Tips and Tricks to Avoid Common Mistakes

When you're just starting out, it's natural to make a few mistakes. But with the right tips, you can avoid frustration and enjoy a smoother sewing experience.

Sewing Machine Basics and Beginner Pitfalls

If it's your first time using a sewing machine, start by getting familiar with how it works. Test it on a scrap of fabric first.
Common beginner mistakes include:

• Forgetting to backstitch at the start and end of a seam
• Pulling the fabric instead of letting the machine feed it naturally
• Sewing with the wrong tension or stitch length

Tip: Always do a test stitch before starting your actual project to ensure the needle, thread, and tension are correct.

How to Fix Shifting Fabric and Sew Cleanly

Stretchy or slippery fabrics—like knits—tend to shift while sewing. Here are practical tips to help you sew neatly and accurately:

• Use plenty of pins or fabric clips
  Place your pins along the seam line, not just anywhere. Pinning where you will actually sew helps prevent shifting. Fabric often slips because it isn’t pinned where the needle will pass.
• Focus on where the needle falls
  While sewing, keep your eyes on the needle position rather than the edge of the fabric. This helps you maintain an even seam allowance.
• Draw the seam line
  If keeping a 1 cm (3/8 inch) seam allowance feels difficult, draw the seam line directly onto the wrong side of the fabric and sew along it.
• Baste before sewing
  Especially for small or curved pieces, it’s helpful to hand baste along the seam line before using the machine.
• Reduce presser foot pressure
  If your sewing machine allows, lower the presser foot pressure to prevent excessive fabric stretching.
• Sew slowly and steadily
  Let the feed dogs move the fabric—don’t push or pull it. Simply guide it gently with your hands.

Extra Tips for Sewing Knit Fabrics

Knit fabrics stretch, which makes them comfortable—but tricky to sew. Keep these in mind:

• Use ballpoint or stretch needles to avoid damaging the fabric.
• Loosen the thread tension slightly to prevent thread breakage when the fabric stretches.
• Use a zigzag stitch or stretch stitch to allow seams to move with the fabric.
• Avoid overhandling the fabric, as pulling it may cause distortion.
• Test everything first on a scrap of the same fabric: stitch type, tension, needle, and presser foot.

Pressing Tips for a Clean Finish

Ironing is key to professional-looking results—but only when done correctly:

• Press, don’t slide. Always lift and lower the iron to avoid stretching knit fabrics.
• Use steam or a pressing cloth for stubborn seams or delicate fabrics.
• Set the correct temperature for your fabric. Test first on a scrap.
• Press seam allowances open or to one side (usually toward the front body to avoid fur catching).
• Iron frequently as you sew. Don't wait until the end—pressing after each seam helps keep everything flat and aligned.
• If the fabric has stretched during sewing, applying steam with an iron can help it return to its original shape.

Bonus Tip: Learn Clean Finishing Techniques from the Included Tutorial Videos

Each milla milla pattern comes with an instruction booklet and an exclusive tutorial video. These videos demonstrate not only how to assemble the garment but also offer helpful techniques for clean sewing—like controlling seam allowance, using pins effectively, and pressing for precision.
They’re especially valuable for beginners who want a smooth, professional-looking finish.