Hello friends! I'm back with a new sewing video! I hope you enjoy it. Leave a comment below, let me know what you wish you knew! Dont forget to like, comment and subscribe. If you would like to, you can offer extra support by buying me a kofi www.ko-fi.com/penguinandpear ty in advance, every penny helps me to run this channel x

Let me just tell you . . . a Penguin and Pear video is better than a big ole box of chocolates, a bouquet of flowers and going out to eat on Valentine's Day. So great to see you again on this channel. I only have a few patterns as I decluttered several months ago, but those poor patterns have been altered, hacked, and re-hacked to death. Wish I had known the amount of patience sewing can take. I had no idea that a seam ripper would become my best friend. I would like to know which fabrics you enjoy sewing the most and why, and which patterns you like the best and why. Strike a pose, sweet Claire . . . you're a model! Big ole hugs and kisses right back at ya.

So glad you’re back! I think it’s safe to say we ALL missed you! You look refreshed and beautiful 🤩

The domino effect of altering patterns became so complicated, I actually found creating my own patterns from well fitting blocks to be easier.

I learned to sew on KZfaq too. I owe the creators who took the time to make videos my living! I actually make my living sewing these days, and it's all because of our fellow KZfaq sewists/dressmakers/seamstress.

You are a breath of fresh air. Most channels want to sell you something. Your honestly is refreshing. I almost got caught up in it that you have to have all the gadgets and the best sewing machine. I make a lot of DIY gadgets that gets the job done just as well. I agree with the comments you do look great. I wish you all the best. Keep it up.

Could you make a video telling us the things you would like to make once you can get back to sewing?

Love Your Channel!! Authentic to the Core!

Hi Claire, so good to see you on this channel. You have me cracked up! But my goodness lol yes! These tips could help save ALOT ! ❤

So happy to see you. I was missing you so much. Love you, Claire! Thanks for this video. It's a great refresher.

I buy a lot of patterns from charity shops, most have never been used so they can be traced and converted, there are so many dress makers who buy patterns never make them and then get rid of them. It’s a great money saver😊

I just started sewing again this year (packed my youngest off to college and promptly took over his room - no more kitchen table setups). I had a machine from my mother-in-law, it was probably 50-60 years old and sewed...okayish, but with a certain added frustration level and difficulty changing stitches. It also weighed about 70 pounds, which was not fun to set up and take down. After I sewed a few things my husband said "I'll get you a new machine for Christmas." Yay! Off I trotted to the sewing machine store where the man literally laughed in my face at the idea of a $300 machine and proceeded to try to sell me his 'most basic model' at $1300. In my mind I'm thinking "SIR! I am not about to spend $1300 on a hobby that I may or may not stick with! If I'm still at it in a year or two and hate my cheaper machine as much as you think I will, THEN I will come back and consider your expensive machine." So far I am quite happy with the machine I ended up getting (Singer Quantum Stylist). Yes, I did fall prey to the idea of stitches that I will never use. But at least I didn't spend $1300 on it. As far as things I wish I had known, I think the first thing I would say is I wish I had known that 50% (made-up number) of having a finished garment you like is using the correct fabric. Even staying within what the pattern lists you might not get what you envisioned. I made a shirt with a cowl neck. Do I like having stuff around my neck? I do not. But the neck looked fairly droopy and I thought 'that's cool.' So I got a French Terry, which was one of the suggested fabrics. I now have a shirt with an immense wad of fabric at the neck that doesn't drape like I wanted it to. If I had used the terry that I got for my daughter's pants I would have had a MUCH better drape. (I suspect something related to the printing on the fabric, maybe.) Speaking of my daughter's pants, my second thing is 'pay attention to the listed finished garment measurements and believe them.' It does not matter if you think a 34 inch inseam on a pair of size two pants can't possibly be correct because that would be made for a giraffe. If you go sewing on your merry little way you will end up with a pair of split hem joggers that are 4 inches too long. Anyway, lots of trial and error going on around here right now, but at least I have resisted cutting into my expensive fabrics until I have done toiles or at least made the pattern first in an inexpensive alternative.

Definitely agree on the “just learn it and move on. “. my early misconception was learning was one and done. I was set right by having wise older sewists such my Gram, Girl Scout leaders, home economics teachers- I’ve discovered one of the great joys of sewing IS the learning and practice. As I move thru my 7th decade on this big blue marble, being able to find new and different things is a gift.

Missed you here! I so agree on just getting a machine with basic stitches. I bought a $750 computerized machine 25 years ago, and it lasted about 10 years, and that was without a lot of use. I said, never again. I bought a 1962 Singer 500a (401a is the same mechanically) with quite a few built in stitches, and I only use straight, zig zag, multi-zig zag, and blind hem. I bought a cam for overlock and I've never used it. Plus, I can do double needle stitching by adding a needle, which modern machines don't offer. I can service it myself because it's simple and was intended to be serviced by the owner, and it will last practically forever since it doesn't have a plastic gear anywhere. I love having a sewing table and haven't missed the free arm much at all.

