Nanna Betty Sewing School

Author: Collette Costello

  • Sewing Lessons for Beginners: Classes Near You or Learn to Sew Online?

    Sewing Lessons for Beginners: Classes Near You or Learn to Sew Online?

    Once you’ve decided to learn how to sew, the next question is how. Do you book a sewing class near you, or learn to sew online at home? I’ve taught both ways: in colleges, in open studio sessions and one-to-one lessons around Manchester, and online with fabric kits posted to people’s doors. The honest answer is that it depends on you. Here’s how to choose.

    Sewing classes near you

    The good bits: a teacher can see what you’re doing and fix it straight away. You meet other beginners, and you don’t need your own machine because most classes provide one. It’s a lovely social night out.

    The not-so-good bits: classes run at set times, so missing one can leave you behind. They can be expensive, and the nearest class might be a long way away. Many people also forget what they learned by the time they sew at home.

    How to find sewing lessons near you

    • Your local adult education service or further education college
    • Sewing cafés and independent fabric shops
    • Community centres, libraries and repair cafés
    • Sewing schools, like Sew Over It in London

    Before you book, ask how many people are in the class, whether machines are provided, and what you’ll make. Small classes with a finished project at the end are best.

    Learning to sew online

    The good bits: you learn at home, on your own machine, whenever suits you. You can pause and rewatch a tricky step as many times as you like. It’s usually cheaper than a class, and there’s no travelling.

    The not-so-good bits: there’s nobody beside you when you get stuck. Online courses vary a lot in quality, and it’s easy to lose motivation without a set time each week.

    What to look for in an online sewing course

    • Short lessons. Videos of a few minutes are easier to follow than hour-long ones.
    • One skill at a time. Each lesson should teach one thing, clearly.
    • Real makes. You should finish something useful, not just practice squares.
    • Works on your phone. So you can prop it next to your machine.
    • Written steps too. Something to glance at without pressing play.

    Free ways to start learning online

    You can try sewing for free before spending anything. YouTube has thousands of sewing videos, and Simply Sewing magazine has free beginner patterns. The downside of free is that it’s scattered, so it’s hard to know what to learn next.

    Do you need a sewing qualification?

    Not to sew for fun. But if you’d like a certificate, some colleges offer City & Guilds courses, such as the Level 1 Award in Fashion: Sewing Machine Skills.

    So which is best?

    • Choose a class if you love learning with others, don’t own a machine yet, or need a set time to stay motivated.
    • Choose online if you’re busy, live far from a class, or like to learn at your own pace.

    Lots of people do both: an online course at home, plus the odd workshop for a treat. A good book helps too. Here are the best sewing books for beginners.

    Wondering how long it’ll take? Read how long does it take to learn how to sew. And if you’re just starting, begin with my simple guide to learning how to sew.

    Learn to sew online with Nanna Betty

    Nanna Betty Sewing School was built to give you the best of a class at home. One card teaches one skill, short videos play on your phone next to your machine, and every make takes 2 hours or less.

    Visit Nanna Betty Sewing School

  • Sewing Clothes for Beginners: What to Make First (and Where to Find Easy Patterns)

    Sewing Clothes for Beginners: What to Make First (and Where to Find Easy Patterns)

    My Nanna Betty made all her own dresses and never threw clothes away. Making your own clothes is the moment sewing really clicks. There’s nothing like someone asking “where did you get that?” and being able to say “I made it.” Here’s how to learn to sew your own clothes, what to make first, and where to find easy patterns.

    Are you ready to sew clothes?

    You’re ready if you can sew a straight seam, sew a curve, neaten an edge with zig-zag stitch and turn up a hem. If not, make a few bags or cushions first. Here are 16 easy beginner sewing projects that build those skills.

    The best first clothes to sew

    Start with clothes that have an elasticated waist. There are no fiddly fastenings and very little fitting, so they’re hard to get wrong.

    1. Elasticated waist skirt. The easiest first garment of all.
    2. Pyjama trousers. Comfy, forgiving, and nobody but you will see any wobbly seams.
    3. Gathered skirt. Adds gathering for a fuller shape.
    4. Simple top or tee. Look for a loose shape with no darts.
    5. Dress with an elasticated waist. A top and skirt joined together, and your proudest make yet.

    Leave fitted dresses, trousers with flies, collars and buttonholes until you’ve made a few things.

