May the ever-lovin' algorithm bless this video with its benevolent promotions.

Hey guys….she told me it REALLY makes a difference watching to the end and even watching the ads through….that is when I go get a drink or something. And she said even backing up and rewatching parts as well as commenting. Let’s get her algorithms way up there! Really enjoyed this. Gonna share with my sewing group. Thanks!

#2 Drawing lines. Sewing for about 60yrs. This is one of the things that made difficult piecing look really good like; collars, pockets with pipping and/or flaps, french button holes, buttoned cuffs and sometimes sleeve heads for coats/jacket. Do what you have to do. That is not cheeting.

About perfectionism: It was either at Knotty Gnome or My Sewcial Thread that I learned this "if it can't be seen from three feet away, OR if you have already "fixed it" three times just accept it as is and move on. Claire I love your videos, they give us the freedom we need to learn slowly but surely without self-flaggilation.

Claire, you are a true blessing for so many! Glad to see you are looking after yourself. And also glad your sister has offered you a safe place to gather yourself for the next step on your journey. Speaking of journey, if you ever feel the need to travel "across the pond ", I have a guest room with your name on it.

One thing I'd tell new sewers is use a really busy fabric in a cotton that is fine to be cut both ways up, such as florals, paisleys or random designs. Takes out two issues to fret about, cutting the wrong way up and you won't be able to see if seams are wonkey, and with it being a cotton it's not some flowy viscose that will just make a beginner upset.

I learned to sew WAY back in the 60’s. One thing I’ve learned over the decades is that there is always something to learn: new techniques, better processes, easier/faster, etc. Sewing is a journey so enjoy the ride. For all the bumps, jolts and seemingly dead ends, there will be plenty of smooth, free flowing paths.

When I was doing sewing at high school, the first thing we were given was lines and other shapes on paper. We had to prove we could sew a straight line before being allowed to proceed onto fabric. Still a great way to start sewing. A blunt needle without thread, and paper, so one can get used to the machine and how it feels. Still recommend this to all ages of newbies

I've been sewing for over 60 years, and I often draw on my fabric. It takes the pressure off! Like you, I like the Frixion pens and markers. It's so convenient just to iron them out when I'm finished sewing the seam. This is another terrific video, Ms. Amazing Claire!

Exactly! You speak the truth about the falsehoods. I have thrown more than a few projects in the bin as a result of utter frustration only to dig them out, wash them, and pick up where I left off. Disaster always strikes when I take my eye off the seam gauge while sewing. Always. Without fail. I think I would faint if any pattern ever fit straight out of the envelope. Please ask your sister if she is keen on a cameo. Looking very cute today, Claire. We support you!

I'm definitely not a perfectionist. My attitude is "it's good enough". I knew I couldn't do quilting because I tried it once and they needed to be more perfect than I was willing to do!

I've been sewing for more than 60 years. I agree with almost everything you say and I've even learned a thing or 2 from your videos. I also watch just to hear you speak. Love your voice and accent!

The points you make in this video are spot on, Claire!! I’ve been sewing for almost 50yrs and I’m still learning new tricks and techniques. Thanks!

I’ve sewn for many years, and you know, I’ve never even thought about marking the seam on the fabric. So simple! Lol what a good idea. I’ve got those washable pens.

As a returner to sewing at 70 thank you for such an inspiring and reassuring video.

Came back to sewing after a gap of 38 years. I am so much better now. Key thing for me was watching fabric not the needle; making my seams around curves and tricky bits where you cannot see the seam line on the machine; understanding my measurements and finished garment measurements; and sewing more slowlyI I.e. light touch on the peddle!! Great tips Claire and really hope the nicotine works for you and you can press ahead positively in this new phase of your life.

Each time I one of your videos I’m re-energized about my sewing…bit by bit I’m seeing great improvement in my garments by filling your tips. Slowing down was HUGE for me…also, learning to,APPRECIATE the good in each garment rather than focusing on the flaws no one else notices or cares about has helped me a great deal. I enjoy your delightful personality as well! You are a gift to all of us! Thank you Claire ♥️😎

Another great video Claire. I think you are looking happier and healthier than the last one. ❤❤

My first tip is.... remember... our ancestors made the most exquisite things using just a needle ,thread and scissors.... when fabric was scarce they used old clothes and re modelled , or feed bags during hard times ..... start simple and with each project you will learn a little more.... you don't need the top of the range all singing dancing machinery or equipment..... especially if it stays in the box because you can't use it.... Mistakes??? If a man on a galloping horse can't see it .. don't worry enjoy the process

Your honesty is refreshing and so instructive, Claire. Good luck with the nicotine patch.

