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Sewing
Sewing Supplies
Will a Fair Amount of Sewing Supplies Influence the Quality of Every Fashion Project?
Sewing supplies are what we start and finish with when working on a fashion project.
Truth be told: they are our companions through the whole sewing process. And what’s the characteristic of the best buddy you can think of?
What about:
-
- reliable,
- helpful,
- fun to be with?
Go through the best sewing tips and tricks to see what you can do with a solid set of sewing supplies. See also 10 reasons to start sewing clothes if you’re not there yet! As soon as you’re in, learn to sew in a blink of an eye with our attentive guidance.
Image source: Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
Table of Contents
Sewing accessories―a brief checklist
To have an idea of what we’re talking about, let’s see what sewing supplies are.
For a 15-pieces long list of essential sewing supplies go to DoItYourselfSkills. Otherwise, stay with us, and let’s go through it together.
We have also prepared an article on sewing kit essentials―don’t hesitate to check it out.
Image source: Contrado
Before all else, let’s crack the “sewing supplies” definition.
This half-an-hour-long ‘Must-have beginner sewing supplies’ video is great at explaining the case. Also, having friends in the field (even virtual ones) pumps up the whole experience.
Sewing supplies―what are they?
Let’s deal with names and definitions of sewing stuff at first.
| type | description | examples |
|
Sewing equipment (check also this link tackling “85 sewing terms and phrases you need to know” by Contrado) |
refers to:
See these sewing room ideas to learn how to arrange the place with heavy sewing equipment best. |
1. sewing machine, 2. an iron, 3. serger, 4. steamer; |
| Sewing tools |
|
1. scissors, 2. pins, and a pincushion, 3. a seam ripper, 4. a measuring tape, 5. a marking device
6. needles (hand and sewing machine), 7. bobbins for sewing machines |
| Sewing supplies, also known as notions |
We will list all of them later, so be patient. Check this sewing kit blog to have a proper introduction. |
The difference between supplies and tools is minimal. For instance, the thread will belong in the “supplies” category rather than “tools.” |
Why “notions”? (linguistic curiosity for volunteers)
The root of “notion” is the Latin word “notio” (“noscere” means “to know”). “Notion” has a semantic association with ideas and whims. They, in turn, led to “notion” referring to a “bright idea” or “clever invention”. This is how people started using the word “notions” in late 18th century America to mean “cheap, useful articles” sold in shops. (read more on Word Detective). How did we go from that to calling “notions” basic sewing accessories? The path becomes understandable when you think of how popular sewing was. Almost every woman used to sew at home. Clothing was fixed rather than bought new in case of spoilage. So these “bright ideas” scattered around stores became “sewing notions”.
Image source: Contrado
Sewing notions―the main division
The word has spread: sewing is all about ideas and inventions. And you have sewing supplies to make it happen.
Let’s make an order around the term to know what it entails. AllFreeSewing gave us a hand in creating this list.
Have a look at this compressed summary of all the groups of sewing essentials.
| Groups of sewing supplies’ | Examples |
| Basic sewing tools |
|
| Cutting tools for sewing |
|
| Fasteners and closures |
|
| Hand sewing tools |
|
| Machine sewing tools |
|
| Trims and tapes |
|
| Marking tools |
|
| Sewing needles |
Read more about sewing needles on TakeLessons. |
| Measuring tools |
|
| Pressing tools |
|
As you see, if you’re trying to learn how to sew, you’ll first have to become acquainted with an expert dictionary.
