by Diana Schonhut

Created on: March 11, 2009

Sewing on a budget is full of problems, because you don't want to use all your precious time sewing cheap fabric with cheap thread, only to see the whole thing fall apart within days. Far better to think creatively and find ways to use good quality items in imaginative ways. Who knows what works of art you can make?

=That darned coat=
Re-discovering the lost art of repair can save you a fortune and means you can put off buying a whole new item. Find an old-fashioned sewing manual with instructions for darning and patching to see what you can do with a little effort. Don't forget to look at modern tools too and have a look in your local sewing shop for what is available. Use iron-on mending tape to repair rips and tears almost invisibly. You could add patches as a decorative as well as useful touch (depending on where they are, obviously).

=New from old=
You can use an old favorite item that is beyond repair as the free pattern for a replacement: after all, you know exactly how it fits. Cut the seams apart carefully, noting any points to match. Lay out the pieces to estimate the fabric to buy (remember to add seams) then try and find a fabric of similar weight and feel.

=Reuse=
Secondhand fabric is a good source for sewing on a budget, but you have to be creative here too. You're probably not going to find the perfect piece very often, but it does no harm to keep looking. Remember to look for hidden fabric too: scarves and wraps can have a surprising amount of fabric while large clothes, like a man's shirt could have enough fabric in the back alone for garment piece. Here's your chance to shine: can you find two or three shirts that together could make an item? Look for similar colors but with spots or stripes, or try to match color tones.

=Two is better than one=
You could also consider underlining a garment (using two fabrics together as if they were one) to add weight to a flimsy fabric and use up something less than perfect underneath. Try and match fabric types to avoid washing or shrinkage problems.

=Think scraps=
Our grandmothers knew about sewing on a budget and made every scrap of fabric work for them, and you can too. Research quilt techniques for using up leftovers, especially crazy quilting. Remember that they don't have to be made into quilts but can be ideal for jackets, bags and cushion covers.

So, what are you waiting for? Look at this as an opportunity not a problem and let your creativity bloom.

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