How to become a sewing expert

It's the latest celeb fad: Nicole Kidman does it, Eva Longoria's at it, and even tennis star Venus Williams has been known to pick up a needle. We think it's the perfect cosy winter pastime, so get kitted out and learn to sew like a pro.

How to get started

If you're no expert, check out our essential sewing kit guide for a list of everything you'll need in your sewing kit, then get to grip with the basics with help from our mini guide to learning how to sew. You'll find tips, learn how to choose the right stitch length when machine sewing, and pick up need-to-know fabric terms.

Brush up on your skills

Go to hotcourses.com to search for local classes and weekend workshops. These are great for learning how to mend and make clothes, and to create your own home accessories. If you're in the southeast, click onto themakelounge.com for sewing parties and workshops where you can try your hand at basic projects such as making a cushion cover or apron, and work up to trickier skills such as piping, tucking and gathering.

Shop for fabrics

Lovely fabrics don't have to cost the earth. Try your local market for cheap fabrics, or head to IKEA for a huge selection starting at just £1.99 per m. If you're looking for something special, visit ebay.co.uk to bid for vintage fabrics, or check out fabricrehab.co.uk, which has a lots of quirky, retro and patterned fabrics, ribbons and trims.

Socialise and share

Visit thesewingforum.co.uk to chat with other crafters. You can get instant advice, swap ideas, share pictures of your finished projects, watch online video tutorials, or just chat about sewing.

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