❤I started sewing at the age of 7. I am trying to get my grandchildren interested in sewing as it truly a life skill. Much love to all.❤

You have hit every nail on the head. I reckon I have made every mistake in the book except the over- confidence bit. I shouldn't have laughed over the tale of your wedding dress, your plain crazy 😂

Another good vlog, thanks Claire. Take Care x

Love your channels! And wish you all the best. So many of these describe me to a T. Right now I’m so paralysed by fear of failure I have been putting off starting anything. I bought an overlocker, it is out of the box, but I’ve sewn less than 12 inches. One day I will feel brave enough x

I hope that you are settling in and things are going better for you.

I went through a phase where I would decide to make my dream outfit right before going on a trip. So in addition to the rush and anxiety of travel, I would be rushing through sewing a disappointment. I learned to put all my sewing stuff away about a week before, and just pick outfits from my closet.

So glad to see that you are doing okay!!! Your video was spot on !!! I love your red glasses!!! They make you look so bright and beautiful!!! Take care of yourself and keep up with your sewing videos!!!

you are loved my sister in sewing! I wish I could buy a coffee but here is an air hug! Much love and appreciation for you and your videos!

Good luck with the patch…..love your videos

Thanks! Much love my sewing sister! I have learned so much from you, I don't sew garments but I quilt, but sewing is universal. Thanks for the lessons, I wish I could thank you more.

Good advice. I've learned that I need to draw on my fabric when I have to pivot. I'm never accurate enough when I "eyeball" it.

I am guilty of all the falsehoods 😊 years ago, the night before my sister-in-law's wedding, my friend and i were finishing up a dress for me for the wedding and we CUT into the skirt!!!! Luckily it was a paneled skirt AND i had enough fabric to replace 1 panel! Great advice to always give yourself enough time when making something for an event.

I still mark my seam lines, especially with tricky bits like notched lapels, where I need to be precise. Otherwise I know I'll have to seam rip and redo it again and I'm just not willing to do that any more than I already have to 😂 And the dress in two hours bit is so true! My aunt who's a seamstress threw something together for a ball two years ago, a slinky lamé kind of dress and it looked great until she did a more daring dance move and the back seam over her rear split clean open. Turns out two hours the night of was too little time to finish the edges properly and the edges frayed clean open 😂

As a self taught, _very unconventional_ pattern maker, who's main focus was on testing to see if the pattern checked, I have had to focus really hard on improving my actual sewing skills. Now, finally, after 40 years, when I test a new pattern I still use budget fabric but my skills have improved enough to have some very wearable test garments. I started making swimwear as a teen and learned on stretchy fabric before woven, but now I'm able to make everything from undergarments to winter snowsuits, and ALL my garments have full range movement without bulk. Sewing and patternmaking/fitting are to very different skill sets, and I excel at patternmaking but I still somewhat suck at sewing even though I've spent THOUSANDS of hours behind a sewing machine.

I’ve enjoyed all your videos that I’ve watched so far - though I haven’t yet started sewing again (after I “broke” my machine by trying to sew through lots of layers which seriously screwed up the tension). I love your accent, the evident truth of your stories, and your efforts to help all of us. Meanwhile, I’m so sorry about your marriage and that you’ve temporarily lost your sewing space. Please try to take care of yourself. I’m glad you at least have a kind sister to provide temporary housing for you. I’m one of your appreciative followers!

Claire, I'm sorry about your life changing event. You hold your head up and smile for you are a beautiful lady inside and out. Enjoyed your pointers on sewing. I always tell the ladies that I sew with that the seam ripper is your best friend. I've been sewing for a long time and still make mistakes. And I will rip that seam out in a heart beat if it's not right. I mainly sew quilts, bags and crafts for the family. I still have to figure things out. Practice practice Ladies and you will get there. ❤

1) The seam ripper is my friend 2) If you put the seam in enough times, eventually it will go in right, even of it is by accident. 3) Plan on it taking about 4 times longer than you think it should, and use 5 times the thread it should.

Also, I still find it impossible to continue a project if I’ve made a mistake. I’m currently crocheting and knitting and have “frogged” so many times. I also have quite a few projects that I’ve just never started over once I’ve ripped them out. I do know that perfectionism causes all kinds of difficulties. I felt I had to be a straight A student, and managed that feat through high school. But I know I would have been a happier person if I’d relaxed my standards. Cheers to you for getting over insignificant mistakes!

I’m really struggling with the sizing stuff. Watching your videos is helping me work up the guts to adjust a store bought pattern. Good to see you smiling!

Always nice to see a new video from you! I have not been sewing long so I do rely heavily on the magnetic seam guide and mark the stitch line for curved seams. If I have used 6 million pins, I will hand baste the seam and remove the pins before sewing.

I remember you sewing that top. It really suits you.

I'm new to sewing but trying to sew an outfit right before an event is exactly the kind of thing I would do.

Great post Claire I have had to realise what I make will never be perfect but as long as it’s good enough to wear it’s a ✅ I bought an Overlocker a few months ago which is an air threader and at first I wondered why I bought it but now love it really getting the hang of making Tee shirts Love all your advice ❤

Another good one.

