OHbaby! Forums : is it worth knitting / sewing https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/ Copyright (c) 2006-2013 Web Wiz Forums - All Rights Reserved. Sat, 04 Apr 2026 09:43:29 +0000 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 18:51:40 +0000 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Web Wiz Forums 11.10 360 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/RSS_post_feed.asp?TID=34638 <![CDATA[OHbaby! Forums]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_images/web_wiz_forums.png https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/ <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : Yup, knitting is a great way to...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1096134&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1096134 Author: fire_engine
Subject: 34638
Posted: 12 July 2010 at 6:51pm

Yup, knitting is a great way to feel productive while you actually do bugger all!]]> Mon, 12 Jul 2010 18:51:40 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1096134&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1096134 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : thats awesome. i definitely think...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1096081&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1096081 Author: monikah
Subject: 34638
Posted: 12 July 2010 at 6:03pm

thats awesome. i definitely think im gonna give it a go starting with the knitting cos once all my uni work is done for the night i flick the tv on but sit on my laptop cos it doesnt interest me that much but knitting will keep my hand occupied. its also good for sustainability and stuff which is all very hippy like but even though clothes can be bought so cheap now it still requires transport often from overseas, not the best labour conditions and a few other things. its not a huge concern of mine to be honest but it still might be a little feel good. lol. and if we do scoot to canada my kids can have funky cool winter stuff on top of their millions of layers to keep them warm. lol]]> Mon, 12 Jul 2010 18:03:39 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1096081&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1096081 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : Oh and you can sometimes pick...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095907&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095907 Author: Nutella
Subject: 34638
Posted: 12 July 2010 at 4:21pm

Oh and you can sometimes pick up wool at the second hand shops too, presumably some stuff that an old grandma type person has decided they are not ever gonna use haha. ]]> Mon, 12 Jul 2010 16:21:57 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095907&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095907 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : i just brought myself a mens shirt...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095865&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095865 Author: Mucky_Tiger
Subject: 34638
Posted: 12 July 2010 at 4:01pm

i just brought myself a mens shirt today and are going to turn it into a skirt for when i go to australia.

i am by no means a small person (ladies 16-18 in bottoms) but a $4.99 XXL mens shirt, and a metre of $1.99 elastic is going to make a great skirt for me]]> Mon, 12 Jul 2010 16:01:18 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095865&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095865 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : ditto the others, it can save...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095715&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095715 Author: crafty1
Subject: 34638
Posted: 12 July 2010 at 2:54pm

ditto the others, it can save money or not depending on if you get the fabric for a good price, Sometimes i'll make 2 or 3 things and sell the others to pay for more materials. You have to enjoy it really.

Knitting works out more than you can get stuff for in cheap shops but if you use real wool it is worth it cos you just can't buy wool jumpers and they are so warm and water resistant. i do it in front of the telly and so it's time that is usually wasted anyway.

ravelry.com has lots of free patterns.
the other thing i do is go to Savemart or church opshops and buy woolens dead cheap and either felt them and sew or upcycle them with applique or buttons. Then your materials are negligible. ]]> Mon, 12 Jul 2010 14:54:21 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095715&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095715 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : I love the Milo - definitely on...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095680&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095680 Author: fire_engine
Subject: 34638
Posted: 12 July 2010 at 2:30pm

I love the Milo - definitely on my list to do. I also have just bought the wee rascals hoody pattern (see my link above) that I'll get MIL to make.]]> Mon, 12 Jul 2010 14:30:06 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095680&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095680 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : That milo vest is adorable...i...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095574&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095574 Author: Nutella
Subject: 34638
Posted: 12 July 2010 at 1:02pm

That milo vest is adorable...i brought the pattern the other day but have to do other UFOs before I can even consider starting it lol..]]> Mon, 12 Jul 2010 13:02:10 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095574&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095574 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : Bex Levana is great for material....]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095567&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095567 Author: mummy_becks
Subject: 34638
Posted: 12 July 2010 at 12:56pm

Bex Levana is great for material.

]]> Mon, 12 Jul 2010 12:56:31 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095567&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095567 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : by the time you add in your time,...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095450&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095450 Author: hcsmum
Subject: 34638
Posted: 12 July 2010 at 11:20am

by the time you add in your time, thread costs, needles etc etc making your own clothing by sewing isn't really worth it. But for the craft, the satisfaction of making something, and making something unique it is worth it.

Knitting, I have just started and I'm in the beginning stages of making a Milo Vest. So $6 for the pattern and I was cheap and got the 100% Australian Wool from TWH. which cost me $5 for 100gms. So $11 plus my time, isn't too bad. Especially when new I'm looking at paying upwards of $25 for one. ]]> Mon, 12 Jul 2010 11:20:22 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095450&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095450 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : Lol...oh yeah and the enjoyment...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095296&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095296 Author: Nutella
Subject: 34638
Posted: 12 July 2010 at 9:41am

Lol...oh yeah and the enjoyment factor...it is soooooo satisfying when you finish something especially when your non sewing/knitting friends admire the articles and think you are so clever ;-)

Spotlight often has the pure wool on special, so it is worth stocking up when they do but you have to make sure you get the balls from the same batch (else colours might be different).

