What supplies do I need for sewing?

What supplies do I need for sewing?

From the previous list of sewing supplies categories (Hyperlink: Top 8 categories of sewing supplies), you’ll need to select your tools according to your specific level of sewing:

• Whether you are a beginner or a professional
• Whether you are using a sewing machine or hand sewing

Advanced seamstress

Being able to sew on advanced industrial machines or use your own prestige skills is a great accomplishment. One thing that enhances this feeling is having the correct supplies by your side to match your skills. 

Whether you are an advanced seamstress running your own business or you are a worker in the textile industry- this is for you.  

Sewing supplies for industrial machines

What supplies do I need for my sewing machine?

As a professional seamstress/seamster, you need an industrial machine to perform high industry-quality tasks. Here are 10 sewing supplies you need for industrial/professional sewing machines:

• Pressure feet
• Lights
• Iron and Ironing board 
• Sewing gauge 
• Cutting set
• Buttonholer 
• Bobbin winders
• Thread stand
• Knee lifter
• Needle bar

Presser Feet 

High shank presser feet packs: For advanced sewing, you would need about 5 pressure feet minimum.

• A Non-Stick Foot allows you to work with harsh material without dragging and puckering.
• Cording foot gives you the ability to accurately attach thin decorative items to any project. 
• A foot that allows you to add finishing touches near zippers
• Hinged Straight Stitch Foot
• Edge Guide Hemming Foot

Lights

High-tech LED light: for advanced sewing, you want an LED light that protects your eyes from light damage. Usually, lights are built into the machine.

Iron and Ironing boards

An expert-finish anti-drip sewing iron: Professional users will be operating luxurious complex fabric. Thus you’ll need a professional iron with an expert finish, anti-drip, and heat press features.

Sewing gauge

In order to sew properly, you need to accurately measure distances on your fabric. This can be the distance to your buttons. Or distances between hems and pleats. 

Magnetic Sewing gauge– Pros can add a gauge with magnetic properties to ensure the edges of any material remain straight and in place.

Cutting set

Brother ScanNCut SDX1200 Cutting machine- why spend time cutting manually when there are professional machines out there that can do the job for you? With these machines, you can scan drawings, automatically detect material thickness as well as cut effortlessly. 

Buttonholer

Vintage Buttonholer- as a professional, you have too much on your hands already. This is why you need a buttonholer that will easily make beautiful buttonholes with no effort on your part.

Bobbin winders

Industrial bobbin winder- you no longer need to spend time winding thread on the bobbin. Bobbin winders spread bobbin thread in a way that matches the top sewing machine thread tension.

Thread stand

5 spool thread stand- this is a tool that places thread accurately. It allows you to pick spools and cones of any size. This organizes your colours with ease. 

Knee lifter

Free Hand System- control many things with a simple lift of the knee. You raise the pressure foot in this process. It allows you to control when it starts, when it stops, and at what speed it works.

Needle bar

Industrial needle bar- you insert the needle into this bar. It simultaneously forms the stitch and sews. An essential for sewing with ease. 

Sewing supplies for advanced level 

Professional seamstress sewing by hand

Are you a professional at sewing by hand? Top 10 advanced-level sewing tools you need: 

• Pattern cutting scissors
• Loop turner
• Bodkin
• Rotary cutter
• Cutting mat
• Thread snips
• Thread rack
• Magnetic Pin Cushion
• Sewing gauge
• French curve 

No machine? No problem. As a pro seamstress/seamster, you ARE the machine.

You already have the needles, the thread, the scissors- the basics are covered. If you’re looking for sewing supplies to spice up your current kit and to add more features to your projects, keep reading. 

Here are sewing tools you probably didn’t know you needed as a pro seamstress/seamster. 

Pattern cutting scissors

Micro-serrated scissors –  A seamstress/seamster can never have too many scissors. When you start working with slippery fabric like silk, you’ll want this scissor to hold the fabric for you while it cuts.

Loop turner

Loop turner –  this is ideal for when you want to make thin tubings, straps, and loops with ease. 

Bodkin

Bodkin open & closed set –  upgrade from safety pins, you’re a pro now! It helps you to thread cords or elastic into fabrics. It also helps you replace drawstrings. 

Rotary cutter

OLFA rotary cutter 60mm-  rotary cutters are the future of scissors. It allows accurate cutting on all materials and is very easy to use. 

Cutting mat 

A1, A2, or A3 cutting mats- a rotary cutter with a cutting mat is the ideal duo for any seamstress. 

Thread snips

 Spring thread snips-  replace those all-purpose scissors you bought as a beginner seamstress/seamster. Upgrade to thread snips. They have springs that allow you to snip the thread. Super easy handles.

