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This recent post about picking a sewing machine has inspired me: I followed advice similar to this answer and bought a newly reconditioned sturdy metal Singer 301A a couple of years ago. I acquired a buttonholer and zigzag attachment, as well as a box of other theoretically useful sewing feet (I will be able to sew ruffles just like in Dick and Jane readers!). [more inside]
posted by instamatic on Nov 24, 2014 - 9 answers

So, I was gifted some fabulous fabric, enough for a fabulous fashion corset. Never made one, thus I am looking for suggestions for good patterns, excellent kits, books and other resources. I am a reasonably skilled intermediate sewist, with a good machine, near some excellent local shops. I fully intend to practice on less-loved fabric first. I'm not looking for period accuracy or significant waist reduction, but I am looking to make something more corsetlike than a lightly-boned princess bodice. More steampunk outerwear than Victoria Secret underwear. Most likely I'll pick an underbust as it's intended as an over-my-clothes fashion thing. [more inside]
posted by crush-onastick on Nov 3, 2013 - 7 answers

I'm interested in learning to make clothing. I'm looking for a book that goes from basic sewing skills to basic garments. Difficulty: for men. [more inside]
posted by usonian on Sep 1, 2010 - 8 answers

I suck at sewing. I'd like to be able to mend my own clothes, but this isn't enough of an issue for me to buy / support a sewing machine. How can I get better? [more inside]
posted by l33tpolicywonk on Aug 8, 2010 - 10 answers

Crafters, please help. What I'm trying to do is apparently called "applique" and "embroidering," as part of a quilt project. I'm totally clueless and kinda need to finish today. [more inside]
posted by slidell on May 22, 2010 - 10 answers