FAQ

I’ve just started sewing, which sewing machine do you recommend?

Have a read of my guide to which sewing machine to buy.

What tools and equipment do I need in my sewing kit?

Here is my list of the 15 essential tools you need.

Do I need to buy an overlocker?

No, although they can be very handy. Have a read of my guide to decide whether one will be right for you.

Where do you buy your fabric?

Take a look at the “Where to buy Fabric” links on the right hand side of my blog.  Have a read of my guide to where to buy stretch knit fabrics here.

Can I teach a class using your sewing patterns?

Yes, but you must purchase a pattern for each student attending the class from me and not use copied patterns, you can buy all my patterns here. Get in touch if you need more than 3 copies of the pattern and I will be able to work out a wholesale price for you.

Will you come and teach a class at my shop/studio?

If you’re in or near Sheffield, then possibly. Get in touch with me to discuss your ideas.

What sewing books do you recommend for beginners?

My book, “The Beginner’s Guide to Dressmaking” is aimed at newbie sewers and dressmakers who have used a machine a tiny bit and are feeling a bit daunted by making their own clothes. Full-scale multi-sized patterns are included.

For a book just about good solid dressmaking techniques, I’m always recommending “The Reader’s Digest Complete Guide to Sewing”, I’ve never come across a better one and I’m still sometimes referring to it today.

What pattern cutting books do you recommend?

My first pattern cutting book was “Metric Pattern Cutting” by Winifred Aldrich. It’s clear and well explained. I’ve also recently started to enjoy “Pattern Cutting” by Dennic Chunman Lo that has some really modern inspiring ideas alongside some good solid basics. Finally “Pattern Cutting and Making Up: The Professional Approach” by Janet Ward and Martin Shoben, one of the few pattern cutting books that has sewing techniques alongside each pattern cutting technique which can be a real help for beginners.

Do you have sponsored or affiliate links in posts?

No, definitely not. If I recommend something it’s because I personally use it regularly and rate it, so think you may like it too!

Can I advertise on your site?

No, personally I hate reading blogs that are littered with adverts, I find it really distracting when I’m trying to focus on the content. I want you to have a focussed, clutter-free experience on my blog.

Can I use images from your blog?

Depends what you’re using it for. If you want to link to something in my blog and want to use an image in the link – that’s ok, but please credit the photograph to http://www.wendyward.co.uk and include a link back to the original source of the image. You’d be surprised at what some people will try and it’s easy to find.

Can I reproduce your blog posts?

Please don’t copy and paste any part of my blog posts and pass them off as your own (again, it never fails to amaze me, but I have experienced this too). All content on my blog is original content written by me, Wendy Ward, copyright of which is owned by me. Writing original content takes a lot of time and draws on my years of experience. Copying is not good, not flattering and definitely not ok. If you’re writing your own blog post on a related subject and you would like to link to one of mine, then of course please do. If you also let me know, I’ll be happy to share links to your new blog post.

Can I sell garments I make from your patterns?

Copyright for all MIY Collection patterns and the patterns in all of my books remain with me, Wendy Ward.  These sewing patterns are for personal home sewing only, not for commercial use so please don’t sell garments you make from my patterns, or reproduce any part of the patterns or the instructions without my permission.  If you want to sell clothing you make yourself, why not come to some pattern cutting classes and learn how to make your own?!

Do you teach patchwork and quilting?

No, I stick to what I know best: dressmaking and pattern cutting, but I know some people that do!  Try Liz at Quilty Pleasures (have a look at her book, “The Beginner’s Guide to Quilting”) or Sara Cook.

Do you teach machine embroidery?

Again, no, but Wendy Dolan does!