My sweet DH got me a brand spankin' new Bernina Activa sewing machine for our anniversary. 
So, um, now what do I do?
I have never owned my own sewing machine before. BUT, I have what I would call a solid basic/moderate experience using them. Growing up my grandma sewed a lot and taught me the basics. My step-mom taught me more details in my teens and I helped her make curtains and bed spreads and table cloths. In my early twenties I worked in a mom 'n pop retail clothing store where the owner taught me to do alterations including regular hems, jean hems and cuffs. I also learned how to use a serger during this time.
And that was pretty much the last time I have touched a machine.
I have TONS of ideas for what I would like to be able to do eventually, but I am not sure where to start. (And not sure what my machine can handle.) Memory quilts, blankets, diapers, skirts for me, shorts and other clothing for the boys, toys...I am just giddy with anticipation and excitement of now being able to make these things in the future. (Hopefully.)
But what should my first project be? Any ideas for a simple project for a newbie to get familiar with my machine? Maybe I should start with just zigzagging some edges of flannel to make cloth wipes?
The store where he bought it offers some free hands-on tutorials, but finding the time to actually leave the kids with DH and attend a class is gonna be next to impossible while the baby is so little.
Any suggestions?
So, um, now what do I do?
I have never owned my own sewing machine before. BUT, I have what I would call a solid basic/moderate experience using them. Growing up my grandma sewed a lot and taught me the basics. My step-mom taught me more details in my teens and I helped her make curtains and bed spreads and table cloths. In my early twenties I worked in a mom 'n pop retail clothing store where the owner taught me to do alterations including regular hems, jean hems and cuffs. I also learned how to use a serger during this time.
And that was pretty much the last time I have touched a machine.
I have TONS of ideas for what I would like to be able to do eventually, but I am not sure where to start. (And not sure what my machine can handle.) Memory quilts, blankets, diapers, skirts for me, shorts and other clothing for the boys, toys...I am just giddy with anticipation and excitement of now being able to make these things in the future. (Hopefully.)
But what should my first project be? Any ideas for a simple project for a newbie to get familiar with my machine? Maybe I should start with just zigzagging some edges of flannel to make cloth wipes?
The store where he bought it offers some free hands-on tutorials, but finding the time to actually leave the kids with DH and attend a class is gonna be next to impossible while the baby is so little.
Any suggestions?