Image source: WeAllSew
Sewing supplies in a kit and where to buy sewing supplies
When it comes to basic sewing kits for your easy beginner sewing projects, go for one of these:
-
- Sewing starter kits
- John Lewis & Partners Floral Dove Print Zipped Sewing Kit
- Modern Simplicity retro wooden sewing starter kit
- Sturme Starter Sewing Kit
- Leather starter kit
- Sew your own wardrobe kits
- Sew your own Linen Tunic
- DIY Mini Leather Tote bag kit
- Full circle skirt dressmaking kit
- Make your own Girl’s Skater Skirt Kit
- Toy sewing kits
- Nanuq the Fishing Eskimo Toy sewing kit
- The Crafty Kit Company – 3 Felt Kitties Sewing Kit
- Doll making kit
- Clara and Macy Robin sewing kit
- Needlecraft sewing kits
- Be Kind embroidery kit
- Hannah Bass Alphabet Tapestry Kit
- Sashiko stitching kit (read a blog Introducing sashiko kits, patterns, and supplies)
- The Modern Crafter Summer Swallows embroidery kit
- Home sewing kits for beginners
- Patchwork star cushion kit
- LOVE cushion sewing kit
- Olive Road Vintage Lampshade kit
- Janet Clare Sewing Kit
- Sewing starter kits
Are you wondering where to buy sewing materials? Or rather where to buy sewing supplies online? Have a glimpse at all the available options at Gathered.How. It also mentions where to get them from. Sewing notions online are super available these days. Keep in mind that distance is not an issue anymore. You can buy sewing supplies online with a couple of clicks.
Image source: WeAllSew
Do you wish to create something personal? The instructions and sewing kits’ concepts mentioned above may be perfect for you.
Not only you have all the sewing supplies provided. You can easily add the individual touch to these sewing products.
And we don’t have to mention how precious your projects will be.
Check the upcycling clothes article if you have already swallowed the bait of a never-ending creative flow.
Learn more about sewing supplies to be able to bring these marvelous projects to life.
Image source: Quora
Organizing sewing supplies
Having sewing materials gathered in one place is one thing. Organizing them in a way that makes sewing easier is a whole other enterprise.
Let’s have a look at a few smart sewing notions and supplies arrangement ideas. See more on AllPeopleQuilt.
Image source: AllPeopleQuilt
Yet, before we get into organizing sewing supplies, let’s see what we can do with our ready-to-go projects.
SuperLabelStore is the best place to ask about it!
Do you know these custom woven labels or care labels? With their help, it’s now possible to turn a random piece of homemade clothing into a professional item. You can order them with no effort online!
There is one thing you need to know before you start: going from a sewing hobby to successful sewing business can happen faster than you expected. So hold on tight!
Just imagine your friends and family faces when they see your brand-new garment with a custom label on it.
There are different types of woven labels. Finding one closest to your heart shouldn’t take long.
Fabric and sewing supplies online have been hanging there for decades. No wonder the time for woven labels came as well.
Image source: Reuben Kim on Unsplash
Why is it worth giving SuperLabelStore a try?
The brands’ mission is to supply sustainable, affordable, and customized solutions for customers. That already sounds fresh and convincing, doesn’t it?
The core beauty of this brand is the care for individuals.
You don’t have to represent hotels, the hospitality industry, or be an importer with a worldwide reach.
You can as well be a small clothing brand, fashion designer, textile fanatic, or a home-based seamstress.
You can custom label everything.
Given that fast fashion comes to an end, it’s a DIY generation that takes over the market. SuperLabelStore is here to make it happen.
Ready to organize your fabric and sewing supplies?
We will make our first steps WithWendy from YouTube. Going from messy to tidy is not so hard after all.
This is how it looks in real life.
Yet, we still love tables with great ideas gathered in one place! This is where we can let our imagination juices flow.
If you’re still wondering where to buy sewing accessories, think about Wendy’s tips. Neighborhood clothes exchange is an amazing way to be sustainable as a collective. If one person makes a difference, imagine the whole neighborhood! Read more about upcycling clothes and get the idea rolling before it’s too late.
Let’s see a few tips by AllPeopleQuilt on how to organize a decent and innovative sewing supplies set.
