Frustration

I had a very very frustrating sewing class tonight. I brought Skirt #2 and Skirt #3 with me to class. Both had different issues.

Skirt #2 had the zipper sewn in, but I had trimmed the seam allowances on the waistband too early so the facing didn't fit together right; also its fabric had been worn away in spots near the zipper from taking it out and reinstalling it so many times. It just needed a hem.

Skirt #3 was the one I restarted this weekend (I keep re-starting skirts to try to get everything perfect.) On this one, I got the stitching-in-the-ditch done pretty well when connecting the skirt's waistband to the facing, and the zipper was right. Also the side seams were lining up almost perfectly with the waistband and facing seams. It needed a facing and hem when I walked into class.

On Skirt #3, I figured out the stitch in the ditch (not done right on Skirt #2) but still had trouble getting everything to fit together. I hadn't followed the pattern's instructions on either skirt, based on my teacher's direction to put in the waistband first, then the zipper, so it would go to the top of the skirt, but then didn't know how it was all supposed to come together. I showed it to the substitute after I got the facing on and she was less than helpful, saying that she wished I would have shown her before I put the facing on. Whatever. THANKS.

My original plan was to do the hem on Skirt #2 first so I'd have something to turn in. However, I didn't have time to hand sew the hem, so I machine sewed it. Which would have been fine if I was able to figure out the blind hem foot and stitch on my machine. I was able to do it on a swatch when the (substitute) teacher figured out how to fold it for me (I could NOT understand the diagram in my sewing machine's manual to save my life) but could not figure it out on the skirt. So I sewed it like a jeans hem and said, done, whatever.

I turned in both skirts, with a note saying that I was sorry this wasn't my best work, but that the shirt (next project) will be better. However, they showed a video in class on how to do the shirt, and aside from the fact that they used a GLUE STICK in parts of it to baste pieces together, everything looked impossible. It is taking everything in me not to quit this class, and honestly, sewing altogether.

I'm looking around at my serger, my new sewing machine and all of the fabric I have, and saying, I really have too much into this to quit, and there are a lot of techniques I have mastered (although not as many as the skirt required.) On the other hand, I am saying, maybe I just say I gave it a shot, my best shot, and I should know when to give up on something that is not my forte (understanding construction of things.) I understand the construction of different items after I've seen them come together, which is better than I was about this, but I still don't understand the facing/waistband/zipper intersection.

I am trying to figure out which way to go here and I am trying to be positive about what I've learned so far (which is a lot) and stop dwelling on what I don't know yet. But I'm having serious doubts and wondering if I should do something that isn't going against the grain (no pun intended, well maybe so.) Knitting always WORKS for me. No problems. I just wonder if I should just concentrate on that and on the knitting designs that are swirling around in my mind that I want to create, and that I know I can create.

Sorry for the Debbie Downer post, but I'm really upset and am just trying to get this out and figure out what to do. A big part of me just wants to quit this class and all of this sewing on a deadline (which is stressing me out doubly because work is going crazy). The other part of me says that I've gotten this far, that I need to persevere and see what else I can learn.

On one positive note, a big reason I think I am messing up is that we stopped doing the samples in class. I think maybe if I'm going to stick with this, I need to come up with my own samples of things and do them over and over if necessary until they're perfect. Zippers, and the infamous waistband/facing/zipper combo. In my mind, the issue is figuring out the point at which I should give up and call it a day, though. Maybe this shouldn't be this difficult, and that's what's bothering me. Is this really this HARD?

Comments

[adrienne]

Ack! IMHO, I think maybe the sewing on a deadline is hindering your progress. Maybe you feel so rushed to finish your project before the next class that you are having trouble grasping the concept? You do have another class that you are taking. If doing the samples worked for you, continue to do that on your own. That is one thing that I started doing because of your class. Trying different techniques on scrap fabric. I say, AGAIN, just MY OPINION LOL, keep at it, try to do your own samples even if the class isn't doing them and try and finish it out. At the end of this class if you still feel it isn't getting any better, don't sign up again. (((((HUGS)))) sorry you are frustrated!!!

[stefaneener]

It can really be frustrating when you're thinking, "This shouldn't be that hard!" But right now, for what seems like various reasons, it is.

Breathing is always a good idea.

But, maybe you are over-extended. Maybe you need a different teaching style. Maybe your "sewing brain" doesn't grasp things as fast as your "knitting brain." It's not a race -- just enjoy what you can.

It will come together, and I get the feeling you're not the type to forget things once they click.

