Learning to Sew, Circa 1964

A favorite spot in my studio is this little sewing corner. I like to sew. Do you?

I picked up most of my sewing skills from my mother who was a fabulous sewer. When she and my dad first came to the U.S. in 1950, she worked as a seamstress for a while. As a toddler in the early 60's, I remember all sorts of ladies coming by our house for fittings. I loved to watch as my mom marked their hems and pinned their alterations. Then she's head down to her sewing area in our basement to work her magic. She also made lovely dresses for my sister and me. What fun it was to go to the Woolworth, sit on the high stools and look through the pattern books. But these days, sewing is becoming a bit of a lost art. Where I live, most of the fabric stores have closed and it's difficult to find notions and patterns anymore.

I'd like to share a charming old book of mine that is a good starting point for kids (or anyone actually) interested in developing some very basic sewing skills. It's called The Lucky Sew-it-yourself Book by Camille Sokol with pictures by her husband Bill Sokol. This darling book from 1964 shows how to make simple items like a scarf, pocketbook, apron, pin cushion or doll pillow.

The first few spreads guide you through the materials you'll need along with sewing hints and instructions for basic skills.

Isn't it wonderful? Feel free to share it with your kids, grandchildren, or anyone interested in learning to sew. And be sure to stop back again. I'll share this book's sewing projects with you in future posts.

Susan

Comments

[Ruby]

Oh my goodness, I love your "spot" in your studio, it is absolutely charming! Beautiful colors and accessories.

[georgiapeachez]

Your little sewing corner is just way to neat!! I love that old sewing book, just precious. xo, suzy

[Bethany]

It is a lost art. None of my friends sew. Not a single one. Fortunately, I come from a long line of sewers. Both my grandmothers and my mother sewed, though to various... erm... abilities. I more or less watched over shoulders, was taught a few steps, but for the most part taught myself. My eldest, who will be eight years old here in a few days, is showing a definite interest. Though, like my predecessors, I'm seemingly terrified to get her in the sewing chair! I don't know why??? Maybe it's that she is all thumbs or I'm afraid of being a poor teacher? A little of both? Fortunately, my mother is teaching her, which is both odd, (Since she seemed unwilling to teach me as a child.) and wonderful.(Since I'm emulating her in not teaching my own daughter!) LOL

[Diane]

Darling sewing corner, I was fortunate to have my Mom and my Grammo both sewed, and each one made us wonderful clothes growing up. I sew a bit but I really should get back into it a bit more!
Hugs, Diane

[Lisa]

Oh I love your sewing spot! The jars of buttons, the sewing baskets!! I love it all. What a sweet story and cute book! Thanks for sharing!
Hugs, Lisa

[Claudia]

I love your little sewing nook - so cheery! My Mom sewed, too, and I also remember going to Sears with her to pick out a pattern and fabric. I loved those big pattern books. Your book is a perfect intro to sewing.

[Chase]

What a great sewing book! It would be great for my 5-year-old girl. She Loves hand sewing.

[marge]

what an adorable sewing corner! i have just started learning to sew. my mom was a great seamstress as well. it's an art! i enjoy your blog!

[Lynette]

When I was growing up (also in the early 60s)my mom sewed for all of us (5 kids) out of necessity so I didn't treasure her gift as much as I should have and longed for 'store bought' clothes. When my daughter graduated from high school two years ago she begged me to make her graduation dress -- which I did and it turned out quite nicely despite needing my previously most dreaded accessory: a zipper (what was I afraid of? it was a cinch!). She proudly told all her friends that her dress was 'custom made'... ahh ... the difference in perspective!! Thanks for your wonderful post about what is, so sadly, a fading art. I love your efforts and those of so many crafting bloggers who are working to breathe new life into the homemaking arts.

[Ruth]

I love your little sewing nook and little book. It makes me want to sew too!

[tammyCA]

I also grew up in the 60s and home sewing was much more common than now. Fabric stores are closing down & even Wal-mart closed their fabric section here recently. My mom didn't sew but my sister-in-law was a whiz and she made outfits for my sister & me. I love to sew but just don't have the time or patience for most things...and, I get really frustrated when it doesn't fit. So, I tend to stick to crafting type sewing, pillows, curtains, etc. I have made my kids some clothes but it's much more practical/cheaper to buy them. Last week I managed to sew a few rag dolls as gifts that were very well received...some people absolutely love handmade & that feels good. :)