Getting Started with Sewing – Tools & Equipment

I’m so happy to see that sewing as a hobby is still gaining momentum. The freedom to sew something you truly like, using materials that align with your own values—there’s something incredibly empowering about that. I believe the growing popularity of sewing is also partly due to the increasing conversations around sustainability—from every angle and in every aspect of life.

Of course, sewing is also (mostly) a calming and enjoyable activity in itself, and it comes with a practical outcome—whether it’s something to wear or something to beautify your home.

In any case, I want to encourage beginner sewists and share which tools I believe make sewing smoother and more enjoyable.

Here they come!

*Tools marked with an asterisk are especially important if you plan to sew a lot with knit fabrics.

Fabric scissors – To cut fabric comfortably, it’s important to have sharp scissors that you can rest against the table while cutting. One of the most accessible and high-quality options for this are the Fiskars Classic series (pictured) or other tailoring scissors.
Paper scissors – For cutting paper or paper patterns, any household scissors will do. The main thing is that you don’t use your fabric scissors to cut paper, as this will dull the blades of your fabric scissors.
Thread scissors, thread snips – Sharp thread scissors are great for keeping your work free of stray threads as you go along. With a little practice, you can also easily use them to unravel stitches.
Soft measuring tape – soft in the sense that it doesn’t leave sharp creases that could throw off your measurements. A stiff measuring tape can be uncomfortable to handle. Prym or HoehcstMass are reliable brands to go for!
Soft fabric chalk – there are many different types of chalk, and many of them are quite hard and dry. It’s really difficult to draw with poor-quality chalk. I recommend either Prym or Narca Forbice Original chalks.
Pins with loops – actually, the looped head isn’t that important (though I like them because they are flat, and with the loop, you can grab the pin from a corner using a second pin). The main thing is that the pin isn’t too thick, doesn’t bend easily, and is sharp!
Quality hand needles – when sewing, it’s inevitable that you’ll need to hand-sew from time to time. To make this task easier, I recommend using sharp and good-quality hand needles. Some people prefer longer needles, while others like shorter ones. To find out what works best for you, you can start with a pack that includes needles of various lengths. Personally, I love John James needles.
Fabric weights – Although I mostly use pins to secure patterns to fabric, these weights are often used in my work. Mainly because paper patterns or pattern paper are typically stored rolled up. They’re also great for planning the layout of the fabric. My favorites are large washers from the hardware store.
Cotton thread for basting – Sometimes basting is necessary, and it’s best done with cotton thread because it can be easily removed later without tearing the fabric. Regular polyester thread is much stronger, so you need to be more careful when removing it to avoid damaging the fabric. Many people have cotton threads lying around in their drawers (or maybe your mom or grandma does). If not, you can always check out a second-hand store.
Triangle template – This is very handy for marking seam allowances on fabric. As you can see, the longer side has lines spaced 0.5 cm apart. By placing this along the cutting line on the fabric, you can quickly draw precise seam allowances.
Patchwork ruler* – This is also very handy for marking seam allowances, and it allows for quick and precise cutting of small details like neckline bands, cuffs, and other small parts, especially on stretchy fabrics. Olfa rulers are great and a bit thicker than those from other brands. For home use, a 15×30 cm ruler should be sufficient.
Rotary cutter* – A rotary cutter works in conjunction with a patchwork ruler and cutting mat. The most common size is a 45mm diameter blade. I use the Olfa brand for mine.
Cutting mat* – You can’t use a rotary cutter without a cutting mat, as the blade is very sharp. A cutting mat is necessary to protect both your cutter and the surface you’re working on. I recommend a 45x30cm mat if you’re short on space, or a 45x60cm mat if you’re planning for future use.
Steam iron – An iron is definitely an essential tool when sewing, and it should be right next to your sewing machine! You sew, press, sew, press. And it’s true! Try it, and you’ll be amazed at how much easier sewing becomes. I followed the recommendation and purchased the Philips Azur series iron, and I haven’t regretted it. It’s a very nice home iron.

These are the tools I personally use every day, and hopefully, they’ll become favorites for those attending my courses as well. I’ll also demonstrate the use of these tools in my “Sewing for Beginners” course, which I plan to offer again next spring/winter. What else can you find in my syllabus? Hmm, lots of interesting things, but today we’ll stick to just the tools!