25 Tips to Optimise Your Sewing with Autism!

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Thank you for watching. I appreciate each one of you!

[livinginthenow]

Hi there! I'm a woman who was diagnosed as autistic at 51 years old. I, too, have always had trouble with controlling the speed of my sewing machine. I recently upgraded to my first computerized machine, and boy am I happy! Not only does it have a speed control, but I can even sew without a foot pedal! So now I can concentrate on what's going on under the needle and not have to worry about monitoring the pressure I put on the pedal.

[frannygrace]

Very good tips not just for neurodivergent individuals. Something I've learned that works for me is if I'm getting frustrated with a project I need to set it aside instead of trying to push through it.

[MorganJ]

This was an excellent video! I appreciate the tips, and it made me feel just, you know, heard to listen to it. It's rare for people to talk about how autism impacts their sewing journey, and it made me feel represented and happy to hear your perspective.

[victoriahannah]

They do sale mats you can put underneath your sewing machine to reduce noise and vibrations. I always set my timer or I would forget to take my dogs out. You’ve been through a lot this past year so do things at your pace.

[catherineb]

Thank you Claire. I found this list really helpful as a parent of someone on the spectrum. I'd say there's lots of good tips for any mindful sewist!

[daxxydog]

I don't have autism, but I HATE the way modern machines sound. I guess because the plastic won't dampen the clanging like a solid metal body? My Featherweight, Singer 201, Singer 401a Singer 500a, and Pfaff 362 are really quiet. And nothing is quieter than a treadle or handcrank. So maybe test out some vintage machines? A Singer 401 or 500 have a good variety of built in/zig zag stitches, so they're my favorites.

[karinbaird]

Autistisk hand sewer here😁
I also sew with vintage Singers. I have difficulty with the feel and noise of plastic sewing machines.

[lesleyharris]

A trick for machines that move when you are sewing is a cork mat, coasters work. And it helps with the noise. Thanks for all the tips and it's lovely to see you looking fad and smiling. ❤

[MorganJ]

About the difficulty finding fabrics that are sensory-friendly in person - one place to potentially try on a budget is the thrift store. Depending on the project, secondhand sheets, blankets, or curtains might work for some projects - and they tend to have been laundrered a lot, so sometimes they're already soft.

[smoothbrain]

This was an awesome video, thanks so much for tackling this topic. Gave me a lot of good refinements to think about and integrate into my sewing and other hobbies !
Small tip for the keeping tidy: I like to keep a little jar/bowl on every table I work on to collect scrap fabrics and threads and other rubbish. That way I don’t even have to take my eyes off of what I’m working on to keep my table neat. Keeps the flow going. Then I just dump it at the end of session.

[MorganJ]

I'm very excited to watch this video! As a fellow neurodiverse person who sews, I welcome the representation. ❤

[nonstopmom]

It is maddening that it takes years and so many doctors etc. to figure out a diagnosis. I don't understand it. A note about noisy machines - I collect vintage machines. Many of the ones from the 60's and 70's are so much quieter. New ones seem so clackety! The older ones are so inexpensive - $25 - $50 can get a beautiful, quiet and serviceable machine that has metal parts inside which almost NEVER break down! Keep an eye out.

[RoundMtnDryGoods]

Hi Claire! I'm excited to see sewing videos. I started watching you after you had stopped sewing, and now is a great time for me as I am also easing back into garment sewing.

[lindamahmood]

Can’t wait to see you back with sewing videos I have just had a double mastectomy and my cloths situation is bad nothing fits I’m 78 so not had reconstruction surgery I don’t know where to start getting some clothes up together .I remember watching you sew a tan coloured jacket with a pocket on the sleeve you were so pleased with it . I am glad you are in your new home and you have worked so hard to sort your life problems out enjoy your new beginning be happy stay safe

[joanneentwistle]

Hey, I'm on the spectrum too! You have company out here. I was diagnosed at 48. I look forward to listening to this video.

[Lorraine-yyey]

Oh, sweet Claire! All great tips. A general tip is to keep your iron clean. I abhor a dirty iron or ironing board cover. Drives me crazy! You know what else drives me crazy? How loud my serger is. It rivals the roar of a rocket lift-off. I have NEVER made a garment in an hour. I wouldn't begin to even attempt it. Great to see you. Loved the video. Bye for now.

[joannashworth]

Great information. I struggle with following instructions in that I get really excited to start on some step that is further in on the project. Most recently, I wanted to make some placemats for autumn. The fabrics were so pretty, and I couldn't hardly wait on process wherein I would get to join two very lovely pieces together....SO(!) I started at that step....oh what a mess I made. I had to get two pieces of fabric to replace what I had ruined. End result, it took me a year to finish that project because I just mentally berated myself over my mistake. I am learning about ME in this process. Staying on track requires my self discipline. But I am talking more kindly to myself in this endever

[t.davila]

Excellent video! Lots of good, calm, common sense advice that is applicable to anyone. Thanks for keeping it real 👏👍💐

[dillismoore]

Your sewing tips are great! Thank you Claire!!✨️💐

[kandyturner]

I have a standing desk and I always stand to sew. I would not want to live without my standing desk for sewing. When I started sewing my back hurt me so bad!! I had to protect it. I’m better now but still love to stand when I sew!!