How Did You Learn To Sew?

Learning to sew through 4-H Nancy Zieman

How Did You Learn To Sew?

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Learning to sew through 4-H Nancy ZiemanLast week during an interview, I was asked, How did you learn to sew? The answer was simple—through 4-H. Surprisingly, several people in the room were not aware of the organization. Without a second thought, I decided to devote this blog to the organization that I credit to nurturing my sewing skills, developing leadership characteristics, and encouraging self-esteem. With the motto, “To make the best better,” and a slogan “Learn by doing,” today there are approximately 6.5 million members in the US in approximately 90,000 clubs. What started out in 1902 as “The Tomato Club” or the “Corn Growing Club,” in Clark County, Ohio founded by A. B. Graham, has expanded into the largest youth program in North America. To learn more about 4-H history, click here. Learning to sew through 4-H by  Nancy Zieman “Programs range from the arts and computers to rocketry, environmental education, and animal sciences. While 4-H clubs abound, 4-H programs also exist in schools, special interest groups, camps, and child care centers. The program also has spread internationally, with 4-H members and alumni participating in international educational exchanges in Europe, Mexico, Australia, and Japan,” writes Mary Ellen Bell, Public Information Specialist at UW-Extension.

 4-H Memories

This year marks Wisconsin’s 100 year 4-H Anniversary. To commemorate this milestone, the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts curated a collection of photos and 4-H projects. The photos tell the story! Learn how to sew through 4-H Nancy ZiemanLearn how to sew through 4-H Nancy ZiemanLearn how to sew through 4-H Nancy Zieman The exhibit included three of my 4-H clothing projects. Thanks mom for saving my early sewing projects! Learn how to sew through 4-H Nancy Zieman In the gallery of the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts, great displays featured styles through many decades. Learning to sew through 4-H by Nancy ZiemanThis dress was made in the 1930s by Vernelle Johnson of the Wilson School 4-H Club in Door County, WI. The linen fabric looks like new and the appliqué is sewn with perfection! I bet Vernelle got a blue ribbon! Learning to sew through 4-H by  Nancy Zieman

My 4-H story

Many of my 4-H stories are recorded in Seams Unlikely, my autobiography. Little did I know that some of the photos that I literally taped to the pages of  my 4-H record book would be included in my autobiography many decades later! Note: Seams Unlikely is available in both book and ebook formats. Seams Unlikely is available at Amazon for Kindle readers, on Google Play for Android devicesat Barnes and Noble for the Nook and from Apple in iBook formats. Enter search words, Seams Unlikely.

Seams Unlikely autobiography of Nancy Zieman

Nancy Zieman's Giveaway A giveaway to give away! Please share your sewing or quilting story, explaining how you learned to sew. A random comment will be chosen to receive a copy of Seams Unlikely and Nancy Zieman’s Sewing A to Z. Our request is that you’ll give away the Nancy Zieman’s Sewing A to Z book to someone you know who would like to learn to sew or quilt. Perhaps you could be their sewing mentor. Each one teach one! Consider the possibility of volunteering to teach your sewing skills at 4-H groups in your area.

Seams Unlikely autobiography of Nancy Zieman and Sewing A to Z by Nancy Zieman

Hat’s off to 4-H and to all the volunteers who guide and teach. Job well done! For more information on the 4-H organization, click here. Nancy Zieman's Giveaway Winner The random winner of a fusible appliqué from a previous blog is Ruth Ferraro. She said, I would like to try this project and hang it outside by using my Iron-On Flexible Vinyl which I purchased many years ago. Fusible applique by Nancy Zieman

Updated to add: Nancy Zieman’s Sewing from A to Z is now out of print.  Please see the updated new version, The Absolute Easiest Way to Sew by Nancy Zieman, for a comparable replacement.

Bye for now,

Nancy Zieman The Blog

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211 Comments

  • Safepethaven
    June 14, 2014

    My mother taught me to sew by hand in 1959 [age 8], then how to sew straight stitches on her first/only sewing machine — a White portable in 1961 that weighs about 75 lbs in the wooden case! At 10, I was eager to try when mom handed me a dress and a pressed-flat long metal zipper to install. When she came back to see how I was progressing a half hour later she was shocked to see I’d been done for quite awhile, & had stitched it in acceptably the first time, no frogging. Never seemed difficult – maybe because I’d never been TOLD it was difficult or that I could not do something, once given the tools & how to use them. At 14 she taught me how to read pattern pieces and the package directions. My first garment was a basic sheath dress for my mom. My second garment was a lace cage dress; for those of you who were teens/young adults in the mid-1960’s, you’ll know what a huge undertaking that was! I love to sew but have had to give it up for health reasons, and vision loss. I really miss it and everything detail-oriented I once enjoyed. My mother’s mother and aunt both did beautiful handwork, mostly embroidery and petit-pointe, but it never interested me much for myself. Appreciated the beauty & patience but I was more interested in creating more practical, functional and utilitarian items.

  • eileen costello
    June 14, 2014

    i learned to sew from my mom. i was a tom boy and hated it. now that i am older i wish i had paid more attention but i am learning through the american sewing guild.

  • Diane Wyte
    June 14, 2014

    My grandmother really taught me to sew when I was about six. I would sit at her Featherweight – set up in her bedroom, next to the backyard window. I would visit often since she was a just a few miles from us. I graduated to sewing all my own clothing, then “housedresses” for her and my mom. Grandma said if I am making dresses for my mom, I had to make them for my aunt also!! So – by the time I was thirteen, mom had gotten her own machine (a tan metal SInger), and I was sewing every minute I had. Mom started sewing more and more also with her new machine, so we set up the machine on the kitchen table so dad and my brother and the two of us had to squeeze onto half the kitchen table to eat meals!!! I loved school and took all the Home Ec. classes I could fit in after college prep classes – then went onto college for Home Economics. I taught school for 30 years. Now I sew alot – every day – hand and machine and love to quilt. I love it all!! There was never a 4-H near us, but where we live now, there is and many times I have thought about volunteering in 4-H. This just might give me the boost I need!!

  • Mary
    June 14, 2014

    I come from a family of 6 children and I learned to sew around the age of 9. Hated the ‘hand me down’ clothes, a neighbor offered to teach me to sew. My Mom sewed some and I still sew on the machine she purchased in the 50’s, a Singer 301A. I sewed all of my school clothes and some for my sisters. I now sew for a living and have a growing business and love it. I also teach children to sew when the opportunity arises.

  • Mary Ann
    June 14, 2014

    My Mom taught me to sew in the early 60s. She was a wonderful seamstress even making dress winter coats. She made all her own clothes for work and was criticized because other women thought she didn’t need to work and shouldn’t if she could afford those expensive clothes! I don’t do much garment sewing these days mostly quilts and home dec projects. I taught my niece to sew and was so proud when she won First place for a pillow at 10 yrs old.

  • Judy Stafford
    June 14, 2014

    I taught myself to sew. As a young 6 year old, I lost my 2.5 years old sister with spinal meningitis and three months later lost my mom to brain cancer. My dad was a pastor of a church who just lost a daughter and his wife, the love of his life, and left with 3 daughters under the age of 8, and a church to pastor. God got us through and to this day I will never forget those dark days. I learned to sew by gathering scraps or dresses that we could no longer hand down to each other and cut them in squares and make little purses to give as gifts to friends because we were not very well off at the time. The purses were very crude but homemade and my friends loved them. This is when I got the sewing bug. Later my dad married again and there were 4 daughters. With my dad still preaching, we (4 sisters) would sing together. I would make all our matching outfits and loved to do what was fun for me. I continued this for many years and have started quilting about 8 years ago. I am housebound now as I can no longer drive because of back surgery. Now I get to quilt, sew and smock to my hearts content!! I love to wake up each morning and decide what will I craft today!!!

  • kim
    June 14, 2014

    I learn from you, Nancy. In 1988, after I got married. I was looking for a way to sew curtain for our new home. I have been sewing ever since. Thank you for your show on PBS and the many books.

  • Cindy Pilkington
    June 14, 2014

    At a young age, my Mom taught let me have scraps of fabric to make Barbie doll clothes, with a little guidance. Later I took Home Economics in the 8th grade which included sewing as well as cooking. By the 10th grade I was making most of my clothes. All my aunts and grandmother sewed beautifully, so there was always someone to inspire and help me. As an adult, I’ve sewn and done machine embroidery off and on through the years. Now I’ve gotten the quilting bug. In retirement, I volunteer for the local local 4-H Busy Bees sewing group.

  • Kathy Kauth
    June 14, 2014

    I had to take Home economics in grade 9 of high school, but I really wanted to take art, so I dropped Home economics, the next year and it was not until I had my first child that I wanted to learn to sew, I had a girl and I wanted to dress her pretty, so away I went to a night school course and I made many dresses for my little girl and then when my son came I made his clothes too. They didn’t mind until about grade 7 and 8 and they wondered if I could get them some store bought clothes, which I did but still continued to sew and love every minute of it and I was so pleased when your show first came on the tv, nothing kept me from watching and I taped it if I was working and watched when I had the time. Thank you for all your inspirations over the years Nance and your crew.

  • Cheryl
    June 14, 2014

    I started sewing when I was very young. Always admiring and interested in my mothers old Singer, I asked her one day to show me how to sew. She showed me the basic’s and also bought me one of those hand held sewing machines. I then started making cloths for my dolls. To this day, I am still learning and enjoying sewing and making things for others. I love watching your show. It inspires me.

  • Veronica Horton
    June 14, 2014

    When I was 12 I watched my sister sewing her projects for home economics class in high school. With my mothers guidance the tasks were completed. I followed four years later, sewing many of the clothes I wore for school. Back in the sixties it was fun for classmates to share pattern numbers and create our personal flair by the fabric we chose. My mothers guidance and knowledge has stayed with me over the years and if I’m ever sad or bored a good sewing project will get my creative juices flowing and my mood in a new direction!

  • Joan in NE
    June 14, 2014

    My mother taught me to sew. She knew some sewing but we both learned as we went. I remember bringing out a corduroy skirt to show an aunt that sewed a lot. She smiled and proceeded to tell us about the nap on corduroy. You guessed it we didn’t cut it out right. My mother did go on and start a 4-H Club. I remember one of the girls got to model her dress at the state fair. I myself went on and took Home Ec. in college. To this day I love to sew and am so glad Mom taught me this wonderful hobby.

  • Carol
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew at a Singer Sewing Center, a class for teens.
    We had just moved to a new community and I did not have much to do so my Mom gave me the class that came with the new machine. I took more after that and started making clothes for me, for her, for my little sister and her doll.

    After college I entered a graduate program in Home Ec Education and taught Home Ec for several years. Since I have retired I have joined a charitable quilting group at church and am enjoying my new found skill

  • Aunt Marti
    June 14, 2014

    Nancy, I hope you’ll let your readers know that 4-H isn’t just for “farm kids” anymore. Here in Colorado, many of our members live in the city, and participate in clothing, cooking, rocketry, or “small animal” projects such as the dog project, guinea pig, and llama. If they live in town and want to show an animal, several local farmers “rent” an animal to a 4-Her in exchange for helping around the farm.

  • Farmwife
    June 14, 2014

    I started to teach myself to sew and my aunt told mom not to discourage me, I joined 4-H and received my first sewing machine from my parents at the age of 12. I took Home Ec. (dates me) in high school and perfected my talents. I then went to Kansas State Univ. and majored in Costume design as it was called then. After I married I continued to sew for my children making most of their clothes (Including the boys suits that were popular in the 70s) When my daughter married I made her wedding dress as well as her attendants, now that the grandchldren are mostly grown I have shifted to quilting and mending the son’s and grandson’s jeans,( Daughters in laws have not learned speciality). I could give them the extra book

  • Vivian Oaks
    June 14, 2014

    I, too, had the 4-H experience when I was growing up. We had such fun learning to sew, as well as many other activities. My first attempts were even entered in the county fair! I didn’t win any blue ribbons, but I wasn’t deterred at all. I still remember the first skirt I made, with pockets in the seams. I sewed those darn pockets closed three times before I finally got it right! 🙂 Home Ec. in Jr. High and High School only added to my love of sewing, and I went on to sew my own wedding dress and bridesmaid dresses. Then came the clothes for my three children as they grew, and prom dresses when they were in high school. Now I quilt as my creative outlet, and enjoy the local quilt guild for inspiration and friendship. Thanks for asking, and for the chance to win your book!!

  • Cathy Morris
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew in 8th grade Home Economics. My. teacher was Mrs. Mann. She taught us how to sew a full skirt. Mine was maroon. Also, the best little apron out of one yard of material where you used 2″ for the waistband, 1/3 of the yard for pockets across the apron and the rest for the apron. I have two granddaughters, age 10, who are learning to sew. One loves machine sewing and the other loves to sew by hand.

  • DeAnna
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew from my mother and in 4-H club. We always had a sewing machine available set up at home. With four sisters who all sewed, the sewing machine area was the busiest spot at home.

  • Fran Smeby
    June 14, 2014

    I started sewing when I was 10 and had been making clothes for my baby doll. We did a badge for sewing in Girl Scouts and then had a sewing section in grade school. I loved it and shared that with my Grandma Charlotte. I took 4 years of sewing in high school and then went into the working world. I taught some classes at the phone company and graduated 36 students. Have had my own sewing business in my home for over 50 years. Love it and still love to learn. Thanks Nancy.

  • Barbara
    June 14, 2014

    I also learned to sew in 4-H. I am so thankful for all that I learned through 4-H, especially sewing. My sister and I would be up late sewing the night before our clothing items were to be judged. Fun memories! The judges would certainly raise their eyebrows at some of our modern techniques! LOL I also learned a lot through Stretch & Sew classes. Those lessons were very helpful and still useful.

    • JOAN PHILIP
      June 14, 2014

      I should have added that I learned a lot from Nancy’s T.V. programs and I have used quite a lot of her tips. Unfortunately I don’t get these programmes anymore. PBS comes from Boston and they just don’t do sewing programmes, which is such a shame.

  • Diane
    June 14, 2014

    I took 4H when I was 12. My mom did not sew on a machine. She did mending by hand.
    Unfortunately, my experience was not a good one, my leader was not a leader-and I knew nothing. Thankfully, my sister’s best friend took pity on me and helped me with my skirt. It did turn out fine, but I really didn’t learn anything. I wasn’t really interested-it seemed like “Greek” to me! I was frustrated!
    Anyway, on to home etc class in high school! I could cook up a storm-being a farm girl, but sewing…..not for me! I didn’t understand the pattern directions, and my home ec teacher was not a pleasant person-no patience-expected me to know everything already!
    Thankfully, we had a wonderful student teacher, and every time I needed to do the “next step”-I would go to her with my project and she would explain what I had to do. I finished it and wore it to school-it was a romper style thing, do not remember what it was called back then-basically a jumpsuit with above the knee legs. It turned out great, but I still didn’t understand what I was doing! I know”—-I am stuuuuupid”! LOL!
    Then at 17 I got married, and told my dh that I wanted to sew! My mother let me take her sewing machine since she never used it, and we went to the fabric store-bought everything I needed and off I went! It is like suddenly everything clicked for me! I thought to myself, “why didn’t I understand this before-it seems so simple”!
    LOL! This project was a tunic top with set in sleeves, collar, and shorts with a tab with buttonhole and zipper!
    We all learn differently, and I guess I needed to teach myself! 🙂
    I have now been sewing for 45 years, a long journey that I find is still teaching me many things!
    My one desire was that my daughter would sew, and she doesn’t really do that. Such a disappointment to me-but everyone is different. Perhaps in her old age she will take it up. Also wishing my granddaughter would sew, but that has yet to happen. Maybe one day she will live closer, and we can do this together, Lord willing!
    I am enjoying reading everyone’s posts regarding their experiences.
    Happy sewing everyone! 🙂

  • Nancy
    June 14, 2014

    I was a 4-H member as long as I could be but our club didn’t have sewing. We were the first Horse and Pony club in the County. As a mother, I wanted my kids to have the 4-H experience and was a leader for 14 years which did include sewing this time and I taught many to enjoy sewing using your books. Thank you for teaching others about sewing and 4-H. 4-H still has a very important role to play in our children’s lives, the adults who support it and our nation.

