So, you want to sew something. Maybe you ripped your favorite shirt, maybe you’re learning how to make an outfit from scratch, or maybe you just want to hem those pants you bought two years ago but never wore because they were four inches too long. Whatever the case, sewing is needed, and you want to give it a go!

The problem? You’re not a sewist… (yet). 

No worries! First Stop Cosplay® has your back. Here’s our sure-fire list of beginner sewing tips to set you up for success:

Get Your Workspace in Order (Chaos Isn’t Your Friend)

Sewing can get messy fast, so keep the chaos at bay by starting with a clean, organized space. Find a flat surface with good lighting (the floor works for pinning and cutting fabric if a table isn’t available!), clear away any clutter, and keep your supplies within arm’s reach. The last thing you want is to lose your thread clippers under a pile of fabric only to knock things over while searching. 

Gather Everything Before You Start

Nothing derails a sewing session like realizing you’re missing something crucial halfway through. Double-check that you have all your essential sewing tools close by but out of the way (see the point of advice #1).

Get to Know Your Sewing Machine

If your plan includes using a sewing machine, take a minute to get acquainted. Read the manual (trust us, it’s worth it) and watch a YouTube tutorial (or a couple). Try winding the bobbin, threading the machine, and adjusting the stitch settings. You’ll want to repeat the process of threading your machine a few times to get the hang of how it works. Pressing random buttons or turning dials and hoping for the best is not a solid strategy (we’ve been there).

Sew a Few Test Seams First

Before diving into the project at hand, grab a scrap of fabric and practice sewing a few seams. This will help you get a feel for the machine, test your stitch settings, and work out any weird tension issues before they happen on the real thing.

Set the Mood

A podcast, an audiobook, or a chill playlist can keep you focused and in the flow. Sewing can be a bit repetitive, so having some background entertainment helps. Just avoid anything too distracting — this isn’t the time to start watching a thrilling true-crime series unless you want to accidentally sew your project to your sleeve.

Don’t Rush! Relax & Trust the Process

Sewing works best when you’re relaxed. Take your time, keep your eyes on the prize (your project), and remember: slow and steady, all the way (in most cases, it’s not a race). If you go too fast, you may end up with crooked seams or a jammed machine. 

Keep in mind that sewing is a skill, and skills take time to develop. If you’re getting frustrated, step away for a few minutes. Take a few deep breaths, call a friend, or have a snack. Powering through only leads to more mistakes (and more seam ripping). 

Be kind to yourself — you got this! 

Take Breaks (Your Back Will Thank You)

Sitting hunched over a sewing machine for too long is a one-way ticket to an achy back and sore shoulders. Stand up, walk around, and stretch every so often. Your body will appreciate it, and you’ll return to your project feeling refreshed.

Sewing’s Not as Hard as It Seams (Get It?)

Perfect or wonky, congratulations! Even if your first sewing project isn’t flawless  — you sewed something! In time, you’ll find that sewing is easier than you thought. Now, go show off your progress — you earned it.

Ready to kick off your sewing journey? Many of our beginner-friendly sewing patterns make perfect first-time projects. Connect with sewists of all levels through our public Discord server, and be sure to tag us on your progress posts using @firststopcosplay or #firststopcosplay. We’d love to see what you’re up to! 

Did you enjoy this starter sewing guide? Let us know what you liked in the comments so we can keep bringing you great content — your feedback makes a difference.

Visit the FSCO® Sewing Academy for more free educational content, and learn how to construct a garment using our physical or digital sewing patterns with detailed, step-by-step instructions. Aside from offering the best beginner sewing patterns on the market, we grouped all the essential tools a newbie needs to get started in one convenient beginner sewing kit.

We strive to make sewing a breeze, regardless of your skill level. Join our newsletter to stay in the loop on all things First Stop Cosplay!

Happy Sewing!

Written by Karina M.