sewing tools

Basic Sewing Tools

There are some sewing tools that you can’t even

begin without. The correct sewing tool makes

any sewing project easier. Knowing which tool to

select and where to use it will simplify and

improve the outcome of each sewing step. The

sewing tools listed below are the basic tools of

the trade that help you save precious sewing

time.

When purchasing sewing tools, select brand names for quality products that have clear

directions.

Disappearing Ink Pen

A non permanent ink pen, usually with blue or violet ink, is used for transferring pattern

markings. The ink eventually disappears (air-soluble) or is easily removed with water

(water-soluble). Check the ink on a scrap of the fabric prior to using it on your projects.

Iron & Ironing Board

You cannot sew without these. While sewing, keep your iron warmed to the wool

setting, and be prepared to press each seam after you stitch it, depending on the

fabric’s ability to handle heat. Never stitch across a seam that hasn’t been pressed. It’s

a sure way to make your project look home-made.

Needles

Sewing needles, both hand and machine, are another must-have item. There are

many types of needles, and there are separate guidelines that give in-depth

information on how to choose the correct one for your sewing project. For the most

basic machine-sewing project, choose a universal or ball-point needle for knit

fabrics, and a “sharp” for woven fabrics. Choose the size of the needle based on the

weight of the fabric. For lightweight fabrics, choose a finer needle (lower numbers); for

heavyweight fabrics, choose a thicker needle (larger numbers).

Pins

Straight pins range in lengths from 1/2" to 1 7/8". Look for sharp, smooth, rustproof pins

that can bend without breaking. Use different types for general sewing, quilting,

working with silks or knits.

Pincushion

Pincushions come in a variety of styles. The most popular styles include the familiar red

tomato with an emery-filled strawberry, which sharpens and cleans pins and

needles; a rectangular, wristband pincushion mounted on a plastic wristband

that is perfect for pin-fitting and marking hems; and magnetic “grabber” types that

make for easy plop-and-drop pin catching.

Seam Gauge

Also called a sewing gauge, this 6" ruler with a sliding red marker has many uses.

Use it to mark hems, buttons and buttonholes as well as design details, such as pleats and tucks.

Seam Ripper

A curved metal cutting blade used to “rip” stitches or “reverse sew.”One end of the curved blade has a sharp point and the other has a small plastic ball that prevents the ripper from slipping.

Use a seam ripper to remove stitches one at a time, slash machine stitched buttonholes, and to pick out loose threads caught in stitching.

Tape Measure

Flexible fibreglass or fabric measuring tape that is ideal for taking body measurements, measuring patterns and

layouts as well as general measuring. Fabric types tend to stretch after prolonged use.

Thimble

Made of metal, rubber, leather or plastic, this small, protective cover slips over the index or middle finger.

When hand sewing or quilting, a thimble protects the fingertip from pin pricks and is used to push the needle through multiple layers of fabric.

Sewing Tools for Professional Results

As with any profession or hobby, using the right tools can make all the difference in the

world and can make the difference between amateur or professional results. Even if you’ve

only sewn a few projects and collected some basic sewing tools, it may be time to learn

about some of the advanced sewing tools designed to give your project that professional

edge.

Most sewing projects can be completed without the following tools, but as you improve

and fine-tune your skills and develop an affinity for quilting, home decorating or clothing

construction, you’ll find these tools indispensable for saving time, increasing accuracy and

simplifying tasks.