[Kuka]

oooh I agree - deadlines will totally take the fun out of something new!! especially for... erm... perfectionist types *cough* =)
I'm not sure how many more classes you have left, but maybe you could chose simpler projects? Even if they aren't exactly what you want it might help you build up some confidence.
I really hope you don't give up sewing all together 0 it woud be such a pity when you've been so excited about it!!
I think you should give it some time, pick it up when you feel like and have time to 'play' with it a little.
I was worried about getting the sewing thing myself and have to say this book: http://www.amazon.com/Yeah-Made-Myself-Eithne-Farry/dp/0297851179/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1195620312&sr=8-1 helped me out quite a bit - the patterns don't even really have patterns - its more about having fun with sewing =)
Hope you're feeling better about it all soon!!! =)

[chrispy]

I agree that sometime it can't be rushed. I don't remember how many times I have sewn the same pattern till it became clear.

I don't have poor pattern instructions, because I draft my own sewing patterns and follow my own drum in that department. I can tell you that I still have issues with pieces fitting just right, even ones that I have been perfecting for years and tweaking the paper bits to get it "perfect." I just drafted, cut and sewed together a black skirt today. All I have left to do is hem the skirt. I wish that I had not placed the zipper so close to the top. I personally like a zipper and hook system in my skirts. All my sewing instructors said nothing about ignoring the zipper instructions.

Where does your skirt have a facing? Skirts with that waistband tend not to have a facing because the waistband finished things off nicely. Same with pants.

When I sewed my wedding dress from a published pattern, I learned I needed to really only do one hard bit a day or I was totally confused and ended up ripping things out. In the end I still had one piece ill fitting but my flowers hid that.

[FantasyKnits]

Gosh, Robin, I am feeling what you are going through. As you know, we got a thing or two in common - I got a full time job, studying part time, and engaging in a lot of hobbies. I am not sure how many days go by (not many, of that I am certain!) where I DO NOT ask myself where to put my focus, if I am doing the right things, not slacking where I should not etc.
From what I am experiencing, the more appointments I have, the more stressful it gets, because I cannot balance workload peaks at any of those parts. And cutting time down on hobbies, friends or my partnership is neither a permanent nor good solution.
I don't have a recipe for that - I think this might be a "disease" for very active people who stuff every free moment with action and try out every idea.
Although, what I do when I feel that I have too many responsibilities that are beginning to bother me - I do try to clear some things out, or accept that I cannot do my best in each and every part of my life all the time.
As for sewing, it sure can be a pain in the butt. I am pretty much a self-educated person (also with my knitting! learned everything from books), and I am trying to see it as a process of improvement - not to expect to get my first shots right. I must admit that I have to remind myself of this view very often :).

[Lara]

I am so sorry you are having a hard time with the skirts. I can't offer you any help because not only am I really bad at sewing...I know nothing about it! I am looking forward to see them all complete. Good luck!

[Kasia]

Oh boy, I am so sorry Robin! But believe me I've been there and the zippers are still the part I hate the most. I guess that the only recipe for the whole thing is to keep on trying and not giving up. My mom always repeats that you can only master a skill when it's hammered in your head. It might not be perfect the first times, but with the time you will teach your head and hands how to deal with the whole mess. And absolutely do not quit! You put so much work and efford in the whole project, besides you are such a talented person that such small things shouldn't keep you off your dreams or plans! Really, sometimes one can't get things done other people's way and all you need is to figure things for yourself. What I found really handy was 1990s sewing magazine with all techniques showed step by step on the photos. And thanks to that they are simple to follow, when I tried to follow Burda's descriptions I was always getting lost! Good Luck Sweetie, and I'm sure that you will defeat the bloody zippers and facings!

[Amanda]

I think you need to just give it a little more time. I am one of those people that needs to do something over and over before I get it. Everytime I want to sew something new, I end up calling my mom freaking out about how to insert this or sew that...but it works out. Sometimes it's not perfect the first time, but I get the hang of it eventually.

I have a feeling you just need more practice, and I agree that maybe the deadlines are making it more frstrating for you too. Don't give up just yet...the MBA semester is almost over, so you'll have more time to practice for yourself. And I've found that following the directions on the pattern no matter what anyone says, really does help.

This book is really good for helping you draft your own patterns: Sew What Skirts. Good Luck! (and have a great Thanksgiving)

[Marin]

I have no right or reason to hand out advice, but that's never stopped me before.

Don't let the deadlines ruin your fun. This isn't a case where corporations will crumble or people will die. It's sewing... it's hobby sewing and it should be fun.

If thy deadline offends thee, pluck it out.

[Phyl]

You mentioned a sub as the teacher for the class. Could that be the frustration?

