You ask us this question quite often when you want to get started sewing: What do I need to buy?
A few weeks ago, we talked about this during the Instagram live stream we did, and it was really helpful, so I thought I'd write it up in a post to help you :)
First of all, a sewing machine. Which one? Well, I always recommend the same thing here: go to your nearest store that sells sewing machines, tell them what you want to make, what you need it for, and what your expectations are, and they'll advise you on the best one for you.
From there, the tools may vary a little, but let's go over the essentials and their possible variations.
1. A good pair of scissors. Let's cut!
A good pair of scissors is essential for cutting fabric properly. Truly, scissors that glide through fabric like nothing are wonderful.
Attention! Fabric scissors should not be used for anything else.
Here we can add variations of scissors that aren't essential for getting started, such as thread snips, pinking shears, or scissors in different sizes.
2. Marking tool. Let's draw!
You need it to mark the fabric and know where to cut. You have different options: the typical tailor's chalk, which is usually square—just be careful, because if you drop it on the floor, it breaks. You can also use chalk in pencil form or with refillable leads in different colors.
Other options include a pen that disappears with water, after a few days, or with heat, such as the Pilot Frixion. It's very important to always test it on the fabric you're going to use to make sure it disappears and doesn't leave marks on the fabric.
3. Ruler and measuring tape. Everything in its proper size!
So you can measure, mark straight lines, and make sure your lines and patterns are correct. You probably already have rulers from when you were in school, so put them to good use—they measure the same :)
And if you don't have rulers, you can invest in a special sewing ruler. It all depends on what you want to sew, but one with centimeter markings in different directions and visual guides, like the one in the photo, works really well for cutting accurately and saving time. They come in different sizes.
And yes, a measuring tape is always a must in sewing. You may not have one, so invest in one. As with everything, they come in different levels of quality.
4. Pins! Let's secure the fabrics!
Good, fine, pretty pins are used a lot in creative sewing. Mothers and grandmothers clutch their heads when, instead of basting, we use pins, but they're very practical, save time, and do the job.
Variations on pins that do the job—and depending on what you're making, you may prefer one thing or another—are clips or fabric glue.
5. Basics that usually come with the machine but may be missing if it's secondhand or inherited, and that you'll need.
5.1 Seam ripper
It will be your ally when you need to unpick stitches, and you'll develop a kind of love-hate relationship with it :) Its other main function is opening buttonholes.
5.2 Bobbins
Usually, a few come with the machine so you can have different thread colors ready. I recommend buying a box with some kind of foam inside so the bobbins don't rattle around.
Thread! Essential—without thread, there is no sewing.
5.3. Needles for the machine
You won't sew without them, so even if replacements come with the machine, get more. Needles need to be changed either because of wear or because they've broken. We talk about them in our post “Machine Needles—A Beginner's Guide”
You won't sew without them, so even if replacements come with the machine, get more. Needles need to be changed either because of wear or because they've broken. We talk about them in our post “Machine Needles—A Beginner's Guide”
6. Basic optional tools: Rotary cutter and cutting mat
Another option for cutting fabric is a rotary cutter. It's widely used when you need to cut squares, rectangles, or even curves with the smaller ones. They come in different sizes, and a 45mm one is usually a “basic” starting point.
To cut with the rotary cutter, you'll need a cutting mat; otherwise, you'd damage the table or surface you're cutting on. They also come in different sizes.
And that's it for the basic sewing tools! If you'd like us to write a second part about tools or practical products for getting started sewing, or if you want to tell us about your experience with them, write to us in the comments.
Happy sewing!