That merino shop sounds too exciting for words.....waaaa wish I lived in NZ.]]> Mon, 12 Jul 2010 09:41:38 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095296&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095296 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : Thanks heaps Fliss May have to...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095291&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095291 Author: Lexidore
Subject: 34638
Posted: 12 July 2010 at 9:40am

Thanks heaps Fliss May have to go for a mish to Levin at some stage soon ]]> Mon, 12 Jul 2010 09:40:34 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095291&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095291 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : Bex, in Auckland it&#039;s Designer...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095283&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095283 Author: fire_engine
Subject: 34638
Posted: 12 July 2010 at 9:33am

Bex, in Auckland it's Designer Textiles (Lovegrove Place, Otara, open Tues-Sat). In the Wellington/Levin area, you have Levana - 36-38 Cambridge Street, South Levin, 06 3660820 Mon- Fri: 8am-4pm Sat: 9am-1pm

*enable, enable*]]> Mon, 12 Jul 2010 09:33:31 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095283&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095283 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : It may not work out cheaper but...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095180&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095180 Author: HuntersMama
Subject: 34638
Posted: 12 July 2010 at 8:11am

It may not work out cheaper but handmade clothes are so lovely, and I love making DS things. I have gotten heaps of fabric given to me so making things like bandana bibs works out free or if I buy the fabric about $2.

I love knitting and do it while im watching TV or when DS is asleep. You can get wool pretty cheap, but it does take awhile.

Id love to know where the merino outlet store is too ]]> Mon, 12 Jul 2010 08:11:53 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095180&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095180 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : Yip depends on what you want to...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095143&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095143 Author: Nutella
Subject: 34638
Posted: 12 July 2010 at 12:27am

Yip depends on what you want to make...with knitting, if you buy actual wool not the polyester stuff then it is expensive but soooo much nicer with 100% wool and perhaps would be hard to find the same quality of goods for cheaper in the shops?? Plus of course so much more individual.

Sewing can be worth it if you have good patterns that you can alter and can get cheap material esp stuff like merino that costs an arm and a leg. I think it is probably a good thing for boys coz the clothes for boys are so average if you ask me...at least compared to the cuteness of girls clothes...
Oh and doing things that cost quite a bit but you look at it and think...gee that doesn't look hard, for example those head rest things you use in the car, have seen them for like $20-30 and how hard would that be to make!!!

But you really do have to enjoy doing it else you will probably spend the money and then quit when it gets too hard lol!!! Esp with knitting!!!]]> Mon, 12 Jul 2010 00:27:01 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095143&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095143 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : My mum knits for the kids, but...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095130&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095130 Author: emz
Subject: 34638
Posted: 11 July 2010 at 10:57pm

My mum knits for the kids, but only buys the nice wool so it's a lot more expensive that other clothes, but always cheaper than what you would pay in the shops for the same quality. Plus she is an amazing knitter. My grandma and family friends also knit for us.

With sewing, it does depend. For girls, skirts, dresses are easy, and shorts and pants (basic elastic waistband ones) are cheap. When you start needing zips, buttons and taking time to do lots of fiddly stuff, that's where it's easier and cheaper to buy.

I'm going to start sewing some clothes for Ava, and some waterproof clothes for the kids for next year as it's so much cheaper than what other places charge, to make it yourself. Plus I make my own clothes sometimes so I don't find it too difficult, just smaller ]]> Sun, 11 Jul 2010 22:57:46 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095130&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095130 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : Sorry to threadjack Mon but Fliss...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095117&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095117 Author: Lexidore
Subject: 34638
Posted: 11 July 2010 at 10:39pm

Sorry to threadjack Mon but

Fliss where in Auckland is the merino outlet store... may have to send Dad on a mission!]]> Sun, 11 Jul 2010 22:39:14 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095117&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095117 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : Yup, I agree that it depends on...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095049&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095049 Author: fire_engine
Subject: 34638
Posted: 11 July 2010 at 9:19pm

Yup, I agree that it depends on the material and time. In Auckland, we have a really good merino outlet store, so I can make Dan merino longsleeve Ts for $2.50 (takes about an hour), made a double thickness merino sleeping bag for $15 and am about to make a double layered merino hoodie for $25. Trousers, unless I had a good easy pattern, I wouldn't bother cos I can get those on sale cheaply. Anything too fiddly and I can't be bothered.