  • Pat Mallory
    June 14, 2014

    I was influenced by my grandmother and neighbor who made me clothes. My mother had a treadle machine which I started using. I would follow directions on a pattern and started making doll clothes and then my own clothes. That was the only way to get something new that we could afford. I am so grateful for this skill I pretty much learned on my own. When I started quilting about five years ago, I went to the library and checked every book out I could find about quilting. I now make custom handbags, aprons, wallhangings, and quilts. Loving my retirement years!

  • LadyD
    June 14, 2014

    At my school, all 9th grade girls were required to take Home Economics. That’s where I learned to cook and sew – which were the only two subjects actually taught, and only for half the school year! Three weeks of sewing – really only a quick introduction – and four weeks of cooking – which I hated. Although I learned a lot about cooking from watching my mother, my sewing knowledge has largely been accumulated on my own – from reading books and watching television programs, and actual hands-on projects as well as one course I took in community college in 1985…

  • Karen P
    June 14, 2014

    My granny Hall….. That’s where I first learned to love sewing. She made clothes for me and I watched. She taught me hand sewing first, which is a great idea!! She passed before she taught me how to use her machine, it became mine. Years later after I sewed self taught I found a new granny. A wonderful lady from my church Mrs.Newman. She was the one who taught me to really sew, use a pattern, and my machine! I’m passing on all that to my daughter even the story about my grannies. 😉 thanks nancy

  • Linda Falabella
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew in the 7th grade on a Singer. Our teacher was Mrs Kaish and she taught us how to choose the proper pattern for the persons measurements, grain and bias cutting, operating the sewing machine inserting a zipper and so much more. By the time I was finished with middle school, I had made a pink linen dress with a poker dot lined jacket! I loved sewing class and whenever I had the option of taking cooking vs sewing, It was sewing. Perhaps I should have gone to a cooking class or two because, 50 years later I still can’t cook!

  • Diane
    June 14, 2014

    I also want to thank Nancy and her team for all the education the have provided over the years. If I am not home I record the program, so I do not miss a thing!
    I call Nancy my “sewing sister”she always seems so sweet, and is an inspiration to me, always! Maybe one day I will get to meet her, my finances are never so that I can attend her classes.
    I am really not a “real” quilter- I just do my own thing, so to speak. But two years before my mother died, I made her an “I Love Lucy” lap quilt(her favorite TV show)-in which I incorporated allot of stitches, and yo-yo’s and buttons! It was by my own design, I figured it out as I went-also included paper piecing of a heart block I had gotten free online, and a Huge heart I appliquéd onto it. I wish I had made it sooner so she could have enjoyed it longer!

  • Ann Hudson
    June 14, 2014

    My Mom taught me to sew over 50 yrs ago on her little Singer Featherweight. I was so happy the day she finally thought I was ready to use her beloved machine, scared a bit too as the I was afraid of sewing over my fingers! I was all of seven years old at the time, still sewing and loving it after all these years. Thank you Nancy for being the catalyst that got me back to sewing after a long hiatus from the craft in my 20s & 30s. If it weren’t for your show I don’t know if I’d have started sewing again.

  • Brenda Wall
    June 14, 2014

    You certainly brought back memories of 4H in my life. I did a presentation on the different types of fabric for my 4H project and sadly no pictures. Although my sewing experience actually came from spending summers with my older sister Dot (who passed away this year at 75) who taught me to make Barbie clothes. We would make them all summer. She taught me to read a pattern, to make tiny hand stitches and how to rip out!

  • Chris
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew from my Grandma. I also took a sewing class with my Mom at a local school. I learned a lot from watching Sewing with Nancy. Thanks

  • Kathykuhnle
    June 14, 2014

    My mom knew the basics. So one day she had me cut squares of fabric and showed me how to sew by hand all together . I was so excited to see the being of my dolly quilt. I was 10 and now 59. I have been able to give my daughter the same love for sewing. She is 25. She has grown up with you, Nancy, on every Saturday morning.

  • Wendy B
    June 14, 2014

    Wow Nancy…thanks so much for the lesson…I read about 4-H in someone’s blog a couple of years ago and asked but did not get a reply…it’s left me wondering ever since. It seems a little like Brownies or Girl Guides over here in Australia, am I right??
    I learnt to sew in my home ec classes in high school, which took me to experiment with clothing and textiles and enter fashion design competitions (which I got special mention for), made uniforms for my niece as well as clothing for myself, made soft toys for other child relatives and dollies in fabric bassinets, all fashioned by me…..loved it so much. I still have the baby dress made from yellow gingham and broderie anglaise with the shirred front….Home Economics was my beginning and here, 35 years later, I’m a quilter and embroiderer, not so much into the clothing anymore but never say never, I say!

  • Amelia M. McNairy
    June 14, 2014

    I loved 4-H, as well, and won several blue ribbons for the clothing projects I made on my Mom’s Singer 401A. However, before I started to school, my Grandmother taught me to quilt. Grandmother and our neighbors would host quilting bees in their homes and I was always a part of their circle. I can remember sitting by my Grandmother as she quilted, with a needle and fabric scraps she provided, quilting under watchful eye and guidance. I still sew today and enjoy teaching others the art. Sewing is a passion for me, it almost as necessary as breathing.

  • Fay Williams
    June 14, 2014

    I also was a member of the 4H club during elementary school and enjoyed it so much. I remember learning to sew an apron. My mother helped me with my projects. What I remember most was using the old treddle sewing machine. If you every used one you know that the machine does not stop sewing just because you pick up you foot from the treddle. Mother would forget this sometimes when she you say stop. Ofcourse the machine kept going and she would think that I was not listening and would fuss at me. Of course after a few times she realized what was going on. Sure do love those memories.

  • Madaline W. Fegley
    June 14, 2014

    I attended a 4 room, eight grade school. We didn’t receive any sewing or cooking. After eighth grade we went to the nearest town to finish our next 4 years. The class I was put into had already had 2 years of sewing and cooking. Our ninth grade assignment was to make a blouse, I probably ripped out the seams a dozen times, the blouse ended up a disaster. When I was in 10th grade, the Singer Sewing Machine co. Held classes for all the Girl Scout troops so I signed up for it. I had a blue chambray princess style dress. We were told to pink the seams but they didn’t have pinking shears, it was a little machine attached to the window sill and worked like a pencil sharpener .That cured me of trying to make a dress, I pinked it right down the middle of the front seem.Finally the year I graduated i tried once again and made a white dress with inlaid Lace around the neckline and the hem. . I then attended Nursing school after which I married and had 4 children. I proceeded to make all their clothes and loved every minute of it. I then started making Wedding gowns and accessories. I had 2 daughters and their weddings were beautiful.

  • Shirley Sipler
    June 14, 2014

    I first learned the mechanics of sewing at a Camp Fire Girls meeting. Then, we had a bit of sewing in the 8th grade. But it was the Mennonite women in our Oregon town of Lebanon who gave me the inspiration. Their daughters came to school in pretty, fresh cotton dresses in the spring.
    I got out my mother’s tiny Singer one day and said to my self, “I’m going to sew.”
    (I now have a Babylock Elegante and it is so wonderful to use.)

  • Eldora
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew from my mom, 4-H, my sister, and in high school we learned what I mostly already knew in Home Ec. My first project was an apron for 4-H at age 9. My mom also taught a sewing class for 4-H. I was a member of 4-H from 4th – 12th grades. After retiring I started quilting and learning machine embroidery.

  • Julia
    June 14, 2014

    I am lucky enough to come from a long line of ladies that knew how to sew. When I was about 6, my Grandmother decided I needed to learn how to sew. She set me down at her treadle machine which had been her Mother’s (my great Grandmother). I learn how to sew a straight seam and hem cup towels that were made out of flour sacks. My Mother was an excellent seamtress but thought I was too young. I think she had visions of me sewing my fingers instead of the fabric. Today I have the same machine that I learn to sew on. I am the fourth generation to use it. I plan to have my daughter and granddaughter sew something on it so we can keep the “history” going. My Grandmother also taught me how to embroidery and crochet.

    When our girls were old enough, I enrolled them in the local 4-H program. It was one of the best things we could have done for them. They learn the skills they needed to sew, crochet, cook, budget time and money, public speaking, and how important it is to give back your skills to those who either don’t have a chance to learn or didn’t know to learn. It was also a time when there was bonding between them and me because I taught a lot of the “classes” that they took.

  • Liz
    June 14, 2014

    My mother let me use her sewing machine when I was about 6. I loved watching her sew. I earned a sewing merit badge in Girl Scouts. My project was a red drawstring bag. I was fortunate to have sewing in my home economic class in grades 7,8, and 9. I learned techniques like grading seams, under stitching, stay stitching, and how to use a paper pattern. My mother often used clothing for patterns and was not familiar with some of the detailed techniques that I had learned. I ended up being her teacher. I made most of my cloths for many years. After I had children I sewed some for them. I took a tailoring class and a class in making men’s double-knit sport jackets. My daughter was not interested in sewing, but my son sewed patches on his work uniforms.

    Now most of my sewing is related to quilting and making bags of various types. A 13 year old fiend wants me to help her make a quilt this summer. She is the one who will receive the books if I am lucky enough to win.

  • Gma Cma
    June 14, 2014

    I learned also through 4-H and fortunately my club leader was also my Home Economics teacher at school. Marie Byers was a wonderful leader and made it her habit to keep up on the best sewing practices known and encouraged us to do our best..
    I sewed for my children, made a suit for my dad. riding clothes for my daughter when she showed horses, sewed for weddings and am now guiding my granddaughter with her 4-H projects. I don’t have as much time to sew as I would like but love helping and guiding our group of 4-H girls in their sewing.
    I have done some construction judging for 4-H and like to give encouragement and praise and kind suggestions for improvement if need be but really dislike the competition factor – we sometimes have to call attention to a minor flaw in order to verify our placings and I believe that does more harm than good. Anyway, I never knew that Fashion Revue was not mandatory and I am so glad I did not – learning to be judged in something I made gave me courage and self-confidence. I am grateful that I had this opportunity!

  • Maria r
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew from my grandmother and a classes. I am currently teaching both of my nieces to sew. Passing it forward.

  • Beverly Collins
    June 14, 2014

    I learned the basics in home economics in high school but didn’t like it. Years later I wanted to learn but there was no one to teach me, so I taught myself. I made many mistakes but learned from them and kept trying. As the years went by, I taught myself to do hand embroidery, smocking, heirloom sewing, all kinds of crafts and quilting. I did some machine embroidery in there when I got an embroidery machine. I was so glad when programs came on TV like Sewing with Nancy and many others. Sewing has been a lifeline to me through some very hard times, and I can’t imagine how my life would be without it. Thanks Nancy

  • Pat
    June 14, 2014

    While people living in more rural areas are familiar with 4H, many of us big city folks do not know much about the organization and it fine work. Thanks for giving us these details and for sharing your personal experience.

  • Ellen Weber
    June 14, 2014

    My Mother taught me to sew when I was about 8 years old. A year or so later we kids joined a local 4-H club and Mom was our sewing leader (how she found time with 6 children I will never know!). I have fond memories of 4-H, exhibiting my garments at the fair and modeling them at Dress Revue. As time went on I sewed for my siblings (I am second of 12) as well as my prom dresses, jackets, etc. and even my bridesmaids dresses. As my own family grew I made many of my children’s clothes as well as all of mine.! I have made everything from bridesmaids dresses for our daughter’s wedding to clothing for our 13 grandchildren. I also sew quilts and do some alterations. My sewing skills grew after my years in 4-H, but I never took a sewing class in school – never had time. My parents presented me with a used Singer sewing machine when I graduated from Nursing school which I used for over 40 years even tho it only sewed forward and reverse (no zig-zag even!). As my children grew I was a sewing leader for our local club, later was club leader for 25 years. Thank you, Nancy for promoting this wonderful organization!

  • brenda
    June 14, 2014

    My mom taught me how to sew barbie clothes when I was young. In 9th grade I took home ec. And learned a lot. Then I learned from reading patterns and trial and error. I think you have to love doing it.

    I took 4-h but we never sewed. My grand daughter just got back from 4-h camp yesterday. They didn’t sew either, but did lots of crafts.

  • Barbara
    June 14, 2014

    I started to sew doll clothes when I was 7 or 8 on my sister’s toy Singer hand crank sewing machine. My mom taught me a lot and then through 4-H I learned more. I was lucky in that my Home Economics teacher at school was my leader. I was sewing most of my own clothes by the time I was in the 6th grade.

  • Gayle
    June 14, 2014

    My parents gave me a white Singer Featherweight sewing machine as a Christmas gift when I was in 8th grade. At the time, I thought it was rather a dud of a gift–I didn’t know how to sew, nor had I ever given much thought to learning. My gift sat in the closet until I entered high school & enrolled in “Clothing.” I made a simple A-line skirt with faced waistline in a navy cotton with white pin dots. I was hooked on the creative process & the following year, I followed up with “Clothing II” & have been sewing ever since (I’m 59). Because of my love for sewing, I never really learned to cook. Fortunately, I met & married a man who is adept in the kitchen, so I have more time to sew!

  • JOAN PHILIP
    June 14, 2014

    The war had just finished, I was 18 and barely 5′, so therefore I couldn’t buy anything that fit my small frame. My aunt came to stay with us between jobs for a few months. She possessed a Singer portable machine, it was so modern and I just loved it. My mother had a Singer treadle, but it was very difficult to use, the threads kept breaking, and I spent a lot of time picking out stitches, it was very discouraging. So when my Aunt arrived with this new fangled machine, I was over the moon. I made flared skirts for myself, I didn’t have a pattern, I would go to bed at night dreaming how I could make them, in fact I made at least 4. In those days in Scotland we had to hand over coupons for clothes, but we could by yardage without having to part with our precious coupons. Unfortunately for me my aunt got a position, left and took her lovely sewing machine with her.

    I was desolate, then one day I was walking along Princess Street in Edinburgh and passing the Singer sewing machine shop, so I went in to enquire about prices. Of course with all things then, there was a waiting list to buy a sewing machine, I put my name on it and I was told there was a wait of 2 years at least. Again I was discouraged, but I hung in there, and low and behold 6 months later I got a card to say they had a sewing machine available for me. I just couldn’t wait to go and see it. This shiny new machine, it was portable, but I could have an electric motor installed on it, now this was even better than my aunt’s. It sewed backwards as well!! I have never looked back. Through the years I taught myself to read patterns.

