Ever wondered what sewing tools people are really using so that you don't get sucked into buying tools that are just pretty but not practical? Whether you're just starting or have been sewing forever, having the right tools at your fingertips makes sewing a lot easier and a lot more enjoyable. Today, I’m sharing my favourite sewing room essentials that I use all the time. These are the tools that make my projects smoother, faster, and more fun.
Ok, let's have a look at what I use and why I like them. Of course there are loads more things that I use, but these are just a few of my favs! Keep reading to see why I like these items and shop the links to grab them for yourself!
- Clapper
Makes Your Seams Super Flat: When you use a clapper with steam, it helps press your seams really flat and crisp, giving your projects a professional finish.
No More Shiny Fabric Marks: Unlike an iron, a wooden clapper won’t leave those annoying shiny marks on your fabric, so it’s perfect for delicate materials like silk or wool.
If you’re working with thick fabrics like denim or wool, the clapper helps flatten bulky seams, making it easier to sew through multiple layers.
Keeps Seams Pressed Longer: The weight of the clapper helps lock in the press, so you don’t have to keep going over the same spot. Your seams will stay flat for longer!
Apply the striker immediately after steam ironing and press down firmly for 10-15 seconds. The clapper then absorbs the steam and sets your fold or seam.
- 45mm Rotary Cutter
A must-have for any sewist, rotary cutter ensures clean, precise cuts every time. I love how it glides smoothly through fabric, making cutting out patterns quicker
Easy squeeze handle exposes the blade and self-retracts for safety. You could have two rotary cutters- one for paper and one for fabric.- Clover Wonder Clips
Pins are great, but these little clips? Game-changer. Perfect for holding layers of fabric together without distorting the material, especially when working with delicate or thick fabrics. Great for slippery fabrics too! Love these clips.
Shop it here
- L shaped Metal Ruler
If you love precise cutting like me, this ruler is your best friend. It’s perfect for measuring straight lines, or even making your own patterns.
You'd be hard pressed to break this ruler !
- Patternmaking Ruler
Saves Time: By having multiple functions (straight lines, curves, and angles) in one tool, you save time switching between different rulers or measuring tools when drafting or adjusting patterns.
It has built in seam allowances is makes it easy to mark on paper.
- Mechanical Pencils
It may seem small, but these mechanical pencils are one of my favorite inexpensive tools for marking patterns. Mechanical pencils are precise, don’t smudge, and you never have to sharpen them!
- Tailor’s Chalk
I've always use tailor’s chalk as it allows for clean, temporary markings on fabric. I prefer the triangular pieces of tailors chalk because they’re easy to hold and create precise lines.
- Half Scale Dress Form
Say hello to my secret weapon, Lil Jackie! This adjustable dress form helps me visualize fit and style on a 3D scale. She's perfect for designing patterns or testing garment alterations. I like a half scale dummy with arms as you can practice sleeves that way.
- Self-Healing Cutting Mat
Durability meets practicality with this self-healing mat. I use it for cutting out patterns with my rotary cutter. It protects my table and ensures smooth, accurate cuts. I also have my sewing machine sitting on a self healing mat one too.
- Glass Head Pins
These pins are fantastic because they glide through fabric smoothly and can withstand the heat of an iron. Plus, the glass heads make them easy to spot.
If you have the funds buy way more glass head pins than you think you'll need as guaranteed you will want more.
11. Seam Ripper
Every sewist knows that mistakes happen. In my case often!! That’s why a good seam ripper is the thing I use a lot. Even though I have several seam rippers, I can never find one!
12. Eraser/Rubber
I use erasers for correcting errors I have drawn when altering my purchased sewing patterns or when drafting new ones.
13. Machine Foot Set
Your sewing machine ships with a few of the essential feet, but you'll find out that you need and want way more. You can buy a sewing presser foot set, but you need to make sure they will fit your model of machine.
14. Tailoring Scissors
My final must-have is a high-quality pair of tailoring scissors. You want your scissors to be very sharp and sturdy enough cut through even thick fabrics with ease, and to be comfortable in use.
Creating your dream sewing room kit doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re starting sewing or are looking to upgrade your tools, I hope this list has helped you out. Comment below if you'd like to see more of my sewing room heroes.
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