In Stitches

What sewing essentials does a beginner need?

Ihave often been asked, ‘What sewing essentials does a beginner need?’ There is so much to choose from, and what does a sewer really need? Here are my essentials;

1 - Tailoring / Dressmaking shears. These shears lie flat against the table, with the handle, pivoted upward. This makes it easier to keep fabric on the surface as you cut. The angled handle makes it easier to hold, so no more uncomfortable wrist bends. 2 - Box Set of Thread. A good thread makes a huge difference to the finished result and the life of a project, and in fact can make a huge difference in your sewing machine (or hand sewing). The weight and the twist are a complicated math mystery, so just go with a brand name you can trust, like Gutermann, Coats and Mettler. Gutermann now make their threads from recycled plastic!

3 - Seam Gauge / Rulers are something I use often. Measuring small areas, hems and cuffs, zip widths, seam allowances and even drawing around patchwork pieces is so much easier with a ruler. 4 - A Clapper is hugely under rated and under used. I use mine on almost everything I press (crucial to a great finish). A clapper is just a piece of hard wood (Beech is ideal - look in timbers yard). Watch my YouTube tutorial on how to make one for you. 5 - A mini iron and teflon finger tips for a crisp edge and finish. The teflon fingers are a great plus to save your fingertips from scalding, or when you need to hold onto the fabric very close to the iron. Try to stay eco-friendly. Many products are still sold in plastic blister packs. We want to steer clear of those companies and encourage the wave of newcomers, endorsing a much greener way. So, if you’re looking to buy a gift for someone special (and that’s right - I am talking about you! :-) ), then look me up on Youtube for great time saving tips and inexpensive ways to achieve great results in your projects. Keep up-cycling, and repurposing. Local thrift and charity shops have wonderful sewing sections, filled with patterns and fabrics. Have a great sewing day and keep smiling!

Abi x

(Dedicated to my dearly missed sewing friend, Janet Rothwell)

https://www.facebook.com/AbisSewingDen/ @Abis.Den Machine Services www.Abisden.Com YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/AbisDen http://abisden.blogspot.co.uk

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