    The easiest fabrics for beginners

    • Cotton poplin or quilting cotton: crisp, doesn’t slip, and easy to press.
    • Brushed cotton: soft and cosy, perfect for pyjamas.
    • Cotton lawn or viscose: lovely for summer skirts, but a little slippier. Try these second.

    Avoid stretchy jersey, silky satin and very thick fabrics at first. Always wash your fabric before you cut it, because cotton can shrink.

    How to choose your pattern size

    Sewing pattern sizes are not the same as shop sizes. In my dressmaking classes, everyone chooses their size from their own measurements, then we adjust the pattern so it fits. Once it’s right, you can make the same garment again and again in different fabrics. Here’s how to start:

    1. Measure your chest, waist and hips with a soft tape measure.
    2. Find your measurements on the pattern’s size chart.
    3. For a skirt, go by your hips. For a top, go by your chest.
    4. If you’re between sizes, choose the bigger one. It’s easier to take in than let out.

    Reading a sewing pattern

    Patterns have their own little language. The three things to learn first are:

    • The grain line: a long arrow that must run parallel to the edge of the fabric, so your clothes hang straight. Read more about fabric grain.
    • Cut on the fold: place this edge on the folded fabric to cut one whole piece.
    • Seam allowance: the gap between the cutting line and the sewing line, often 1.5cm. Here’s more on seam allowance.

    Where to find free sewing patterns for beginners

    When you look at any pattern, check it says “beginner” or “easy”, has only a few pieces, and doesn’t need a zip or buttons.

    Before you start

    Make sure you have the 10 sewing tools every beginner needs and know the basic stitches. If you’re wondering how long it will take, I’ve answered that in how long does it take to learn how to sew. For the bigger picture, start with my simple guide to learning how to sew.

    Sew your first clothes with Nanna Betty

    Nanna Betty Sewing School takes you from your first seam to your first elasticated skirt and pyjama trousers, with no fiddly fastenings. Simple sewing cards, short videos for your phone, and every make takes 2 hours or less.

    Visit Nanna Betty Sewing School

  • How Long Does It Take to Learn How to Sew? (And Is It Hard?)

    How Long Does It Take to Learn How to Sew? (And Is It Hard?)

    The short answer: you can learn the basics of sewing in a weekend and finish your first simple make, like coasters or a tote bag, in about 2 hours. Most beginners feel happy using a sewing machine after a few weeks of regular practice, and can sew simple clothes within two or three months.

    I’m a fashion lecturer with over 20 years of sewing experience, and I’ve taught complete beginners in colleges and in my own classes around Manchester. In my beginner courses, people went from never having used a machine to sewing their own skirt or trousers in about 3 months, learning more than 40 sewing techniques along the way. Here’s a realistic timeline, and an honest answer to the question everyone asks: is it hard?

    How long does it take to learn how to sew?

    Day 1: your first stitches

    In one sitting you can learn to thread your machine, sew a straight line and stop and start neatly. Practise on paper first, then on scrap fabric.

    Week 1: your first make

    Once you can sew a straight seam, you can make something flat and simple. Coasters, a tote bag, a drawstring bag or a cushion cover each take about 2 hours. Here are 16 easy beginner sewing projects to try.

    Weeks 2 to 6: building confidence

    Each new make teaches one or two new skills: curves, corners, elastic, a lining. By the end of this stage, the machine feels like a friend, not a monster.

    Months 2 to 3: your first clothes

    An elasticated skirt or pyjama trousers is a great first garment. No fiddly fastenings and very little fitting. My guide to sewing clothes for beginners shows what to make first.

    After that: a lifetime of learning

    Zips, buttonholes, fitted dresses and tailoring take longer. Even after years of teaching, I still learn new things. That’s part of the fun.

    Is it hard to learn to sew?

    No. Sewing is a set of small, simple skills. Each one is easy on its own. What makes it feel hard is trying to learn them all at once, often from a complicated pattern.

    These are the parts most beginners find tricky, and the fix for each:

    • Threading the machine. It feels fiddly at first. Do it five times in a row and it becomes automatic.
    • Sewing straight. Watch the edge of the fabric against the lines on the needle plate, not the needle.
    • Tangled thread. This is almost always the threading. Rethread the top and check the bobbin.
    • Reading patterns. Patterns have their own language. Start with beginner patterns and learn the markings one by one.
    • Patience. You will unpick seams. Everyone does. A seam ripper is your best friend.

    If you’d like to hear from other beginners, there’s a friendly Reddit thread where sewers share how they started learning to sew. You’ll see that everyone found the same things tricky at first.