    A year or two after we emigrated to Canada I purchased a Husqvarna, as it had built in embroidery stitches. Then I got a Bernina 830 which I had for over thirty years. Then in my 85th year I got another Bernina 550 QE which I just love.

    I am still sewing, mainly for myself, family and friends. I have just finished a Walking Skirt era 1920’s for myself as my legs are swollen now and this skirt hides them beautifully. When I go into the basement to sew, I am at peace, it’s such a wonderful feeling.

  • Pat Smith
    June 14, 2014

    My mother learned to sew out of necessity. She and all of her sisters sewed their own clothes. My grandmother was a widow and couldn’t afford to buy them clothes. My mother married my dad and continued to sew all of her clothes as well as ours. She taught all three of us to sew. We all continue to this day. She also taught sewing at an after school program, at Scouts and taught the neighborhood kids to sew at our house. I remember Saturdays as always having people over sewing. I have 2 daughters and she taught them to sew also. When she passed away she left my daughters her sewing machines (yes she had 3!) her serger machines (2) and a love of sewing. There is no better legacy than to pass on a love of sewing through 3 generations!

  • Connie Jordan
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew in the 6th grade, we made aprons. That year for Christmas everyone got an apron! In high school I took Home Ec. and learned some more. After that I have read many books, tutorials and watched videos on the internet. Always something more to learn.

  • Carol Anderson
    June 14, 2014

    My Mom taught me to hand embroider one summer, I’m sure in an effort to get me off my bicycle and out of the trees. A few years later, I discovered if I made clothes I didn’t always have to wear “hand-me-downs”. Sixth grade
    Home Economics class, Mrs. Hathaway really helped as did
    a neighbor, Mrs. Thiel. Went on to do tailoring and bridal.
    Now much prefer quilting..my family knows nobody gets
    anything till I have fun with it first…don’t have to worry
    about “returns” here!

  • Margaret W Fairgrieve
    June 14, 2014

    I was taught by my mother when I was about 5yrs old my older sister Betty worked in a factory of Ladies and gents tailor she taught me how to make dress – skirts – etc but it was many years later that I found an old Quilt that my mother had made. When I asked her about it she explained that it was a make and do mend blanket as there was not money for new material you had to make do and mend old blankets from old clothing that blanket is over 60 yrs old and I still have it so that lead me to my passion for quilting thou it took me a further 40 yrs before I made my first quilt and I have been making them ever since. There was not a lot of places to find much about quilting so I and. Few friends started out own club we meet every Tuesday and have 25 members plus So thanks mum for teaching me to sew. Margaret W Fairgrieve x

  • Laura
    June 14, 2014

    My mom sewed once in a while when I was growing up. I got a book called “Miss Patch’s Learn-to-Sew Book” from a school book order and used some of my mom’s scraps to make doll clothes and doll quilts from the patterns in the book. After we moved to Wisconsin, my younger sister joined 4-H with a friend and my mom helped her make a pants and blouse outfit to enter in the fair. I wanted to do that, too! I entered 7th grade excited to take home ec and really learn to sew, and getting involved in 4-H really motivated me because I wanted to enter all kinds of stuff in the fair. I think I still have all of my ribbons to this day. I worked in a fabric store during college and got to make many displays for the store. I learned a lot from some of the ladies who worked there and had been sewing for years. I continue to sew and am still learning thanks to the many books out there and the internet.

  • Shirley Clark
    June 14, 2014

    This brings back lots of memories! My mom taught me to hand sew as a kid making doll clothes. Then as I grew, we would piece string quilts tops using newspaper patterns.
    When I was in the 8th grade, I piece a string quilt top all by myself so I entered it in the 4-H Exhibits at my school. I was so excited to win a blue ribbon!
    My mom sold the quilt top as we were pretty poor and needed the money. I didn’t mind at all because whenever we sold something, she would buy me some new pieces of fabric.
    Life was hard, but memories live forever!

  • Tina Jeo
    June 14, 2014

    My mom taught me to sew when i was about 8 on my grandmother’s treadle singer sewing machine. She figured I would be less likely to go too fast and accidentally sew over my finger. Then I had to take home ec in 7th grade and made a pillow and a t shirt. I didn’t think I would take up sewing but then I had a baby girl. For some reason I really had an urge to sew for her. My in laws gave me a sewing machine for Christmas after hearing that I wanted to start sewing. I found some Singer sewing guides and a better homes and garden sewing book at the Goodwill and started sewing and found out it was a great creative outlet. There was a lot of trial and error but I managed to learn more skills. Now I have been teaching my 9 year old daughter how to sew. My Pfaff has a speed selector so it can be put on slow. That way I don’t have to worry about sewing over fingers! By the way, I now have my grandmothers treadle.

  • Laura
    June 14, 2014

    I used to watch my mother sew. She had a pedal Singer machine. She would say when you get a bit older I’ll teach you. Well, I decided at 4 I was old enough so, when she’d be in the garden I’d make squares of different colors from scraps and hide them. One day while sewing, the needle went through my little finger on my left hand. I was afraid to scream because I knew I’d get a whipping. My sister flew and got my mother. She came running in and slowly raised the needle up and out of my finger. Luckily it went through between the joint and didn’t hit the bone. She washed it with some Lye soap, rinsed it good and then poured a lot of Witch Hazel on it. When that cooled off and dried she bandaged it up and, gave me a real good whipping for disobeying her. Layer she showed me how not to hey my finger caught. And she let me learn the rest on my own. I still love to sew. I can look at some-thing and it will stay in my head until until I make it. I have watched sewing with Nancy from the very beginning. I pray continued success for you.
    Laura

  • Lucy
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew watching my Mother sewing on her Singer Treadle
    Sewing Machine,back in about 1951. I’v been sewing ever since,made all my clothes,my children’s clothing,but now a days,I do lots of Quilting and Embroidery.

  • Starla
    June 14, 2014

    I grew up with both my mother and grandmother in the household. I was a late arrival, and Grandma was elderly when I was born — she one had been a master, I was told, but she could no longer see to sew. Her Singer in a cabinet was in her bedroom, and I “played sewing” at it. Mom never learned to sew, and I didn’t either.
    I did participate in 4-H, though — a cooking club.
    In high school, in the 1970s, my counselor, a man, wanted me to drop out of band and advanced math and take home ec instead. “All girls should be in home ec,” he said, so of course I rebelled. I don’t regret that — and I still play my saxophone.
    I sewed a few curtains and pillow here and there by hand over the years. In late 2012, when I was about to become a grandmother myself, my friends at work gave me a refurbished, vintage machine. Although I was intimidated at first, I tried it and fell in love.
    I enjoy learning with every project, and I love being able to use my skills to make things I can use and to explore my creativity.
    Watching Nancy’s show and reading the website have been invaluable to my learning, by the way.
    I still have miles to go to become proficient, but I’m so happy to be sewing!

  • venita
    June 14, 2014

    My wonderful Mom taught me to sew at the very early age of 6. We started with doll clothes. I think I was about 10 when I made a skirt & blouse from Dan River cotton for a Girl Scout project. Momma also kept my doll clothes. I have them now. My grand daughters played with them too. Mom also taught me to iron hankies & pillowcases to start, then eventually all the family laundry.

  • Martie Dutro
    June 14, 2014

    The first time I used a sewing machine was an elastic waisted skirt for a Girl Scout dance festival. I was about 8 in1951. My mother told me verbally what I had to do. She then went down stairs to cook dinner. Well, I’d watched her sew dozens of times so I felt confident I could do it also. I could not get the silly machine to sew straight. Try, rip, try, rip. Finally conceded defeat and went down to complain to Mother. She calmly said did you put the presser foot down? I finished the skirt with little help. I have been sewing ever since with alacrity!!

  • cheryl
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew very young, as many others did, making clothes for my dolls. By hand. Using Mom’s Featherweight Singer machine and her lessons came later. I also was part of 4-H as a teenager, and submitted projects in the county fair. I was so proud to win a blue ribbon for my shorty PJs and matching bathrobe. In Jr. High my sewing project was a scoop neck dress with a gathered cumberbund and gussets under the arms. I had never heard of gussets! What a lesson that was!! Didnt killl my joy of sewing. Dressed myself and my daughter for many years. Now I’m teaching my grand daughters to sew and hope they love it, too. “And the beat goes on . . . “

  • Irene Poole
    June 14, 2014

    Making doll clothes by hand is one of my earliest memories. My mom had a huge (to me) box of quilting pieces that she let me play with. Then in high school by best friend wanted my mom (who was always an excellent seamstress and made almost all our clothes) to teach her to sew, so of course I “had” to learn, too. We made our prom dresses and have never stopped sewing. Now 60 years later I have taught my granddaughter and she loves it as much as I do. My 2nd granddaughter at age 8, has been taking sewing lessons, and I can only help a little since she lives on the opposite coast! She loves it as well, and shows me her projects on Facetime! I plan to buy both girls you book, Nancy.

  • Irene Poole
    June 14, 2014

    Making doll clothes by hand is one of my earliest memories. My mom had a huge (to me) box of quilting pieces that she let me play with. Then in high school by best friend wanted my mom (who was always an excellent seamstress and made almost all our clothes) to teach her to sew, so of course I “had” to learn, too. We made our prom dresses and have never stopped sewing. Now 60 years later I have taught my granddaughter and she loves it as much as I do. My 2nd granddaughter at age 8, has been taking sewing lessons, and I can only help a little since she lives on the opposite coast! She loves it as well, and shows me her projects on Facetime! I plan to buy both girls your book, Nancy.

  • Shelia Marfileno
    June 14, 2014

    I learned in Home Ec, but I struggled with it so my Aunt taught me to sew;

  • Linda
    June 14, 2014

    4-H – it got me started sewing with my mom acting as coach. I will echo your words Nancy – 4-H is a great organization. It provided me with opportunities to grow in so many ways. Planning and executing a project, organization, leadership, responsibility, public speaking – all of which helped me in my various careers. Perhaps the greatest gift though was opening my world. I won a 4-H Leadership award which meant a trip to the 4-H Center in Washington DC. Summer of 1964 – farthest this then 16 year old had ever been from the rural southern MN farm was Minneapolis where an aunt lived. Washington DC was a whole other world. Mind boggling – and truly life changing. I still have all of my 4-H pins. Why I really know, but I just haven’t throw them away, despite many, many moves. Somehow that small box follows me around.

  • Jane Ruhl
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew from my mom. She would sew at our kitchen table, making clothing, curtains, and sleepovers. I would watch closely, and ask lots of questions. She gave me her scraps, and I made Barbie clothes. Later, I started making my own clothing, and she was always there to help. I miss her so much, and I am happy that she passed her skills to me. It makes me feel connected to her when I sit down at the sewing machine.

  • Sharon N
    June 14, 2014

    I was forced to take a home-ec class in 5th grade where we were instructed to make an A-line skit. It was a disaster and I didn’t try sewing again until I was in my 20’s. Thankfully my Mom was a very good seamstress and had the patience of Job. Through her I learned to enjoy the process and even to laugh at my mistakes. I love the sewing shows on TV and watch all I can. There is always something new to learn.

  • Sue Knower
    June 14, 2014

    I remember there was a waiting list to join our local 4-H club, and when I was able to join at 9 years old I knew that sewing was what I wanted to learn! My mom helped me with the project books and I took on more and more challenging projects. By the time I got to HomeEc in 7th grade and I demonstrated my sewing skills to my teacher she let me take on a very challenging pattern, an overall jumper. Lots of topstitching! I entered it into our state fashion review and won reserve champion! My prize was a pair of Fiskar scissors! Now I love to teach sewing to the 4-Hers in my county whenever I get the chance!

  • Michael Layne
    June 14, 2014

    I learn to sew through quilting with my Mom. Through I’ve made a few quilts I tend to make (or sew) whatever comes to mind. Right now I am making a mint green poodle skirt for a co worker.

  • Rosemary
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew by way of a Girl Scout Badge and a class at a local Singer Sewing Center store. It inspired me to continue, taking classes in high school and pursue a career in Home Economics in which I later became familiar with 4-H. Throughout my teaching career, I taught Food/Nutrition and Clothing/Textiles, but also taught 4th through 6th grade as a result of “budget cuts”. I judged clothing at our local county fair and volunteered to teach 4-H sewing, although the school district I worked for made this impossible. They didn’t want to have liablity of after-school programs was their polite answer. When my own girls were young we looked forward to going to the county fair and viewing all the great things that the 4-H member showed. To this day, I am pleasantly surprised that 4-H is still active and going strong in my county as it’s location near a large city has swallowed up so much land that was agricultural. I have a fondness in my heart for these programs as my college experience was in a farming community and my father came from a mid-west farming town. I have seen the popularity of sewing ebb and change throughout my life and while many schools in my state have eliminated teaching “life skills,” there is always a need and desire to learn which has prompted new forms of classes. Learning by taking classes on line cannot replace the classroom experience with face-to-face contact with an instructor and fellow students, it certainly is better than no opportunity to learn. The benefit is that people can be reached without leaving their home and can learn at their own pace. I’ve enjoyed furthering my knowledge and sparking my imagination though on-line blogs, blog hops and classes. Now if only there was enough time to complete all those projects that I have in the back of my mind!

  • Phyllis Tuggle
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew at the age of 51, when my sister was told she had bladder cancer, it was devastating to all of my family so I wanted to learn how to make a quilt just for her, something to keep her warm in the hospital. I bought a Brother and took lessons at the shop where I bought the machine. When she passed away I made quilts for my brothers and sisters to remember her always. Sewing makes me feel closer to her and helps me smile at the blessing of having her in my life.

  • Teri Reitemeier
    June 14, 2014

    I wanted to learn how to sew from a very early age, but my mother was not a sewer. Strangely enough, my father did sewing. He was a dry cleaner and he would bring home small repairs at night and sew in our basement where he had a sewing machine set up. I watched him for hours as he did his job. I made doll clothes by hand and had a small toy machine, but I still wanted to learn how to really sew. My wish came true when I started my 7th grade Home. Ec. I class. There I learned the basics of sewing from a wonderful teacher. I knew right then that I wanted to be a Home Ec. teacher and that is what I did! I wasn’t able to take a sewing class in high school and so with my basic knowledge of Junior High Sewing and not much home experience, I went off to college to learn my skill. I did well…I had no bad habits to unlearn. My parents bought me an Elna sewing machine that I still use today for my graduation gift in 1972! I loved my teaching career. After I was married and had a son, I was lucky to be able to stay home. I made all of my son’s clothes until he started first grade and wore uniforms to school. He went to a preschool where a new theme was introduced each week. I had so much fun making outfits to match the theme. My favorite story was when a classmate commented on how much he liked my son’s dinosaur shirt and my son’s response was, “Well, just have your momma make you one!”. I still love to sew. Right now I am preparing a sewing unit for my niece’s Junior Girl Scout troop. The first session will be sewing by hand. I’m sorry that they live too far away for me to teach them myself. But, once I have the unit ready, my sister will come for a visit and I will teach her how to teach my unit! I plan on introducing them to hand stitches…the running stitch, back stitch and whip stitch. They will make a basket of stuffed strawberries. Each berry will be from a semi-circle of red dotted fabric, folded in half, sewn with the back stitch and stuffed. They’ll use a running stitch around the circumference of the top to close it up. Then, glue a felt leaf and stem on the top. They will also do a service project for a local nursing home. Small felt cases for Kleenex will be made and decorated with buttons. I think this will be a fun introduction to sewing for these girls. Not to mention, I still love to share what has brought me so much joy over the years,

  • Spindr
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew from my mom and dad. My dad did some hand sewing and crochet when he was a POW and showed me some hand stitches and crochet hats. My mom started me on making doll clothes with hand sewing and my older brother got period pattern books from the university library. My mom and brother helped me sew dresses for my mini-Angie doll in 1800’s styles.
    Later my dad bought me a mini sewing machine that did strait stitch. It wasn’t until I was about 17 that I started to really get into sewing clothes for my self. My mom had a 1948 Singer sewing machine but my dad and mom coming to the rescue again bought a Kenmore with fancy stitches and zig-zag. I loved to sew suits with fitted jackets and pencil skirts but always found fitting frustrating.
    I remember watching Sewing with Nancy on PBS when they first started showing her show. I was always inspired and wished I could sew like Nancy!

