Welcome to the wonderful world of sewing! If you are just starting out, it can be daunting knowing what equipment and supplies you need in your sewing kit – but don’t worry, I’ve got your back. Here’s a list of the sewing essentials I use that are perfect for the regular sewing enthusiast. From scissors to seam rippers and everything in between – these are my top 13 basic sewing essentials for ensuring that every project goes smoothly and turns out just as beautifully as you imagined. So get ready to unlock the creative possibilities available through sewing – with the right tools, you’ll be all ready to get started!
You can find most of these sewing tools on Amazon and I have linked them here. These are affiliate links and I may earn a small commission at no extra cost for you.
Top 13 Must-Have Sewing Supplies
Here is a list of the best sewing tools for your sewing journey! These basic sewing supplies will make easy work of your sewing projects, especially if you are a beginner sewer.
- Sewing machine – this is the most important tool for any sewer. Purchasing a sewing machine is often the most significant and biggest investment made when learning to sew, however, it doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality. An example of an affordable and easy-to-use machine is the Baby Lock Zest. I have sewn exclusively with Baby Lock machines for years. Though there are certainly much more expensive models that may come with many add-on features, they are not always necessary. The Zest is under $200 and is perfect for anyone wanting to learn how to sew, and will provide optimum usability and great value for money. I sew on the Rachel from Baby Lock and love it. The needle threading feature makes a huge difference!
- Fabric scissors – a good pair of scissors is one of the best sewing supplies. so make sure they’re of good quality and sharp enough so they can cut through the fabric easily. If you’re a sewer, quilter, or make embroidery projects or crafts of any kind, having fabric scissors that are sharp is a must and will serve different purposes. Dull blades won’t be able to provide a clean and precise cut through the fabric. The trick to keeping scissors sharp is to have a pair dedicated to fabric. Cutting paper will dull the blades. I also love this pair of fabric shears. The Spring-action design gently opens blades after each cut to reduce hand strain.
- Straight Pins – these are necessary for securing the fabric in place and I use this magnetic pin cushion This magnetic pin holder has a strong magnet that can grab all the pins securely even from a distance, and the pins stay on even when turning and shaking. I turn it upside down and wave it near the floor or table to easily pick up scattered pins.
- Multipurpose Clips are a great alternative to pins, especially when working with vinyl, piles, and heavyweight fabrics. The clips won’t distort the fabric or leave pin holes.
- Measuring tape – you’ll need to measure twice and cut once! Crafting with materials can be tricky, but it’s crucial to get the measurements right. That’s why having a measuring tape is a must – a soft flexible tape measure rests seamlessly along curved and flat surfaces. Getting accurate measurements will ensure that your project turns out just as you imagined it!
- Iron to press your fabric once it’s been sewn The Oliso M2 Mini Project Steam Iron has The power of a full-sized iron but is compact and lightweight perfect for sewing projects. Its smaller size makes it easy to keep by my machine and take to sewing classes.
- Seam ripper – this is helpful for undoing stitches if you make a mistake. This handy tool easily rips out seams, hems, buttonholes, and much more without damaging the fabric.
- Rotary Cutter and Ruler make easy work of cutting multiple layers of fabric in straight lines.
- Cutting Mat and Ironing Board Combo is a super convenient duo! One side is a gridded cutting mat and the other side is a non-stick pressing surface. It folds easily in half to store.
- Marking Pen is a must for transferring pattern markings onto fabric. I like that this pen has two different ink colors so you can choose whichever works best for your project. Choose the purple disappearing ink on projects to be completed within 24 hours or use the blue and immediately remove it with water.
- Hand Sewing Needles – hand sewing needles are essential tools even if you don’t often sew by hand! These needles are versatile and can be used for various sewing techniques, including basic stitching, embroidery, quilting, and whatever you can think of. Just make sure to have different sizes, lengths and thickness to cover all of your projects!
- Sewing machine needles – then there are also sewing machine needles, which are designed for machines only. They also come in different sizes and types, with variations in length, thickness, and point shape to suit various fabrics and sewing techniques.
- Thread – good quality thread is important to make sure your stitches last. Whether you’re sewing by hand or with a machine, using the right thread helps create strong and durable seams in your projects.
More Sewing Tools
While these tools aren’t necessities I do find them helpful.
- Fray Check
- Pinking Shears
- Seam gauge
- Thimble
Beginner Sewing Projects
So if you’re ready to jump in and give it a shot, here are some excellent beginner sewing projects featuring detailed instructions so you won’t miss a stitch!
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