    How to learn to sew faster

    1. Sew little and often. Twenty minutes three times a week beats one long day a month.
    2. Learn one skill at a time. Practise it on scrap fabric, then use it straight away in a make.
    3. Pick quick makes. Finishing things keeps you motivated. Save the big projects for later.
    4. Use easy fabric. Medium-weight cotton doesn’t slip or stretch. Leave silky and stretchy fabrics until later.
    5. Press as you go. Ironing each seam makes everything easier to sew and neater to finish.

    Is learning to sew worth it?

    Yes. You’ll save money on repairs and gifts, waste less, and wear clothes that fit. Crafts like sewing are also good for your health. Big Think has a good read on how craft is good for us.

    Ready to start? Read my simple guide to learning how to sew, then choose between sewing classes or learning online.

    Learn how to sew the Nanna Betty way

    Nanna Betty Sewing School is built for busy beginners. One card teaches one skill, there are short videos for your phone, and every make takes 2 hours or less. Learn at your own pace, a little at a time.

    Visit Nanna Betty Sewing School

  • Best Sewing Machine for Beginners UK: A Fashion Teacher’s Guide

    Best Sewing Machine for Beginners UK: A Fashion Teacher’s Guide

    Choosing your first sewing machine can feel overwhelming. Shops are full of machines with hundreds of stitches, touch screens and price tags to match. Here’s the good news from a fashion teacher: you don’t need any of that.

    I have made lots of clothes and taught classes on budget domestic sewing machines. They stitch the same as expensive ones. Pricier machines are heavier, so they shake less, and they come with extra decorative stitches. That’s about it.

    What to look for in a beginner sewing machine

    • Straight stitch and zig-zag. These two stitches do almost everything. Anything else is a bonus.
    • Adjustable stitch length and width. So you can make longer stitches for gathering and tacking.
    • A reverse lever or button. For locking the start and end of every seam.
    • Easy threading. Numbered thread guides and a needle threader save a lot of frustration.
    • A free arm. The base slides off so you can sew sleeves and trouser hems in a loop.
    • Some weight. A heavier machine stays put on the table. Very light machines bounce on thick fabric.
    • A one-step buttonhole is handy later, but not essential on day one.

    Mechanical or computerised?

    Mechanical machines have dials and knobs. They’re cheaper, simple to understand and easy to repair. For most beginners, this is the one to buy.

    Computerised machines have buttons and a small screen. They’re lovely to use and often have extras like automatic needle threading, but they cost more and are harder to fix.

    Good beginner sewing machines in the UK

    Prices are a rough guide from October 2026 and change often, so check before you buy.

    Brother L14S: best budget pick

    A simple mechanical machine with 14 stitches, around £115. Everything a beginner needs and nothing to confuse you. See the Brother L14S.

    Brother LX17

    Another mechanical beginner machine from Brother, at around £129. See the Brother LX17.

    Singer Promise 1408

    A basic machine from a name Nanna Betty would have known well, around £165 at Hobbycraft.

    Janome 2200XT: best all-rounder

    A sturdy mechanical machine with 22 stitches, around £195. Janome machines have a good reputation in UK sewing classrooms. See the Janome 2200XT.

    Janome J3-24 or bernette 05 Crafter: a step up

    Both are mechanical machines at around £299. The Janome J3-24 has 24 stitches and a one-step buttonhole. The bernette 05 Crafter has 30 stitches and is built for heavier fabrics.

    Brother Innov-is A16: if you want computerised

    A computerised machine with 16 stitches, around £369 to £399. See the Brother Innov-is A16.

    For independent testing, Which? has a guide to the best sewing machines, and you can browse the full Janome UK range.

    Do I need an overlocker too?

    Not at first. An overlocker neatens the edges of fabric like shop-bought clothes, but a zig-zag stitch on your sewing machine does the same job while you learn. My guide to types of sewing stitches explains how.

    What about handheld and mini machines?

    They’re cheap, but they’re not a replacement for a full-size machine if you want to make clothes. Here’s how to use a handheld or mini sewing machine, and what they’re good for.

    Buying a second-hand sewing machine

    Older machines can be brilliant, and many are built to last. Ask to see it sew, check it comes with a foot pedal, bobbins and a manual (or that you can find one online), and budget for a service. If you’re not sure, a new budget machine is the safer choice.