  • Denise Blackerby
    June 14, 2014

    The first sewing project I made was when I was about 5 years old with my Great Grandmother. To tell the truth, I wanted to be out playing with my brother and two cousins instead. Since they weren’t really happy hanging around with a “girl” I was passed off to Nana to keep me busy. We would sit down with tea and scones (very ladylike) and work on sewing projects. My first project was an embroidered apron for my mother. I then sewed Barbie and baby doll clothes, home dec items, and clothes for myself. I am so very happy now at 65 that I sat down to sew so many years ago.

  • Peg G
    June 14, 2014

    I started sewing when I was 3 years old when my mother gave me lace up cards to keep me busy while she did her own sewing. Sixty years later with projects from potholders to queen size quilts and doll clothes to wedding dresses under my belt, I am teaching kids from 8-14 years old how to sew at an enrichment summer camp! Everything old is new to them and it gives me chills when they “get it.”

  • elaine
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew from my mama. She was a widow and married a widower with 3 kids so now there were 4 of us and she learned to sew to clothe us. I was 6, mom taught me to sew by hand and I would use her scraps to clothe my dolls. When I was 7, I received a Singer chain stitch machine and made Barbie clothes. When I was 9 I used her sewing machine for the first time and made a top and simple skirt. I was hooked. When she would buy a new machine I would get her old one. I would read everything I could and tried all kinds of new techniques. As a young teen Dad said money was tight but and he wouldn’t buy us clothes, but if we would make our clothes he would buy us what we needed. I too full advantage and had new clothes all the time. My sisters never took to sewing (although one quilts now) and weren’t as fortunate. By the time I was about 17, mom revealed she really didn’t enjoy sewing so I got her good machine in my room and I sewed for her. I would sew all night. Over the years I have learned many things from sewing – patience, being precise and good preparation makes for an easier project. And although I’m not a fan of ironing I will never sew without my iron by my side.

  • Anne
    June 14, 2014

    I was about 8 years old and received permission to use my mother’s Singer treadle machine in our basement. I still recall asking my mom why my seams were always on the outside. She showed me how to sew them the right way. I also took a sewing class at our local Singer store when I was a teen. When I was pregnant with our first child, I bought my own small Singer machine in a little cabinet and they offered free classes. I still use some of the same techniques I learned in that class. I wish I knew what became of my mother’s treadle machine. I’ve bought several machines since that time and taught my granddaughters how to sew. I’m now teaching some of the younger granddaughters this summer how to sew.
    When I’m in my sewing room, I am in my happy place, it’s peaceful, quiet and I just love having my very own space, When the last child left the nest, I said, that bedroom is now mine and moved my sewing things in there quickly before he could change his mind. I will always sew, no matter how old I get to be. I love to sew, quilt and actually bought an embroidery machine a few years ago. What a joy that is to me. I feel blessed to be able to see and sew and to love doing it all.

  • Susan K in Texas
    June 14, 2014

    My mom taught me and my four sisters to sew. We shared two machines and one iron. My mom was a stickler for basting before sewing. Each of us still sews but have different areas of interest. I taught myself to quilt after seeing so many articles on quilting in the 1970’s while our country was celebrating the bicentennial. I watched many a Sewing with Nancy show along with Quilt-in-a-Day, Kaye Wood, Georgia Bonesteel, etc. I read books from the local library (funds were short for buying books) and tried different techniques. New quilters and sewers of today have many more sources of information to draw from and so do us older quilters!

  • Angelica
    June 14, 2014

    My Mother she learned to sew as a young woman during the depression and she used her craft to make a lot of our clothes while we were growing up. I was also a ‘big’ kid growing up which proved challenging when shopping for clothes. She could look at pictures to make things. It was during my adolescence that my interest in sewing piqued and I used to watch her at the sewing machine and she taught me too. Then in high school I took a home-ec class and I’ve been sewing since. Love it all and wish I had more time to devote to it!

  • Cindy
    June 14, 2014

    My mom taught me to thread the needle and knot it. After that she taught me how to embroider dresser scaves . Than I went on to doll clothes for my McCall dolls. I would sit out on a blanket under a willow tree and sew to my hearts content.
    I made an apron for my Grandmother and helped her make doll clothes for my cousins.
    When I was a preteen Mom taught me how to sew on the sewing machine. I made all my dresses for school. I also made an outfit for my mom. Peddler pushes with an accent trim on the cuff of the pants. My sister would come home from work and ask me to make her a blouse to go with the skirt she just bought. Guess what? Mom said go in my closet and find something to make the blouse out of .. So I did.
    I am sixty-eight yrs old and still sewing.

  • cheryl
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew through 4H. The neighbor lady taught the girls in the neighborhood. One of the machines she had was a treadle. It was novel to us. We used to argue over which one of us got to use it. I went from sewing an apron to a pants set to now 40 years later most of my wardrobe, quilts and items for charity. I work with a 4H group now. (equine) Some of the girls have expressed interest in sewing and I look forward to helping them. My next project is a saddle seat outfit for my rider. I haven’t tailored since high school!

  • Shirley Gilchrist
    June 14, 2014

    My first experience sewing was in a junior high home economics class. The teacher not only made me feel horrible for every mistake made, but also insisted that I wore a pattern size that was much too small making the blouse I made unwearable. Fortunately, I joined 4-H that summer and a wonderful lady was my sewing teacher. Not only was she patient and thorough in her instructions, but she explained that one of the wonderful things about sewing is that one can almost always remove the stitches and resew it. She also explained that after all of her years of sewing that she still makes mistakes. Her patience and encouragement made me eager to do more sewing.
    After I enjoyed Nancy’s wonderful book Seams Unlikely, I began reading it to my 94-year-old mother. She enjoyed it as much as I did and often comments on Nancy’s wonderful attitude as she overcame problems and her determination in starting and succeeding in her business.

  • RITA
    June 14, 2014

    I to learned to sew in 4H. I remember the Saturday morning meetings at our project leaders home. Taking turns sewing on her machine with the other girls. We would walk the country road with our projects in a paper bag along with other sewing supplies. The dress review at our local high school, and the fashion show during the county fair, Sunday grandstand show. Yes the first apron and gathered skirt that we made. Matter of fact, I have been reading your book on my Kindle (there are no pictures in it) I can relate to your early growing up on the farm and everything about 4H. Your experiance from driving tractor, helping your dad bale hay, everything was just like it was for me. I am so happy to have read your book. Your almost like a little sister.

  • Kerry
    June 14, 2014

    4-H was the major contributor to teaching me (and my sister) how to sew. I was, and still am, an impatient seamstress. Needless to say my sister was the one who took home the blue ribbons! Thanks Nancy for the trip down memory lane.

  • dorothy
    June 14, 2014

    I never heard or 4-H until we moved to Kansas when I was twelve. we lived in a very small community.
    I started to sew on mothers treddle machine, we would go to the feed store and get our dress material, I think it took two feed sacks, we would pick out our sacks each year to get ready for school.when I was about ten I started sewing
    I was so tall nothing fit.
    after I was married and moved to Arkansas I got started judging the 4-H and it is a very rewarding , I often think
    about how much I had missed but I found the home extension club and enjoy it very much

  • Anne Schanne
    June 14, 2014

    In 7th grade we had to take Home Economics and a portion of the class was devoted to sewing. My mother was an avid seamstress so she helped me to make my first skirt for class. You wouldn’t catch me in it now but it was a plaid polyester skirt with a zipper up the back. But I thought I was “the thing” wearing my skirt! LOL! I was hooked on sewing from that point! Later, I made my first formal gown for my Junior Prom in high school. To this day, it is still one of my best creative projects. It was designed by me (no patterns) using lavender polyester for the base of the dress and silver lame for the top.
    In my later years, I started my own custom bridal attire shop and it became extremely successful. I made bridal gowns, bridesmaids, mother of the brides, flower girls, and all other wedding members attires. I was even asked to do a documentary film on the shop. But I decided to retire from that business after 7 years and I took a break.
    Now I’m back on the band wagon again, but this time, I’m making handbags using an industrial machine. (I moved up to the big leagues) And it too, has become a hit!
    I love the creativity energy bug and it makes me happy to sew something that everyone loves! I still use no patterns but that’s half the fun!

  • Linda
    June 14, 2014

    My earliest memory of sewing: somehow I lowered the needle on my mother’s treadle machine and one of my fingers was in the way. The needle went all the way through; only a little blood was drawn but of course there were lots of tears, which were stopped when a bandage was applied. I must have been four or five. In those early years my mother taught my sisters and me a little hand sewing and we occasionally made doll clothes. I was thirteen and just out of seventh grade when I started sewing in earnest. Mom had just given birth to baby number ten and was feeling pretty lousy, but she patiently answered my many questions as I struggled to understand directions and terms. I was making sleeveless, collar-less “crop” tops with facings and couldn’t quite grasp the reason for trimming and clipping the curves. Mom was probably relieved that my junior high home ec. teachers took over the task of helping me improve my skills–I was a pretty ornery eighth grader! But throughout the years Mom guided us and shared tips and shortcuts with my five sisters and me and we’re all accomplished sewers with varied areas of interest and expertise. (One sister even sewed a costume or two for a stripper! She gave up on that when the woman didn’t want to pay what she needed to charge and also for reasons of conscience.)

  • Karen Gillmore
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew from my mother who is an excellent seamstress and teacher. During many summers she taught 4-H to as many as 10 classes having a morning and afternoon class each day if the week. Her classes submitted projects to the county fair. One year she even taught a group of boys who swore each other to secrecy because sewing was considered a “girl” thing. They told others outside their group that they had a special ball practice. They would come with their bats and gloves to make the story believable.

    I have been sewing for 40 years now and at one time I taught a group of 4-H girls to sew. My abilities helped support my family while I had a critically ill husband. I hope to continue sewing. My mother still sews and enjoys it after all these years.

  • Mo L
    June 14, 2014

    Nancy, I love to go to our local FAIR in September, Even though we are the third largest city in MA. The BIG E has a lot of informative 4H events and I loved reading bout your experience in your blog.
    My mom and grandmother both encouraged me to sew. First doll clothes by hand and then in Junior high school Home EC.
    I now feel lucky to have been a very small and petite student, because the teacher would pick one skirt pattern for the semester. I actually learned how to alter the pattern to accommodate my small size.
    I still love to sew and hope that since sewing skipped my daughter’s generation, I can teach it to my two year old granddaughter some day.

  • Shirley
    June 14, 2014

    I too learned to sew through 4-H. I make a skating skirt and blouse and it won a blue ribbon at our county fair. I was too young to model it at the state fair and I was so disappointed. I am now 71 and I am still sewing. I also watched you on PBS but haven’t been able to find it on TV now. God Bless

  • Judy Abbott
    June 14, 2014

    I started sewing…embroidery…at around 4 years old, using embroidery floss and real needles. My mother drew designs on the fabric for my brother and I to embroider. That soon morphed into sewing doll clothes and then my clothes on the old Elna. As my 4H leader, my mother continued teaching me to sew. At 14 (1960), I won the county dress revue in Geauga County Ohio. My dress was sent to the Ohio State Fair for display, but I was too young to participate in the State Dress Revue. (Apparently, the judges never saw that I had cut through the bar tack on one of the button holes on the front. We had carefully repaired it by had.)

  • Ellen Rogers
    June 14, 2014

    I was a 4-H’er in 1970 and my mother taught the club to sew gingham aprons. Fast forward a few (!) decades and I’ve been a 4-H sewing leader/teacher for over a decade. That first sewing experience with 4-H lead me to a lifetime of creativity. The bonus is being able to pass it along to the newest generation through 4-H. Even better: new sewing 4-H clubs have formed in our county to reach even more youngsters since they are interested in sewing! That gingham apron led me to prom dresses, perfectly matched plaid skirts (high school dress code) and all sorts of other projects. Now I’m a quiltaholic. I’ve made wonderful friends too thanks to sewing & quilting. When I retire next year I am looking forward to spending more quality time with my stash.

  • Grace Sorenson
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew in Home Ec class in high school. I made a cobbler apron in yellow and black, and, after 56 years since graduation, I still have it. Then a farmers wife friend of mine and I used to get together and sew while our husbands went to farm sales looking for the latest bargains. She and I made identical dresses for our same age daughters. She made a green plaid and I made a red plaid and the two year old girls wore them to the Christmas program at the church.
    I also belonged to 4-H and made some items, but time has taken it’s toll and I don’t remember what I made. I sewed for our children when they were little, ripping apart my old skirts for short sets and pajamas, etc.
    After they were in bed at night, my husband would watch TV while I sat at my sewing machine and sewed until all hours.
    Now I make quilts, including Quilts of Valor and enjoy my local quilting guild.
    Time has passed, but I still keep learning.

  • Candy Soehren
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to embroider at my grandmother’s knee during summers at the lake. My mother taught me to crochet. But my first experience sewing came from 7th grade home economics class, then on to high school home econ. What a shame that life skills or home econ is no longer being taught in school!

  • Mary Jo Pigott Groom
    June 14, 2014

    My mother taught me to sew when I was in third grade. I was the youngest of three girls. My sisters weren’t interested in sewing and she was tired of hemming pants, so she taught me to sew. She had no idea I would have such a passion for it. I started making doll clothes then graduated to dresses. My mother said the most important part was learning to read a pattern so I could be independent.
    I learned the rest from watching Sewing with Nancy and reading the books. :). I thank my mom and Nancy everyday for the gift of sewing. This year my youngest got a sewing machine! So the gift goes on.

  • Joanne Phillips
    June 14, 2014

    My mother taught me to embroider and crochet when I was about 8 years old. Took a home economics class in 7th grade and made a skirt. That really started it. I made skirts and dresses for myself and aprons and curtains for my aunts. We had a treadle sewing machine and my uncle bought us a portable Singer. Now I am many years older and still sew every day. Do a lot of quilting, make tote bags, placemats, etc, etc. I call sewing my sanity therapy!
    I was never in 4H, but I always admired their displays at state fairs.

  • Kathy Renz
    June 14, 2014

    My mother taught me to sew. While she occasionally sewed something for me, most of what she made was for my older sister, who was difficult to fit. My mother tried to explain why she sewed more often for her than me but I wanted home-sewn clothes, so I learned to make my own. She was a great teacher and I am grateful I learned to make professional-looking garments.

