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The Sewing Refresher Guide
A printable refresher of the sewing basics, for whenever you need a catch-up.
Instant PDF Download
One-time payment, yours for life
- ✓Machine basics
- ✓Sewing on a button
- ✓PDF sent to your email straight away
- ✓Print it or keep it on your device
What's inside
- ✓
Know your machine — the parts of your sewing machine, named and explained.
- ✓
Tension troubleshooting — how to read your stitches and fix the tension when they go wrong.
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The stitches you'll actually use — straight, zigzag, basting, blind hem and overcasting, and the right stitch length for your fabric.
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Hand stitches and the needles for them — what to keep in your kit, plus a note on thimbles.
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The five cutting tools — shears, scissors, snips, rotary cutter and seam ripper, and how to look after them.
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Needles and thread — how to match your needle and thread to your fabric, and choose the right thread colour.
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Pinning and marking — how to pin a seam properly, and when to use tailor's chalk, an erasable pen or tailor's tacks.
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Pressing properly — the difference between pressing and ironing, and why you press as you sew.
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Securing your stitches — six steps to lock your seams so they don't unravel.
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A simple hem — the double-turn hem and the blind hem, step by step.
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Sewing on a button — eight steps for a button that lasts, plus shank buttons.
Your questions answered
Frequently asked questions
How will I receive it?
By email, straight after you've paid, with a link to download your PDF. It's sent separately, so you won't find it inside the course. You can also download it from your order confirmation page. If you can't see the email, check your spam or junk folder.
Can I print it?
Yes. Print it at home, or keep it on your phone, tablet or computer and open it whenever you need it.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes. It covers the sewing basics in plain words, from the parts of your sewing machine to sewing on a button, so it works whether you have never sewn before or just need a catch-up.
Do I need the Alter It Yourself course?
No. It's a handy refresher of the sewing basics on its own, and it's also a great companion to our Alter It Yourself course.
Is this product refundable?
No. The guide is an instant-access PDF download, so it's non-refundable. As it's delivered straight away by email, it can't be returned once it's been delivered. This is also explained in our refund policy.
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