Getting started with sewing may sound easy, but from experience, it is a lot harder than it sounds. One of my first sewing machines was a Singer, and it is what I learned on, and is still the brand I rely on to this day. They are sturdy, and are great for beginners. If you're looking for something for kids, we have a great list of kids sewing machines that may interest you.

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Regardless of what sewing machine you have, or even if you're still sewing by hand, there are a few essential tips I have learned along the way that just about any beginner can benefit from.

Before you get started, you should make sure you have some of the basics tools of the trade. This includes things like a seam ripper, bobbins, and a pin cushion, which can all be picked up from Walmart, Amazon, or Joann's.

Now, let's get started!

Tip #1 - If you're using a sewing machine, keep the manual handy

If you just bought the best sewing machine or are using one second hand, do your best to find the manual for the machine. Each machine is different. You'll want to bookmark key pages like the FAQ/troubleshooting page so you can quickly flip to those.

As you go, make notes in the manual so you commit certain things to memory like how to thread the needle for that particular machine. This way you'll learn how to use your sewing machine like a pro.

Tip #2 - Practice your stitches before you commit

One of the biggest things that I learned in all my years of sewing is that practice makes perfect. This being said, if you're not working on a practice project, you may want to try out your stitches on a scrap piece of fabric first to make sure you've got it down. It can be incredibly tempting to jump right into new sewing projects with the idea that you'll be able to make adjustments along the way. However, from experience, getting the kinks out is much more complicated than making sure you're doing it right in the first place.

Tip #3 - Wind bobbins of neutral or common colors so they are always handy

This is another tip I learned from my years of experience. It is a lot easier too when you already have a small amount of common threads ready to go. If you need them for your sewing projects, you don't have to go looking. A good pro-tip for this is to wind the bobbins in rainbow order so you can easily see all the colors you have access to. You can also keep them all under matching spools of thread on a rack if you have space. It is up to you, but just keep them handy regardless!

Tip #4 - Keep straight pins held with magnets

When you're deep into your sewing projects, you need to be able to easily access your pins without accidentally spilling them all over the place. An excellent way to do this is to keep all of your pins either in a magnet "pincushion" saucer. This makes the pins significantly easier to access, at least compared to a traditional pincushion. The pins will cling nicely to the dish, but you won't have to worry about struggling to get them out, or about them getting out of hand.

Tip #5 - Keep a second magnet on hand to collect fallen pins

It's inevitable. Truly inevitable. If you're using pins, you're going to drop one or two. Don't fret! just keep a second magnet close by that way when it does happen, you can simply slide the magnet around the area you think the pin is, and the magnet will do all the hard work for you. This is a real time saver.

Have fun!

Sewing is about more than just creating something. It is a hobby that has personally brought joy to my life. Remember, sewing is meant to be enjoyable! Create and have fun while you're at it. If you're in the market for a new sewing machine to get things started, check out our picks for the best ones.