Starter Sewing Supply List
Here's a list of supplies to get started!
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Sewing Machines:
This budget option is a great budget option, the only thing you’re giving up is some ease of use - aka you have to set the stitch settings yourself and there isn’t any speed control. But, it’s perfect for a beginner on a budget!
This machine is the one I use in my workshops - it’s computerized so it helps you out with the settings, and you can control the speed with the slider on the front!
This sewing and embroidery machine is extra fun if you have a little bit bigger budget - it does everything you need it to for sewing PLUS you can switch to embroidery! (Fun Fact: This was my first “serious” machine!)
This Serger is a wonderful and very popular serger that I have personally used for years and is a great mix of value and reliability!
Sewing Machine Needles:
The basic types that I use for most projects are:
Universal for woven or non-stretch fabric
Stretch for stretchy fabric
Denim for heavy fabric
Psst - You need the change your needle every 8-ish hours of sewing!
Bobbins:
This will vary based on your machine, so make sure you find one that works with your brand. Here are the ones for the machines listed above!
Cutting:
It's important to have a good, sharp pair of scissors to cut fabric. Make sure you only use these on fabric, as paper and other materials can dull them quickly. Here are some great options that I have personally used:
Gingher Fabric Scissors
The prettier version if that matters to you! (it does to me!)
Pinking Sheers to finish edges
Snips for easy spring action repeated small cutting (not necessary but fun!)
Rotary Cutter and Mat: This is another option to cut fabric that is quicker and easier in a lot of ways, but you don't NEED them - just a fun way to better your sewing experience. It helps signifcantly when you’re cutting wiggly stretch fabric or trying to cut precise quilting pieces!
Pins & Clips:
Sewing Pins Your classic sewing pins - useful for pinning fabric together before you cut!
Glass head pins that won't melt under an iron!
Sewing Clips They do the same thing as sewing pins, but won't poke you! I mostly use these, but keep in mind that you may still need pins for anything that you need to pin in the middle of the garment (For example, a shirt pocket)
Thread:
Sew-all Thread Gutermann is a little more high quality thread brand and won't shed and cause as much lint in your sewing machine
Dual Duty by Coats & Clark is a class budget thread
Cotton Thread is what most quilters use - since most quilts are made with 100% cotton fabric!
Serger Thread for, of course, your serger! You’ll generally need to buy 4 cones for your serger.
Notions:
Seam Ripper You need this! We all make mistakes!
Soft Measuring Tape Great for measuring yourself!
Acrylic Ruler Not totally necessary, but really handy for making straight edges - works hand in hand with the rotary cutter and mat.
Seam Gauge Important for measuring seam allowance.
Chalk You can use these to draw or mark on your fabric, and it will wash or rub away!
An iron An important sewing tool to make your projects look more professional and finished! Make sure you get one that has a steam setting. If you don't have an ironing board, you can just use a folded towel.