Sewing

[percival]

DD needs a snowman costume for December 18. That in itself is not a problem, I could buy it - or I could grab the opportunity to finally learn how to sew. From what I hear on the InterWebs, it will come in handy in primary school ... My mother unfortunately never really taught me, and it wasn't taught at school, so what I am looking for is advice on what sewing machine to get, basic supplies, and, most importantly, a good intro book. By intro book, I mean "Sewing for Dummies with Two Left Hands and No Physical Intelligence" - that level. Since I only plan to do the bare minimum required for basic kids' costumes, I was thinking of getting a cheap machine like this or this. Any help gratefully received!

(cross-posted to plan_survive and perceval)

Comments

[buzzy-bee.livejournal.com]

I have a Brother of similar spec and it does the job nicely. I mostly do basic sewing, heming curtains, making occasional small projects. Primarily straight sewing. It has an overlook stitch though to be honest as often as not I use the zigzag for edging anyway. I should think either of them is fine. Janome are a good brand and I suspect the John Lewis is probably a made by one of the big names itself!

I don't know a good beginners book, I'm afraid. I bless both having a grandmother who sewed (she was a sailmaker before she retired) and also having two years of sewing in middle school - everyone, boys included, did sewing and cooking and we all did art, metalwork and woodwork as well.