I will say about a pattern stash though- if you are buying indie patterns with good instructions, it can be a great way to learn multiple approaches to doing things. For example, not every pattern has you construct a zipper fly in the same way and seeing how different people approach it can be really helpful. I recently bought a t shirt pattern with a dart and was surprised by a way to do the neckband that I'd never seen before. I also learned about knit stay tape from the pattern, which I am delighted to now know about and own. I think the free version of this is to watch a lot of sew-alongs on youtube.

Hi Claire! Great tips as always. I wish I knew the first dozen garments I sew will NOT be good. The shape will be wonky, it definitely won't fit right, and it won't be a staple in my wardrobe like I hoped it would. I actually made a costume as my first real garment and I'd HIGHLY recommend it! Very low stakes and low pressure. ❤

Good to see a vid on this channel. You always pack in so much good info when you do this style of video. Cheers! 🌻🍄

Glad you’re back on.

It's so nice to have you back and looking so well and happy! As someone who has been sewing for 58 of my 67 years, I applaud you for learning so much during just 10 years...amazing! One topic I am interested in hearing more about is the use of the patterns by all of the independent pattern designers. Because I have only used patterns made by the big companies, I am not knowledgeable about using the ones you have to print and piece together. I hope you continue to do well and can return to sewing very soon.

Great video. You crack me up and I realize how much I miss England.

Great video!

Interesting what you said about pattern testing. Its the same with a lot of craft making to sell. I always say if something takes two hours to make then what could you earn on minimal wage in those 2 hours plus you have to buy materials on top of that. Your time is more valuable than you think.

Helen Rhiannon ( all sewn up wales) has written an excellent book on making patterns Dressmaking made easy... as you rightly say , save all that money on buying patterns....

HI, This is my first time watching your videos and I want to thank you for sharing your experiance with me. I also want to wish you all the best with your house move and for a happy future, I really enjoyed your video and you are easy to follow. I am very lucky that I have started sewing/dressmaking classes and have to say that our teacher is brilliant and has endless knowlege and experiance whis she is happy to pass on to us all. She also warns us about buying stuff we don't need nor use. She is also great at pushing us if we stay with the same things for too long and she will encourage us to get something that is up a level, and there are about 8 of us in the class and we meet once weekly and we have all gotten on really well and help each other with things outwith the classes which is great.

So lovely to see a new video. You make me laugh! Thank you 🙏🏻

Your top is beautiful. It looks lovely on you.

There is no cheating in sewing ^.^ Only results! There are a lot of free patterns to print out on internet or study the shape of patterns. Just designing the blocks don't mean you understand HOW to get that poofy sleeve, or that weird collar. You can even get blocks made for you online for cheap, just give them your measurements. However! I would recommend to get basic free patterns to get a feel for how weird shapes can be made into cool 3d things. .and then how you can switch pattern pieces, to get a top from one pattern, a sleeve from the other, and a collar from a third and combine it all together. I always recommend making a toille to start with and the top down center out method of fitting pants. And agreed! You only need straight, zigzag, buttonhole. .and preferably something to do knitted fabrics with. But even that you can do with a zigzag. My tip to any noob though would be, check with your community center if they have a class in patternmaking or sewing. At least in sweden they normally run a lot and they are cheap and it is great!

We are happy to see you back on this channel Claire. Wishing you lots of happiness for the future. xxxx

Missed you 😊

Hi Claire, I'm glad to see you again. You look well rested. I am not a garment maker, although I did dabble in it years ago when I was a teenager. Nowadays, I am a quilter. My daughter gifted me a sewing machine for Mother's Day a few years ago, a Singer Simple. It is a basic machine with a few extra stitches, but not a lot. I have only used my straight stitch (on my quilts) and sometimes the zigzag on other items. A high end machine does not make you a better sewer - time and practice does. Cheers from Canada. Thank you for the video Claire.

Good to see you. 😊

When I started, pants/slacks on sale cost about $11 and tea shirt were about $10 in the 1960s. Now, you can still find clothes for that price, but patterns may cost that without the fabric, thread, buttons, or zipper.

Love your videos! I've gotten where I don't sew new garments as much as I refashion thrifted ones. One thing I would like to make though is a coat. I have a lot of jackets and a heavy winter coat but nothing in between. I would love it if you would go through the coat patterns out there and tell your experiences from when you sewed your coat. Thanks.

I been sewing since I was younger and at school sewing is my favourite my mum teach me how to knit 🧶 it was ok she used to sew she made a dress and curtains and cushion and knitting cardigan I wish I could read sewing patterns and knitting patterns ❤❤😂 I will ask my mum it's lovely to see you again ❤❤🎉

Thank you so much for your incredibly helpful and honest advice. You are an absolute star! I nearly cried in acknowledgment when you started off with the challenges of sewing straight lines! Even when I draw the lines on, I’ve got to concentrate on getting it right😂😂. While I dare not make clothes yet, it’s good to know that an experienced sewer can make clothes without a pattern. Best wishes from Australia 🇦🇺

I would like a dedicated series on how to look at a pattern and figure out how to cut fabric. This is the hardest part of sewing for me. I appreciate you taking a stand on pattern testing. I signed up to test for a year in crocheting and it was so much work. Hope you find a fab place to settle in and start fresh xoxox❤🧶

So nice to see you back!!!

