Whether you’re new to sewing or have been a dedicated hobbyist for years, having the right tools can make all the difference in your craft. While there are plenty of basic supplies like thread and needles that every sewer relies on, there are also a few items that, while not absolutely essential, are incredibly helpful to have in your collection. Below, we’re discussing a few sewing items that are nice to have and worth considering.
Rotary Cutter and Mat for Precise Cutting
A rotary cutter and mat may not be the first tools you think of when assembling your sewing kit, but many sewers quickly discover how invaluable they are. The rotary cutter works similarly to a pizza cutter but is specifically designed to slice through fabric cleanly.
Paired with a self-healing cutting mat, this duo allows you to make precise cuts without risking damage to surfaces or fabric. This tool is especially valuable for quilters who need accuracy when cutting pieces for intricate designs.
Seam Ripper To Correct Mistakes
Even the most experienced sewers occasionally make mistakes, which is when a seam ripper becomes your best friend. This sewing item is not only nice to have but also makes quick work of undoing stitches without damaging the fabric.
If you’ve found yourself in a situation where a seam is off by just a fraction of an inch—or if you’ve accidentally sewn two pieces together that shouldn’t be—this tool will save you headaches.
Fabric Scissors for Clean Cuts
If you’ve been sewing with standard scissors, upgrading to high-quality fabric scissors is a game changer. Fabric scissors are specifically designed to cut through textiles easily, giving you clean and precise edges every time.
Invest in a dedicated pair of fabric scissors and resist the urge to use them for cutting anything other than fabric. Even small tasks, like trimming thread or snipping curves, feel smoother with sharp, well-made scissors designed for the task.
Pins and a Handy Pincushion
Whether you’re piecing together fabric for a dress or holding layers in place on a quilt, pins are an indispensable part of sewing. They keep everything aligned so that you can sew without worry.
Combine these with a pincushion for easy organization and accessibility. Magnetic pincushions are particularly handy—just sweep up dropped pins in one motion.
Extra Tips for Quilters and Curious Minded Creators
If you’re embarking on your quilting journey, expect your first quilting class to be full of hands-on practice with tools like rotary cutters, seam rippers, and cutting mats. You’ll also get the chance to explore the beauty of precut quilting fabrics. These bundles of precisely cut fabric pieces will save time while offering a variety of patterns and sizes, making them a favorite for quilters at any level.
When it comes to sewing, having the right tools can elevate your craft beyond simple functionality. Whether it’s investing in a rotary cutter or exploring the convenience of precut quilting fabrics, these additions build your skills and confidence as a sewer. Start with a handful of these items, and you’ll be stitching with ease and precision in no time!
