Passed down from generation to generation, sewing was once a handy skill central to any household. However, while many of us may have fond childhood memories of being taught to sew by our grandparents, few can claim they’ve picked up a needle and thread since.
Plus, amidst the fast-paced nature of today’s world, when a torn shirt can easily be replaced by a new one, many may wonder — why would anyone learn to sew?
Well, the benefits of sewing go beyond the practical skill itself. From reducing the environmental impacts of fast fashion to boosting personal wellbeing and saving money, the advantages are endless! Besides, there’s no feeling quite like sitting down at your sewing machine and feeling the hours float away as you work on a project.
But if you’re still not quite convinced, here are six great reasons to learn to sew today!
1. It’s a practical hobby
Sewing is an incredibly practical and versatile hobby, a feature which has certainly not been lost to time. The ability to reattach lost buttons, tailor clothing and mend rips cannot be overstated. It’ll certainly save you the expense of buying replacements, too.
From sewing a patch to creating fantastic garments from scratch, you can continuously develop your skills.
2. You can add a personal touch to gifts
As you master the basics and develop your skills, you can create thoughtful and unique handmade gifts for loved ones. From quilts for newborns to bunting for celebrations, the opportunities to create meaningful keepsakes are endless when once you learn how to sew.
3. A reduced impact on the environment
Fashion waste now makes up 10 per cent of global carbon dioxide emissions. While it’s certainly no secret that fast fashion is having major impacts on our climate, it’s often something which seems hard to avoid while shopping, particularly when on a budget.
Mending and repurposing old clothing instead of buying new is a great way to combat this. As well as saving you money, it can also massively reduce your carbon footprint. A sewing machine, some thread and a little creativity is all that’s required to transform an old shirt into a new top, or a pair of jeans into a skirt!
Plus, sites like YouTube are packed with ‘thrift flip’ tutorials and videos to guide you on your repurposing journey, so why not give it a go?
4. The opportunity for a creative outlet
When sewing, you’re in charge of the creative process from start to finish, resulting in a one-of-a-kind final product. From choosing fabrics, prints, threads and styles, there is really no better way to express yourself and your individuality than through a hand-crafted sewing piece.
In addition, picking up sewing as a hobby also gives you the opportunity to personalise the workspace around your projects. Between choosing your sewing machine, sewing table and sewing cabinets, you can make your newfound hobby into a truly personal experience, and your sewing space a true reflection of you.
5. Endless wellbeing benefits
Sewing has recently been noted by many personal wellbeing professionals as a great way to reduce stress and ease the mind. It’s the perfect way to switch off from the busyness of everyday life and focus solely on the project at hand.
What’s more, with the popularity of sewing seeing a recent resurgence, a great social element to the hobby has emerged. All it takes is a simple online search to find endless numbers of social forums and sewing communities aimed at connecting avid sewers just like you!
6. You can turn your hobby into a side hustle
As your newfound hobby develops into a seasoned skill, why not turn your passion for sewing into a side hustle? Selling your sewing pieces is not only a great way to make a little extra cash but is also incredibly rewarding. From clothing to bunting to tablecloths, there’s an audience who will love all of your hand-sewn goods.
If you’re interested in starting a small sewing business, local markets and trading events are a fun way to meet fellow creatives, network and show off your talents to your community. To reach a wider audience, you could also share your creations online, with marketplaces such as Etsy.
So, what are you waiting for?
There’s no better time to pick up a needle and thread and begin your sewing journey. With the help of the internet, learning to sew is more accessible than ever.
At RMF we’re here to support your newfound hobby, having provided the best quality sewing storage and equipment to our customers for over 50 years. Our sewing machine tables, foldaway sewing cabinets and other sewing furniture are certain to help you create the perfect space to inspire and support you on your sewing journey.
Browse our products and feel free to get in touch if you have any questions.