    Got your machine? Pick up the 10 sewing tools every beginner needs and try one of these easy beginner sewing projects.

    Learn how to sew the Nanna Betty way

    Whichever machine you choose, Nanna Betty Sewing School shows you how to thread it, start sewing, and fix it when it won’t sew. Short videos for your phone, and every make takes 2 hours or less.

    Visit Nanna Betty Sewing School

  • Types of Sewing Stitches: Basic Hand and Machine Stitches for Beginners

    Types of Sewing Stitches: Basic Hand and Machine Stitches for Beginners

    There are hundreds of different sewing stitches. The good news? As a beginner, you only need a handful. Most of my beginner makes use just two machine stitches and three hand stitches.

    Here are the basic hand stitches and sewing machine stitches worth knowing, what each one is for, and which to learn first.

    Basic hand stitches

    Even if you sew mostly by machine, you’ll use hand stitches to hold fabric in place, close gaps and finish hems. Learning to sew by hand is also lovely and calm. All you need is a needle, thread and a scrap of fabric.

    1. Running stitch

    The simplest stitch of all. The needle goes in and out of the fabric in a straight line, making small, even stitches. It’s used for gathering and simple seams. Read more about running stitch.

    2. Tacking stitch (basting)

    A long, loose running stitch that holds pieces together before you sew them properly. You pull it out afterwards. In America it’s called basting. Use a contrast colour so it’s easy to find and remove.

    3. Back stitch

    The strongest hand stitch. Each stitch goes back to meet the one before, so it looks like a machine stitch on the front. Use it to repair seams by hand. See how backstitch works.

    4. Slip stitch (ladder stitch)

    An almost invisible stitch. It closes the gap you leave when you turn a cushion or bag right side out. The thread hides inside the folds of the fabric.

    5. Blanket stitch

    A decorative stitch that wraps around the edge of fabric. It stops edges fraying and looks lovely on felt and blankets. Here’s more on blanket stitch.

    6. Whip stitch (overcast stitch)

    Small diagonal stitches over the edge of the fabric. It joins two edges together or stops a raw edge from fraying.

    7. Hemming stitch

    Tiny stitches that catch just a thread or two of the main fabric, so the hem is almost invisible from the right side. Perfect for skirts and trousers.

    For step-by-step pictures of these and more, MasterClass has a clear guide to types of hand sewing stitches.

    Sewing machine stitches

    Most machines come with lots of stitches, but beginners only need the first two on this list. The rest you’ll learn as you go.

    1. Straight stitch

    The stitch you’ll use most. It sews seams, hems and top stitching. A medium length, around 2.5mm, suits most fabrics.

    2. Zig-zag stitch

    A stitch that goes side to side. Sew it along a raw edge to stop fabric fraying if you don’t have an overlocker. It also stretches a little, so it’s useful on stretchy fabrics. Read more about the zigzag stitch.

    3. Reverse stitch (back tack)

    A few stitches backwards at the start and end of a seam. It locks the stitches so they don’t come undone. Every machine has a reverse lever or button.

    4. Top stitch

    A straight stitch sewn on the right side of the fabric, close to the edge or seam. It holds things flat and looks neat. You’ll see it on jeans and bag handles.

    5. Long stitch (machine tacking)

    The longest straight stitch on your machine. It’s used to hold pieces together for a fitting, and for gathering fabric.

    6. Stretch stitch

    A stitch that bends with stretchy fabrics like jersey, so the seam doesn’t snap when you pull it on.

    7. Blind hem stitch

    A machine version of the hand hemming stitch. With a special foot, it makes a hem that’s almost invisible on the front.

    8. Buttonhole stitch

    A dense zig-zag that makes buttonholes. Many machines do it in one or four steps. Leave this one until you’re confident.

    What about overlocking?

    An overlocker is a separate machine that trims and wraps the edge of fabric in one go, like the seams inside shop-bought clothes. It’s lovely to have, but not essential. A zig-zag stitch does the job while you learn. Find out more about overlocking.

    Which stitches should a beginner learn first?

    1. Straight stitch, with a back tack at each end
    2. Zig-zag stitch for neatening edges
    3. Tacking stitch by hand
    4. Back stitch by hand
    5. Slip stitch for closing gaps

    With those five, you can make every project in my list of 16 easy beginner sewing projects. If you’re still choosing a machine, read my best sewing machine for beginners UK guide. And if you’re just starting out, begin with my simple guide to learning how to sew.

