How To Find More Time To Sew

Several months ago in the Let's Learn To Sew facebook Group I asked the members what their biggest sewing challenge was. Finding time to sew was the most common response. I know finding time to sew or craft can be a challenge for many reasons. Over the years I have found ways to make time to sew here and there. Hopefully, you'll be able to use some of the tips to make a little more time for sewing this year.

Five Ways to Find Time for Sewing and Crafting

1. Have A Plan

Having a project ready to go is one of the best ways to find time to sew. When I begin a new project I make a list of everything I need to finish that project. I then shop in my sewing room before heading to the fabric or craft shop. No need to buy a 7" zipper if you already have one. A Pinterest board dedicated to things you want to make can be a great way to plan out your projects.

2. Schedule Time To Sew

Sometimes it takes scheduling an appointment with your sewing machine. Treat the appointment as you would a doctor's appointment. Block the time out on your calendar, say no to other commitments that can wait, get dressed in comfortable clothing and most importantly don't cancel it! If you have little ones make sure you schedule it while they are at school or during nap time. Turn the phone off and give your machine and project your attention.

3. Learn To Use Your Machine Feet

Most machines offer a variety of presser feet and accessories. These feet and accessories usually save you time and make your sewing easier. Sewing a set of buttons on with your sewing machine is much faster than sewing each one on by hand. I have a sewing machine feet playlist on YouTube that I'm adding videos to frequently.

4. Work In Small Increments

If you can't schedule out enough time to complete a project work on it in small increments. Begin by reading the directions and gathering up the supplies. The next time you have free time, cut out the pattern. A little time before dinner? Pin the pattern to your fabric and get it cut out. Use found time whenever you can. Don't wait until you can complete the entire project.

5. Be Prepared by  Staying Organized and Well Stocked

When you have limited time for anything, you want to spend it being productive and successful. The same holds true for sewing time. Set yourself up for success so every minute you spend sewing is worthwhile. It can be frustrating to find yourself with 30 minutes to sew only to discover you're out of something. The easiest way to combat that is to stay organized and well stocked. I know sewing can be expensive, that's why I stock up when notions are on sale. I also keep an ongoing list on Amazon for notions and tools.

Make sure you have your:

• Fabric Washed and ready to be used
• Scissors sharp 
• Machine Clean and serviced
• Fresh needle in the machine
• Have thread on hand in a variety of colors
• Keep bobbins wound in a variety of common colors you use
• Organize and Care For Sewing Thread and Bobbins
• Keep your machine feet with the machine
• Keep your supplies in a place you can find them every time
• If you have a dedicated sewing area keep it organized and clean as you go

Finding more time to sew can be a challenge. And the busier your life is, the more challenging it can be. But if you follow the simple strategies above, you can make more time for sewing, crafting or whatever your creative passion may be.