The thread should be passed through the fabric, without tightening it to the fullest extent you can, then slide the needle into the loop, and make sure you tighten it. Cut off the tail and you’re finished.

Basic Hand Stitches for Beginners

We’re now on to the fun stuff! We’ve compiled a selection of the most beautiful and useful stitches that beginners can learn effortlessly. So , without further delay, let’s dive right into it!

Lesson #10: Running Stitch

If you’ve been working on your basting, you’re a step closer to mastering the run-stitch. It is by far the simplest sewing technique you can acquire.

The only difference between basting and run stitch lies in the fact that it is more controlled. The goal is to make every stitch exactly the same length using exactly the same amount of material.

In addition, you’ll remain in the same upward and downward weaving motion using the needle. It’s possible to do some running stitches simultaneously by weaving your needle through the fabric, without stopping to make sure the thread is tightened. While you’re working with the sewing you’ll notice the fact that even stitches as simple as running stitch can be beautiful when done by an experienced and committed sewist.

Lesson #11: Slip Stitch

Slip stitching also known as blind stitch is a valuable hand-sewing skill. When it’s done correctly it’s intended to be invisible, which makes it the perfect choice for concealing hems.

Although the slip stitch could appear to be a bit like witchcraft when you first see it being done, it’s more simple than it seems. It’s best to start having two fabrics that have already folded hems, pressed using their faces.

Thread your needle through the fabric, making sure the knot is located on the side of the seam. After that, you’ll cross over onto another fabric piece and push the needle through the hem. The two sports are expected to be joined at the end of the process and therefore, they must be the same height.

From the other fold, you can move the thread down and then bring it up. Then, you’re back at square one, so weave the thread through the opposite hem, then return a bit away. Continue until you get to the point where you’ve reached the end Then, you can pinch the knot near the beginning of the stitch and pull your needle. Two pieces of material will touch and a hem will appear between them.

This stitch can also be beneficial for making repairs to garments. Instead of working with two distinct fabrics, you’ll be working with a single piece. If, for instance, you’re working on the tear on the fabric of your top, then you’ll begin by pulling the thread upwards from the bottom of the shirtand going up just close to the tear.

Then you can cross the thread over across the other end of your tear. then push the needle down and up, then turn it around. When you continue doing this, you’ll be able to see the parallel lines that this stitch creates before tightening it. This is why it’s also referred to as ladder stitch.

Lesson #12: Overstitch/Overcast

Overcast stitches are utilized to hold the edge of the fabric that is likely to be fraying. It is typically seen on quilts, blankets or other patchwork-like projects. However, even while the overstitch is used for an important function however, there’s no reason why it shouldn’t be a decorative one also, particularly since it’s a style that is so visible.

If you’re making a blanket or using felt it is possible to choose the thicker thread in contrast to spice the work. There’s no better way to master a stitch than to actually do it in a group, let’s test it with each other.

Overcast stitching is one the most simple techniques for novices to master. But, there are some tricks to this. First, you’ll need to begin your work from the left side. Like always, begin working by drawing the thread until it reaches the knot.

You’ll then go over to the edges of your cloth, and slightly left and then pull the needle from behind towards your. Then, take the needle and push it through, and then repeat this process until you reach the end of the line. You’re basically creating an arc using the needle to wrap around the edges of your fabric.

The stitch should be placed solidly against the fabric however, it should not pull or stretch it. Since the thread wraps around the exposed edge that of the material, it can guard against fraying.

Lesson #13: Backstitch

The backstitch is considered to be one of the strongest and most durable stitches, regardless of regardless of whether you’re working hand or using a sewing machine. The majority of people who start sewing think that this perfect stitch is only made using the machine. But, this isn’t the reality.

The only thing you’ll need to create a perfect backstitch is an even line. If you’ve already put your hem in flat ironing then you can utilize a ruler to trace an exact line using pencil. The hemline will be sewn to the bottom of the hemline, which is the one that’s not obvious.

