Sewing is a skill many people don’t consider learning until it becomes necessary. If you’ve developed a rip in your favorite piece of clothing, your new pants are too long, or you saw beautiful fabric that would make the perfect curtains, it’s time to get started with the basics. For those who’ve never tried their hand at this fun and valuable skill, start small and work your way up. Here are a few fun, easy projects for sewing novices.

Sewing Projects to Start Learning On

1. Place Mat

This is the ultimate practice piece. A place mat is straightforward, with no tricky measurements to worry about. Besides a sewing machine, all you need is thread, scissors, two rectangles of fabric, a ruler to keep the two panels even, and pins to hold it all together. Since they’re so easy to make, you might wind up with several finished products — perfect gifts for friends with kids.

2. Pillowcase

A quality, store-bought pillowcase can be quite expensive these days. Luckily, it’s easy to make your own. You’ll need 2 yards of fabric per case to fit a standard pillow. Choose a soft material you’ll enjoy sleeping on and a second one for the cuff. Depending upon the pattern, you may select a third fabric for an accent band between the cuff and the main part of the pillowcase. This project will require a sewing machine, ruler, pins, and scissors.

3. Tote Bag

Bags are one of the handiest projects; use them at the grocery store or give them away as gifts. Pick two fabrics that work well together — one for the inside and one for the exterior. For supplies, find a wide ruler, thread, and scissors. Once you choose the tote bag pattern you want, the rest is a matter of measuring and cutting the panels and creating the strap.

If you’ve never used a sewing machine before, let Appletree Quilting Center in Columbia, MO, help. They offer a variety of classes to help you get started, from learning to use your machine to making clothes and quilts. Visit them online to see their full list of classes or learn about fabric selections, services, and clubs. Follow them on Facebook for updates on events, or give them a call at (573) 446-2655 for more information.