new sewing machine, new project?

[steampipejim]

I've just brought my 1st EVER sewing machine and i'm looking around for what to try first, does anybody have any good ideas for a bit of a beginner?

Thanks

Jim

[Lady Ava]

Try making some spats, perhaps? they are really easy and quite good for most Steampunk outfits! There are many free guides on the internet, if you just Google.

Hope this helps!

[Unsubtle Pete]

Not steampunk, but a plain regency era shirt is a good early project.

Regardless of project, it is best to stick to materials that are not too expensive but still pleasant to work with, cotton calico being a good example, until you are confident enough to tackle more valuable and difficult fabrics.

[RATFINKBOYMICAH]

Not steampunk, but a plain regency era shirt is a good early project.

Regardless of project, it is best to stick to materials that are not too expensive but still pleasant to work with, cotton calico being a good example, until you are confident enough to tackle more valuable and difficult fabrics.

they can be steampunk for an/eccentric person living in steam era or a time traveler

[Unsubtle Pete]

Not steampunk, but a plain regency era shirt is a good early project.

Regardless of project, it is best to stick to materials that are not too expensive but still pleasant to work with, cotton calico being a good example, until you are confident enough to tackle more valuable and difficult fabrics.

they can be steampunk for an/eccentric person living in steam era or a time traveler

Indeed they can. Also, given that there was no real steampunk era, I see no reason not to blend in Regency influences.

[Uncle Arthur]

Keep it simple, use plenty of pins to hold things in place and remember that sewing machines have been known to stick needles through the fingers of the unwary. When I was an upholsterer I managed to get attached to my work fairly often as I was sewing at ungodly rates of speed.

[Otto Von Pifka]

even if the needle doesn't get you, the retaining screw can hurt just as much if it slams your fingernail.

you could start by modding clothes. hit the salvation army thrift store and you can load up on all sorts of shirts to have fun with, maybe even a vest or light suitcoat.