How to Plan Your Sewing + Slow Sewing Challenge

I used to sew a lot of clothes for myself—skirts, tops, dresses. But when I look into my wardrobe today, many of those early makes are gone. Not because they wore out or I passed them on to others—most of them just weren’t finished properly or simply weren’t made with intention. I used the wrong materials, rushed through the process, or chased trends that didn’t really reflect my style. And as a result, I didn’t wear them, or I wore them once and never again.

These days, my sewing looks very different. I’ve made pieces that I still wear years later. Clothes that feel like "me." Some are special occasion dresses, others are everyday items that fit seamlessly into my life. The key difference now? I plan my sewing. I think about how it will be used, how it will feel on my skin, and whether it fits into my lifestyle and wardrobe. Most of all, I take my time—and that’s the essence of slow sewing.

Why Quality and Intent Matter

Slow sewing is not just a hashtag or aesthetic—it’s a mindset. It’s about caring deeply about each piece you make. It’s about good construction, thoughtful material choices, and practicality. Yes, we want our makes to be beautiful—but we also want them to be wearable, long-lasting, and loved.

Learning never stops in sewing. I still make mistakes, and I’m still growing. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that material choices make or break a garment. I’ve got a stash of fabrics that I no longer fully resonate with—some are poly-blends that feel a little too synthetic now that I’m more aware of sustainability and comfort. But I don’t want to waste them. So I’m using them slowly and thoughtfully—maybe as linings, test garments, or blended with more natural fabrics. Meanwhile, I’ve become much more careful about what fabrics I bring into my sewing room. Less impulse, more intention.

Planning Your Sewing Projects

Good sewing starts with a plan. You don’t have to be a spreadsheet person (unless that’s your thing!), but having a vision helps avoid waste, frustration, and those half-finished projects sitting in a drawer.

Here’s how I like to approach it:

1. Start With Either Fabric or Pattern

Sometimes I fall in love with a fabric first, and then I hunt for a pattern that will bring it to life.
Other times, I see a pattern I adore and go looking for the perfect fabric match.
Either way is fine—just don’t force a match. Not every fabric will suit every pattern.

2. Prep Is Everything

Wash your fabric. Even if it looks clean—especially natural fibers like cotton or linen.
Iron it. This makes cutting more precise.
Cut thoughtfully. Think about the grain, the layout, and waste.

3. Sew When You Have Time and Energy

Try not to start big projects in the late afternoon. I know the excitement can be real, but patience makes better garments.
Mornings or clear-headed weekends are often the best time to tackle tricky seams or important decisions.

The Challenge of Slow Sewing

The biggest challenge is... ourselves.

We want to wear our makes right now. We want the satisfaction, the photo, the sense of completion. And sometimes we do need something last minute—nothing wrong with that. But when everything becomes last minute, we risk burnout and disappointment.

Try this:

Time yourself when you make a basic top or skirt. Not to rush—but to get a sense of your true sewing pace.
Know how long it actually takes you to finish something—from prep to the final hem—so you can plan accordingly.
You’re less likely to feel defeated if you expect a project to take two weekends instead of two evenings.

A Few Final Thoughts

Don’t add garments to your wardrobe just to sew something. Add what you need and what you love.
Repurpose and refashion fabrics that no longer feel like "you."
Take your time finishing the insides—those invisible details add durability and pride.
And always, always be kind to yourself. Your sewing journey is yours—let it be joyful, slow, and meaningful.

Have you tried a slow sewing challenge? Or do you have tips for planning sewing projects that bring long-term satisfaction? Share your thoughts below—I’d love to hear them!