Begin by pushing the thread through the two layers of fabric where you’d like to begin stitching. The needle should be pulled until you get to that knot on the other end. This is what you would do to create the running stitch. The difference lies in the next steps.

When you’ve got the needle placed on the front of the fabric, stitch one straight stitch across the entire line. Then return the needle to the point where you. Backtrack to where the last stitch was, and then push the needle in. Continue in this manner until you have an arc of stitches on both sides of your fabric. All you need to think about is maintaining the same length, and keeping the line in the same place.

Lesson #14: Blanket Stitch

You may have already guessed that it’s a decorative stitch commonly employed on blankets and toys. Similar to the overstitch it’s one of the main purposes that the blanket stitch serves is to ensure that those edges in good health. It’s however, primarily an ornamental technique which is the reason we suggest using a different thread.

If you’re using blanket stitch to join two fabrics you’ll be able to start by pulling the thread through one piece of fabric starting from the bottom up. This will hide the knot at the top to the material. Then, you can place both pieces of fabric next to one another.

Once you’ve aligned your fabrics, pull the thread to one edge. However, unlike when you overstitch it is necessary to push the needle back through exactly the similar opening. Instead of pulling the thread to pull it tight, leave a space within the loop. Then, you draw the needle back into the loop, and pull the stitch tighter.

Bring the thread back up over the edge and pull it back towards you approximately one quarter inch. When you are ready to tighten the loop, run by the thread, moving from the back to the front. This completes a single blanket stitch. The rest of the stitches will follow following the same pattern. The needle will be pushed towards you from the back and then push the needle through the loop from front to back. At the end you’ll be able to tie it off in the same way as you would normally.

Lesson #15: Cross-Stitch

Cross-stitching is an alternative to hem projects. We’d suggest that this technique works better with circles than straight stitches. Because it’s designed in the shape of an X shape, it can be thought of as an artistic stitch.

We’re beginning using wrinkle free fabric. Beginning from the left side toward the right pull your needle toward you from the bottom of the fabric in order to conceal the knot inside the thread. Move your needle upwards to the right and then pull it towards the left before leaving through the point on the left side of the first X-stitch.

You’ll then move to the right-bottom point. The next stitch is begin just below the bottom right spot then continue to work until you’ve finished the entire length.

Lesson #16: Chain Stitch

The last stitch we’re about to learn today is one that is perfect for curving edges. But, the chain stitch isn’t just an attractive way to hem. There are a variety of chain stitch, each one looking quite different. However, since we’re trying to create a lesson that is accessible to beginners we’ll focus on the most straightforward one.

The needle should be pushed upwards from the lower part of the fabric and then return it to the bottom towards the initial hole. That’s going to be the first link in your chain but don’t make it tight all the way. You’ll create the next link by pulling the needle back into the fabric, passing through the loop that was originally made, and then back into the fabric exactly where it was before. The next links follow the same design.

Once you’ve learned how to crochet this stitch it’s time to go on to the more difficult ones for great excitement.

Lesson #17: French Knot

It is a French Knot is more of an artistic technique rather instead of a stitching technique however we believe it’s a wonderful thing for those who are just beginning to learn. We suggest using a more dense thread for creating French Knots, in order to make it more noticeable. Alongside the thicker thread, you’ll also require an eye-catching needle that has a larger eye. Gather the materials you need and get started!

Always push your needle from the bottom, obscuring the knot. When your needle is on the top then bring it back down until it is near the fabric. As you hold the thread securely and tightly, put it in the loop around your needle one time or twice. Then you can push the needle down , right where it came from. Pull on the thread that is wrapped around the needle until it is pulled down.

Once the needle is at the bottom then you can repeat the process if would like to make more of these knots in your cloth. In other cases, you can take the thread off and leave it.

Keep Practicing!

When you’re done with your day, the only thing there is to do is continue practicing! If you know anyone who would like an instructional plan for hand sewing you can send this post to them. If you have tips of your own to share with all those hand sewing novices on the market, please share your suggestions in the comments below!