This bonnet is so versatile because it is a head wrap

A reversible bonnet made from satin and a cotton fabric (in this case African Print Fabric)

Making this bonnet head wrap is very easy and make a great gift at Christmas, or any other other occasion.

Here’s my video that walks you through how to make this DIY bonnet head wrap step-by-step!

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My daughter did a video “Unboxing Brother GX37 Sewing Machine” on her YouTube channel “Lil Chick Creations“. This is the same sewing machine used in this guide. You can watch the video below.

Click here to get the GX37 Sewing Machine

If you’re  wondering what sewing tools you need to get started, check out our post on Beginner Sewing Kit – Supplies You Need

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With so many machines out there, one question many beginners have is “What sewing machine is best for me?”

Whether you are a beginner, or a veteran in sewing, you have asked this question at one time or the other. Choosing a sewing machine can be a daunting task, but with this guide, I am hoping to make the process an easy and stress-free one for you.

A very important starting point is to identify the main reasons you need a sewing machine. In other words, what do you need to get done with a sewing machine? It is also important to decide what your budget is for a sewing machine. If you can clearly answer these questions, it will guide you in choosing the best sewing machine for you.

Before you go shopping for that sewing machine, ask yourself these questions. These can help you identify your basic needs, and help you reach a decision:

• Are you just starting to sew, or do you already know how to sew?
• Have you used a sewing machine before and are you comfortable using one?
• Do you see yourself doing more with a sewing machine in the future, or are you just interested in the basics (like just knowing how to do straight stitches)
• Is this an asset you want to hold on to for long, or just looking for something in the interim?
• What are you able to afford, and willing to pay for a sewing machine?

Answering these will help you determine what sewing machine works best for your situation.

Should You Buy Used or New: Sewing Machine?

This is a tricky question and must be handled with utmost care, and reasoning. For your peace of mind, I personally would advise you go for a brand new machine. That is not to say you can’t find good used machines, but since you really can’t vouch for what the used machines have been through, and usually they may not come with a warranty, I would choose a new one instead.

Getting a new machine is less of a risk, and gives you some peace of mind. In addition, even if you don’t buy additional warranty, your new machine will have manufacturers warranty.

What Type of Sewing Machine to Buy

As a beginner, you don’t need any complicated sewing machine. Get one that can perform the basic functions you need to do as a beginner. Most machines will come with some different stitches/patterns, but keep in mind that you don’t need a whole lot of stitches/patterns to get started. A basic sewing machine will wind your bobbin, do the basic straight stitching and reversing (back) stitches.

Some machines have front-loading bobbin compartments, meaning you load the bobbin from the front, and some have drop-in compartments. Although the drop-in compartments may be easy to use, but either one of these will work and are not too complicated once you get the hang of it. Be sure to always keep your sewing machine manual handy, and refer to it from tome to time as this will serve as a great resource over time.

Check Reviews and Ratings Inline Before Buying a Sewing Machine

Also, make sure you read reviews online before you buy any sewing machine. Even if you decide to buy in the store, check the reviews online  first. The more the reviews and ratings, the better it can be trusted. It s also good practice to check reviews on different retailer websites, and not just one.

You can watch the Video on this Beginner Sewing Machine too.

What is You Budget for A Sewing Machine?

How much can you afford for a sewing machine? This is an important factor to determine ahead of time. It helps you filter out machines outside of your budget and concentrate on the ones within your range.

In addition to getting your sewing machine, you should also consider putting together your sewing kit. Check my blog post on Beginner’s Sewing Kit. It will help guide you on what you need to get started.

Check out one my sewing machine reviews in this video:

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Watch Video

I have also included links to where you can get these online. Please note that some of these links may be affiliate links, meaning that we get some little commission if you buy through the link. We appreciate your support, enabling us to continue to bring you more free information!

Multipurpose Sewing Clips with Tin Box Package

These make a great gift for anyone that sews or quilt! They are not only great to use in place of pins but also have other functions as well, such as for hanging pictures, clothes, used as book clips and for several other craft functions. They are sturdy and can hold multiple layers of fabric together. They come in nine beautiful fun colors and packaged in a sturdy Tin Gift storage box.

Get it here!

Thread Organizer

Another great gift for anyone you know that loves sewing. We all need to store our thread spools, bobbins, and other small embellishments, and these do a wonderful job! The clear plastic makes it easy to see what is stored in it for easy retrieval. This organizer is double-sided, giving it more storage capability.

Get one here!

Sewing Basket with Sewing Kit Accessories

This sewing basket kit will make a beautiful gift for anyone just beginning to sew as well as all others. Beautiful print design with interior storage and tray organizer. Includes hand needles, pins, thread spools, scissors, pin cushion, needle threader, tape measure, thimble and seam ripper. Has collapsible handles for easy storage.

Get one here!

