amitymamaThe Attachment Parenting Community

DevDandKatesmom · 04-16-2006, 08:46 AM

I want to start sewing (In general..i dont know how to yet!!)
My friend is gonna give me a sewing machine she doesnt want any more...
I want to try sewing some thing fairly easy like... my own diaper cloth wipes, or doublers or some thing easy(i think) like that...
but ive read alot that you need a surger!?
Im not really even sure WHAT a surger even is tho!?

and also where do i get the fabric n stuff , like the PUL and french terry cloth( i think thats its name!?) and other fabrics..like hemps and stuff that are normally used in these types of products.

I have no idea where to look or even start with any of this.. Im realllly hoping my friend gets the sewing machine to me..or i get to it ..soon.
Im really excited to get going.
But really confused about where to start..
Of corse im gonna practice with scrap peices of any thing to get the hang of the machine and learn how to sew in general but would really like to make some cloth diapers to sell AND for use with Katelyn.

Breila · 04-16-2006, 10:26 AM

You don't need a serger to do dipes, but it does make it easier, LOL. A serger is a machine that cuts, sews and finished the seam in one pass. If you look at the inside seams of any of your store bought clothes, that is what a serger does.

With diapers, you can always turn and topstitch. It is actually a very neat finish, it just takes twice as long. Www.sewzannes.com has some great diaper patterns. I like the Goodness Gracious pattern personally.

You can use any absorbant material for dipes, even old washcloths. You can get terry at JAs, but I don't personally like what they have. For more specialty fabric, you could try www.diapercuts.com

Good luck, sewing is addictive, LOL. Before you know it, you'll have a serger and be wanting an embroidery machine!

Half dozen mama · 04-16-2006, 12:56 PM

You should come join the forums at www.diaperjungle.com we have a special forum just for sewing and sewing diaper stuff. We would all love to help you get going, and you can do it with just a sewing machine

DevDandKatesmom · 04-16-2006, 03:33 PM

Ill check all the sites posted above. thanks ladies!
Im excited to know i dont NEED a surger!

DevDandKatesmom · 04-17-2006, 03:53 PM

got a sewing machine....cant wait 2 start sewing now!!!!!!!!

martinanne · 04-17-2006, 07:01 PM

Congratulations on getting a sewing machine! It is the most awesome hobby! Making cloth diapers for your dd is a super way to start out. You can find lots of great information on sewing your own dipes at this website:

http://www.diapersewing.com/

Good luck and enjoy!

Topview · 04-18-2006, 08:52 AM

Do you have the manual and threading diagram? Did your friend show you how to thread your machine properly?

Please make sure you take the time to get to know your machine before you get project oriented. I give beginning sewing lessons and one of the services I offer is "new to you" machine lessons. One of the most frustrating things about beginning sewing is if your machine is giving you fits. Many times, the problems beginning sewers in your situation have are machine problems not operator error. People will often give up because of an improperly threaded machine or bent needle and never sew again.

If you are having problems ASK that is what we are here for. If you need a thread diagram, www.sewusa.com offers free ones for most older machines. You can purchase manuals from them once you determine you machine is working properly and worth the investment.

What kind of machine do you have?

DevDandKatesmom · 04-18-2006, 09:47 AM

Its a brother.. Im getting very firmiliar with the machine and we are getting along... bbut im not seeing myself giving this up all too soon.. but i will keep in mind what you said... and further investigate how my machine works and operates.