I'm getting better at making pants, yea you're spot on about modifying the patterns. I don't have many patterns but the sizes on men's shirts and pants never fit up in my size. A hip curve ruler has really helped.

Dear Claire, thank you very much for your videos. I have found your YT channel just recently and now I am watching all videos one by one. They are interesting and honest. Good luck and all the best!

Thank you for your video. As always I am learning so much from you. Yesterday was my last day at work ever so at the moment I feel as if I am holiday. I am changing my box room from a study to a craft room and getting set to put all your good advice into practice. I like the idea of drawing on the fabric to help with straight lines I never even considered that. I hope the new research and the patches gives you some relief Claire.

Great tips! Thanks 😊

Patterns always lie. They need to go into a corner and think about what they’ve done!

Just wanted to give you a tip, you can always achieve very steady and even gathering on your fancy overlock machine. It's just a matter of adjusting your differential feed on most machines. Trims and gathers in one fell swoop, if I had to do them the old fashioned way would never do them. Lol I hope you're feeling better about things. Much love for you and your new journey.❤

Thank you for sharing your tips, always appreciated .❤

Thank you for reiterating, don't quit!

You do lift us up Claire.

Inspiring, thank you.

Love your way of "teaching" !! One thing(for me) is do NOT COMPARE yourself to people that have been sewing for YEARS/DECADES !!! also, IGNORE non-sewers who comment to you "so-n-so" sews so BEAUTIFUL; (then snarl at your joy of trying!)

Glad to see you , love to hear your honest tips , good luck with the nicotine patches. Teena

years ago, when I was young and thin, I could take a pattern and it fit me. NOT ANY MORE! Full bust adjustment , full bottom adjustment, length, width adjustments....on and on! But at least now I know!

Great video and lots of love to you, Claire! 💗

Great video!

Lolol. I never thought about drawing a line on my fabric.😅😅😅 Will I am not special because I have to make pattern adjustments all the time!😅😅😅

Great video, keep being strong, am watching many of your other videos, well worth a watch!

Thanks so much for the very helpful information..

Thanks for the insight. I enjoy your videos.

Great video, thanks Claire!!

Thanks for the great tips!

Great video. Good luck with the patch experiment, hope it helps 🤞🏻

I love love love your sewing videos!

Love your tips. ❤

Well done Claire ❤thinking of you

Just found your Chanel and subscribed. Very helpful (and I love your accent). Thank you 🙏 🦘

HI FRIEND nice to see you again we have so much in common 😀

I so identify with everything you said. My overlocker is still in the box, two years after buying it). I will get it out.

One thing I have learned, DO NOT WORRY about the shape of your garment is IF it fits you properly! maybe I haven't stated that right, but if you are large in the hips and make a garment that fits YOU, it may not look great on a hanger....IGNORE THAT! it needs to fit you!! not the hanger!

Thanks!

I also struggle with wanting to be perfect

Word of caution with the frixion pens, they can show back up on dark material. I was using them on dark navy, the lines went away no problem. But when I went over the piece again with an iron a faint white line showed back up.

When i first started using invisible zippers, the zipper was visible on my garments! 😂 it was mostly dresses with the zip in the back or on the side, but i was wearing them anyway. 🤷‍♂️ i was so stoked to wear the stuff i made. 😊

Yay! Trousers! Now you’re talking….. ❤❤❤

WOW. You must have been reading my mind. Being a perfectionist in this world makes life very hard. Must be genetics eh! Anyways, now I slow down and have, I think, done enough practices, to make things kind of work out.

You Rock!!

I drew on a seam line today, in fact!

I did that once, made a dress for a date the same evening. My hem was crooked and I was exhausted by the time my date showed up! 😂 after that, I decided I'd make a nice dress taking my time, and then I'd always have a dress for an event. Now I live in LBDs so what I wear every day could be an "event dress " 😂😂 Great video!

i relate to the wanting to make a dress without checking the numbers. Always disappointed

Yes I am having trouble making trousers 😂😢😅

Hugs ❤️😘

In my 45yrs of sewing I have made 2 wedding dress, (my daughter's & a woman I worked with). I allowed 12 week before the event. I think it would take me longer now days as I seem to have slowed down with old age😂.

I have a serger and not scared of it but can’t get the seam allowance correct

❤

Hello! Hope you are doing okay.

Wow, nicotine can help you, well I hope it works. 👍🏻🥰 good luck

Trousers 😬😬😬

You look beautiful today

xXX👍👍👍

Hi Claire can you see the names of your subscribers? By the way making your own wedding dress lies somewhere between brave and insane, lol😅 you must’ve been so stressed and anxious. Not that different to me taking on three bridesmaids dresses with only a week and in 40°C heat. I simply to this day do not know how I managed. 🤷‍♀️😅 ps nice to see you looking fresh and happy 😃