Sewing Mistakes

Embracing Sewing Mistakes: Lessons I’ve Learned and Why I Welcome Them

By Published On: July 24, 2025

Sewing Mistakes

Let’s talk about sewing mistakes. After decades of sewing—and teaching —I can tell you this with full confidence:

I have never finished a project and not learned something.

Not once.

See the photo above? What is the first thing you see when you look at it? Do you see the mistake? Yep, there’s a mistake.

Sewing Mistakes Are Part of the Process

I’ve made my fair share of missteps over the years.
Misjudging a fabric. Sewing the wrong seam. Cutting something backwards.
(Yes, even after all this time!)

But here’s what I’ve learned:

Every “mistake” is a stepping stone.

They don’t mean you’ve failed.
They mean you’re learning. Growing. Expanding your skills.

My Mistakes Make Me a Better Instructor

When I teach, I bring those hard-won lessons with me.
I share my own slip-ups, not to highlight flaws—but to model what learning really looks like.

I want my students to know:
Perfection isn’t the goal. Progress is.

Because every time we try something new, we stretch.
Every time we troubleshoot, we sharpen.


Confidence Comes From Practice—Not Perfection

If you’ve ever walked away from a sewing project frustrated, thinking it didn’t turn out “right,” I want you to hear this:

You’re doing it right.

You’re learning.
You’re showing up.
You’re building confidence, one stitch at a time.

Zipper Seminars testimonial

A Reminder for Every Sewist:

Never stop trying.
Never stop learning.
Never stop creating beauty with your hands.

Ready to Grow Your Sewing Skills?

If you’re ready to build your confidence, sew more efficiently, and bring more beauty into your work—I’m here to help.

 Explore My Membership Program


Where we turn sewing mistakes into mastery—and sewing into joy.

Do you have a question or would you like to share your own “mistake turned lesson”?
I’d love to hear it—drop it in the comments or send me a message!

Donna with Pillows

Want to build your confidence and skills in soft furnishings and home decor sewing?

That’s what I’m here for. Keep up to date on what I’m doing by following me on Instagram 

I’d like to invite you to join my facebook group, Donna’s Sew Creative & Healthy DIY:Pillows & More

This group is all about DIY sewing, creativity, and embracing a healthy lifestyle to fuel our passion for making beautiful things. Whether you love sewing pillows, bedding, or other soft furnishings, you’re in the right place!
What You Can Expect:
DIY sewing tips, techniques & tutorials
Creative inspiration for unique designs
Wellness & productivity tips for sewists
A supportive, positive, and fun community!
This is a safe place to share any sewing mistakes you’ve made and receive encouragement to move beyond and grow!

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Meet Donna Cash – Your Trusted Sewing Mentor & Creative Guide

Donna Cash is the founder of Designs by Donna, an award-winning drapery and soft furnishings studio known for its exquisite custom pillows, bedding, drapery, and detailed embellishments. With over 30 years of hands-on experience, Donna brings a rare blend of technical expertise, artistic flair, and warm encouragement to every maker she mentors.

A passionate educator, speaker, and industry leader, Donna has trained hundreds of DIYers and professionals alike, helping them master professional techniques while cultivating a calm, joyful, and balanced approach to their craft. Whether you're just beginning your sewing journey or running a workroom business, Donna is here to help you grow with confidence.

Through her blog, video tutorials, and vibrant online membership community, she shares time-saving strategies, fabric insights, and real-world solutions that make high-quality results feel achievable—and enjoyable. Donna’s mission is simple but powerful: to help you create beautiful things with fabric, one inspired stitch at a time.

Join the community and explore expert instruction at www.designsbydonna.com.