Sewing for Rebels
Introductory guide to sewing for the thrifty, messy, and impatient. By E. Fulton
Edition one
PREFACE.
Every individual no matter how they are situated at the current time, should have at their command some knowledge of the art of sewing. At any moment a crisis may strike and one may find themselves having to make immediate repairs to a split crotch or patch a trouser knee as a result of a spontaneous wrestling match. It is also a particularly character building skill, demanding that participants develop a healthy and robust sense of ‘f*ck it, that’ll do.’
This publication aims offer some solidarity to those new to the art, who are time and/or money poor, or who really would like make stuff but feel that they might be judged as terribly uncool for doing so.
BETTER DONE
THAN PERFECT
The Necessary Equipment for Sewing
Sewing, like any form of work, will produce the best results when it is done with the best equipment. However, no-one actually invests in all that unless they perhaps had a one-hit-wonder Christmas single and have since been able to survive off the royalties. In addition to scrounging on by with what you’ve inherited from your boyfriend’s Granny, the following items are also recommended for the discerning needleperson.
Seamripper: For when it all goes (.)(.) up and you need to start again. A broad selection of swearwords: You can acquire cheaper substitutes however these will be less effective. Plasters: To prevent blood dripping all over a new creation when you get a pin stuck in your fingers. Gin: Or a similar high alcohol substance. This helps to make flaws less visible and can be used to sterilise pin injuries.
Suggestions to Dressmakers In this age of improvement, there are certain expectations that we hold against ourselves and others. When embarking upon the craft of garment making, the following is helpful to bear in mind. No one is looking that closely. Seriously, no one will notice your wonky hemline or mismatched seams. And if they do, and criticise you for it, then they are clearly no fun and you should refrain from holding their company. Don’t compare yourself to people on the internet. There will always be people better and worse than yourself. Get over it. Google is your friend. Mistakes mean you’ve learned something. This isn’t just a saying. At least errors in personal dressmaking (or other garments) will unlikely result in you facing legal action, your parents’ profound disappointment, and an existential crisis which makes you wonder if you should leave the country. Depends on the dress.
COMPARISON IS
THE THIEF OF JOY