32 pcs Domestic Sewing Machine Presser Foot Set –  Universal

This compact presser foot set fits most sewing machine brands including singer, brother, Janome, Juki, Babylock, and many other sewing machines. Comes in an organizer case with snap-locking lid to keep pressers safe. This is a great set for anyone that loves to sew, and will always come in handy for many years to come.

Available here!

Ultimate Sewing Starter Kit

Even though this says “Starter Kit”, this will make anyone that loves sewing happy Comes with 14 popular quality sewing tools such as scissors, rotary cutter, seam ripper, pin cushion, tape measure, and much more!

Get the kit here!

Sewing Room Wall Clock

There are so many cute sewing-themed decorative wall clocks to choose from these days. They make such delightsome gifts for anyone that loves to sew, and especially a much welcome gift for a sewing room or space.

Get them here!

Sewing Room Decals & Wall Art

People who love to sew love their space to be beautiful and relaxing. Wall decals and art add a beautiful and relaxing touch to any sewing room/space. We all want to be proud of our workspace They also work great in any part of the house for anyone that loves sewing or quilting!

Get one here!

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Sewing-themed Jewelry

Jewelry always makes a great gift. You can gift sewing-themed pieces of jewelry like necklaces, bracelets, brooches, earrings and more!

See varieties here!

Decorative Pin Cushions

These are cute to have and will be appreciated by someone that loves sewing. They come in various beautiful designs, looks, and colors, and will always be useful and needed.

See more pincushions!

Jewelry/Trinket Box

Another gift item that is both decorative and useful. These will definitely come in handy. Comes in different designs as well.

See more here!

Good Quality Scissors and Shears

You can never go wrong with good quality scissors or shears as a gift to anyone who loves to sew or quilt! These days you don’t have to sacrifice quality for beauty as you can find high-quality scissors and shears that are a delight to behold. Not only do they perform the needed function but look beautiful in your sewing space!

Get some here!

Want to see even more options? Then check our supplies page.

Please note: These are just suggestions and I take no responsibility for your decisions. Please check reviews and make your decisions based on your own preference.

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Have you seen our premium video tutorial on How to Cut a Pencil Skirt? You can view the free sample where we teach you how to cut a pencil skirt here.

However, if you will like to go a step further, and at the same time support us so we can provide you more free videos, please take a look at our full premium video teachings on How to cut and How to Sew a Pencil Skirt. Click the button below to buy this course at our low price.

View Course

Get Supplies here

The post How to Make a Pencil Skirt (Cut and Sew) using Freehand. No Patterns Required! appeared first on .

Scissors

Scissors are very important as you start to sew. There are different versions, sizes, and brands of scissors. The important thing is to get sharp and durable scissors. You can check reviews online before your purchase to help you decide on the best type of scissors for your needs.

We recommend you get 2 pairs of scissors – one for cutting fabric, and another for cutting paper, velcro and all other items other than fabric. Cutting paper with your fabric scissors dulls your scissors so that it no longer is sharp enough to cut fabric. A good rule is to have separate pairs of scissors for these different functions.

Also, be sure to mark your paper scissors and let those around you know not to use your fabric scissors to cut anything other than fabric.

Get Scissors

Tape Measure

Tape measure enables you to take body measurements, as well as take measurements on your fabric. It is an important measuring tool that you absolutely must have in your sewing kit. Tape measures come in different sizes – the short 36-inch tape measure, the 60-inch tape measure, 96-inch tape measure, and even longer ones. we recommend you start with the 60-inch tape measure.

Marking Tools

Another essential you need is something to mark measurements on your paper or fabric. These are your marking tools and includes tailors’ chalk, fabric marker and pen/pencil for marking papers.

The chalk comes in different colors, shapes and look. You also have them in a pencil-like form called the chalk pencils. There are fabric markers too. These are water-soluble, meaning they watch off once they come in contact with water.

Seam Rippers

While not most sewers favorite, we all need seam rippers regardless of our expertise level. This comes handy when you make an error and need to take apart your seams. You can find seam rippers in different types and looks.

Pins, Needles, Pin Cushions and Magnets

These are also very essential for your sewing kit. The needles can either be hand-sewing needles or sewing machine needles. Most times, you’ll always need hand-sewing to finish up your projects, for that reason, it is good to always have hand-sewing needles around. These too come in different sizes. Keep a variety in your kit, as what needle you use will depend on the texture of fabric you have, or the project you are working on. You can pick up a pack of different sizes.

Make sure to have extra sewing machine needles in your kit as well. You don’t want to be sewing, break a needle and unable to continue because you have no extras around.

Pins come in varieties too, but the ball-point pins are great to have as a beginner. They are easy to pick up because of the ball-point heads. Their colorful heads make them easy to find if dropped on the floor!

Pincushions are where you stick your pins in for easy access and use. Nowadays, you can find so many fun shapes of pincushions.

Magnets are great to hold pins and needles too, and such great help when you drop pins on the floor and need to easily find them.

Watch the Video:

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