    Learn each stitch the Nanna Betty way

    Nanna Betty Sewing School has a card for each stitch and technique, with a drawing and a top tip, plus short videos for your phone. Learn one card at a time, then use it straight away in a make that takes 2 hours or less.

    Visit Nanna Betty Sewing School

  • 16 Easy Beginner Sewing Projects You Can Finish in 2 Hours

    16 Easy Beginner Sewing Projects You Can Finish in 2 Hours

    The best way to learn how to sew is to make something. Not a sampler. Not a practice square you throw away. A real thing you can use, wear or give as a gift.

    These are the 16 beginner sewing projects I teach, in the order I teach them. Each one adds just one or two new skills to what you already know, and each one takes 2 hours or less.

    Starter: get to know your machine

    1. Practice sheet

    Before your first make, practise six basic stitches on one practice sheet. It’s the best way to get to know your sewing machine, and it takes the fear out of it. If you’re nervous, practise on paper with no thread first.

    Beginner sewing projects: flat and straight

    These easy sewing projects use only straight seams. They’re perfect machine sewing projects for beginners.

    2. Coasters

    Small, square and quick. You’ll learn to sew a seam, turn out corners and top stitch. Use up fabric scraps and make a set of four.

    3. Tote bag

    The classic first make. A tote bag is just two rectangles, two straps and a few straight seams. You’ll use it every week.

    4. Drawstring bag

    Great for shoes, toys, gifts and PE kits. You’ll learn to make a channel for the cord, which is the same skill you’ll later use for elastic waists.

    5. Cushion cover

    An envelope-back cushion cover needs no zip or buttons. The back pieces simply overlap. It’s an easy way to refresh a room.

    Improver projects: curves, elastic and shape

    6. Scrunchies

    Scrunchies are back in fashion and they’re quick to make. You’ll learn to sew a tube and thread elastic through it.

    7. Eye mask

    Your first curved seams. A soft eye mask makes a lovely gift for anyone who struggles to sleep.

    8. Head scarf

    A simple shape with neat narrow hems. Great practice for keeping your stitching straight close to the edge.

    9. Zipped bag

    A small pouch for make-up or pencils. Your first zip, which is easier than it looks with the right machine foot.

    10. Handbag with handles

    A step up from the tote bag, with a lining and sturdier handles. It looks shop-bought when it’s done.

    11. Bucket hat

    Curves, a brim and top stitching. It feels tricky, but it’s just a few pieces joined in order.

    Confident projects: your first clothes

    Once you’ve made a few bags, you’re ready to sew clothes. My guide to sewing clothes for beginners explains how to choose patterns and fabric.

    12. Elasticated waist skirt

    The easiest first garment there is. No fiddly fastenings and no fitting worries.

    13. Gathered skirt

    Adds gathering to your skills, for a fuller, swishy shape.

    14. Pyjama trousers

    Your first trousers, with an elastic waist and a comfy fit. Brushed cotton is easy to sew and lovely to wear.

    15. Detachable collar

    A pretty collar you can wear over jumpers and dresses. Great for learning neat curves and points.

    16. Dress with elasticated waist

    Everything comes together. A simple dress with an elastic waist is a proud moment for every new sewer.

    Easy things to sew and sell

    Lots of beginners ask what they can sew to sell at craft fairs or online. Small, quick makes sell best: scrunchies, coasters, tote bags, drawstring bags, eye masks and cushion covers. Use good fabric, finish your seams neatly, and make them in sets. If you start selling regularly, HMRC has guidance on the tax-free trading allowance.

    Before you start

    Check you have the 10 sewing tools every beginner needs, and learn the basic hand and machine stitches. If you’re using a small machine, read how to use a handheld or mini sewing machine first. New to sewing? Start with my simple guide to learning how to sew.

    Make them all with Nanna Betty

    The practice sheet, coasters, tote bag, drawstring bag, cushion cover, scrunchies, eye mask, zipped bag, elasticated skirt and pyjama trousers are all makes in Nanna Betty Sewing School. The head scarf, handbag, bucket hat, gathered skirt, collar and dress are coming soon as add-ons. Each make comes with simple sewing cards and short videos for your phone, and takes 2 hours or less.

    See the makes at Nanna Betty Sewing School

  • How to Use a Handheld or Mini Sewing Machine

    How to Use a Handheld or Mini Sewing Machine

    Handheld and mini sewing machines are cheap, small and easy to store. Lots of people get one as a gift, try it once, and give up when the stitches fall out. It’s not you. These little machines work differently to a full-size sewing machine, and nobody tells you how.

