Learning to Sew

Since I am still very much a novice on the sewing front, I thought I would write a few posts on what has helped me learn the basics.  There are many courses out there that you can take, but if like me you don't have the time it IS possible to learn at home.  You don't always get it right and I wouldn't advice using expensive fabrics at first, but it is an amazing feeling to be able to say " I made that!".  In fact before you sew anything, I would advice to simply practice sewing straight lines on scrap fabric.  I know this may sound ridiculous, but it is one of the most important things to learn and you will get your first wobbly lines out of the way before attempting to make something.    
Being a bookworm I find books an extremely useful way to learn, so I'm going to review the books that helped me to learn how to sew, so you can choose the right one for you.
Me and My Sewing Machine: A Beginner's Guide 
by Kate Haxell

This is my favorite of the books that I used, as it is slightly different from most sewing guides out there.  This is written on a more personal level and gives you what you need to learn how to sew, not how to become an expert, which can be quite off putting.  

This book is set out to invite you in.  It is not intimidating and has step by step instructions with photos at each and every step. She starts by introducing you to your sewing machine and goes through the basic techniques that you are likely to come across when learning how to sew, from sewing a straight line to sewing in darts. 
 There is then seven projects for you to sew, with handy references to the pages where the techniques are explained.  I must admit that I haven't actually used the projects at the back of the book (although I do keep meaning to sew this cute bag).
Kate's tone is friendly throughout, yet gives all the detail that you would need in a way that is easy to understand.
If you are looking for more in depth techniques such as couture or how to fit patterns, this is not the book for you, but if you are a complete beginner, looking to learn how to do the fundamentals, this book is extremely helpful.

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