Big hugs! Hang in there and see what eating a bunch of turkey does for ya! You might want to switch over to elastic waistbands and forgo the zippers. That would make skirts a lot easier! ;-)

[Sharon]

I'm sorry to hear about class. It seems that Sub was less than helpful. I think you are like me though, you like the visiual aspect of a sample and *ahem* maybe a perfectionist type? LOL. I mean look at how perfect your knitted items are? I agree the samples are important so maybe making your own samples for reference will help to perfect the skill set? I think I would feel the same way too and I know you are not a quitter. It is really frustrating when you want to do something right, need help, and it isn't there, but my goodness, you would think the teach would have been more helpful.

[Monica]

I agree with everyone else, just try to keep everything in perspective. You are taking so many classes and working full time that it sounds like you are stretching yourself too thin. Sewing on a deadline and then being critiqued on your work would stress anyone out! Esp. me - LOL!

I took a photography class a couple of years ago and I love photography, but the demand to preform and produce great pictures (self induced of course!) was just too much. It sucked the fun totally out of it.

I think you are doing great! Don't give up now, you've only gotten started. I started sewing when I was about 15 - got frustrated and quit for a while. Now I understand so much more and the sewing just comes easier. It will for you too, just hang in there!

[Michelle]

UGH! I hate it when I have days like that! don't give up on your class, your learning and when you are done you will have still gained a ton of knowledge even if you don't master everything!

Relax and enjoy your long weekend! Try to destress yourself!

[kozy Kitty]

It's amazing how deadlines can make things so unpleasant. I would keep it up. My suggestion is to find something that you really love and can't wait to make then make samples. I've been sewing for 40 years and I still do that. If I'm the slightest bit ambivalent about a project, more than likely it won't get finished. I have to love it. I also still make samples -- if for no other reason then to avoid ripping out stitches on an actual garment. For fitted garments or things made out of really pricey fabrics, I make a muslin copy and do all my alterations on that. Glue sticks are handy things like you said. I used one to glue my silk organza underlining to my charmeuse for my last evening gown.

I would say finish the class then give it a rest at least until after the holidays. Enjoy your knitting and take a deep breath! You'll get there!

[Ruby]

I'm so sorry to hear that sewing has been giving you such heartache, and sorry I wasn't able to post sooner. Other 'posters' have covered important issues - sewing to deadlines I really don't think is right - its a class taken for pleasure and for learning - (as a fashion and textiles teacher I know that you have to let each student learn at their pace, and if you take the pleasure away, quite often that student will drop out). Don't be pressured. I'm also confused by the 'facing' term with a skirt. I don't know why you would need a facing on a skirt.

But sewing does get very frustrating some times. I've thrown stuff across the floor, I've attacked it with scissors but I do keep coming back for more. And if things do get too much I hand sew. Its takes the pace out of it and calms you down and puts you back in control. Hand sewing is far more relaxing than machine sewing, just like hand knitting is compared to the dreaded knitting machine.

Wish I was near you and I would happily tutor you.

Hope you had a great thanksgiving

ruby xx

[Maryanne]

I'm so sorry for all the frustration Robin! I wish I could give you some good advice, but I don't have any and I'm sure that all your other commenters have done a much better job than I could :) But hang in there, I think every craft has it's ups and downs and growing pains and if you really want to sew garments, you will definitely find a way to learn all the things that you need to. You're a smart cookie and I have faith in you :) Keep your chin up!!

[marjorie]

Take a deep breath and calm down. The reason knitting works for you and sewing doesn't--right now--is that you can frog knitting without any problems and start over. You can't do that when you sew. You are probably making about the same number of mistakes in sewing as you did in knitting, but once the damage is done in some cases, it can't be undone. Keep the mistakes to look at and try again on a simple skirt with just side seams (darts if necessary), a zipper, and a waist band. I personally find machine hems much more difficult than handsewn hems because you can't adjust as you go along (easing in the edge of the hem if it is wider than the hemline). Machine hems bunch for me. I also pin and then baste my hem first along the bottom fold (the actual skirt hem) just to anchor it when I finally hand sew the actual hem.

Consider making the same skirt again. This time leave very big seam allowances (3/4 inch, no matter what the pattern has on it). Decide whether you want to put the waistband on before or after the zipper (both ways work--I prefer before). Use fabric you don't care too much about. This one will come closer to something you'll actually want to wear, but don't be disappointed if it isn't perfect either. After this skirt, though, you should be quite skilled at simple skirts.

One reason I really like basting everything is that I can try something on before I machine sew. Picking out machine stitches will harm the fabric. I learned this the hard way.