  • Marilyn Stanton
    June 14, 2014

    I had my first taste of sewing in junior high school. Didn’t do anything about it until I began having children, 2 girls and 3 boys. I really taught myself to sew, using an old treadle machine from my aunt. From there, I took sewing classes at night at the local high school. Eventually, I got enough nerve to make both my daughters’ wedding dresses. But I’m afraid that neither of my girls caught the sewing bug.

  • SUSAN
    June 14, 2014

    This question brought back old memories. I do believe I gave my mom a pair of pants to hem and she told me to do it. She showed me how and the rest is history. My mom was a marvellous seamstress who taught herself out of necessity. We’d watched Sewing With Nancy and she would talk to the t.v. :never thought of that or why she do it that way. I will never be as good as my mom but I can keep trying.

  • Glenna Taylor
    June 14, 2014

    My grandmother taught me to sew back in the mid 50’s. We live down in a hollow at Athens, WV and the only fabric I could use was the scraps that were left from my dresses made from the feeds sacks that we used after the feed was gone. I learned to sew on an old treadle Singer sewing machine making plain old doll dresses. I can remember sitting under her quilting frame and watch her do the Baptist Fan on every quilt that she did.
    She would use twine with a piece of chalk attached and would shortened the twine with each new line of stitching. Those were the pure and simple days.

  • L. Fergus
    June 14, 2014

    My first sewing experience was i 7th grade home ec. I loved it so much that my mother said “I am left-handed and cannot teach you more about sewing, BUT I will give you a small clothing allowance every month. You must buy all but winter coats and school shoes. For anything you sew, I will pay for patterns, fabric, and all notions.” Well, that got me going in a big way and I was self-taught from then on! And my love for sewing has just grown and grown. I am 69 now and continue to take classes when I can and love all the new techniques that continue to crop up.

  • Arlene Aughey
    June 14, 2014

    I grew up in a working class town where there wasn’t too much money for clothes for a teenage girl! When I went to high school (’62-’66) I became good friends with a girl whose family had just arrived from Cuba. She had learned to sew from her mom and was a beautiful seamstress, and eventually went on to become a couturier in the New York City area.
    Anyway, at that time you could buy a yard of fabric for 50 cents, so that absolutely intrigued me! She taught me the basics, which I then attempted to sew up on my Mom’s ancient Singer treadle machine. An interesting point is that my Dad had learned some sewing basics during the Depression. He was in the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) and they were given old World War I uniforms to wear, and all the men wanted to unravel those big flaps of fabric around the legs on pants that were made for cavalry-riders! So he had taught himself how to do that, and ran a little business doing it for the other guys in his group. So he was able to help me, too.
    A funny aside is that neither of us could figure out what to do with the facing on a sleeveless top, and I wound up sewing it onto the outside and stitching it down!
    Long story short, I have been sewing all my life – throughout my career, for 2 daughters, and now that I am retired, I still love it, enjoy it, and am so glad I learned!

  • Karen B
    June 14, 2014

    I started sewing doll clothes by hand. I still have the truly terrible doll dress I made. Then as an adult I did not have a sewing machine so I sewed my Halloween costumes by hand. These turned out pretty good. Fast forward to the late 80’s when I took a hand quilting class. I loved it but was way laid by bilateral carpal tunnel surgeries and life. Approaching retirement I purchased a sewing machine. I visited all the local fabric/quilt shops and the nicest people were at one of the Sandy’s Say It Sew sew/vac store in my area. So I purchased my Baby Lock machine there. Soon after that I was in an auto accident and had a closed head injury. I did not have time to take the classes the shop offered so I ended up mostly self taught. I then took classes that were too advanced for me but still loved it. My progression from hand quilting to machine was inspired by my sister-in-law who said ” I can complete a machine quilt in a week that would take you months”. So here I am a confirmed machine quilter…, with hand applique. I do think sewing/quilting has helped me in my brain recovery.

  • Debbie Thomas
    June 14, 2014

    I suppose I was first exposed to sewing as I watched my great grandmother sew nearly every day on her treadle Singer. Her feet would FLY and the clothes and things she made were awesome. Both my mother and my grandmother sewed a bit as well, but since my Mom worked for the Virginia Cooperative Extension office I was in the local 4-H club they sponsored…and that is where I, along with 2 of my best friends too our first formal sewing lessons. Sad to say, I just didn’t seem to “get it” and my projects were sad, sad pieces…but now, in my fifties I am enthralled with all things sewing and some stuff is still kinda sad looking, but I mad learning and growing every single day.

  • Becky M
    June 14, 2014

    I was always interested in sewing and watched everything my grandmother did. She first taught me to hand embroidery, then to crochet, neither of which I ever did very well. Then I got behind a sewing machine and loved it. I started making skirts & tops. I saw a used Singer sewing machine in a cabinet at the mall for $50. I found all the money I could and my grandmother pitched in for the last $10. I was just 11 years old. I used that machine until I was in my early 20’s. I took 2 years of Home Ec in Jr High school. By the 2nd year, another girl and I ended up teaching most of the other students in class how to sew since our teacher was out for about 6 wks and the subs had no idea what we were doing. It was a great experience.

    However, when I tell others how I learned to sew, I say that my grandmother got me started and you finished my instruction. I truly give you credit, since through those early years of Sewing with Nancy you dealt with so many basics and I learned so much. I diligently watched every show and bought every book you wrote. You are and always have been my sewing mentor. Thank you Nancy for your years of devotion to the art and your simple and enthusiastic approach to every sewing technique.

  • Lynn
    June 14, 2014

    My first project for 4-H was placemats. I also took home ec in junior high as shop classes were not open to the girls.

  • Kathe Mayer
    June 14, 2014

    My grandmother was a taylor and I had some clothes she made for my sister and me, but she didn’t live close enough to teach me. Junior High sewing was a bit of a joke so I didn’t really learn to sew until I served in the Peace Corps as a science teacher. We had a treadle machine and I, with help from fellow teachers living in the hostel,made skirts and blouses even learning to match plaids! When my children were small i made lots of T-shirts and shorts for them. Then my sewing went on sabbatical until we sold our business and I got involved with quilting.

  • Kathe Mayer
    June 14, 2014

    I also enjoy watching Sewing with Nancy on my local PBS station. I have learned a lot watching.

  • Sheila
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew from my mother then from home economics in school . I lived in a town so could not join 4 H , wanted to but those were the rules .

  • Frances Powell
    June 14, 2014

    My mom and grandmother taught me how to sew. I have been teaching my daughter to sew. It is really nice to be able to pass down this skill that I have good memories of sewing with my mom and grandmother.

  • MARY
    June 14, 2014

    I started hand-sewing as a very young child; one of 7 girls. I was definitely a tom-boy BUT I loved to play with my doll. I would cut up antique clothing (wished I had it now!) and fashion clothes for my doll while waiting for the combine to fill up with grain. My Mother didn’t sew but had watched her Mom sew a tad on a treadle machine. I then moved on to using that machine and was fascinated as to how the ruffler attachment worked. Lots of trial and error. My formal sewing was in Home Economics class while a Senior in High School. I became so good in my sewing skills that I’d receive A+. As I don’t have any Grandchildren I have continued on and for many years my main projects is to dress dolls for a local bank which are distributed to under-privileged girls at Christmas. Sometimes even do a little machine embroidery on the skirts and such.

  • Debbie
    June 14, 2014

    Several people had a hand in my learning to sew.

    My earliest teacher was my mother, an accomplished seamstress herself given the fact that she sewed on a treadle foot machine. I started with Barbie clothes and went on to simple garments like elastic waist pull on skirts. Maxis at the time because that was what was in style.

    Unlike now when it’s not even offered in some schools Home Ec was a requirement when I went into 7th grade. Since I’d already been sewing I was ahead of the class but still learned things that I hadn’t learned from my mother.

    My biggest teacher came into my life at the age of 18. She was a much more accomplished sewer than I was even though we were the same age. She pushed me beyond my comfort zone and encouraged me to try fabrics and techniques I’d never done before. She’s the one that ignited my passion for sewing. For that I will be ever grateful. Thank you, Janet.

  • Alice g
    June 14, 2014

    I learned from my mother, she used a treadal machine, she learned by watching her mother make clothes for others. My grand mother learned from her own mother who sewed by hand and used a spinning wheel to make her own cotton thread. In 6th grade all girls had to make an apron with binding for to use in Junior high home ec class. I thought it was easy my class mates did not, none could sew. In Junior High 8th grade I made a skirt in home ec and a dress in 9th grade and have been sewing ever since.

  • Kay Holden
    June 14, 2014

    I, too, learned to sew through 4-H some 60 years ago. I continue to enjoy sewing and am still involved in 4-H. This program not only teaches skills through over a hundred different projects, but also teaches leadership skills, public speaking, and responsibility. Our family now has a third generation of very active members.

  • Judy
    June 14, 2014

    My first memories of my Mom’s sewing was when I was tall enough to stand on the back side of her treadle machine — with strict warnings of touching anything that moved! Later Mom was my 4-H Sewing Leader (and was a perfectionist!). She did not sew any of my seams; however, if anything needed to be unsewn, she would do that for me! I enjoyed sewing and creating. Each year in 4-H judging and style reviews, I always received blue ribbons, many grand champion ribbons and a few Kansas State Fair ribbons. I created all of my wardrobe items until mid-80’s.
    Now I am creating quilts! Our oldest grandchild needed a quilt and pillow in the 2-yr-old pre-school which jump-started my quilt-making. My Mom had a mid-arm quilting business in the mid-70’s — when machine quilting was “2nd class!” My how times have changed! She was a woman ahead of her time! I learned how to pin quilts on her frame, her free-motion creativity and sewing perfect bindings!
    Thanks for your TV shows. I’ve enjoyed all of your TV shows and learned many things over the years. THANKS!

  • Ferrell Hinds
    June 14, 2014

    I am 88 years old and have sewn all my life , or so it seems or should I say or, Sew it Seams. I was about 12 years old when I and my sister joined a 4 H club at our school in Center Township close to South Bend, Indaina. I was in the club for about 4 years. I didn’t go the full course, but I learned enough from a wonderful teacher to got me started on a life of making my own clothes and then making my children’s clothes and eventually grandchildren’s. Finally I jumped from clothing to quilt making. It has been a wonderful accomplishment to have in my life .

  • Margaret Zupfer
    June 14, 2014

    I watched my mother sew then I dove in.

  • Donna
    June 14, 2014

    I started sewing on my Mother’s Singer when I was 7 years old. Santa brought me a small metal sewing machine that did not work. I was so upset. My Mother told me I could use her Singer but I better not put a needle in my fingers. At age 10, I joined Plato Wlling Workers 4-H club. It was the same club my Mother belonged to. My first sewing project was a skirt with grippers. We could not put in a zipper for our first project! My last sewing project was a grey dress. I took Home Ec in High School for 3 years. I have been sewing for 67 years. The past three years I have entered a sewing project in the Senior Division at the Berrien County Youth Fair and received first place all three years. I have my first and last 4-H project and a dress from High School Home Ec class in my cedar chest. I like to make doll clothes for family and friends. Sewing for me is an opportunity to be creative and it is relaxing. I have to thank my Mom, my 4-H leaders and my Home Ec teacher for being so patient when I was learning to sew.

  • Gail
    June 14, 2014

    My mother was a very good seamstress. She made most of her clothes, and most of mine as I grew up. She taught me to sew, use a pattern, and use the sewing machine. I am 66, and she would be 96 if she was still alive. I wish she was still with me. I miss her.

  • Gail
    June 14, 2014

    My mother was a very good seamstress. She made most of her clothes, and most of mine as I grew up. She taught me to sew, use a pattern, and run the sewing machine. I am 66 now and she would be 96 if she was still alive. I miss her.

  • Judy G
    June 14, 2014

    My mother taught me to sew when I was 5 years old. I was sewing on her old Singer by the time I was 8, so short that I had to stand while sewing in order to reach the pedal and the machine at the same time. A neighbor lady ran a 4-H sewing group when I was 10 or so. We made something very basic; a scissors case and a knitting needle/crochet hook roll up. Not very challenging to a child who was already using a machine to make Barbie clothes from patterns. But I did enjoy spending the time with neighbor girls my age, and still have my scissors case. I gave the roll-up to my mom. Another neighbor ran a 4-H gardening group for 3 or 4 years that I was involved in, and yet another ran a cooking group for a couple of years. As I already have both “Seams Unlikely” and “Sewing A to Z”, the books would be gifted to one of my daughters, who also enjoys sewing.

  • Sharon Crowe
    June 14, 2014

    I too honed my sewing skills in 4-H, making everything from stuffed animals to smoked pillows to lined wool garments (with nicely matched plaids) for the make-it-with-wool contest. My club also did square dancing and we sewed our own square dance dresses – what fun! Thank you, Nancy for helping to bring back some great memories!

  • Alma
    June 14, 2014

    Another Aussie here, reminiscing. My sewing journey began standing by my mother’s White treadle sewing machine, watching her make magic with cloth. I can remember trying to sew on her machine, creating clothes and bedding for my dolls when I was about 4 years old. My efforts were undoubtedly unrecognisable but, strangely , that wonderful, warm feeling of carefree, happy days, touched with pride and success in providing for my doll family, comes flooding back even now. In 1943 when I was in Grade 3 and aged 7 years the girls in my school had sewing lessons every Friday afternoon. Silence! and no nonsense! was the rule. Cloth was in very short supply so we were given squares of crepe paper – the sort used to make party hats – needles and thread and we were taught to fold and hand-sew hems, at first with tacking, and then with running stitch and to sew French, fell and flat seams. Those lessons I remember very well because if the paper tore we were in big trouble. I sat in the front desk, easy prey for the old teacher in her black dress and spectacles, while she loomed large over me very often, chilling my fingers into clumsiness as I tried valiantly to stop that awful paper from tearing. I believe that is where I learnt perfection, which has been both my saviour and my bugbear ever since. Our lessons progressed through the early school years to embroidery and smocking with wonderful coloured threads. How I loved stitching with those colours, and in Grade 4 I made a large blue duster bag embroidered with chain stitching and the word ‘Dusters’ in the old script writing of those days. I still have the duster bag with its old brass curtain rings for hanging it behind a door. In Grade 5 and aged 9 I made myself a smocked nightgown. It fitted and I wore it with pride. Sewing lessons then became Fancywork Lessons in Grades 6 and 7 and my little floral sewing case began to swell with threads and notions and my lifelong love of all things to do with needle and thread took root and grew into a wonderful healthy tree of stitching life, each branch supporting a different craft, each leaf a different project. That love of needle and thread still survives as an ever-growing fascination with new techniques, new ideas and unbelievably irresistable new notions. I bought my first sewing machine, a Wertheim with cams for fancy stitches, for my 21st birthday and sewed my party dress. From that time on over the years I sewed everything for my children and home. Patchwork and quilting had its beginning for me with my first attempts to join bits of cloth together for my doll blankets – these days I love to see and buy new fabric, to try out new, quick and easy ideas to create old quilting block patterns into new patterns and experience again that wonderful feeling of fulfilment and success.
    It’s been a 77 years long journey for me – Learning to Sew – and it continues, from those ‘olden days’ to the present when I stay in bed for a while and watch a Sewing With Nancy video on my little laptop, thoroughly 21st Century but, Oh, so much enjoying the sharing of worldwide knowledge with the young sewists and crafters. What a wonderful life a sewing person can have!

