Having not ventured anywhere near a sewing machine for many years, I decided to ease myself in gently. A simple cover for my new sewing machine would remind me of the basic of using the machine and allow me to make errors without them being too critical.
I considered how I would construct the cover and measured out the fabric needed. The first hurdle I came across was having only white tailor's chalk which didn't show up on some of the fabric I'd chosen, so that was added to the shopping list. Once the pieces were measured out, cut and tacked, I got out the machine ready to sew.
My 8 year old daughter was intrigued by it, asking what went where and how did it work. In the same way as riding a bicycle or driving a car becomes engrained and can be remembered, even after years of neglect, the process of threading up the sewing machine was pleasantly familiar. I was filled with the thrill of hearing the hum and sewing that first seam, welcoming sewing back into my life.
I did encounter a few problems.
1. My eyes have not aged as well as other parts of me and I struggle to thread a needle in artificial light. Luckily I have a couple of needle threaders hanging around in my sewing box (which in my youth I looked upon with scorn - why would anyone need one of those!)
2. I was probably a little too impetuous when easing one section to another and the results aren't as neat as I would like, but I have learnt my lesson so won't repeat the same mistake when it really matters, for instance on a sleeve.
All in all, my first foray back into sewing has reminded me how much I enjoyed it in my younger years.
I have all the materials needed to start making my first dress and have been waiting to have a good stretch of time to start working on it. Work, children and housework keep getting in the way, but I'm hoping that tomorrow, after the children have been packed off to school, I can get started! Watch this space ...
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