Sewing

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The Essential Guide to Sewing With Sheers

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I recently came across this video series over on Craftsy.com  the “Essential Guide to Sewing with Sheers” and I have to say, it’s a game changer! I’ve always struggled with working with sheer and lightweight fabrics, but this guide has made it so much easier. Sara Alm, the instructor from Apparel Arts, does an amazing job of breaking down each step in a way that’s easy to understand.

From stabilizing to marking, seaming to finishing, Sara covers it all. I love how she shows you how to manipulate patterns to add some seriously cool design details. And the best part? She helps you cut and stabilize these finicky fabrics with confidence.

I also really appreciated learning about all the different types of sheer fabric details like pintucks, pleats, gathers and ruching. And let me tell you, the seam finishes Sara teaches are on another level. French seams, enclosed seams, bias tape necklines and armholes – she covers them all. And the hems! Clean-finished hems, picot hems, baby hems and wide-finished hems – they all look amazing on sheer fabrics.

If you’re looking to up your sewing game and work with sheer and lightweight fabrics, I highly recommend this guide. The techniques taught in this guide will unlock all the elegance of garments made with these exquisite fabrics. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

Get the book here: “Essential Guide to Sewing with Sheers”

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AITA for Copying a Sewing Trend I Saw on Pinterest (But Making It Myself)?

Dear Crafty Readers,

“I saw a sewing trend on Pinterest that I loved — a style that’s everywhere right now.

I didn’t buy it. I didn’t resell someone else’s pattern. I just used my own skills and made a version for myself.

When I shared it online, someone accused me of copying and being unethical.

I wasn’t trying to steal anyone’s work. I was just inspired.

Now I’m second-guessing myself and wondering where the line actually is.

Am I the asshole for making my own version of a sewing trend I saw online?

— Anonymous

This question sits firmly in grey territory — and that’s why it sparks such strong reactions.

Inspiration vs Copying: Where Is the Line?

Sewing has always involved inspiration.

Fashion cycles repeat. Trends resurface. Techniques are shared. But social media has blurred boundaries and amplified accusations.

The problem is that not everyone agrees on where inspiration ends and copying begins.

Sewing Culture Has Changed

Decades ago, sewists learned by:

  • Studying garments

  • Adapting styles

  • Experimenting

Now, online visibility brings:

  • Public judgement

  • Call-outs

  • Ethical debates

What used to be normal learning behaviour is suddenly scrutinised.

Is Making for Yourself Different From Selling?

This is where opinions really split.

Some say:

  • “If it’s for personal use, it’s fine.”

Others argue:

  • “Credit should always be given.”

And some believe:

  • “Trends belong to everyone.”

So… Are They the Asshole?

This one rarely lands in a clear yes or no.

And that’s exactly why it’s worth discussing.

What do you think?
 Have trends changed how we view sewing ethics — or are we overthinking it?