  • Ferrell Hinds
    June 14, 2014

    I’d like to add to my response that I made earlier. When I went to high school I took a home Ec class as a snap coarse because I “already knew how to sew” and it wouldn’t be hard. It turned out that I had to help the girl I sat next to becaue there was a substitute teacher who didn’t have the time to help all her students with some of the details. Although it was a snap class I didn’t get a good grade because I slipped and cut a hole in the skirt of the dress I made. But I didn’t have a lot of home work, which was good.

  • Connie Gordon
    June 14, 2014

    I learned sewing basics from my mother and grandmother. Grandma taught me to make my first quilt squares on an old treadle sewing machine. My mother made cute outfits for my sister and me out of flour sacks. I got a blue ribbon for my 4-H apron when I was in the fourth grade. By the time I was a teenager the styles had gone from mid-calf to mini. Mini skirts did not look good on me so my mom would make most of my clothes. She taught me how to do a lot of handwork. She would make the dress and I learned how to hem it. When my daughter was young I would buy an extra yard or so of material and I would make her a dress like her mommy. After the children started school, I went to work outside the home. I could not wait until I could stay at home so that I could start on all the things that I had been putting off so long. That time came a couple of years ago when I retired so that I could take care of my aged mother. I have watched many of your TV programs and a few days ago was able to watch your A-Z sewing tips on my laptop. I learned how to correct a few mistakes that I have been making. I am passing what I have learned on to my daughter and granddaughter. Hopefully they will pass what they learn on to their daughters. Thanks for your years of teaching people like me to sew better.

  • Sandy Curtis
    June 14, 2014

    My grandmother (she passed away when I was 16) was a dressmaker. She and my mother taught me to sew starting when I was 7 or 8. When I was in 6th grade, the 8th grade teacher had a 4-H sewing group after school once a week. I took 4 years of Home Ec in high school and the best part was the sewing. She wasn’t able to break me of the bad habit I got from Grandma though, holding pins in my mouth! I’m 66 and still do it on occasion. The summer after freshman year, I spent a month at grandma’s and she helped me make a lined wool suit (straight skirt with a balero jacket). I must have put the first sleeve in 4 times before she was satisfied with the way it looked. The second sleeve went in much easier. It was worth it though, I loved that suit, it was red tweed.

  • Lauren
    June 14, 2014

    I taught myself how to sew at the age of nine on a sewing machine that was sitting in our basement which was my grandmother’s. I started with Barbie clothes of all things! At 12 I took a class at the local Singer store and upon completion my father bought me a brand new machine! I vividly remember that excitement. That’s when they used to teach home ec in school and I thrived in the sewing classes. I kept at it my whole life making clothing for myself, my high school graduation dress, my childrens’ clothes, banners, tailored shirts for my then husband, etc. I worked at just about every fabric store in the area as well. Then I became a certified Master Seamstress and am now a professional seamstress making prototypes. I’ve done, theater, bridal, upholstery, juvenile furniture….you name it. It was always my calling and has always been my passion. I just moved out of state for a job. Before I moved I gave away 781 yards of fabric (which almost broke me!) and STILL moved about 25 boxes of fabric! I know you all understand THAT addiction!

  • Edye McMillen
    June 14, 2014

    My mother, aunt and grandmother all sewed and let me “Play” on their machines. I took sewing classes at the local Singer sewing store and made the outfit I wore the first day of class in junior high. It was a corduroy jumper over a cotton dress. Today I am sewing with my 7 and 13 year old granddaughters. Sewing has given me much pleasure over the years.

  • Randi
    June 14, 2014

    I remember standing beside my mother when she would sew an be fascinated. Around the age of 6 I started sewing doll clothes on her machine when mom was at work. Eventually mom started me on simple patterns and just guided me on garment construction. I always felt so special when we worked together. Wonderful memories.

  • Mary Nelson
    June 14, 2014

    My mother who was a wonderfully talented seamstress taught me to sew – first by hand, sewing small things like pillows or “blankets” for my dolls, hot pads, etc.; and then sewing on the machine – an old Singer treadle machine that had been retrofitted with a knee lever. I made clothes for myself, gifts for others, etc., and I loved it. My grandmother (my mother’s mother) taught me how to quilt by hand, embroider, knit, and crochet – she also made lovely things by tatting, but never got around to showing me how to do that. Her quilts were made from old dresses and mens’ shirts and she used old wool blankets for the batting – she referred to quilts as “layers of love.” I had to also take sewing classes in 8th grade, but they frustrated me greatly since I had been sewing for years by then and knew many shortcuts that, of course, the teacher didn’t want me to use. My best friend in 8th grade on and her mother are fantastic seamstresses and I spent many hours at their house sewing. After I got married, I watched Sewing With Nancy whenever I could. I taught my daughter to sew, but really my mother taught her more. Over the years, I sewed less and less, but this last year, I made a promise to myself to get back into sewing, quilting, knitting, etc. – it’s a wonderful creative outlet and stress reliever! 🙂

  • Barb Ostermeier
    June 14, 2014

    Although my mom was a wonderful seamstress and I watched her cut and sew for countless hours, I did not sew until I bought my first machine with money I received from college graduation. I bought a pattern and fabric that I did not like but the price was right and cut and sewed and ripped and sewed again. By the time that dress was finished, I had learned sew much but I never wore the dress because I hated the fabric and had worn holes in it during the sewing process. It was still worth the effort. Then came more sewing, some successful and some not so successful but with each project I learned and learned. Thanks to Nancy and the others who followed in her foot steps I was able to take classes in my own living room. I no longer sew clothing but I quilt and do a lot of gifts and home dec. Sewing has enriched my life in ways I can’t even begin to explain.

  • Dixie Hardy
    June 14, 2014

    In 1968 when I was 12 years old, my grandmother and I spent the summer near my uncle’s army base before he shipped out for Vietnam. We were staying with my grandmother’s sister and she and my granny taught me to sew to keep me occupied. My great aunt was short and my grandmother custom made her clothes to fit. I was allowed to use all the leftover material to sew doll clothes. I also helped my granny make a quilt from those scraps and I still own that cherished quilt to this day!

  • Margaret Northcutt
    June 14, 2014

    I, as a lot of other girls I started sewing in 4-H. In 1938 I was 7 years old, I learned to darn a sock , hand hem a dish towel and made a dress. I still enjoy sewing.

  • jean Pearce
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew in Home Economics ( High school 2 years). also my mother and Aunt also were great seamstress and made all my clothes, not a choice, times and $ were decisive factors. Both were great resources for me and I learned from watching them on Items of clothing beyond my skills. ( Coats and dresses seen in the Sears Roebuck catalogues and JC Penny. I entered clothing contest in “Make it with Wool”. Our fabric had to be ordered from picture sin the catalogues as we lived in rural area and had no access to fabric stores. I do not know how we did that as I like to experience the look and feel of the fabric. but you had to decide bases on the picture. Many times I would pick a pattern from 2 or 3 dresses in ready to wear in the catalogue and mother would design it from the pattern we already had. Patterns were not something we had access to either. Many of my clothes, early on, were from flour sacks which we would trade with others in the community for different designs to have enough for clothing. I think all this early life has something to do with why it is so hard to part with any clothing I may not wear anymore. I try to find a way to repurpose it if all possible. I am a better person for having this experience and wish others could learn to sew in a classroom. sharing the skills with others and learning from one another( as well as mistakes) is a learning tool in itself.

  • Lois
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew in 4-H from a very good leader, my mother. She sewed most of my sisters and my clothes when we were young. Then I took Home Ec in high school. I finished my shirt waist dress in about half the time. then made a shirt for a younger brother.
    I missed having a sewing machine in College. So when I had an extra $100, I purchased one while in school. Then a new wardrobe. I also made my wedding dress and both bridesmaid dresses.
    When my 3 children were growing, I made most of their clothes. Watching Nancy’s programs, I was brave enough to make a 3 piece suit for my husband. And other clothes for him.

  • Ruth Ferraro
    June 14, 2014

    My first memory of sewing was making doll clothes out of scrap material. In the 50’s & 60’s in the NYC public schools 5 boroughs all the boys learned woodworking in 6th grade, while the girls made an apron for the required cooking class. In 7th grade everyone made a skirt as well as a dress with a set in sleeve. In the 8th grade everyone made their own graduation dress with a raglan sleeve fitted bodice, and an enormous skirt. Everyone in all the schools used the same pattern but bought their own fabric as long as it was white eyelet material. This was a requirement in order to graduate from grade school. I still remember the teacher instructing us to “bring the thread under the elephant tusk” on the Singer sewing machine. My first Christmas gift from my husband (we were married about 5 months) was my own sewing machine – something I couldn’t do without!

  • Carol Peebles
    June 14, 2014

    YOU taught me to sew! Although my grandmother tried to show me, making my uncles’s shirts scared me away from sewing for a long time. After her death I kept her machine in a closet until my daughter started school and wanted dresses (no more hand me downs from big brother). I started watching your show on PBS then later bought your books and learned to sew! I have gone from simple dresses to bridal dresses, heirloom dresses for my grand daughters, quilts and embroidery. You are still teaching me techniques and always giving me great ideas! Thank You Nancy!

  • Zaida
    June 14, 2014

    I learned to sew on my grandmother’s treadle machine and I sure do wish I still had that machine. I do love my new machine and serger and all of the new things that I can continue to learn.

  • Doris
    June 14, 2014

    My grandmother had a treadle machine when I was a little girl and I was not allowed to touch the machine for fear I would “mess something up”. She pieced quilts on that machine and hand quilted with her lady friends. I learned to sew in home ec and still remember the rules the teacher taught us. Our first project was an apron with smocking on gingham. I still have that apron. The 2nd year we made our prom dresses. The 3rd year we made pinch pleated drapes. I have been sewing since then. I made clothes for myself because I would have one of a kind outfits. My sister-in-law encouraged me to make a quilt. I got the quilting bug after that and have been quilting for 9 years. I love sewing anything. It really gives me a feeling of confidence in myself everytime I finish a project.

  • Catherine Smith
    June 15, 2014

    I learned to sew my going to the library taking all the books out on sewing, learning to sew etc. then I bought a sewing machine and notions and started to sew my first project was a winter coat. I never do anything easy! I also watched videos on different techniques. I pick up things fast, I just have to watch things couple of times and I can do it.

  • Charlotte Trayer
    June 15, 2014

    Nancy, as I have been reading your autobiography, I see that some of your experiences have echoed mine! I’m a little older than you are (I’m 68), and have been sewing since I was 10, but I’m sure I could go thru the first part of your book and say, yup, I did that, too…many times!! LOL

    I learned in 4H; Mille Corey, my best friend’s mother, was our 4H leader; in later years she and her husband were highly honored by the Michigan 4H group for their many years of volunteering in 4H.

    (Even though my mother made most of my clothes back then, she wisely held off trying to teach me to sew until I was old enough for 4H and could learn their methods from the start.)

    I was in 4H for only four years, as, in 1960, my father (a Lutheran minister) accepted a call to a church in Seattle. We didn’t know, until years later, that there was any 4H in our area, but apparently there was. It might have made my adjustment to the move a little easier if I had been in 4H out here, too.

    Fast-forward about 45-50 years, and my husband and I were at the county fair. I was pointing out to him one 4H-er’s perfect topstitching, and someone else’s matched plaids, and a voice behind me said, “You should be a judge!” So now I am. I judge 4H sewing (one of my greatest joys, as it gives an opportunity to teach) as well as cooking and baking, for the Monroe (Wash.) fair every year. I love it!

  • Jamie
    June 15, 2014

    I absolutely loved this article, Nancy! It brought back so many memories, and, I thoroughly enjoyed looking at pictures from the Wisconsin Museum.
    Even though my mother made all of our clothes when I was very young ( we were very poor ), and, my sister was an accomplished seamstress, I learned how to sew in Home Economics class taught by Ms. Jean Dixon ( thank you Ms. Dixon! ). She was a very no-nonsense, straight forward teacher that had absolutely no qualms about sharing her students’ mishaps and sewing travesties with the rest of the class!
    I can remember sewing my pant legs together on one particular project and she used this garment as a teaching moment, haha. I was thoroughly embarrassed but everyone had a really good laugh at those pants!

    Now, as a grandmother to seven grandchildren, I enjoy making them Halloween costumes, pajamas, dresses, shorts, vests and even made a pair of pajamas for my grown son. I am so very glad that I did not give up on sewing when I made those legless pants all those decades ago in Home Ec!

    Thanks, again, Nancy for this wonderful article.

  • Beverly
    June 15, 2014

    It took an entire village, and I yet have much to learn! My interest started when I would watch my stepmother sew amazing baby layettes on her little Singer Featherweight (which I am grateful to have now!). My grandmother and aunt also helped inspire me. I first became aware of Sewing with Nancy in the 1980’s, and her clear and simplified techniques have been my teaching guides ever since.
    During most of my early sewing years, my focus was on clothing, then quilting became a passion. These days, I’m being inspired by my granddaughters to make clothes for their dolls–perhaps when they are a little older, I can help to teach THEM to sew!

  • Terri
    June 15, 2014

    Hi Nancy,
    I learned how to sew in Home Ec. It was the best thing that I have ever learned. It is a very valuable tool to me!

  • Robin Cleveland
    June 15, 2014

    Loved the article about 4-H! Unfortunately, I wasn’t involved in 4-H, but I did learn to sew. My mother, paternal grandmother and paternal aunt taught me various sewing skills and allowed me to use their machines, etc. to create garments; first for my Barbie dolls, then for me. I am so grateful to have learned as a child. It’s a great skill to have throughout one’s life!

  • Karyn Clark
    June 15, 2014

    I learned to sew from my mother but was also in 4H. I loved HomeEc and all the sewing/cooking projects. I have continued to sew ever since. I can’t imagine not sewing and am simply amazed when grown people ask me to sew a button on for them! Really??

  • zoraida
    June 15, 2014

    I want to say that my mother teach me how to sew and I was scare but little I did now she past and I received her sewing machine, fabrics, bias tape and I have a lot I also finish some off her dress do to her cancer not able to finish I did it with no pattern guide I wear it. Thank you Mother

    p.s If I need help I go to you tube and they show you I also doing yoyos she finish some but I am putting together is her work art.

  • Cindy
    June 15, 2014

    I received a “care box” containing patterns and fabric from my Aunt Maurine when I had my toncils out at age 7. (I have her featherlite Singer from the 40’s which she taught me on..a precious possession.) After that I joined a 4-H club in central Missouri and progressed all the way through tailoring. (I also did foods and gardening) Unfortunately I don’t have any of my sewing projects but I do have some of my ribbons from the county and state fairs.

    Because of my love for sewing, cultivated through 4-H, I then worked in a fabric store through high school and early college. I started college wanting to go into fashion design and so my freshman year was spent “fine tuning” my sewing skills. I figured out rather quickly that the creative/design part was not my forte and I switched to fashion merchandising. I currently have drawings I did in a fashion Illustration class framed and hanging in my sewing room.

    Today I sew primarily for my grandkids and love it. It was 4-H that started me on my path and instilled in me my love for sewing.

  • Jane McCarroll
    June 15, 2014

    I taught myself to sew on my mother’s treadle machine at the age of 10. My mom recently passed and I inherited that same machine. As I got older, I took home ec in school and learned many valuable lessons on making clothing. I’ve also learned much valuable information and techniques from watching Sewing With Nancy! I sew for myself, my kids and grandkids. Also have branched out into quilting. Who would have thought all that experience from many years ago would be even more valuable today?

