This last year, we went into some pretty serious sewing tutorial detail on four very different sewing projects. As a result, this post is a step-by-step comprehensive sewing tutorial guide that covers all of the different projects & tutorials that we created last year.

I want you to be READY (and/or inspired) for any sewing project you maybe have your eye on this year. Not sure how to sew an invisible side zipper? No worries!

Ready to make your own pleated skirt? We've got you covered.

Love that cute sweater, but have no idea how to sew a knit seam binding? No excuses, this is our most detailed tutorial yet.

Is one of your favorite garments missing pockets? Don't fret, we can add some pockets to it today.

Furthermore, if you aren't familiar with how the sewing projects work here on The Flora Modiste, here is a breakdown:

First of all, the post shows all of the different elements that go into the project. This includes design choice, fabric choice, construction details, etc. etc.

The next week, I release a detailed sewing tutorial guide on how to sew a specific element from each sewing project.

Not only are the tutorials laid out here on the blog, but you can also print a free downloadable worksheet that is perfect for sewing along with at home.

I try to cover a wide range of styles and designs, as well as different types of construction details for the sewing tutorials. My hope is that you will take the tutorials and apply them to your own projects.

Here's to never being afraid or feeling overwhelmed with sewing again! In contrast, I just had to sew up a project using a store bought pattern.. And it was not fun. (At least not as fun as sewing up my own patterns.)

Because it was literally like reading gibberish when I was working through the instructions.

So. I'm hoping this sewing tutorial guide will feel like a breath of fresh air when sewing at home.

Therefore, if there are any projects or tutorials you would like for me to cover, PLEASE let me know, and I will do it! Likewise always looking for new ideas and fresh inspo.

So. Let's get into some serious detail on the different sewing tutorials that we have available here on The Flora Modiste. Ready?

Step-by-step sewing tutorial guide #1: The Teri Dress/how to sew an invisible zipper

The Teri Dress was our very first sewing project here on The Flora Modiste! Which means that our very first tutorial was on how to sew an invisible side zipper.

The Teri Dress is an asymmetrical maxi dress, with a small pleated section near the hem of the dress. A

s a result, the beauty of the Teri is that it can be sewn multiple ways.. It can be sewn with the pleated section near the hem, with just the asymmetrical seam lines, or without any of the asymmetrical seams for that clean, chic look. Maxi dresses are certainly a staple here in San Diego, and can pretty much be worn year round.

Knowing how to sew an invisible side zipper is essential knowledge when it comes to sewing at home.

Side zippers can be used in so. many. projects. They can be used in dresses, skirts, shirts, pants.. Pretty much any garment you can think of. Which makes it a pretty important sewing tutorial to master.

My method of sewing an invisible side zipper may be a bit unusual because I use both machine and hand sewing.

In contrast, I know that there are many seamstresses who don't hand stitch when it comes to invisible side zippers.. But I think it's just easier.

Above all, this tutorial and method can be used when sewing an invisible side zipper on ANY sewing project.. Like I said, invaluable.

Step-by-step sewing tutorial guide #2: The Emma Skirt/how to sew knife pleats

The Emma Skirt was our second sewing project here on The Flora Modiste, and the sewing tutorial for this project was how to sew knife pleats properly.

Knife pleats are what make the Emma Skirt.

A knife pleat is a pressed pleat that has the crease line firmly pressed the entire length of the pleat. The pleat is the same width the entire length of the skirt, from top to bottom.

My method for sewing knife pleats can be used in any number of projects, from skirts (like the Emma) to dresses and shirts. It seems like this type of pleat is definitely more dominant when it comes to skirts, but it can certainly be used in any number of other garments.

While sewing knife pleats isn't necessarily difficult, it's very time consuming. There isn't even really that much sewing, it's mostly just measuring and pressing the pleats to get that crisp, beautiful shape.

Therefore, attention to detail and patience are key when it comes to working with knife pleats. As long as you are patient, you will certainly achieve beautiful results.

Step-by-step sewing tutorial guide #3: The Ilma Raglan/how to sew a knit seam binding

The Ilma Raglan was our third sewing project here on The Flora Modiste, and the sewing tutorial for this project was how to sew a knit seam binding.

A seam binding is essentially just another way to close up the raw edge of a seam. It's a method that I LOVE to use, and will certainly be using on any number of future sewing projects here on The Flora Modiste.

You can buy different types of seam bindings at the store, but I prefer to make my own. I think it's easier, and it uses up the extra fabric scraps that may not be big enough for anything else.

The method for sewing a knit seam binding is different from that of sewing a woven seam binding..

As with sewing the invisible side zipper, my method for sewing a knit binding involves both machine and hand sewing.

My method of sewing knit seam bindings can be used for any number of projects: Sweaters, shirts, dresses.. Any number of projects. Again, seems like an invaluable sewing tutorial to master.

Step-by-step sewing tutorial guide #4: The Ashby Coat/how to sew an inseam pocket

The Ashby Coat was our final sewing project for 2017, and the sewing tutorial for this project was how to sew an inseam pocket.

Inseam pockets are certainly the most popular pockets out there.. I guarantee they are probably in more than half of the garments in your closet.

Also, Inseam pockets are typically found in the side seams of garments, like in pants, skirts, and dresses. In contrast, with the Ashby, I added an inseam pocket in an unusual place:

Inseam pockets are invisible from the outside of the garment. As a result, they should really only be noticeable when a hand is inside the pocket, giving it away.

Sewing an inseam pocket in a rounded asymmetrical seam is a bit more challenging than sewing one in your typical straight side seam, but the essential tutorial steps are the same.

As with all of our other tutorials, this tutorial can be used for sewing an inseam pocket in ANY sewing project. Furthermore: There really isn't any hand sewing needed with this tutorial, which I know will be a relief for many new seamstresses.

So. Ready to start sewing? Grab your step-by-step comprehensive sewing tutorial guide!

Every tutorial that we covered in 2017 covers a different type of construction detail:

While every tutorial covers a different type of technique, all are essential in creating a well rounded sewing education. Pick your favorite tutorial, buy (or make!) a sewing pattern, and start sewing! Because the only way to learn and get better is to start sewing up different types of projects, with different types of construction details involved.

While I hate to say it, it's certainly true. Practice certainly makes perfect.

Finally.. Are there any specific construction details you'd like to learn in 2018? Or any specific sewing project you maybe have your eye on?

Let me know, I would LOVE to create a tutorial based on what you'd love to make for yourself. Happy Sewing!