    Here’s how to use a handheld sewing machine and a mini sewing machine, step by step, and what each one is really good for.

    Handheld vs mini sewing machine: what’s the difference?

    A handheld sewing machine looks like a big stapler. You hold it in one hand and feed fabric through with the other. Most use one thread and make a chain stitch. A chain stitch is quick, but if you pull the loose end, the whole row can unravel.

    A mini sewing machine sits on the table like a full-size machine, just smaller and lighter. Most use two threads, one on top and one in a bobbin underneath. This makes a lockstitch, the same strong stitch a full-size machine makes.

    How to use a handheld sewing machine

    Every model is a little different, so keep your instruction leaflet nearby. These are the steps most handheld machines follow.

    1. Power it up. Put in fresh batteries, or plug in the adapter if it has one. Weak batteries cause skipped stitches.
    2. Put the thread on. Pop the spool onto the spindle and follow the thread guides, usually marked with arrows or a picture on the machine.
    3. Thread the needle. Turn the wheel until the needle is at its highest point. Thread it in the direction shown on your machine and leave a tail of about 10cm.
    4. Put the fabric in. Open the clamp, slide the edge of your fabric under the needle, and close it again.
    5. Sew slowly. Press the switch and let the machine move the fabric. Guide it gently with your other hand. Don’t pull or push, or the needle can bend.
    6. Take the fabric out. Stop with the needle at its highest point, open the clamp and slide the fabric out.
    7. Tie it off. Cut the thread, leaving a long tail. Pull the thread tail through the last loop to the back of the fabric and tie a knot. This locks the chain stitch so it can’t unravel.

    Top tip: Sew a test row on a scrap of fabric first. If the stitches are loose or skipping, rethread from the start. Nine times out of ten, that fixes it.

    How to use a mini sewing machine

    A mini sewing machine works much like a full-size one, so these steps will also help when you upgrade.

    1. Wind the bobbin. Most mini machines have a small winder on top. Wind the bobbin evenly and not too full.
    2. Put the bobbin in. Drop it into the bobbin case under the needle plate, in the direction shown on the machine.
    3. Thread the top. Follow the numbered guides from the spool, through the tension discs and the take-up lever, down to the needle.
    4. Bring up the bobbin thread. Hold the top thread and turn the wheel towards you once. The needle will catch the bobbin thread and pull up a loop. Pull both threads to the back.
    5. Sew. Lower the presser foot, then press the pedal or button. Most mini machines have a slow and fast setting. Use slow.
    6. Finish. Stop, turn the wheel so the needle is up, lift the presser foot and pull the fabric out to the back. Snip the threads.

    What are they good for?

    Handheld sewing machines are best for quick fixes: taking up curtains, a dropped hem, or a fancy dress costume the night before. They’re not strong enough for clothes you’ll wash and wear a lot.

    Mini sewing machines are fine for small, light makes like coasters, scrunchies and simple bags. They’re a nice first machine for children. They struggle with thick fabric and several layers, like denim seams.

    If you want to make clothes, a simple full-size machine is worth it. A budget one is fine. I explain what to look for in my best sewing machine for beginners UK guide.

    Common problems and quick fixes

    • Stitches falling out: on a handheld, you haven’t tied off the end. On a mini machine, check the bobbin is in the right way round.
    • Thread snapping: rethread, and check the thread isn’t caught on the spool.
    • Fabric not moving: make sure the clamp or presser foot is down.
    • Needle bent or broken: you may have pulled the fabric. Fit a new needle and let the machine do the work.
    • Skipped stitches: try new batteries and a new needle.

    What to sew first

    Practise straight lines on scrap fabric, then try something small and flat. Coasters and scrunchies are perfect on a mini machine. Find more ideas in 16 easy beginner sewing projects, and learn which stitch to use for what in my guide to types of sewing stitches.

    Learn how to sew the Nanna Betty way

    Nanna Betty Sewing School starts with how to thread your machine, how to start sewing, and what to do when it won’t sew. Short videos you can watch on your phone, and every make takes 2 hours or less.

    Visit Nanna Betty Sewing School

  • Best Sewing Books for Beginners

    Best Sewing Books for Beginners

    A good sewing book is like having a teacher on your bookshelf. You can dip in when you’re stuck, and it’s still there when your phone battery dies. These are the sewing books for beginners I’d recommend to my own students, and what to look for if you’re choosing your own.

