When you begin any new hobby you’re bound to get bombarded with tons of advice as to what tools you need. 
The truth is that most basic sewing tools you need aren’t that expensive and have been around for centuries! Here’s a basic overview of the must have sewing tools to get you started on your sewing journey. No fancy items here – just the straight forward things your need to sew most items!
Must Have Sewing Tools:
1. Cutting Shears
Cutting shears – Raise your right hand and repeat after me “These scissors shall only touch fabric”. To keep you scissors sharp longer only use them on fabric for perfect pattern cutting. (These are the scissors I love).
2. Seam Ripper
Seam ripper – It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been sewing you will mess up. Keep this near and be sure to replace it every so often so it’s sharp. (If you’re still using the same seam ripper that came with your 30 year old sewing machine, it’s time to replace it).
3. Needle
Needle – Even if you machine sew on occasion you will need to hand sew items or mend. A needle (preferably in a selection of sizes is absolutely necessary. While we’re talking about needs having extra for your machine is essential too, because they do break/ get dull and need to be replaced.
4. Measuring Tape
Measuring tape – the emblem of the sewist. This flexible tape is perfect for measuring bodies or things with curves.Seam Allowance measure – this handy little sliding ruler is perfect for making sure that your pinning, or sewing at the right seam allowance. (And you can get them in a bunch of fun colors)
5. Pins
Pins – Pins are a must have. These aren’t optional. Have a good amount of sharp pins at the ready to pin projects. (Haven’t replaced your pins in years? It’s time!)
6. Pin Cushion
Pin cushion – A good pin cushion not only stores pins, but has steel wool in it to keep them sharp. (The classic tomato is always a good choice)
7. Craft or Paper Scissors
Craft/ paper scissors – Ok these scissors can cut paper. french ribbon, other stuff besides fabric. (These are the best for crafting and paper cutting etc.)
8. Embroidery Shears
Embroidery shears – Since we’re on a cutting kick I’ll add these in. These are perfect for snipping threads and tiny slits in cloth. (This is the kind that I use).
9. Rotary Cutter, Rule and Mat
Rotary cutter, ruler and mat – Ok last cutting item I promise – but these are really useful for quickly cutting clean line and this is a must have for quilters. (These are the items that I use everyday)
10. Washi Tape
Washi tape – Admittedly your grandma probably didn’t have this in her sewing kit but I love it to mark off the seam allowance on my machine – especially for projects that have multiple seam allowances. (And it’s pretty).
11. GlueStick
Gluestick – This little guy is perfect for quick applique projects. (plus they’re wonderfully cheap).
12. Thread
Thread – I always have a couple of spools of a standard white thread around since it work in a pinch for most things.
What’s you’re must have sewing tools? Let me know in the comments below.
More How to Sew Lessons:
- How to get started sewing with a sewing machine
- How to Unpick a Seam
- How to Make a Button Hole
- What are the parts to a Sewing Machine?
- What is a Straight Stitch and How to Sew it
- What is a Basting Stitch?
- How to read a Sewing Pattern
- How to Make a Rolled Hem or a Baby Hem
- What to Look for a in a Good Sewing Machine
- Traditional Sewing Pattern VS Digital
- How to Choose a Sewing Machine
- 5 Easy Ways to Save Money on Crafts and Fabric
- You can see all the How to Sew Lessons Here
Working With Different Fabrics:
- Coral Fleece Vs. Polar Fleece what is the difference?
- What is the Anatomy of Fabric?
- 7 Things you need to know about sewing with Minky Fabric
- How to Sew with Faux Fur
- Which Fleece is Which? Your Quick Start Guide to Fleece
Leave a Reply