Knitting, if you factor in time, no not really worth it. That said, it can be really hard to find pure wool jerseys etc that don't break the bank. I've got a pattern and will get some wool (about $30) and ask MIL to knit a jersey for next winter. I sometimes enjoy knitting but at the moment feel like I've got more than enough on my plate, so don't plan to do any in advance of the baby arriving. And there are a few SAHMs who have set up businesses like this one who will knit to order. ]]> Sun, 11 Jul 2010 21:19:49 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095049&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095049 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : I can&#039;t knit but love knitted...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095044&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095044 Author: kiwi2
Subject: 34638
Posted: 11 July 2010 at 9:16pm

I can't knit but love knitted clothes. I went to the market in Tokoroa whilst visiting family and got a brand new knitted pink poncho and hat made of the fuzzy wool like chenneil (sp?) for $12. So not worth buying the wool for me and then yelling and swearing at it when it goes wrong.

So if you're not crafty then maybe hunting around craft markets where some people sell just to suplement their income and hobby you can get some bargains. This goes for sewn clothes too.]]> Sun, 11 Jul 2010 21:16:48 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095044&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095044 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : It really depends how much you...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095040&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095040 Author: Daizy
Subject: 34638
Posted: 11 July 2010 at 9:13pm

It really depends how much you can get the material for.

I got a whole bunch of fabric for only a couple of dollars a metre at spotlight on special and have been able to make a couple of skirts and dresses each metre.

I love it when I have the time, and I love being able to create something unique.]]> Sun, 11 Jul 2010 21:13:34 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1095040&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1095040 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : I think sewing is quite expensive....]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1094945&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1094945 Author: _SMS_
Subject: 34638
Posted: 11 July 2010 at 8:12pm

I think sewing is quite expensive. With cheap places like TnT now its just not worth the material. The only reason i sew is because i am bored at home & for unique clothing for Taylah. Although im making alot of baby gear for next time lol.

Knitting is definitely worth it, i tried a few weeks ago but i dont have the patience. $2 shop seels wool, warehouse is always have buy 2 get 1 free deals.]]> Sun, 11 Jul 2010 20:12:17 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1094945&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1094945 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : Caro07 wrote:For some things...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1094941&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1094941 Author: myfullhouse
Subject: 34638
Posted: 11 July 2010 at 8:10pm

Originally posted by Caro07 Caro07 wrote:

For some things yes, for others no

I don't generally make any basic items for my boys (like t-shirts, vests etc) as they are so cheap to buy but do make more 'specialist' garments. I made DS1 a pair of waterproof trousers that probably would have cost me $15-$20 to buy. The material only cost me $4.

I have also made sleepsacks as I felt they were quite expensive to buy, but very easy (and cheap) to make.

I am the same, have made quite a few things for the boys but only when it was cheaper (e.g.merino sleep sack) or I couldn't find what I was after (e.g.towelling bathrobes)

I enjoy it when I get a chance to do things, it is really my only hobby. It can also be useful skill for other things, I made roman blinds and curtains for our old house and it was heaps cheaper than having them made (if you don't count my time). I plan to eventually make roman blinds for this house as well]]> Sun, 11 Jul 2010 20:10:07 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1094941&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1094941 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : wiked. i have heaps of old clothes...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1094929&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1094929 Author: monikah
Subject: 34638
Posted: 11 July 2010 at 8:02pm

wiked. i have heaps of old clothes i dont wear so can reuse all the material. i wonder if i can find anyone with a sewing machine to borrow. that would be handy. lol]]> Sun, 11 Jul 2010 20:02:40 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1094929&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1094929 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : For some things yes, for others...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1094909&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1094909 Author: Caro07
Subject: 34638
Posted: 11 July 2010 at 7:47pm

For some things yes, for others no

I don't generally make any basic items for my boys (like t-shirts, vests etc) as they are so cheap to buy but do make more 'specialist' garments. I made DS1 a pair of waterproof trousers that probably would have cost me $15-$20 to buy. The material only cost me $4.

I have also made sleepsacks as I felt they were quite expensive to buy, but very easy (and cheap) to make.

I have started to recycle some of our old clothes too. Old jeans are made into jeans for them, so effectively free ]]> Sun, 11 Jul 2010 19:47:29 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1094909&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1094909 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : I think it is worth knitting....]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1094899&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1094899 Author: Bobbie
Subject: 34638
Posted: 11 July 2010 at 7:39pm

I think it is worth knitting. It isn't cost effective but hand knitted stuff is so nice. My daughter's are lucky to have a knitty nana and we always get comments when we're out about their gorgeous handknitted cardigans/hats

Also it's a lovely hobby I've found because you can see the results so quickly.]]> Sun, 11 Jul 2010 19:39:06 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1094899&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1094899 <![CDATA[is it worth knitting / sewing : kids clothes? for the price of...]]> https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1094867&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1094867 Author: monikah
Subject: 34638
Posted: 11 July 2010 at 7:14pm

kids clothes? for the price of wool and stuff now i know alot of stuff can end up being more expensive than just buying it off a rack?

i dont know how to sew or knit but i think im gonna try figure it out but dont know if it is worth it. i wont learn to sew til i go overseas as there is no point getting a machine i cant take but the knitting would be quite cool to get into.]]> Sun, 11 Jul 2010 19:14:31 +0000 https://www.ohbaby.co.nz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=34638&PID=1094867&title=is-it-worth-knitting-sewing#1094867