    What makes a good sewing book for beginners?

    • Lots of pictures. Clear photos or drawings of every step. Sewing is hard to learn from words alone.
    • Projects that build up. The best books start simple and add one new skill with each make.
    • Patterns included. Some books come with full-size paper patterns, so you don’t need to buy them separately.
    • UK terms. UK and US books use different words, like tacking and basting. A UK book is easier if you’re learning here.

    The best sewing books for beginners

    1. Love at First Stitch by Tilly Walnes

    A friendly, colourful book for anyone who wants to make their own clothes. Tilly Walnes, the founder of Tilly and the Buttons, walks you through a series of projects that get a little harder each time. Best for: beginners who want to go straight to dressmaking. Published by Quadrille: Love at First Stitch.

    2. The Great British Sewing Bee: Back to Basics

    The companion book to series 10 of the BBC show, focused on the basics. If the Sewing Bee is what made you want to sew, this is a lovely place to start. Best for: fans of the show who are brand new to sewing. See The Great British Sewing Bee: Back to Basics.

    3. The Sewing Book by Alison Smith

    A big DK reference book covering tools, fabrics and techniques, with step-by-step photos. It’s less about projects and more about how to do each thing properly. Best for: keeping on the shelf to look things up for years to come. Find The Sewing Book here.

    4. Sew Over It by Lisa Comfort

    Lisa Comfort founded the Sew Over It sewing school in London. Her first book mixes simple projects for you and your home with a cosy, vintage feel. Best for: beginners who want pretty, practical makes. From Ebury: Sew Over It.

    5. Sew Over It Vintage by Lisa Comfort

    If you love the look of clothes from Nanna Betty’s day, this one’s for you. Vintage-inspired makes for when you’ve got a few projects under your belt. Best for: your second sewing book. See Sew Over It Vintage.

    Books, videos or cards?

    Books are wonderful, but some steps are easier to understand when you watch someone do them. Many beginners learn best with a mix: a book for reference, and short videos for the tricky bits. I compare the options in sewing lessons for beginners: classes or online.

    Whichever you choose, start with the right sewing tools, learn a few basic stitches, and pick an easy first project. New to all of this? Read my simple guide to learning how to sew.

    Learn how to sew the Nanna Betty way

    The Nanna Betty sewing cards come from my book, Sewing Made Easy. Each card teaches one skill with a simple drawing and a top tip, with short videos you can watch on your phone. Every make takes 2 hours or less.

    Visit Nanna Betty Sewing School

  • Beginner Sewing Kit: What to Put in Yours (UK Guide)

    Beginner Sewing Kit: What to Put in Yours (UK Guide)

    At Nanna Betty Sewing School we keep sewing simple: no fiddly fastenings and no cupboard full of gadgets. A few spools of thread, needles, pins and a good pair of scissors are all a beginner needs.

    Here’s what to put in a beginner sewing kit, whether to buy a ready-made one, and what to check before you spend your money.

    What goes in a beginner sewing kit?

    Start with these essentials:

    • Fabric scissors (only for fabric)
    • Paper scissors (for patterns)
    • Soft tape measure
    • Dressmaking pins and a pin cushion
    • Tailor’s chalk or a fabric marker
    • A mixed pack of hand sewing needles
    • All-purpose thread in black, white and beige
    • A seam ripper

    Add an iron and you’re ready. I explain what each one does in 10 sewing tools every beginner needs (with names).

    Should you buy a ready-made sewing kit?

    Ready-made sewing kits are everywhere, from supermarkets to craft shops. Some are brilliant value. Others are full of things you’ll never use, with scissors too small to cut fabric.

    A ready-made kit is a good idea if: you want everything in one box, you’re buying a gift, or you’re not sure yet if sewing is for you.

    Building your own is better if: you already have some bits at home, or you want better scissors and thread than a cheap kit gives you.

    Many people do both. They buy a small kit, then replace the scissors and thread with better ones.

    What to check before you buy a sewing kit

    • Scissors: are they big enough to cut fabric? Tiny folding scissors are only good for snipping threads.
    • Thread: lots of tiny spools in every colour look pretty, but the thread is often weak. A few good spools are better.
    • Tape measure: it should be soft and have both centimetres and inches.
    • Pins: look for long pins with glass or plastic heads.
    • The box: a sturdy box with compartments keeps everything tidy. A biscuit tin works too.

