I get a lot of questions about the tools and notions I use in my sewing. Here’s a comprehensive list of the supplies I use in my studio on a regular basis.
Click HERE to see my previous post on my Favorite Fabric and Zipper Shops.
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Please note, all opinions are my own and I only recommend products I personally use in my sewing studio.
CUTTING:
Self Healing Cutting Mat - I recommend getting the largest cutting mat your work table can accommodate. 24’’ x 36’’ mat is my favorite.
Rulers - 2.5’’ x 18’’ ruler and 6’’ x 24’’ ruler are my two most trusty rulers.
Rotary Cutters - I mostly use a 45mm rotary cutter in my studio. But I find the 28mm one handy as well, especially when you need to do some curved or more detailed cutting. And don’t forget to have some spare blades on hand.
Fabric Scissors - I’ve had these Gingher scissors for years now and I’m still happy with how well they cut fabric and stay sharp for a very long time. One thing to remember, only use your fabric scissors for fabric, as other materials will dull their blades very quickly.
Utility Scissors - as mentioned above, fabric scissors are for fabric only, so keep a pair of inexpensive utility scissors on hand for cutting paper templates, zippers, …
Pinking Shears - not a must, but definitely nice to have for trimming rounded edges.
Embroidery Scissors or Thread Snips - to cut any loose threads.
Soft Tape Measure or Retractable Tape Measure
IRONING:
Iron - I couldn’t find the exact one I use at the moment, but this one is very similar. Any iron that is on the heavier side and has a steam function will work.
Small (travel) iron - great for pressing inside the projects and hard to reach areas.
Pressing/ Ironing Board - this one is a nice, sturdy option. I like that you can adjust the height.
Sleeve Ironing Board - perfect to get into tight places. Definitely not a must, but nice to have.
SEWING MACHINE:
I personally prefer a simple, straight stitch sewing machine. Mine is a Juki TL2000 Qi .
I have a Janome back up machine. I pull it out when I need to use a zigzag stitch, but that doesn’t happen very often in my studio.
Sewing machine Needles - I use 80/12 size needles for most of my sewing but other sizes are great to have on hand for when working with more layers or thicker fabrics
Bobbin Holder - this little donut shaped case has saved me tons of frustration over the years. Simple, but very functiional.
MISCELLANEOUS:
Thread - Guttermann polyester thread is my absolute favorite. It’s sturdy, doesn’t fray, comes in an array of colors, and is pretty affordable.
Thread Holder - I like a standard, wooden thread holder but there are many designs you can choose from.
Seam Ripper - Definitely a must for any sewist! No matter what your skill level is, you’re bound to make a mistake here and there, and this super sharp, easy-to-hold seam ripper will do the job quickly and efficiently.
Sewing Clips - perfect to hold the layers of fabric together with ease.
Pins - these glass head sewing pins are long and sharp.
Pincushion - this magnetic pincushion is an amazing invention. It keeps your pins from being spilled all over your sewing room, and it comes in many colors so you can choose the one you need.
- I also like using a standard pincushion made from a small wooden bowl, quilting cotton, and some stuffing. Click HERE for a free tutorial on how to make one.
Chalk Marking Pen - for thin, visible, removable lines without any mess.
Double Sided Fabric Marking Pen - purple markings are air soluble, blue ones go away with a tiny spritz of water.
Bodkin - this little tool makes threading drawstring when making my Drawstring Bags a breeze. Check out this video on how to use it.
Thanks for reading, and happy sewing to you all :)
Svetlana