15 Sewing Mistakes and Bad Habits To Break Today

We all have a unique approach to sewing, but there's a difference between a unique approach and plain bad habits that can lead to dissatisfaction and frustration during sewing, as well as with our finished results. It's quite possible to still be making these mistakes even after years of sewing experience, so let's take a closer look at the 15 bad sewing habits that I have compiled. I would love to hear if you have any additions or disagree with any of these

1. Skipping pressing seams:

I've become more intentional about pressing my seams after I sew them (or at least after I sew identical seams) and I can see a massive improvement in the appearance of my finished garments. I will leave you with a quote from the great Adele Margolis who is quite eloquent in expressing this necessity.

2. Not backstitching at the beginning and end of a seam:

I know this may sound like a huge duh to sewists but I still have to mention it as we are all prone to forget the essentials every now and then.

3. Using inappropriate needles for the fabric:

I can definitely attest to making this mistake. Before you sew your fabric, make sure you do a test stitch to ensure you are using the right type of needle for the fabric type and the correct size. Sure, you may be using the right sharp needle for a woven cotton. But if it's too big, then your sewing will result in larger, more visible holes in the fabric, compromising its integrity and appearance.

4. Not changing your needle frequently enough:

Dull or damaged needles can cause your fabric to pucker. I certainly am no authority on how frequently you ought to change your needle (Some people say every eight hours!) but at the very least, do a test stitch to troubleshoot and determine if you need a new needle. I tend to change needles after every two projects or so.

5. Sewing over pins:

The danger of sewing over pins is a contentious topic, but it's generally advised against due to potential needle and fabric damage it may cause. I also recall a comment I read on YouTube stating that sewing over pins can interfere with your sewing machine's timing, so it's best to just remove them as you sew.

6. Putting pins in your mouth:

This is something I've found myself almost doing when my hands are busy. I tell myself it's just to hold the pin for a second. A lot could happen in that second. You could be startled by a loud noise and choke on the pin or swallow it. So keep a pin cushion or magnet nearby always.

7. Not checking the bobbin thread regularly:

We've seen the memes about running out of bobbin thread mid-seam. It's frustrating and happens all too often, but it's actually a simple thing to prevent. Try to check your bobbin thread regularly to keep from pulling your hair out.

8. Pulling fabric through the machine instead of letting it feed naturally:

Pulling fabric through the machine instead of letting it feed naturally is something I did when I first started sewing. I quickly learned that it can lead to uneven stitches and even needle or machine damage. Guide your fabric but allow it to feed naturally.

9. Neglecting to clean the machine regularly:

Thread jams, skipped stitches and other sewing mishaps might actually be related to dust and lint buildup. Taking a few minutes to clean your machine will  save you from problems with your sewing machine down the line.

10. Ignoring the grainline:

I have to admit that this was also a bit of a problem for me. I'm a self-taught sewist who just jumped straight into things. I wasn't intentionally ignoring the grainline; I just didn't know what all these terms meant. But doing this can result in misshapen garments, especially when it comes to knits and fabrics that drape. In fact, your finished item might not even fit because of how you cut your fabric. So, follow your pattern instructions and research if you find it tricky to determine the grainline of a particular fabric.

11. Overlooking proper thread and fabric compatibility:

Using the wrong thread thickness or type for your fabric can make it difficult to sew or even compromise the quality of your finished garment. Take the time to select appropriate thread as instructed by your sewing pattern or research if you're unsure.

12. Forgetting to secure serger thread ends properly:

Securing my serger threads is something I do religiously simply because I've heard other sewists talk about neglecting to do so and having their seams unravel. It really is such a tedious process, but there are different methods you can use to help quicken the process.

13. Not taking breaks to prevent eye strain and fatigue:

Sewing for extended periods of time can lead to eye strain and fatigue. I'm learning to pay attention to my body and determine when I need a break. Sometimes, silly sewing mistakes I make also signal to me that it's time to step away from the sewing machine.

14. Not measuring the test box when printing sewing patterns

Sewing patterns include a test box to ensure the pattern is printed at the correct scale. Instructions state to print only the page with the test box to ensure you've got the right scale before printing the rest of the pattern. Even being 2 mm off can cause you to waste both time and fabric because your finished piece may not fit.

15. Ignoring Fabric suggestions

It's easy to view fabric suggestions as merely optional. It's important to recognize that the designer has likely tested the pattern with various fabrics to determine those that will give you the best fit or drape. Disregarding these recommendations can result in a garment that doesn't hang or fit properly. If you would like to experiment with your fabric choices, then browse through social media posts of sewists who made the same item or ask the pattern designer if possible.

Conclusion: Sewing Mistakes and Poor Habits Can Be Costly

There you have it! These are 15 bad sewing habits or mistakes that we may make regardless of how long we've been sewing. To conclude, I think it's easy to be flippant about some of these but they can cost you your time, peace, money and fabric if you keep making them. I'm keen to hear your thoughts on this compilation of bad sewing habits/sewing mistakes. Comment below with your additions.