Sewing tip | How to choose your first sewing pattern |

Getting into sewing is an exciting project, but choosing your first pattern can sometimes be a little intimidating. Technical complexity, terminology, suitable fabric: several elements can overwhelm beginners. This comprehensive guide accompanies you step by step to select a simple, accessible, and above all, motivating first project that will inspire you to keep sewing.

Determining your actual skill level

Even if you're creative, a project that's too complex can quickly become discouraging. It's therefore best to start with a simple project. Patterns are generally classified by difficulty; at Opian, the categories are as follows:

• Beginner

• Intermediate

• Advanced

• Expert

For your first attempt, choose a pattern clearly marked for beginners and featuring illustrated instructions, essential for progressing smoothly.

Opt for a simple project

Don't embark on a complicated garment with complex adjustments or advanced techniques that might discourage you.

To begin, avoid:

• trousers

• swimsuits

• wedding dresses (yes, some people try!)

• tailored collars

• tailored sleeves

• fly fronts

• buttonholes

Instead, choose a short, quick, and rewarding project such as:

• A bag

• A cushion

• An elasticated or pleated skirt

• A hat or bucket hat

• A pouch

These projects allow you to become familiar with the sewing machine, straight seams, overlocking, and respecting seam allowances.

Choose an easy-to-sew fabric

The choice of fabric is important for the success of your first sewing project. A simple, non-stretch canevas is ideal.

Avoid at all costs:

• Stretchy fabrics

• Fluid, thin, or slippery materials

Opt instead for the following fabrics:

• Canvas

• Poplin

• Cretonne

These stable fabrics allow for easy placement of pattern pieces and provide a clean seam.

Choose well-explained patterns

To help you successfully complete your first sewing project, choose a pattern with the following features:

• Step-by-step diagrams

• Uncluttered pattern sheet

• Clear key

• Seam allowances included

Magazines, often very dense, are not recommended for complete beginners.

Check sizing

For true beginners, I recommend choosing a garment that is not sized.

This will allow you to learn to sew without worrying about adjustments. Once you've sewn your first garment, you can move on to making a larger piece, but before cutting, be sure to:

• Take your measurements accurately

• Choose your size based on your measurements, not standard store sizes

• Compare your measurements to the pattern's size chart

Each brand uses its own sizing system, so never choose "your usual size."

Your first sewing project should be a motivating success to keep you from getting discouraged. Simplicity, stable fabric, and clear instructions: these are the keys to a smooth start. And who knows, you might even find yourself mesmerised by this hobby for many years to come.