Unbelievably crazy 12 sewing stereotypes

You will look at sewing differently after reading this.

Here are some surprising sewing stereotypes that you may have heard or experienced:

Sewing is for old people.

 I was guilty of this mindset until I decided to dive into sewing. Most grannies I’ve known have this sewing kit we are all familiar with, and also my mom used to sew for a living. It gave me the idea that maybe sewing is for old people. Shame on me!

Sewing Participation by Age Group:

Young Adults (18-34 years): Represent the largest market share in the sewing and crafting industry, accounting for 41% of the market size¹.

Middle-Aged Adults (35-54 years): Constitute 36% of the market share¹.

Older Adults (55 years and above): Make up 23% of the consumers¹

Sewing is only for women.

While it’s true that gender distribution in sewing still shows 84.3% women and 15.7% men ², we can clearly see nowadays that more and more men are showing up in the community. People of all genders now enjoy sewing.

Sewing is “just a hobby”.

For many, sewing is much more than a hobby; it’s a passion, a profession, or even a way of life. It’s a way of creative expression and lifestyle.

Younger age groups show growing interest in sewing. Hence, the industry must continue to support the creativity of younger sewists.

All forms of sewing are the same.

It turns out every needlework is not equal to another. Different forms of sewing use different techniques and applications, and although most use a sewing machine, the requirements are different.

In reality, tailoring requires more meticulous techniques compared to other garment construction. Quilting, embroidery, and couture also have their specifics.

You sell what you make.

This is the opposite of believers who believe sewing is just a hobby. Yes, some people sew for a living or as a side hustle for income, but many also sew for personal items and their loved ones.

But there’s nothing wrong in doing both: turn your passion into income. I sew as a hobby, but I am willing to take paid sewing projects, so I am a walking advertisement by wearing my creations.

Do what aligns with your goals.

Jo-Ann’s is where all fabric lives— (if you’re in America, of course).

Been there, done that, or believed that. However, if you want to learn more about the varieties of fabric, visit a fabric store. They have vast selection and specialty fabrics you can’t find from Jo-Ann or Hobby Lobby.

Visiting fabric shops taught me and enhanced my knowledge about fabrics, how they feel (textures), drape, stretch, thickness among others. After that, it became easy for me to order online since I already have an idea how the fabric required by the pattern behaves, like a taffeta or brocade, for example.

Sewing is old-fashioned.

Contrary to this belief, sewing is a modern and evolving craft. Technology and innovation are also fast-growing in the sewing industry.

We can find new or improved sewing tools, and new technology on fabrics is also becoming a trend toward organic and sustainability.

Sewing is too difficult.

Like anything, we must start somewhere. Starting a craft is no different. It could be difficult at first, especially if you are learning on your own and didn’t go to a formal sewing or fashion school.

The good news is learning resources are now within reach to help beginners and any skill level.

However, it’s the motivation and goals that set every sewist apart when it comes to success in the craft.

Sewing is boring.

This is mostly from the perspective of someone who doesn’t sew. For the sewing hobbyist and those who are passionate about sewing, it’s a creative way of self-expression through fabrics.

If you sew for a living, you can still make it motivating, enjoyable, and fulfilling by seeing your delighted customers as an inspiration.

Sewing is only for fashion.

I used to watch Project Runway before (ugh, I’m old!), I had this mindset, but it all changed when I started sewing. I realized I can make a lot of things other than clothes to wear.

Sky is the limit, or as I put it, “Creativity is the limit.” I made stuffed toys, bags, upholstery, my own dress forms, and tailor’s ham. You name it.

Sewing has its rich history that shaped fashion today, but it goes beyond that.

Sewing is expensive.

A sewing machine and some basic supplies could be your first-cost investment. However, if we consider the overall savings long-term, sewing is budget-friendly. 

If you give a new life to your existing or thrifted fabrics, it is inexpensive, fun, and fulfilling to know that you’re helping the planet by upcycling.

Also, you can recreate expensive pieces from expensive brands and make them your own for a fraction of the price. Think Chanel…

You need a sewing machine for everything.

Hear me out. I enrolled in a couture class because I wanted to expand my sewing skills, and the first requirement is to master hand-sewing skills! Why are the signature brands so expensive? Well, you’re right. They are “handmade”.

So, if you only have a hand-sewing kit, you can do many things, from mending and replacing a button to hand embroidery, sewing decorative beads and sequins, and more.

To wrap this up:

Here’s a realization: You won’t understand something until you dip your toes into it.

I admit I was ignorant and guilty about some of the above until I started sewing and dug deeper into the industry. So, I don’t blame those non-sewists who might be thinking the same.

But our objective here is to educate everyone, whether you’re new to sewing or don’t sew at all, and just come across this article. Who knows, you might get inspired to join us in the sewing world!

Please share any sewing stereotypes you heard or experience on the comment section below.

Are you someone who’s having difficulty saying “No” to a sewing request? Check Does Saying No to a Client Make you Feel Like an Asshole? for inspiration.

Also, if you’re looking into upgrading your skills, read my review of GHF sewing classes.