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Sewing
Tools |
If
you're just starting to learn to sew, you may find
this list of tools to buy helpful. You'll need to
add to this list to suit your project needs, but
this will get you started:
Sharp scissors
Scissors should be separated by what you use them
for; only use fabric cutters on fabric.
Needles
Have on hand various sizes of embroidery and
tapestry needles and threaders. Sewing machine
needles of each size will save you time if one
breaks in the middle of a project.
Tracer wheel
Use a tracer wheel to transfer pattern markings to
fabric.
Rotary cutting wheel
Use a rotary cutter to cut through several layers of
fabric. A self-healing mat underneath will save the
countertop.
Exact-o blades
Use these to cut various things - they come in handy
for cutting cardboard and heavy-duty pattern pieces.
Glue gun
Use a good quality high temperature gun if you're
used to handling them; always keep a pitcher of cool
water nearby in case you get burned.
Chalk pencils
Use these to transfer marking from patterns to
fabric. Colored pencils also work well.
Fusible web
This stuff is great for quick hemlines.
Sharp pinking shears
Pinking shears create a nice edge to fabric -
especially swatches - so that they don't fray as
easily.
Pins and cushions
Keep these nearby your work area, in your portable
organizers, and in various places around your
workshop.
Gauge ruler, regular ruler
These come in handy when you are calculating a
hemline.
Wooden dowel
Use wooden dowels (sometimes found in bags of
fiberfill or at art supply stores) for squaring out
edges and pushing out seams. Make sure if you use
one that the edge is not too sharp, as you could
tear your fabrics while using it. A letter opener or
artist's "bone" will work just as well.
Spool jig
This is a great tool to convert high capacity serger
thread spools to fit any sewing machine. It can be
purchased through Homesew (see links section for
information).
Art supplies
Paints are handy if you have to stamp fabric or
paint various projects. Also, have on hand
calligraphy pens, marker pens, metallic pens,
colored pencils, #2 pencils, crayons and ballpoint
pens.
Organizers
Plastic organizers are great for storing small
notions and beads, and will keep everything neat and
separated. Buy a wooden thread tree to keep your
thread spools organized and ready when you need
them. A bobbin organizer will keep full bobbins from
being messy.
A portable sewing tray is handy if you want to work
outside your workshop, at a client's house, or in
your family room. Hand tools and other various
supplies can be stored in this useful tray.
Dispensers
For ease of dispensing, use wall-mounted or
shelf-mounted dispensers with wooden dowels for
ribbon, trims, bulk seam binding and other spooled
materials.
Clothespins
Buy good sturdy wooden hangers with metal clips for
hanging heavy garments. Clothespins are handy when
you need an extra hand, or need to keep sleeves from
slipping off a hanger. When using clothespins with
garments, slip a fold or two of tissue paper
underneath the clip end to prevent damage to the
garment. |
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