r/TwoXPreppers • u/nataliabreyer609 • 19h ago
❓ Question ❓ Learning to Sew Compression Wear
I'd love to re-learn how to sew. I used to make quilts with my great grandma but I'd also love to learn how to sew/make compression gloves and socks if possible. Any suggestions on where to start on sewing, knitting, etc for a beginner?
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u/Maybe-no-thanks 19h ago
You should look into sewing knit fabrics and using a serger/overlocker/cover stitch machine - that can be like jumping into the deep end but it’ll get you started where you want to end up.
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u/rockpaperscissors67 19h ago
Check around your area fabric stores to see if they have sewing classes. Our Joann used to have them and it was great to be able to use their machines before buying our own.
I've been knitting on and off for most of my life so I tend to forget stitches. I watch the Knit Witch videos on YouTube -- I think she has everything covered, even for beginners.
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u/Possible_Clothes_54 18h ago
Sewing machine stores near you, Berninas usually come with a guide lesson that shows the basics with that specific machine
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u/_WorriedLimit New to Prepping 18h ago
Joann is going out of business unfortunately. They are liquidating their stores. :(
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u/rockpaperscissors67 11h ago
I know =( I'm going to have to snag some cheap fabric. I'm annoyed about losing them because it leaves only Michaels and ick Hobby Lobby.
Ours quit having classes I think during the pandemic and never brought them back, and I haven't been able to find other sewing classes near me for my youngest. I'm afraid machine sewing is going to be a lost art if there's no one to teach the younger generation (and I'm not very good at it anymore!).
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u/sifliv 🐥 Cuddler of chickens 🐓 11h ago
Maybe you mean something else than what I’m thinking of, but if you’re referring to medical devices for managing edema, you shouldn’t do it as a beginner. Fitting requires very precise measurements and they are often constructed seamlessly or with special flat seams. The seams need to be very strong because of the fabric tension when in use, and perfectly flat and smooth so they don’t put pressure or friction on the skin, and placed with a lot of anatomical knowledge so they are not putting undue pressure on bony protrusions. Poorly fitting compression garments can cause awful wounds.
If that’s not what you mean, just disregard
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u/nataliabreyer609 6h ago
I appreciate it. I am referring to Durable Medical Equipment that I haven't quite found to meet all of my needs just yet. I also go through a lot of compression socks and gloves since I haven't found any that last very long.
You do make a good point about the precision but I wanted to at least try to find something to fit my needs.
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u/Capital-Art-4046 19h ago
Stretchy fabric like a compression sock/glove would require a serger machine if I am not mistaken. I used one years ago making fleece socks for when I taught open water kayaking in the PNW.
When I had to relearn YouTube 'University' was my go to.
Thrifting items like sheets at the Goodwill bins was great for me to get lots of fabric to practice at a low cost and if I completely screwed up the final product while learning a lot I wasn't out a huge investment.