Before jumping into your sewing goals, if you haven’t yet, check out our blog post all about resetting your space in 2026! Getting your space cleared will set the stage for achieving your sewing dreams.
Your space is cleaned, your fabric is organized, now let’s talk about how to set sewing goals for 2026 you’ll actually stick to. We all dream of a year filled with handmade wardrobes, finished quilts, and zero abandoned projects. But let’s be realistic here. (Spoiler alert: you’re still human—annoying, I know!)
Setting realistic and meaningful goals can help you stay organized, creative, and proud of your progress—without feeling overwhelmed. Here are some practical tips for setting sewing and crafting goals you’ll actually achieve.
Decide Where Your Sewing Goals Will Live
Before you dive into goal-setting, decide where you want to store your goals. Will they live in a beautifully bound notebook, a digital app, or perhaps pinned to a magical mood board? Think of it like creating a spell book for your creativity—somewhere you can check in, track progress, and get inspired when motivation dips. After all, the magic of sewing lies in both the process and the plan.
If you want to grab our Witch's Stitch Tracker - a set of project planning sheets for your creative journey - just join our mailing list and we will send it right to your inbox!
Look Back to Move Forward
Take a moment to reflect on what you made last year. Did you finish three projects? Amazing! Maybe aim for four this year. Looking at what you accomplished previously will give you a solid foundation for setting goals that are realistic for your current pace and lifestyle.
If you follow someone online who seems to crank out projects left and right, remember: you’re not seeing the full picture of their life. Comparison is the thief of joy. Set goals that are meaningful and achievable for you. Any sewing is good sewing, remember it’s about finding joy in the process, not just getting to that finished product.
Break It Down
Big goals can feel intimidating and overwhelming. Try focusing on smaller goals that help you get to that big finish. Here are a few examples:
- Finish one WIP (Work In Progress) per quarter
- Try a new sewing technique, like French seams or quilting
- Sew one project for yourself, one as a gift, and one for your home
- Schedule dedicated sewing time each week (even just 30 minutes counts!)
- Do a monthly “reset” of your sewing space to stay organized
- Limit how many WIPs you’ll have going at one time
Think Seasonally, Not Annually
Instead of planning a whole year of projects at once, try setting seasonal goals. Focus on what excites you right now, whether it’s a cozy winter quilt, spring dresses, or a summer tote bag. Use a mood board for inspiration—put it up in your sewing space to keep your ideas visible and motivation high. Seeing your inspiration will keep you motivated toward that bigger goal.
Utilize sites like Pinterest or the Thread Loop app to store your ideas. If you need help crafting your own color palette and creating mood boards, join our Colorcraft workshop with Taylor of Toad and Sew on January 11th.
Make a plan to revisit your goals and adjust throughout the year. Whether this is once a season or once a month, pick a timing that works for you. We are ever-growing and changing human beings. There’s a good chance what you were excited about in January will be different come May. Set a date with yourself and schedule it on your phone. You deserve time to dedicate to your sewing practice. Scheduling it in will make sure it happens and doesn’t get pushed to the back burner.
Use SMART Sewing Goals for Success
When setting goals, using the SMART framework can help you clarify what you want to achieve and how to get there. SMART goals are:
- Specific: Define exactly what you want to accomplish. Avoid vague goals like "sew more" and instead say, "Sew for 30 minutes every week.”
- Measurable: Set a goal that can be tracked or quantified. For example, instead of “make more clothes” try "Finish two garments this quarter" or "Take one garment sewing class this year."
- Achievable: Be realistic about what you can do with the time and resources you have.
- Relevant: Align your goal with what matters to you.
- Time-Bound: Set a clear deadline to keep yourself accountable.
Stay Organized to Maximize Sewing Creativity
Achieving your sewing goals starts with setting yourself up for success. Here are a few ways to keep your supplies and space ready to support your goals:
- Reset after each project: Put away your tools, clean your machine, and give it a fresh needle.
- Keep an Inventory: Track your fabrics and supplies.
- Create a Dedicated Sewing Space: Even a small corner can make a big difference.
- Prep for Success: Pre-cut fabric, wind bobbins, and organize patterns.
Stay Accountable to Your Sewing Goals (and Treat Yourself!)
If you’re looking for a sewing group, consider joining our Wyldwood Maker Crew! This is an online community that is so supportive and helpful. Our dedicated Discord server is a great place to get advice, share projects, and chat with fellow makers.
Final Thought
Your sewing goals are yours. Whether you finish one big project or dozens of smaller ones, the most important thing is to enjoy the process, learn as you go, and celebrate your creativity every step of the way. We would love to hear your goals and share your wins! Tag us on socials or send us an email. We’re here to cheer you on every step of the way!