Thread rack

60-Peg thread rack –  by now you probably have an endless collection of thread. You are running out of box space. Get a 60-peg thread rack to see all your threads simultaneously and organise your workspace. 

Magnetic Pin Cushion

Assorted magnetic pin cushion- you have so many other sewing tasks to worry about. You no longer need to worry about where your pins are.  

Sewing gauge

Sewing Gauge with inches- You don’t have to spend time estimating buttonhole placements ever again!

French curve

3 set pack french curves- take designing and drafting to the next level. Use these curves to transition smoothly between different patterns.

All things beginner sewing tools

What do I need for beginner sewing?

Beginner sewing can be challenging. It’s not easy navigating through which machine to buy, what fabric to use, and which project to start on. On top of that, you just read here that there are many sewing tools available- another burden added to your list of complicated sewing feats. 

Don’t get your threads in a twist! We have compiled an easy beginner’s guide on which sewing tools you need to get started as a beginner.

Sewing tools that make sewing easier

What equipment makes sewing easier and faster?

When choosing beginner sewing tools, make sure you always go the easy route. You want tools that make sewing easier and faster. All beginner tools allow you to sew with ease. 

Supplies needed for sewing by hand

Starting to sew is like starting a marriage. Something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue.

When you start your commitment to sewing you will need a similar set. Something to cut, something to pin, something for safety, and something to measure.

Tools beginners need for sewing by hand

What tools do I need to start sewing?

Top 10 essential supplies for beginners:

• Scissors 
• Quick unpick
• Fabric pen
• Tape measure
• Tester packs
• Fabric clips
• Needles
• Pins
• Pincushion
• Thimble 

Something to cut 

What is a good brand of sewing scissors? 

Multi-purpose scissors: Betacut Scissors are a good brand of sewing scissors. They come in various sizes. They have soft-grip handles and are rust-proof. They have titanium blades.

Something to rip 

Quick Unpick Seam rippers- Quickly unpick or rip unwanted stitches with this tool. It’s a must-have for beginner sewing. 

Something to mark

Blue fabric pen- ideal for marking any material and design. It helps you to navigate around working accurately. 

Something to measure

Tape measure- basic tape measures allow you to read off any length, width, and size. You don’t need any skills to operate it- very beginner-friendly. 

Something to test

Tester packs-  avoid making mistakes on your actual fabric. Use these testers to discover what works and what doesn’t work at the start of your sewing journey.

Something to clip

Fabric clips-  fabric clips make your sewing process easier. No need to focus all your energy on keeping things together or fabric slippage while you’re sewing. 

Something to stitch

Multi-pack Needles-  can’t sew without a needle. As a beginner, you will need a multi-pack needle set. Preferably a set that comes with an organising holder. 

Something to pin

Pins-  as a beginner you need to start off with two types of pins: safety pins and straight-headed pins. Pins are there to ensure you work accurately and with ease. 

Something to store 

Pincushion-  with your collection of assorted pins, you’ll need somewhere to store them safely. 

Something to protect

What is a thimble used for in sewing?

Thimble- A thimble is used in sewing as a barrier between your thumb and the needle.  Nothing is worse than sewing and accidentally pricking yourself. Get a pin of your liking to protect your thumb from your sharp needle. 

What is the most important sewing tool?

With a wide range of sewing tools, it’s confusing to determine which sewing tool is the most important. Although all supplies have a certain level of importance, there is one tool that sewing would be IMPOSSIBLE WITHOUT. Can you guess what it is? 

Sewing Needles

What is a must-have sewing tool? What is the most important sewing tool? Sewing needles. Sewing without a needle is like finding a needle in a haystack- nearly impossible. It brings your fabric, patterns, and thread together.

Both hand sewing and machine sewing aren’t possible with sewing needles. Since this tiny pointy tool is extremely essential, it’s just as essential to choose the right sewing needle.

Hand Sewing Needles vs Sewing-Machine Needles

What is the difference between a hand sewing needle and a machine needle? 

There are various differences between the two. The main difference between a hand sewing needle and a machine needle is the sizing numbers. Sizing numbers show the diameter of the needle. On machine needles, the smaller the number, the smaller the needle. On hand sewing needles, the bigger the number, the smaller the needle. 

The designs also differ. Hand sewing needles have a point on one end and an eye on the other. Machine needles have a more complicated design. 

What are the different types of hand needles?

• Quilting
• Cotton darners
• Ballpoint
• Upholstery
• Sharps
• Embroidery 
• Leather
• Beading
• Chenille
• Self-threading
• Tapestry

What are the different types of machine needles?

