Collecting Sewing machines
Have you ever really looked at a Singer sewing machine from a century ago (or more!) and recognized the beauty and simplicity of this amazing machine? That sounded old until I saw that the sewing machine was first patented in 1791 and the first working model was built in 1814. They were a necessity of the Industrial Revolution but soon enough they moved into the home. Read more about the history of the sewing machine in Oldtimer-sewing machine and find out about antique treasures in these books on collecting sewing machines.
Make Your Own Clothes
And you have so many possible reasons to sew, from making your own clothes to sewing soft toys to home decor and more! Do you want to make a fashion statement with your own clothes? Make your way over to Dewey number 646.2 and go for it! Put your style out there for all to see and play with your passion just like the contestants on Project Runway.
Find Your Inner Quilter
You can create all different types of quilts, from art quilts of every size to hang on the wall to traditional and modern quilts for your bed. Start with a small project and make a log-cabin pillow for your home decor or a basic 9-patch baby blanket. Don’t know your 9-patch block from an eye patch? Head on over to Dewey number 746.46 and dive into the quilting books. We have everything from the absolute basics to complex designs, patterns, and color theory.
Express Yourself
I find quilts to be an amazing expression of our creative self. Your sewing machine can be a tool to help you in your creativity. It doesn’t need to be fancy or expensive (although those sewing machines are out there). Get to know the sewing machine you’ll use. If it’s good at straight lines then you’re 95% there. Remember that YOU are the important piece of the creative puzzle, not your machine.
This is your project so be bold, create something you’re passionate about, and in the process you might just make an heirloom. I’ll catch you next time with something else to brush off!
7 Responses to Brush it off! Your Sewing Machine
Erin Seeger
March 24, 2011
Great idea, Carrie! My sister just started getting into sewing and I know she will love this.
Eileen Sutton
March 25, 2011
This reminded me of the tiny round quilt piece you made with Grandma Sutton when you were in grade school!
Carrie
March 25, 2011
Erin – That’s wonderful! Sewing can be a fabulous addiction! Good luck to your sister, maybe she will make YOU something. =)
Eileen – Ahh, yes. The crazy quilt pot-holder! Grandma Sutton was always an inspiration to me.
patti poe
March 26, 2011
Carrie – I love your series and was happy to see one of my favorites – the sewing machine! I have a 1948 singer featherweight that I love. Great post.
Carrie
March 26, 2011
Thanks Patti! I know quite a few people who use their old Singers for a lot of sewing. I have my great grandmother’s Singer “Red Head” treadle sewing machine at home but have yet to sew on it. I love it all the same.
C.
April 20, 2011
This is a great article! And a good idea….I think I’ve almost exhausted 646.2 of the make your own clothes section and have a couple of those books on order…I’ve made 3 dresses so far – including one regency ballgown, with some directional guide, but, this weekend I’m planning on making a skirt completly by myself…ahh! Kinda getting nervous.
Carrie
April 21, 2011
C – I’m very impressed! I find sewing clothes to be very challenging and the 2 dress I made (quite a few years ago!) were not too complicated. With your past successes under your belt, I’m sure your skirt is going to be fabulous.