Sewing. It’s not just something people did before clothing stores were invented. How do you think those garments hanging on the rack or folded on a display got there anyway? A sewing machine most likely made them, though it’s more likely been made in a factory by an industrial machine rather than your basic everyday stichers machine. Sewing isn’t a tired-out skill that no one needs to know how to do anymore; Sewing is a timeless skill that everyone should at least have basic proficiency in it. Here’s 3 things you can do with a basic knowledge of sewing… although there are thousands more.

1. Sew on a button.

This is one of the most basic of basic sewing skills in the book. Have a button come off your favorite button-up shirt or coat? Don’t awkwardly fasten it with a safety pin and hope it looks okay: replacing the button in most cases is super EASY to do, especially if it’s a shank button (that term just means the button only has one hole. All you need is a sewing needle, some matching thread, some scissors, and the button. Here’s a link to a ridiculously easy tutorial:

https://www.craftsy.com/blog/2014/11/how-to-sew-a-...

2. Fix a ripped garment.

Obviously if the garment is completely shredded it may be time to say ‘Good-bye’ but if it’s a minor tear, it can be fixed easy. Just make sure you turn the shirt inside out so it’ll look less noticeable.

https://craftylittlesecret.com/2013/09/12/tutorial...

3. Hem pants.

If you’re not the 6 ft. tall model height a lot of pants are made for, you may try on a great pair of slacks, only to find that they’re slightly too long. With sewing skills, you can buy them anyway and save money on a professional tailor by hemming them yourself. Here’s an easy video tutorial:

http://www.wikihow.com/Hand-Sew-a-Hem

If you're interested in learning how to hand sew, all you need is a needle, thread, scissors, and fabric. There's tons of tutorials online; you'll be decently skilled in no time!