    Sewing kits with fabric and craft kits for adults

    Some beginner kits come with fabric and instructions for one make, like a tote bag or a cushion. These are a lovely way to try sewing without choosing fabric yourself. The downside is you only learn one make. When you’re ready for more, pick your own fabric. A medium-weight cotton is the easiest to sew.

    Sewing craft kits also make great gifts for adults who want a calm, screen-free hobby. Crafting is good for us, and the Crafts Council has plenty on why making things by hand matters.

    Do I need a sewing machine in my kit?

    Not on day one. You can learn hand stitches with just a needle and thread. When you’re ready, read my best sewing machine for beginners UK guide. If you’ve been given a small handheld machine, here’s how to use a handheld or mini sewing machine.

    What to make with your new sewing kit

    Start with something small and flat, like coasters or a drawstring bag. Here are 16 easy beginner sewing projects you can finish in an afternoon. And if you’re new to all of this, start with my simple guide to learning how to sew.

    Learn how to sew the Nanna Betty way

    Got your kit? Nanna Betty Sewing School shows you what to do with it, one skill at a time. Simple cards, short videos for your phone, and every make takes 2 hours or less.

    Visit Nanna Betty Sewing School

  • 10 Sewing Tools Every Beginner Needs (with Names)

    10 Sewing Tools Every Beginner Needs (with Names)

    When you start learning how to sew, the shop shelves can be confusing. There are gadgets for everything. The good news is you only need ten tools to begin.

    Here are the 10 sewing tools every beginner needs, with their names and what each one does.

    1. Fabric scissors

    Long, sharp scissors used only for fabric. They are also called dressmaking shears. Never cut paper with them, because paper blunts the blades fast. Tie a ribbon on the handle so everyone at home knows they’re off limits.

    2. Paper scissors

    A cheap pair for cutting out paper patterns. Keeping two pairs is the easiest way to keep your fabric scissors sharp.

    3. Tape measure

    A soft, bendy tape for measuring your body and your fabric. Choose one with centimetres on one side and inches on the other. Patterns use both.

    4. Dressmaking pins

    Pins hold your fabric pieces together before you stitch. Pins with glass or plastic heads are easier to see and easier to pick up. Glass heads won’t melt under a hot iron.

    5. Pin cushion

    A soft pad to keep your pins in one place. A magnetic pin dish works too, and it’s handy for picking up pins you drop on the floor.

    6. Tailor’s chalk

    Tailor’s chalk is a flat piece of chalk for marking fabric. You use it to draw around patterns and mark where to sew. It brushes off afterwards. Chalk pencils and fabric pens that fade do the same job.

    7. Hand sewing needles

    Buy a mixed pack. You’ll use them for tacking, sewing on labels and finishing hems by hand. A needle threader is a cheap little extra that saves a lot of squinting.

    8. Sewing thread

    An all-purpose polyester thread works for most fabrics. Start with black, white and a neutral beige. Cheap thread snaps and leaves fluff in your machine, so it’s worth spending a little more here.

    9. Seam ripper (thread unpicker)

    The seam ripper is a small tool with a sharp hook for cutting stitches. Every sewer makes mistakes, even fashion teachers. This tool lets you undo them neatly. You’ll use it more than you think.

    10. Iron

    Not strictly a sewing tool, but you can’t sew neatly without one. Pressing each seam as you go is the secret to a home-made make that doesn’t look home-made. Your everyday iron and ironing board are fine.

    Nice to have, but not yet

    • Rotary cutter and mat: fast for cutting, but the blade can slip. Fabric scissors are safer while you learn.
    • Pinking shears: scissors with zig-zag blades that stop edges fraying. Handy, but a zig-zag stitch on your machine does the same.
    • Thimble: protects your finger when hand sewing thick fabric.
    • Sewing gauge: a small ruler with a slider, great for measuring hems.

    What about a sewing machine?

    You can start sewing by hand with just the tools above. When you’re ready for a machine, a simple, budget model is all you need. I explain what to look for in my best sewing machine for beginners UK guide.

    If you’d rather buy everything in one go, read my guide to choosing a beginner sewing kit. Then pick one of these easy beginner sewing projects and put your new tools to work.

    Learn how to sew the Nanna Betty way

    Nanna Betty Sewing School teaches one skill per card, with short videos you can watch on your phone. Every make takes 2 hours or less, and you only need the ten tools on this list to start.

    Visit Nanna Betty Sewing School