  • Marilyn Barksdale
    June 15, 2014

    When I was seven years old, my adored grandmother taught me to sew doll clothes by cutting “patterns” out of the Orlando Sentinel and started me a joyous, lifelong love affair with sewing and other needles arts. When I was a teenager, my beloved aunt continued my sewing education. She was an educator for the Singer Company, and there wasn’t any aspect of sewing she hadn’t mastered. I joke that she taught me “frog stitches”, i.e. rip-it, rip-it, rip-it…I had to rip out anything that wasn’t according to the rules. It was a great education because you have to know the rules in order to know how and if you can break them. Those two women provided me with a background for an avocation that has sustained me through out highs and lows in my life. My loving gratitude to both of you.

  • Susan
    June 15, 2014

    I learned to sew through 4-H and my mother. My first 4-H sewing project was the Jacket Dress and I picked a pattern that had curved front darts. Unfortunately, I could not for the life of me, sew those darts without puckering the seam and I threw that dress across the kitchen table so many times in frustration. My mother would them pick up the dress and unpick the dart seam and encourage me to try again. (My mother hated sewing but it was her encouragement that kept me going until I achieved success.)

  • Donna
    June 15, 2014

    I learned to sew by going to classes given at the Singer sewing store in downtown Chicago when I was 12 years old. I took the bus from my house to the subway by myself, something a young girl would never do today. Thank you, Nancy, for recognizing 4-H. It’s a wonderful program for youth. My son learned so much in the 10 years he was in 4-H.

  • Heidi B
    June 15, 2014

    I also learned how to sew in 4-H. I still have my gathered skirt & head scarf! I had a great teacher named Helen Monson, she wasn’t afraid to tell me to rip that seam out till it was good. The seam ripper was my best friend while sewing. I also was in the “Make it with Wool contest” in High School with Barb Eicher as my Home Ec teacher. those wool jackets,coats & pants suits did double duty, going to the Wool contest & then 4-H Dress Revue. It seemed to be the hottest days in August, when I would model the wool garments at the Wisconsin state fair. Nice memories now. I have been a 4-H sewing project leader for the past 20 plus years! I so enjoy to see the pride the girls have when showing people their sewing projects. 4-H is the best thing for kids in my opinion!

  • Ann
    June 15, 2014

    Before my mother would allow me to learn to sew I had to prove I could stitch a straight line. I was given lined paper and stitched without thread punching holes along the lines. I think I did a whole ream of paper and finally, was allowed to used thread. I made doll clothes at first. Once I was old enough to ride the bus alone and take the sewing classes at “Gimbels – Schusters” downtown Milwaukee I was on the road to a fabulous wardrobe.

  • Carol S
    June 15, 2014

    I learned to sew by watching my mother make capes for statues in our Church. I was allowed to do straight stitching on an old New Home machine that she still has. Later I honed my skills in High School where I learned the basics about measuring properly and how to use a pattern along with the proper tools to use. I made many of my own and my daughters clothes for several years. l enjoy sewing very much to this day nearly 45 years later. I am also thankful to you Nancy for showing me short cuts and ways to sew that makes it even more fun!

  • Margaret Daniel
    June 15, 2014

    My first sewing was in elementary school where we had a 4-H leader teach us to make a kitchen towel by hand. Later, my mother went on to teach me to sew clothes and in my high school, we were taught to make a pleated skirt, among other things. Later, while a young mother, I made clothes for my family. My husband and I went on to become 4-H leaders when our children participated in various 4-H activities. It is a family organization and I would highly recommend it to all young parents out there. Your children will get so much out of it as will you. Our children went on to compete regionally, then state, and finally nationally in activities from animal husbandry, plant and forestry identification, and congress. They also participated in fun activities like clogging, and my son traveled through an exchange program with another 4-H group out in Colorado. Our 4-Hers went there to learn to ski and their 4-Hers came to Florida to enjoy the beaches. My sewing skills continue to improve over time and I now enjoy making quilts.

  • Diane
    June 15, 2014

    My mother taught me how to sew and ofcourse I to was in 4-H. My first 4-H project was a apron, which I still have! Then I made a dress which was entered in the county fair and got a purple ribbon. It was then entered at the State Fair and I got a blue ribbon. I also took Home Ec. in high school where I learned more sewing skills. I still sew and enjoy making quilts. I like to recycle, by taking apart old good used clothing/sheets/etc. It is a challenge to make sure the fabric are the same weight and cotton etc. Oh yes, the apron is 50 years old! Making something new from used is a good thing. I donate some of my handy work. I did make a T-shirt quilt for my granddaughter which turned out great. Now onto the next project.

  • Diane Bjorklund
    June 15, 2014

    My mother taught me how to sew and ofcourse I to was in 4-H. My first 4-H project was a apron, which I still have! Then I made a dress which was entered in the county fair and got a purple ribbon. It was then entered at the State Fair and I got a blue ribbon. I also took Home Ec. in high school where I learned more sewing skills. I still sew and enjoy making quilts. I like to recycle, by taking apart old good used clothing/sheets/etc. It is a challenge to make sure the fabric are the same weight and cotton etc. Oh yes, the apron is 50 years old! Making something new from used is a good thing. I donate some of my handy work. I did make a T-shirt quilt for my granddaughter which turned out great. Now onto the next project. Sorry I don’t remember sending a comment???

  • Berenice
    June 15, 2014

    My grandmother taught me to sew when we moved in with them after we returned from being stationed overseas with the Air Force. I was eight and never saw a sewing machine until then. I loved the concept of turning fabric into wonderful clothes that we could wear. By the time I was in 8th grade, we were forced to that Home Ec and make a wrap skirt and t-shirt. I was way past doing that and tried to get out of it, but had to stay. For our “Fashion Show” at the end of semester, I was allowed to show my Bicentennial dress that I made instead of the skirt & shirt. I made all my dresses for my service organization and all my school clothes. I even made a suit to compete in the State Speech tournament my senior year. So a few years have passed and I make some of the kiddos’ clothes and all their dresses for the same service organization. I also make totes and dress bags for the girls and others. I love doing machine embroidery and making all kinds of items for friends and family. We did not have 4-H until senior high school. And then they only had cattle, sheep and pigs. No sewing… Well I guess I could have made show blankets for the beasties!!

  • Beverly D
    June 15, 2014

    I was a member of the Junior Country Gals 4-HClub when I learned to sew. Today I am a 4-H Club leader! Love the Quilts of Valor quilt the kids are finishing up for the Fair!

  • Dena
    June 16, 2014

    My mother taught me to sew by hand when I was 4. When I was 8, she taught me to use her sewing machine. I learned most of what I know about sewing from watching Sewing with Nancy and reading books about sewing. I’m now teaching 3 of my daughters to sew.

  • Karen Poole
    June 16, 2014

    My Mom had a Singer sewing machine as I was growing up, as a very young child all of us girls got some reprinted panels of doll clothes to cut out and sew. I followed the instructions and cut them out and sewed them all up and I was hooked! Mostly I was self taught by reading pattern instructions, books, and magazines. I have now been sewing over fifty years.

  • Ilana
    June 16, 2014

    I first learned some basics of sewing in my 7th grade Home Ec. class. But my love for sewing really blossomed when I took several sewing classes at the local community college when I was in my late 20s.

  • Caroline S
    June 16, 2014

    High School!!! In my Junior and Senior year I took Sewing 101 and 102…. the best elective courses I ever took!

  • Charlene
    June 16, 2014

    I learned to sew in Mrs Griffith 7th grade home economics. I was hooked. Oh by the way, if any student got caught with a pin in their mouth they automatically got an F for the class.

  • Linda
    June 16, 2014

    I grew up watching my mother sew and quilt—I remember playing under the quilting frame during a quilting bee and threading the needles for them….I started sewing by cutting and designing doll clothes….my Mom let me use her machine at a very young age…

    I started sewing my first clothes during 4-H also—-remember those shift dresses??? I love sewing my clothes and it was really handy in college when I had little money–I always got lots of compliments on my wardrobe…The thrill of taking a piece of fabric and making something wonderful out of it….

    I have learned much from you –I am a faithful watcher of Sewing with Nancy–thanks for all the help —-you were always there with a better way to get a great garment…

  • Barbara Read
    June 16, 2014

    While both my mother and grandmother were talented and busy sewers, I mostly learned to sew in a couple of Home Ec classes I took in junior high. Thanks, Miss Thomas and Mrs. Bramwell!

  • Charlotte
    June 16, 2014

    One year of Home Ec. and a lot of trial and error. My grandmother was a great sewer and I would look at the results of her sewing and try to copy. My mother was not a good sewer even though she tried.

  • Anna B
    June 16, 2014

    My mother made all of my clothes and other siblings as well. My grandmother was a seamstress and a quilter. I learned basic sewing from them. When I was in high school it was sort of a given that I would take “home ec” and learn to cook and sew. I will have to give my teacher, Mrs. Newsome, a lot of credit. She made me rip a zipper out of dress so many times until I got it right that there was barely any fabric left to sew the zipper in. My grandmother later made me a quilt with some of the clothing I use to wear. When I look at that quilt and see the yellow and green stripe fabric from my home ec project I am surprised there was any fabric left over to put in the quilt. Lots of wonderful memories. That is what sewing and quilting is all about.

  • Sue B.
    June 16, 2014

    I did some sewing at school in Home Economics and also in 4-H, but I really learned to sew with from Mother-In-Law who was from Germany. She was a wonderful seamstress and had lots of patience with me. I loved sewing with her and we had a lot of fun together. Over the years, I made a lot of things for myself, my home, gifts for friends and family, and, now I am quilting. I have made two quilts in the past two years…both wedding quilts. One was for my daughter who got married last year in the Spring, and I just finished a wedding ring quilt for my niece who is getting married in August of this year. I love to sew and enjoy doing hand-sewing also. I love watching your program on Saturday mornings on PBS where I get a lot of good ideas and learn so much.

  • Sandy B
    June 16, 2014

    I learned from my mother and by being in 4-H. So glad I had those opportunities and can’t imagine not being able to sew! I used to make most of my wardrobe but now my passion is quilting. Always have loved your program.

  • Judy Bott
    June 16, 2014

    In 7th grade home economics we made the usual dish towel and then progressed to an apron. My mother insisted I have nice fabric for my project. I was med. blue chambray and then I had yellow rick rack for trim. Mine was the best in the class. Mother always insisted “you can’t make a silk purse from an old sow’s ear” meaning you can’t expect good results with poor fabrics. Later I took sewing projects in 4-H and as an adult I took many, many sewing classes (machine, quilting, clothing, etc.) Eventually I was a teacher for Stretch and Sew. Now I share quilting projects through our local quilt guild. It has been a wonderful and rewarding experience. I also do a lot of handwork projects. Still have lots of plans for the future projects as time allows.

  • Mary Hartman
    June 16, 2014

    Like Nancy, I learned to sew in 4-H, went on through Home Ec in high school, and became a Home Ec. teacher because of my love of sewing. Any kind of sewing and needlework is still my passion. I love to walk through fabric and quilting stores just to take in all the colors, textures, etc. and feed my creativity.

  • Naomi Shoemaker
    June 16, 2014

    I also learned to sew at a 4H club. I was going into the 7th grade. I knew I could make clothes cheaper than what was in the stores. I am now 73 and I am still sewing. I have had several classes since but I’m still grateful for my start with the 4 H.

  • Ginger
    June 16, 2014

    My Aunt taught me to sew when I was probably 6 or 7.

  • Celeste
    June 16, 2014

    My grandmother taught me to sew when I was about 8. I then took sewing in high school. I’ve been taking classes ever since!

  • Theresa Lindal
    June 16, 2014

    I also learned sewing at 4H, loved seeing the picture of the 4H sign sure brought back memories and the song came back to me also. I remember making a red wool box suit, I was so proud of that. I sewed for both our children, boy and girl, making twin outfits when they were little. I am 76 now and still sewing, have an embroidery machine and have done some quilting also, but don’t seem to have enough time now that I’m retired. I had my own workroom for making draperies, slipcovers etc. for decorators in several stores and eventually selling fabric in home myself. Also don’t know if you remember my former partner and I had sold videos (T & M Creations) on do it your self draperies and slipcovers to your business, when you had a video rental catalog in early 90’s. We still have the masters and would have loved to keep them moving but timing was wrong had to retire. We had lots of fun going to Window Treatment Conventions and teaching at seminars etc. To bad it was before the internet, we could have kept going on that avenue. Went to one of your spring sewing events and had such a great time, you were so friendly with all of us attending, even sat with us during lunch. I admire you and all you have helped with your knowledge. You have always been my idol.

  • Missus H.
    June 16, 2014

    When I was a child, my grandmother taught me how to sew by hand, and my mother taught me how to sew on her Singer machine. As a young woman, my first purchase on credit was a Singer Stylist. Now, as a public school English teacher, I spend more time grading papers and too little time on enjoying the hobby that has always made me feel especially creative and peaceful. Of the items I have sewn throughout the years, my favorite are the Halloween costumes my sons proudly wore when they were little (Power Rangers, Spider-Man, etc.). 35 years later I still have my same faithful machine and just finally purchased a sewing table/cabinet to use and store it in the style it deserves! This year I plan to spend some quality time enjoying my old hobby by doing some sewing for church and whipping up a new outfit for myself. For inspiration, I read your autobiography, Seams Unlikely; thank you so much for sharing your story with us! I just finished reading it today and am new to your blog and website. You are appreciated.

  • Cheryle Walker
    June 17, 2014

    Hi
    I live in Australia no one in my family sewed, When I was pregnant with my first child in 1973 I was nineteen my husband bought me my first sewing machine and I taught my self to sew from books and TV shows from America. This was my start to a life long journey of sewing to this day.

  • Gloria
    June 17, 2014

    Mom taught me to sew at age 5 and by 10 I was making all my own cloths along with my brother and sisters clothing. By 12 I was a very accomplished seamstress.

  • Andrea Elder
    June 17, 2014

    When I was about 12 my mom showed me how to work the sewing machine but that was about it. Mostly what I have learned is from experimenting and a few books and tv shows here there. I have had long droughts of not being able to sew but have never lost my love for it. I now have my own sewing machine and am trying to learn everything that I can.

  • Mary Mungons
    June 17, 2014

    Enjoyed the blog about 4-H. My mother taught me to sew at a young age. Then at age 10 I joined a 4-H club where Mom was one of the leaders. One year my friend and I did a demonstration on “How’s your hemline” and we won a trip to the Ohio State Fair. Home Ec. in high school also taught me a lot about sewing. Now a friend, my daughter and I exhibit our sewing talents at a local county fair. Sewing has been my favorite hobby!

  • Ruth
    June 17, 2014

    My Mom was a great one for sewing. She excelled at many things, but didn’t have patience for teaching. I followed her love of sewing and other needle arts, but we struggled as she tried to meet my requests to “show me”. I gained some basic skills from middle school home ec, and even got the highest grade in my 7th grade class for a drawstring peasant blouse. I never lost that love of making things that really suited me. I hope I can share that with my daughter who is 8.