Lovely to see you on here with great info I know from your other channel it’s been a rough few months but you have done so well Good to see you looking and sounding much happier and back posting ❤

So happy to see you again ❤

My tips are: If you’re a quilter, but aren’t sure how to read garment sewing patterns, start off trying commercial baby patterns. The simpler the better. They don’t have any chests, no darts to speak of, and generally work with snaps or buttons. Patterns using woven fabrics are easier to start with than knits. I started to learn how to sew garments for my firstborn when I’d been solely a quilter for a decade (plus tote/bags/pillows construction). As the kids grow, the patterns start to get harder, and you gain more skills through practice. The second tip is to buy medium expensive scissors and not the most expensive ones. One snip into a pin, or into cording, or something else can wear an expensive pair down faster requiring sharpening more often and decreased life. I also agree about the sewing machine. I quilted on a Kenmore (whirlpool) 28 stitch sewing machine that finally became unfixable after 30+ years of sewing. I now own a mid-range computerized Juki that balances sewing and quilting needs.

You are looking Wonderful!!!

You always have great advice, Claire! Thanks and so great to see you !

Always great advice.

True, you are always learning.

Excellent ❤

Thank you so much for these videos. Always lovely to see you.

Welcome Back Claire. 💜 that video was a belter! You ticked a lot of boxes that I hadn't realized were things I wished I'd known too, even though I started sewing with my Mum and took in school. Agree wholeheartedly about the machine and gadgets - keep it simple! Used a Singer (basic stitches only) I bought when I was 12 with my babysitting money until in finally gave up the ghost some 45 years later. Was gifted (Thank goodness! Oh the price of machines now a days 😲) a Bernina 163 and it was intimidating at first with computerization and 35-40 stitches but for me starting on that basic machine has served me well. I enjoy learning from you on this channel - you always have thoughtful and helpful content. Which makes me think of something I wished I'd done: found other sewists to connect with. I enjoy the solitaryness of sewing but it is good to learn and share with others. YT makes that possible so I think it's a bit easier these days. Thank you for being my mainstay in my virtual sewing circle! 💜💙💞

You are flipping awesome! Love watching your content!

Love all your content Claire! You always keep it real and I adore you for it!! Lots of love xx

This video helped me so much yesterday, just a lift I needed, and you gave me some good giggles along the way! You're looking good, Claire, and obvious everyone was excited to see your new video! I know what you mean, when you've packed and having to unpack is such a chore when you aren't at your new home yet. Soon, soon!! Yes, I guess once you get there, then the other fun part beginnings, the UNpacking. That's will probably not be fun, but in a way a fresh new start will probably feel amazing by then! I can't wait to follow the rest of the adventure. Let's see, I really need to pull out my sergers and figure out how to finally use them, and you have given us some great guidelines on that in your video's. Lots of great suggestions from others who replied, too. Here is something that fascinated me different times when you would be altering your patterns to get your "apex" just right. I am still not sure how you did that. I guess I should go back and watch some of those again, because I know you had a process you went through, and your garments always seemed to be a great fit! Just thinking out loud now.........yes, been following you for a long time now! Thanks for all your great content, Claire xxx Lita

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Great tips. I’m continually learning through these videos. THANK YOU 🥰

Good to see you back and just wish you the very best for what the future has in store for you. I have 2 brothers. One does have a number of different stitches on them. You are so right I have hardly ever used them. I have a very basic brother that I take to Florida with me and it sews like a dream. I did do a couple of things that made quite a difference for me. I was struggling with the fitting thing . I’m 70 with arthritis, knee replacements, and a belly. It was just so hard & taxing trying to fit myself. I made a crude dress form to my measurements. The first couple of dresses I fit on it came out the best I had ever made. I still had to do a bit of fitting but I had my shape and I basically just had to follow the stitch line. Also I don’t mind taking time to do a muslin because in the long run it saves a lot of time,frustration,and grief. However plotting out your own patterns or blending sizes can take a lot of time and often still don’t work out without a whole lot of work involved. I now order from a company that you send them your personal measurements and they print patterns according to your personal measurements. The patterns run about $3.49 and up. When I get these patterns I measure them against my measurements and I add the ease and seam allowance and make any adjustments needed. Works out so much better. You are looking good and I hope you are having more good days than bad ones. I will have to check out your new diet.

Thanks!

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Hi Claire. Given our climate here in Australia I love to sew with rayons. I don't have an overlocker so finish my seam allowances with a zigzag stitch. It always bunches up on the finer fabric...won't lie flat. Have you any hints on how I can remedy this please? 🐨 hugs (Anne)

Claire I’m not sure if you’ve done this but I’m interested in how you learned about fabric. There are so many fabrics that I’ve heard the names of but I’m not sure if I’ve ever worn because retail only lists the fabric content. I’m also concerned about choosing a fabric that I’m not ready to sew, like something very slippery, when I shop online. Have you had any fabric mishaps that you learned from? I’d like to hear about it. I’ve been afraid to buy without more knowledge!

What are your favorite pattern brands for plus sizes?