15 Best Sewing Tools You'll Definitely Need

To sew clothes, you can hire a tailor or you'll need a set of sewing tools. Known as "notions," these materials can make the sewing process faster and easier. Most fabric stores display giant signs that say "NOTIONS." Buying the right sewing tools will ensure that you always have the right items when you need them. If you want to have a chance to provide professional seamstress services you’ll need to see the list of some of the most basic tools you should have. They will help you with everything from pinning to cutting.

Tape Measure

You can find retractable ones that are useful in a pinch. The best tape measure has both metric and American measurements. It can be used to take body measurements and measure fabric and can help you determine the perfect size. The most common sewing tool is the needle, which is an important part of most sewing projects. However, many people prefer scissors with a thread catcher. The rotary cutter can also help you create intricate designs.

Rotary Cutter

These devices are very handy for cutting many layers of fabric in one go. A rotary cutter is also used with a self-healing mat. It makes cutting a piece of fabric easy. A rotary cutter is ideal for quilting because it has a built-in measuring line. Regardless of the material you choose, you'll need to know how to use the rotary cutter.

Ruler

Whether you're using a measuring tape or not, a ruler can be a helpful tool. A ruler can be used for measuring and is better than a measuring tape for some projects. The ruler can be found inexpensively at fabric stores. A good rule of thumb is to buy a ruler that's the right size for your project. A tape measure is useful for marking seams, but a straight line requires precision.

Pins

There are many styles of pins, each with its own purpose. While you may not need to purchase every type of pin, a set of large visible heads with a lot of sewing power will suffice for most of your needs.

Pincushion

A pincushion is an excellent tool for keeping your pins organized so they are always at your fingertips. You can also keep your pins organized in a metal container, such as an old mintbox. Pincushions that are good for pin-taking contain sawdust and woolroving. The lanolin in the wool roving prevents pins from rusting. Crushed walnut shells can be used as a substitute for sawdust if you make it yourself.

Scissors

You will need two pairs of scissors: one for dressmaking and one for embroidery. A cheap pair of scissors is a great idea for cutting paper patterns. This will not dull your dressmaking shears. Pinking shears are a bit more expensive but they can be used to finish seams if your overlocker is not available. Pinking shears are not something I would use very often if I had a serger.

Pinking Shears

Pinking shears are made with jagged blades which can be welded together to create a saw-tooth edge for your fabric. A pinked edge, which is a seam finishing, will suffice for many fabrics that are tightly woven. This is particularly useful when working with lighter fabrics, where a sewn seam will add too many threads or weight to the seam. Pinking shears can be used on non-fraying fabrics like fleece to reduce the appearance of a sharp edge when pressing a seam. Like other sewing scissors, you should only use pinking shears for fabric. Keep them clean and oily.

Thimble

You will need all the tools above to sew by hand. The thimble is perhaps the most commonly used sewing tool. This handy metal object, also available in plastic or leather, is shaped like an old bucket. It protects your finger while pushing the needle through layers of fabric. You only need a basic thimble. But if you want something more, there are thimbles that have stones that look almost like jewelry.

Seam Ripper

A free tool kit is another must-have for all new sewing machines. This wonderful tool is a blessing when you’re sewing. A seam ripper is a small tool that allows you to make mistakes and it makes them all easier. It sounds like a powerful tool, and it is. If you don't have a seam ripper, there are alternatives. By the way, I have three spares. They are so important!

Sewing Needles

There are many sizes of sewing needles. Which needle size you should use will depend on your sewing project, the type of thread, and the type of fabric. The first characteristic is the size of the needle. To avoid leaving holes in silk or fine fabrics, you should use the best needle. The needle should be extremely fine if you are adding small beads to your creation. To test the needle, simply pass it through the bead. The thickness of your thread determines the size of the eye. If you are using embroidery floss to finish your piece, ensure that the eye is larger. Otherwise, most of your time will be spent threading the needle.

Tailor’s Chalk

Chalk can be used to transfer lines, darts, and other markings from a pattern to your fabric. Tailor's chalk is available in a variety of colors and can be used as a pencil, or as a chip with tapered edges. Before marking your pieces, test them on your fabric. Rub it gently with your finger and the mark should disappear. If it remains, mark only the wrong side of the fabric with your finger or use tailor's tape.

Thread Snips

This tool is essential to keep close to your sewing machine. There will be many loose threads that you need to cut. These snips are sometimes built into some machines, but they are easier to use.

Cutting Mat

A cutting mat is necessary if you plan to use a rotary cutter. You can find a variety of mats, or cutting pads, in different sizes. These mats can be cut with rotary cutters, but they don't cause any damage to the mat. Use a rotary cutter on a flat surface. Avoid using razor blades or craft knives on your mat. Keep your mat clean with a damp cloth or as necessary.

Needle Threader

This handy tool is useful for threading sewing machine needles as well as hand needles. The thread can be easily pulled out by inserting the loop of metal through the eye of your needle. You won't have to strain your eyes trying to thread the needle for hours. You can check out the posts about threading sewing machines and threading hand sewing needles.

Pressing Tools

It is important to use essential pressing tools when sewing. You should at least have an iron and an ironing board. A press cloth will prevent your fabric from scorching if you apply more heat to it than you would if you were simply ironing wrinkles. There are many weight options, including see-through ones. A piece of muslin can be used in place of one, but it is worth having on hand.

After you have finished your garment, iron the seams to give it that professional look. You should adjust the heat to suit the fabric. It can cause damage if the iron heat is too high for the fabric. Make sure you take note of the material's fabrication at the fabric shop so that you can properly care for it.