  • Willie Smith
    June 17, 2014

    When I was 12 or 13 my mother, a working woman, decided to sign me up for a sewing class thinking a “professional” was more equiped than she for this endeavor. Well it was not a happy experience for me and I learned nothing. So my mother said ok, let’s go to the fabric store. We will pick out a pattern and buy the fabric and you will read the pattern instructions and if you don’t understand I will explain it to you. It was a wonderful thing, I learned to read and understand pattern instructions and my mother and I had great fun sewing that little dress. Over the many years to follow we shared our love of sewing and our common love of all things fabric. I am now 65 so I have been sewing for over 50 years and love it still. My mother died 5 years ago, but everytime I see a piece of fabric that I know she’d love, it makes me happy and takes me back to those wonderful times we had.

  • Peggy
    June 17, 2014

    I learned to sew from my mom, then learned advanced sewing in our 4-H club. We always entered sewing, decorating and vegetables at the County Fair and those with a Blue Ribbon went to the State Fair. We received money from the Blue Ribbons at the State Fair and I have a big box of ribbons. Today, I sew quilts, doll clothes and am teaching two of my granddaughters to sew. They have made aprons, pillowcases, purses and doll clothes. I cannot get PBS in my area so do not get your TV program, but read your blogs and when I get Nancy Notion catalogs, I watch all the video’s that are mentioned in the catalog. I bought and read your Seams Unlikely book in one week. I cried and I laughed with you. Thank you for sharing.

  • Margaret
    June 18, 2014

    I was making Barbie clothes by hand from Mom’s fabric scraps WAY back! But my first sewing machine experience was a bit later in school. I remember having to machine stitch on a line on a piece of paper for a grade … no thread, the holes told if we followed the line. We made aprons which had a hand embroidered a pocket. Later, my best friend and I would test our abilities on flannel nightgowns 🙂 I never used the apron, but I was proud of the nightgown!
    Mom’s machine was an old Singer. It didn’t do backwards. If you REALLY needed to go back, you had to turn the project around 🙂 It only had one stitch and one length, but anything other than what it offered was never missed. What you don’t know about rarely is.

  • Sandy G.
    June 18, 2014

    I too credit 4-H with my love of sewing today. When I was in grade school an Economist from the County Extension Office would come to my school once a month and bring fabric samples that we would paste in our sewing book. We would do hand projects and have competitions. She also taught us cooking. I taught myself to sew on my grandmother’s treadle machine and was making clothes for adults by the time I was 12 for extra money. I’ve made most all my clothes from then until now picking up quite a few techniques from watching Sewing With Nancy on PBS. I also learned quilting by watching Quilt In A Day with Eleanor Burns on PBS. Thank you so much for what you’ve given to my sewing world.

  • Chris
    June 18, 2014

    Enjoyed reading everyones comments. My mom taught me some basics at around 10, then I took off on my own and sew her some pink lingeria holders – an assortment. I designed them, very basic, because they were just rectangular. She still has them. Though they weren’t great, they weren’t bad for a first time. But now that I have children and grand children, I understand why she has hung on to these for so long.

  • Corrine K. Schlomer
    June 18, 2014

    I also started sewing through 4-H. However, in my teen’s I sewed with my mom during the summers and that’s when the sewing bug bit me! We lived on a farm and I helped my mom prepare meals to feed the “men”. We developed a unique system of one cooking the noon meal while the other got to sew. Then we’d trade jobs and the morning seamstress did the dishes while the noon cook got to sew! For the supper meal we would flip jobs. We created a good share of our clothing in this way. I have wonderful memories of those days spent with my mom in her fabulous sewing room in the basement. (I still feel an urgency to ramp up my sewing during the summmer!) Later when I started my teaching career, my mom told me about this sewing show on PBS called Sewing With Nancy and I continued to learn! My family teases me about watching your show – guess I’m a bit of a fanatic – but both of my children (now grown) know exactly who Nancy Zieman is! I’ve sewn all of my life and it’s still one of my favorite pastimes. It was probably the greatest gift my mom ever gave me.

  • Stephanie Taylor
    June 19, 2014

    Like others, I had a ‘combination’ of sewing teachers. My grandfather taught me how to tie a knot when doing hand sewing of doll clothes when I was about five or six. I have the first plastic machine I (and all my cousins) would play with when visiting the grandparents! My mother taught me the basics of sewing and using a cabinet sewing machine. But it was my first 4-H leader, Juanita Brunello, and her two daughters who really got me started on this wondrous journey! Through 4-H I learned to sew on all types of fabrics…cotton to Qiana (remember how that fabric slid everywhere?) I also tried my hand at UltraSuede! In junior high I had to get ‘special permission’ to make a jumper out of plaid fabric. The teacher said she ‘wouldn’t be responsible for me wasting fabric when I couldn’t match the plaids!” She didn’t realize that through my years in 4-H, I truly knew what I was doing! I was an English major in college and I needed an elective. Because of my background in 4-H, I was able to petition for the opportunity to take a tailoring class, which was normally open only to textile majors! I’ve taught English for 33 years, and my way to relax is to head into my sewing room and draw upon on those lessons I’ve learned, and the ones I still pick up from websites like this!

  • Natalie
    June 20, 2014

    My mom taught me some hand embroidery when I was 7 or 8, and I learned a little more doing badge work for Girl Scouts. She sewed a LOT of our clothes; my 3 sisters & I had coordinating velveteen outfits at Christmas, and our special occasion dresses were often made by her.(She also hemmed & mended for my 4 brothers.) The summer before I turned 12, mom enrolled me in sewing classes at the local Singer store. The dress I made that summer had curved darts, a 22″ back zipper, and set-in sleeves. (I wore it to the end-of-term “fashion show”, and once more after that — NOT a prize-winner!) Next summer, I was more confident & actually wore that year’s dress a LOT. As a freshman in public school, I took the mandatory Home Ec class — teacher chose the pattern everyone HAD to make — a not-flattering dirndl skirt & bolero vest; I was glad to be able to help other girls from parish schools who hadn’t sewn before this class. With no room in my high school schedule for any more sewing classes, I continued to make a couple outfits a year for school & other activities (even made a 2-piece swimsuit). My college graduation gift from my parents was a Singer Stylist portable machine — I had majors in Chemistry & Art Education, but was engaged to be married; guess they thought I’d put it to good use in my own home… Don’t remember when our local PBS station started carrying your show, but I’ve been a faithful viewer (& reader) ever since. Your show & your books have continued my sewing education. Thanks for all you do!!

  • Sherrie Ashley
    June 20, 2014

    I remember watching my grandma do stamped cross sticth towels, tablecloths, and pillowcases. I was hooked. She showed me some basics but then we moved away. My mother couldn’t sew a button on anything and she owned a sewing machine but never used it. I joined 4-H in fifth grade and learned how to make a basic skirt with a waistband and zipper. I made my first (really bad) quilt in 6th grade by tracing squares with cardboard and a marker. I loved sewing my own clothes and made my first dress with unlined jacket for senior day in high school. I moved out on my own at 18, bought a sewing machine, took a basic class at JoAnn Fabrics and started making everything: jackets, jeans, pajamas…I LOVED sewing! I still do but I don’t need a work wardrobe anymore (I am retired and babysit) so I plan to pass my skills on to my granddaughter. We make simple quilts together. Hopefully we are making memories and she will grow up to love sewing. (My own daughter is like HER grandmother: can’t sew a button on anything and has no interest in learning :(…

  • Barbara Landi
    June 20, 2014

    I learned to sew in junior high homemaking lass. Although my Italian immigrant grandparents were tailor/dressmakers and made many of my own clothes, they did not teach or encourage me. I believe they thought it was below me learn such a skill because I was destined for much loftier things in life. If only I could talk to them now! I used to play with all their tools & fabrics, but they never tried to teach me. Aarrghgh! Growing up in NYC, I never heard of 4-H. As a young Mom in Alaska in the 80s, my children enrolled in 4-H and I became a leader too.

  • Judy Madigan
    June 21, 2014

    All my life I was sure that I would NEVER be able to make something with fabric & thread. It scared me!!!!
    After inheriting my great aunt’s old Singer, my neighbor took me by the scruff of my neck and said “you can do this”. She was right! Lined blazers, slacks, blouses etc.
    Now quilting and (to my husband’s dismay) the stash to go with it. What joy to discover I have a creative side.

  • Sandy Brewster Peterson
    June 21, 2014

    Sewing has been a life long passion for me. I just have to sew. I sewed through my tiny finger on a treadle machine at an early age. My mother taught sewing at community centers and church. She taught at Indian Reservations and to neighborhood friends. We watched sewing with Nancy often and learned enough tricks to surprise our Home Eck teachers. Your viewers Thank You Nancy for many years of teaching us tricks and shortcuts. Thanks also for introducing us to humanitarian causes.

  • Marianne
    June 22, 2014

    High School Home Ec and 4-H, but mostly self-taught

  • jessie edwards
    June 23, 2014

    i watched my mother sewing cowboy shirts. we had an old singer that no one was allowed to touch but my mother. from cowboy shirts to tents that little machine flew and made a living for her and the latest fashion for me; not often but sometimes there was time. i never intended to sew but by watching her i learned it was all in the details and store bought wasn’t good enough for my children so that was it for me. i’m kind of self taught but was truly driven to be perfect, then i met a quilter and the world got bigger and i learned to explore with permission not to be perfect. Arlene Lane and Jean Yokum, thank you for teaching me to breath.

  • Iris
    June 24, 2014

    When I was young about 5 or 6 I remember my mother hammering down a quilt to the floor in order to make sure things were tight so she could sit down and hand quilt. I had not much interest at that time as I was playing with friends. I never took 4-H but now that I am older I wish I had. I have been learning on my own and by going to sites where people give tips and advice. I am gradually making it through but I would love to learn more and I have been ordering and reading books so either one of these books by Nancy would be a great addition to my reference library. Sewing is so relaxing and fun and each chance I get I go to the fabric store to stay stocked on my supply. Thank you to all those who have blogs and tips for those of us just learning on our own. Have a great day.

  • Sandy Davis
    June 25, 2014

    I learned to sew in the dining room of our 3-bedroom dairy farm home, from my mother who showed me how to lay out the fabric & pattern and how to follow the direction sheet. Then, she went back to the kitchen to work on meal preparation. When I’d get stuck, she was just around the corner and could easily get to me to help me out. I don’t remember sewing anything other than the shorts I learned on, because my mom made most of my clothes, first out of feed sacks and later out of the popular fabrics that other girls’ ready-made clothes were made from. In Jr. High School I took Home Ec with one semester being sewing. The teacher was not beginner sewing friendly and I almost turned against sewing. But, as I got older, got married, started having babies, I decided I’d like to get back into sewing for my little ones. So, with my mother-in-law’s treadle machine, I learned more and more from a Simplicity Sewing book by my side, and telephone help from both my mother and my mother-in-law. I went on to make most of my children’s clothes, even my son’s blue jeans when he was in Jr. H.S. I was fully immersed in the love of sewing! I now teach sewing at our local Babylock dealership, at Kentucky’s “It’s Sew Fine: For Home and Family” sewing expo, and have received certifications & licensings from Palmer/Pletch and Martha Pullen, and have been a Certified Master Clothing Volunteer with the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension since 1992. As a MCV, I teach a monthly (free) class at the local public library and have been doing so since 2001. Sewing seems to be in my blood and now I’m looking into getting one more certification to teach easy, quick methods to fit and make garments from one master pattern. If I should win your books, Nancy, I pledge to give them away to a very deserving person to give them inspiration for their sewing endeavors. Thank you for all you do! (I have your programs recorded all the way back to 1992!)

    • Ruth Ferraro
      June 25, 2014

      I hope you win! I think your comment was the best I have read!

  • Terri Eckroate
    June 26, 2014

    In 1974 my grandmother taught me to sew on a 1920 Singer treadle, even though she was missing both of her legs from diabetes & blind she was still the best teacher any 14 yr. old could ask for. Every time I sit done to sew on Stella I think of my grandma & smile at all the fun we had.

  • PB from MN
    June 28, 2014

    I am mostly self taught in sewing, with quilting being my current obsession, but I was a 4-Her, as was my husband and 2 sons. I want to thank you not only for this blog post but for all of the work you have done for 4-H. I have used many of the manuals you have created for the sewing projects as a 4-H volunteer.

    I currently judge 4-H and I encourage your readers to mentor the youth who want to sew, who do not have members of the family who know how to sew. So many kids want to learn, but they do not have teachers and Home-Ec has been taken out of many schools. Extension services has also had many changes, at least in Minnesota, and they no longer have many Extension Agents trained in Home-Ec areas.

    I fully believe that 4-H is the best youth development program around, if a youth has an interest there is a way to make it a 4-H project. 4-H can take them far in life with all of the life skills they can learn.

  • Mary Anne Chambers
    June 30, 2014

    I have sewn for as long as I can remember. I was inspired by two very talented ladies, my mums sister Auntie Ellen and my Dads aunt, Great Auntie Alice. Both stitched on Singer treadle machines and made some wonderful things such as wedding dresses, alter cloths, curtains etc. I loved to watch them. I got a toy Singer sewing machine when I was 6 which was battery operated and I loved it. I got my very own treadle machine when I started secondery school aged 11. It was in a poor state after being left in a garden shed for a number of years but my dad fixed it up for me. It just did a straight stitch but that was no problem, I became very inventive for closures. I got my first electric machine for my 21st and still have it, though I no longer sew on it. I am now teaching my grand daughter to sew, and just bought her a little pink sewing machine for her 9th birthday. She is very keen to learn. I have been very inspired by Nancy over the years, and hope that my grand daughter will be too!
    Thank you Nancy, from Mary Anne (Scotland)

  • Pymagirl
    July 6, 2014

    I first learned to sew in 4-H when in upper grade school and then in Home Ec in junior high. Through the years, I have made everything from starting with dish towels and an apron to dresses, clothes for our daughter when she was small, quilts, etc. Right now I am enjoying quilting again and showing our grandaughter AND grandson how to sew. We’ve started with pillowcases. It’s a skill that can be used forever.

  • Nina
    July 22, 2014

    I learned the basics from my mother. Then did more in 4-H and Home Economics. Taught younger girls how to sew in 4-H. Had a senior in High School who had been in my class wanted to enter California’s State Fair. There was no teacher for that group in our town, so she asked me if I would be her teacher again so she could enter. I agreed and she basically knew what to do. She entered (I believe a Wool Suit) and she got First Place. I am so glad I took the time to teach those young ladies. I have taught most of my grand-daughters that were old enough. I love sewing.

  • Emily
    July 24, 2014

    I’ve been able to hand sew for as long as I can remember. My mother taught me, and my older brother taught me how to sew on a button when I was about 4 (he learned the skill in cub scouts). When I was around 10, I saved up my money and bought my first sewing machine. Around this time my grandmother (on my mother’s side) passed away. She was an amazing quilter and sewer (skills she learned from her own mother) and the stories my mom told me about her are a big part of the reason why I wanted to sew. After she died, my mom, my aunt and I decided to learn how to make clothes and quilt – doing these projects together reminded us of her, and it was like having her there with us when we sewed together.
    Shorty afterwards, I joined 4-H. This opened up a whole new world of projects and ideas for me! (I also found myself head-over-heels in two *unfinished* quilting projects the day of judging 😉
    Sewing has taught me a lot, and I have so many great memories sewn into every stitch. Thanks, mom!

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  • Travis Vukovich
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    what lighting do you use Carli?? It’s amazing! Love you!

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