7 Must Have Sewing Tools for Beginners
Must have sewing tools to make your sewing life easier.
When I first started sewing, I would lay my fabric out on the floor and use regular scissors to cut. The things I was making back then did not require a perfectly straight cut so it didn’t really matter. But once I discovered that I loved to make handbags and all kinds of accessories, I was always searching for ways to make my sewing life easier and save time! There are a ton of tools out there and I’m sure you will find what you are the most comfortable with. I would like to share the tools I have learned are the must have sewing tools for beginners.
For even more sewing tool options, check out 5 more must have sewing tools and 8 tools to add to your collection.
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Sewing Machine
The sewing machine is, in my opinion, the most important sewing tool you will own. I paid $8 for my first sewing machine at a garage sale. It was an awesome find – I was so excited! It lasted for years and was a good machine. But like anything else you use over and over, it started acting up. The straight stitch wasn’t always straight anymore. I decided it was time to invest in a new machine, but I didn’t want to spend thousands of dollars. I didn’t need anything fancy and I didn’t need a bunch of different stitch options.
After doing some research and reading review, I kept coming back to the Singer Heavy Duty 4411. It has 11 built in stitches and a metal frame. I use it every day and it’s an absolute work horse. If you need a machine that has more stitch options, there are other models available with more built in stitches – the Singer Heavy Duty 4423 has 23 built-in stitches and the Singer Heavy Duty 4432 has 32 built-in stitches.
Fabric Scissors
A good pair of fabric scissors is a must have! When I say a good pair of scissors, I’m not talking about the same scissors you use to cut paper and other items. I’m talking about fabric scissors that are nice and sharp and are only used to cut fabric. A few years ago, my husband researched and bought me the Gingher brand fabric scissors I’m still using today! I only use them for fabric and these scissors are still as sharp as ever. You don’t really know how bad you need them until you start using them! It is life changing (well for a sewer it is)!
Rotary Cutter, Cutting Mat and Clear Ruler
I didn’t even know these sewing tools existed when I first started sewing! Glad I discovered the Fiskars 45mm rotary cutter, the Fiskars 24 x 36 inch cutting mat, and the Fiskars 6 x 24 inch clear ruler and use them for every one of my sewing projects. They are a huge time saver because I don’t pin patterns to my fabric. I just write down the dimensions for my handbags and accessories, then I cut them. Definite must haves!
Sewing Table
The sewing table is not an absolute necessity, but it is awesome if you can get one. My coffee table was my first sewing table and it was back breaking. I invested in a cheaper sewing table, and it didn’t last very long. I finally did myself a favor and invested in a decent table. The one I found is by Sew Ready Studio Designs and has two baskets and a shelf underneath which is great for extra storage. I’m happy with how sturdy the table is and the ability to fold the sides down is a bonus.
Steam Iron
Irons can be so expensive and I wanted a good iron without breaking the bank. My husband did all the research on a good iron and gave me the Pur Steam Iron for Christmas. This iron puts out a ton of steam and is leak-free. What can I say, he did an excellent job!
Hope this helps! For more sewing tips, check out my post 7 Sewing Hacks Every Sewer Should Know and be sure to sign up for my newsletter. Thanks and happy sewing!
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