We all know that feeling.. you have a big to-do list, but you would love more time to finish off that sewing project. It can be tough to make time to sit down at your sewing machine and get into that creative zone with a busy schedule and/or family life. But with a little bit of planning and prioritising, you can definitely find more time to sew!
Here are five tips to help:
1. Set a time each week to sew
The key to finding more time is consistency! It is easy to let things slip and let sewing be your last priority, but if you schedule in say 30 minutes or an hour a few times per week and add it to your diary like you would for a meeting or other activities, it will make it harder to avoid! Treat it like an important appointment so you will commit the time to sew.
2. Break your project into manageable section
The thought of starting a new project can feel quite overwhelming, especially if it is a more complicated project. It is easy to let it slide if you've lost your sew-jo or you think you don't have sufficient time. Instead of thinking about your project as a whole, break it into smaller sections, so it becomes more manageable and easier to tackle. For example, set a goal to cut out all your paper pattern pieces today, then tomorrow you can aim to cut out your fabric pieces, and then at your next sewing session you can start sewing and then do the finishing touches on another day. This way, you can make progress day by day and bit by bit without feeling like you need a huge amount of time to tackle your entire sewing project.
3. Make use of the little time you have
Not all sewing sessions need to be super long. Even if you only have a few minutes between other activities, there is always something you can work on. Use your time well and maybe set your machine up ready to sew, wash or iron your fabric so it's ready when you will start sewing. All little tasks will add up and will help you get closer to completing your lovely sewing project. Use short bursts of time to do small tasks that will help you to complete your project over time.
4. Have a dedicated sewing space
I know from my own experience, if my sewing machine and notions are packed away, or my sewing/craft room is messy, I will not do any sewing! Find the time to set up your machine ready to sew. If you don't have the space to have your own craft or sewing room, then keep your machine somewhere where you can easily grab it to sew on a whim. Having all your sewing material in one place, makes it a lot easier to jump into a project whenever you have a spare moment. And the more inviting your space is, the more likely you will spend time in it.
5. Stay focused
Distractions are everywhere in this day and age. If you are wanting to sew, it is important to avoid any distractions. Switch your phone off to avoid any interruptions and jump on your machine so you can fully focus on your sewing project. You will be more productive if you are fully focused. You could always listen to music or a podcast whilst you're sewing, but try to focus. This way you will make more progress whilst you're enjoying some downtime.
If you are really struggling to find time to sew you could always take a day off and sign up to one of our sewing workshops at Sewcialising! :)
However, it is nice to involve others in your sewing projects too. Whether it’s getting your children to help with pinning fabric, or simply getting a friend or grandparent to watch the kids so you can focus on sewing. Just discussing your sewing projects with a friend can also be fun and rewarding. Having support can really help you stay focused on your end project too.
Everyone leads a busy life, but making time to sew doesn't have to be impossible. And remember, even small bursts of sewing add up to big results over time.
Happy sewing!