• Ballpoint needles
• Universal needles
• Embroidery needles
• Leather needles
• Metallic needles
• Denim needles
• Serger needles
• Microtext needles
• Stretch needles
• Quilting needles
• Topstitch needles
• Triple or twin needles
• Wing needles

How do you know what needle size to use?

Needles come in all shapes and sizes. You decide on sewing needle size based on:

• Sizing number
• Type of material
• Type of thread  

You no longer need to be confused about sizing. Needle manufacturers have placed sizing numbers on needles for your convenience! 

For both sewing machines and hand sewing, the size number determines the size.  On hand sewing needles, the bigger number indicates a smaller needle. It’s the opposite for machine needles. 

Picking needle size also depends on the material. The general rule is the thicker your fabric, the thicker your needle must be so that you can stitch with ease. 

The type of thread also determines your needle size. Smaller needles are used when you are using a delicate small thread. 

Why do my needles have two holes? 

Have you ever seen a needle with two holes? This is definitely confusing compared to the regular one hole for one thread system we are used to.

If your needle has two holes then it’s called a double-eyed needle. It has two eyes to help you thread. You can use two different threads to add texture and shading to your work.

These needles can be for embroidery and topstitching. It helps to produce decorative seams. It’s also used during darning. Another use is to join knitted pieces together or to move stitches. 

Are gold needles better for sewing? 

Are gold needles better for sewing? Yes. The gold coating isn’t just to make the needle shiny and pretty. Firstly, gold needles aren’t made of gold. They are just gold-plated. 

There are reasons why your needle is gold. Why are some needles gold?

•  For easy slippage through the fabric
• To resist corrosion 
• An alternative for someone with nickel allergy 
• Smooth stitching

What is the best sewing needle? 

With all this needle talk you might be wondering which needle is the best needle? Well, there are many things to consider when choosing a needle. However, there are a few qualities that take a needle from good to ON POINT. (pun intended)

The perfect needle has the following qualities:

• Corrosion-free
• Slides into the selected fabric with ease
• Stitches smoothly
• Does not damage fabric fibers
• Creates perfect sized holes in the fabric
• Does not damage the thread

One needle that meets all these qualities and beyond is Schmetz needles. The best sewing needle is Schmetz sewing needles.

Why Schmetz is the best sewing needle

Schmetz is known internationally as the best sewing machine needle manufacturing brand. They provide high-quality and luxurious needles. 

These needles are perfected with detail and features that suit different fabrics specifically. Schmetz has a needle for every project for any seamstress. 

The types of Schmetz sewing needles available for sewing machines:

• Universal needles
• Denim needles
• Leather needles
• Twin needles
• Triple needles
• Metallic needles
• Double Eye needles
• Embroidery needles
• Quilting needles
• Quick Threading needles
• Stretch needles

Want to know more about Schmetz sewing needles? Click here. 

What do the colours on sewing machine needles mean? 

How to read Schmetz needle colour charts:

Just when you thought you knew everything about needles, a new interesting fact pops up! Did you know needles are also colour-coded?

What makes Schmetz needles so brilliant is the fact that they focus on user convenience. They achieve this in many ways and one of those ways is through a colour chart.

So how do you read it? Well, there are two levels of colour. The bottom level colour describes the size and the top level describes the type. 

Here’s how to read the Schmetz needle colour chart.

1. Start with needle type. You read it off the top band. 
2. Now read the needle size. It is in NM/SIZE and is at the bottom layer. 

Everything you need to know about a sewing kit 

What is a sewing kit? 

In simple terms, a sewing kit is a bag or box filled with everything you need to sew. It is the brush to your makeup collection, the ink to your pen, and the camera to all your photoshoots- it is essential in the process. 

It is usually small so that you can carry it wherever you need it. A sewing kit is your one-stop-shop for all your sewing needs. It is usually personal, according to your sewing needs. 

What is the difference between sewing kit and sewing equipment?

A sewing kit and sewing equipment are different compared to each other. 

A sewing kit is a package containing all the sewing supplies you need on hand. Whereas sewing equipment is larger components that you use to sew.

What materials do you need for a sewing kit?

• The main box or bag you’ll put everything in
• Cutting tools
• Marking tools 
• Safety and clipping tools  
• Stitching tools

How to build your sewing kit

There are 2 types of sewing kits:

• Homemade sewing kit

• Emergency sewing kit

Homemade sewing kits are put together in your workspace. Whether it is at your home or your sewing office. It can consist of bigger parts because it doesn’t need to be portable. In this kit, your options are endless because you can store your tools just about anywhere you want to. 

Emergency kits are much different. They are meant to be small, minimalist, and portable. They just contain your basic essentials and are used when you are in need or on the go. 

How do you make a homemade sewing kit?

Follow the link for more DIY ideas.

