One technique at a time.
Each guide covers a single sewing technique — what it's for, the order of the steps, the fabric it suits and the mistakes that make it go wrong. Free, no sign-up.
Beginner · 30–45 minutes · 7 steps
How to sew a zipper
How to sew a zipper into a seam step by step: which zip to choose, how to press the seam first, and how to stitch it so it lies flat and doesn't wave.
Confident beginner · 45 minutes · 7 steps
How to sew an invisible zipper
Sew an invisible zip that disappears into the seam: how to press the coil open, where to stitch, and how to close the seam below the zip afterwards.
Beginner · 20–40 minutes · 7 steps
How to sew a hem
How to sew a clean hem: the double-turned hem, the blind hem and hemming stretchy knit fabric without wavy edges — plus how much length to allow.
Confident beginner · 30 minutes · 7 steps
How to sew a buttonhole
How to sew machine buttonholes that don't fray or gape: how to size them to your button, where to place them, and how to cut them open safely.
Beginner · 10 minutes each · 7 steps
How to sew a dart
How to sew bust and waist darts: marking, stitching to a fine point, which way to press, and how to fix a dart that dimples at the tip.
Confident beginner · 30–45 minutes · 7 steps
How to set in a sleeve
How to set in a sleeve without puckers: the flat method for beginners, easing the sleeve head, and how to match notches so the sleeve hangs straight.
Confident beginner · 30–45 minutes · 7 steps
How to sew bias binding
How to apply bias binding to necklines, armholes and edges: cutting your own bias strips, joining them, and stitching binding that lies completely flat.
Beginner · 15 minutes per seam · 7 steps
How to sew a French seam
How to sew a French seam step by step: the two-pass method that encloses every raw edge without an overlocker, and where to use it.
Beginner · 30 minutes · 7 steps
How to sew an elastic waistband
How to sew a comfortable elastic waistband: casing width, how much elastic to cut, threading it through, and stopping the elastic twisting in the wash.
Beginner · Applies to the whole project · 7 steps
How to sew knit fabric
How to sew jersey and knit fabric without an overlocker: needle and stitch choice, stopping wavy seams, stabilising shoulders and neckband maths.
Beginner · 15–30 minutes · 7 steps
How to gather fabric
How to gather fabric evenly: the two-row basting method, gathering over a cord for long seams, and how to distribute gathers so they don't clump.
Beginner · 5 minutes · 6 steps
How to understitch
What understitching is and how to do it: the invisible line of stitching that keeps facings, bindings and neckline finishes rolled to the inside.
Sewing a whole garment?
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