Homemade sewing kits are essential. It helps you organise your sewing workspace and ensures you have all the tools you need. 

The best home sewing kits are clear jars. They can stand up on your sewing desk and you can decorate them. You can also see inside without opening them up. 

For abundance purposes, you can have 5 different home sewing kits for each category of sewing: a kit for cutting tools, one for stitching supplies, another for measuring tools, a box of various thread and bobbins. 

You can even incorporate a space in your home where you can keep an iron, ironing board and steamer. 

How do I make an emergency sewing kit?

How do you make a traveling sewing kit? How do you make a mini sewing kit? These are all emergency sewing kits. The key here is to keep it on an essential basis. Small, simple, and portable. 

What you’ll need for an emergency sewing kit:

• A small holder (tiny bag, empty small container, etc)
• Fold up scissors
• A few assorted buttons
• Some safety pins
• A few plastic head pins
• A pack of hand sewing needles
• Main thread colours (black, white, caramel)

You can add a small cushion or card in which you can easily store the pins, needles, and safety pins. Learn how to make an emergency sewing kit.

How do you make a kit organiser?

Sewing accessories kit

A kit organiser is usually a bag with all your accessories organised. It’s foldable and can normally be hung up.

How to make a kit organiser:

1. Find sturdy fabric with a pattern you like
2. Cut it into a square
3. Use the rest of the fabric to stitch pockets inside
4. Attach a zipper if you’d like

Now you can have all your ducks in a row and all your thread in place! You can add your own variations. Instead of a fabric bag, you could use a box and add dividers in it. Or instead of fabric pockets, you can stitch in some stretchy material to hold your supplies. 

What tools should be included in a sewing kit? 

What should I buy for my first sewing machine?

These are the 16 essential tools for your beginner sewing kit. Whether you are starting off with hand sewing or with a sewing machine, you should invest in some if not all of these tools for your sewing kit.

• Thread
• Clear ruler
• Seam gauge
• Scissors
• Fabric marker
• White tailor’s chalk
• Tape measure
• Fabric clip
• Bobkin
• Seam guide
• Needle threader
• Pincushion
• Hand needles
• Pins
• Quick unpick
• Point turner 

Build your sewing kit with Fabric8 

Build your ideal sewing kit with Fabric8.

Fabric8 has the following categories suitable for your sewing kit:

• Sewing tools and gadgets
• Tools and pliers
• Arts and craft
• Pattern making
• Sewing machine accessories

With unlimited options and amazing prices, you can build your sewing kit in no time. From different sizes, shapes and colours- your options are wide. Fabric8 handpicked all the best brands to ensure your sewing kit will only consist of the best on the market! Shop Fabaric8!

10 types of sewing tools you absolutely need:

• Both sewing machine needles and hand sewing needles
• Variety of sewing scissors
• Rotary cutter and rotary mat
• Tape measure
• Tailor’s chalk
• Pins- various kinds
• Thread
• Seam ripper
• Bobbin
• Iron and ironing board

How do I maintain sewing tools?

Now that you know exactly which tools you need, you need to learn how to maintain them in tip-top shape.

Top 10 ways to take care of sewing supplies:

• Scissors care: always keep them clean and dry. Ensure you use them for their intended purpose and keep them sharp.

• Shears care: never let the shear drop or be hit. Make sure they are metal for higher quality.

• Pin care: ensure you have a safe storage space for all pins to prevent bending.

• Material care: only use respective tools for specific materials

• Iron care: ensure your iron is always cleaned to prevent residue build-up

• Bobbin care: make sure you always dust this case

• Machine care: never leave your machine plugged in unattended. Read your manual on how to accurately clean your machine. 

• Presser foot care: ensure you leave it down to maintain spring longevity.

• Thread care: when you use high-quality thread, you protect both your machine and your material.

•  Fabric care: store in a safe space away from dirt and dust. Ensure you use the iron on the correct settings to prevent burning. Make sure you use the appropriate needle for the specific fabric to avoid large holes and damage. 

Finishing touches 

Sewing supplies near me

Are you in South Africa? Looking for sewing supplies near you? Look no further. With the tap of a few buttons, you can have sewing supplies by your door with Fabric8. 

From tools and cutters all the way to luxurious sewing machines, Fabric8 has all the tools you need. Visit: https://fabric8.co.za 

Buy your sewing kit at Fabric8

Sewing accessories online 

Embarking on your sewing journey can be challenging. As if picking out a sewing machine wasn’t tough enough, now you still need to build your own sewing kit. When does the workload end!

Don’t fret. If you don’t want to go through the trouble of making your own sewing kit, just shop online at Fabric8. These sewing kits are hand-picked and perfected just for you- whether you are a beginner or an expert.