| idea | description |
| Corral catchalls |
Drawers are fast to become a home for a mess. The most genuine one. Keep your tools or sewing supplies in place with the use of small containers (have you ever heard of Matryoshka dolls?). Felt or silicon dividers are best to keep this new-born inner organism untouched. The material’s delicacy will help protect drawers and tools from damage. Keep the most used notions in the top drawer. Analogically, the less used―store on the bottom (for example sewing machine instructions). |
| Hang around |
You can use a lot of vertical space in your room with the help of a pegboard. It’s handy to keep notions close and off your work table at the same time. You can choose a plenitude of options for creative, movable design. Attach it to the wall and adjust all the:
every time you feel like it. |
| Perk up with paint |
Your space can have a tidy vibe also if it’s put in order on the visual level. In other words, it should be a pleasure to look at it. Paint a pegboard and hanging spool rack in a single color. Display the thread you use most on the thread holder. Choose colors that fit together! Store extra, not-fitting spools in closed containers or drawers. |
| On the hook |
The simplest tool known to man―a hook―is grossly underappreciated. Use a couple of Command hooks to attach rulers and templates to the edge of your cutting table. It costs you nothing and your workspace will become the tidiest place on the planet. While you still have your sewing items at hand. |
| Magnetic type |
Another golden idea that paves you a path from sewing hobby to successful sewing business. Don’t overlook these smart sewing hacks―the devil is in the detail. Success seems more approachable when the road is smooth. Let’s dig again into your cozy drawer. Upgrade it with strips of magnetic tape on the unused interior sides. You won’t believe how many different tools this tape can hold::
At this point, you can even cut the tape to the size of your cutting tools so it becomes invisible! One genius idea brings another. The tape comes in various widths and strengths, so you’re free to experiment. |
These are only five fancy ideas to organize sewing supplies.
On AllPeopleQuilt you’ll find another 14, so get ready for the ride of your life!
Image source: Vlady Nykulyak on Unsplash
Sewing supplies and tips for success in sewing
Are you still with us? That makes you a potential reader of 35 intermediate sewing projects and advanced sewing techniques. These articles will take you to the higher level of the sewing skills ladder.
We’re about to get to the icing on the cake.
Keep tabs on the tips for successful sewing listed below. Stay comfortable and relaxed in your sewing chair. Let’s break this issue down together.
We borrowed some pieces of advice from SewMeCrazy and TheSewingDirectory.
Here’s what to do (and what not to do) if you’re on your way to becoming a pro:
-
- Sew with a small magnet nearby. Every time you drop or lose a needle or pin, wave it around. They will get back like a boomerang!
- Recognize your sewing preferences. What are your interests and inspirations? What do you want to achieve? Is going from a sewing hobby to successful sewing business your case? Or maybe you’re just loving it and doing it for yourself and no one else? Know thyself to the very core before you get to the serious sewing.
- When sewing multiple layers, instead of pins, use small bulldog clips (or Wonder Clips). They will protect your fabric better. They will also save you from bending. They are easier to apply and your fingers will thank you.
Image source: Pinterest
4. Get yourself a serger. A good serger changes lives and career paths. They are easy to use if you follow the instructions. The minute you have one, you’ll wonder what took you so long. The minute after you’ll throw your pinking shears out the window.
See the video below where Alicia explains how to use a serger:
5. Measure twice, cut once!
6. Learn to say no. Sewing fabric can be fun (and usually is) given that you are eager to do it. Sewing an item when you don’t feel like doing it is the worst option. Do your friends or family push you into making a sewed gift? If you have no enthusiasm for it―don’t do it! Repeat with us:
-
- “No. $50 is a decent price for that sweater. Buy it in the store.”
- “No, I cannot make this easy and quick curtains project for you.”
- “No. I do not have time to produce 20 tutus for your husband’s 50th anniversary.”
Be assertive. Your sewing skill is only yours and your sewing supplies have their price. You’re not in the sewing business/passion to be coerced into free labor.
7. Use the best thread you can afford – it makes a hell of the difference.
8. Don’t be afraid to try new things or funky techniques. Nothing is impossible in the world of sewing. No matter what fashion item you are about to produce, it can always be fixed or redone. In the end, this is what you have your sewing notions fabric for!
9. Use lots of pins. Position them in a way that enables to pull them out just before they reach the foot. Don’t sew over them. It would possibly make the fabric slip under the foot and make the line wonky. A good piece of advice: Fine Clover pins. They are longer and finer and so they don’t distort the fabric so much.
10. Never stop practicing! Even when something goes wrong, don’t get discouraged. Remember that even the biggest have their failures. More often than not, they are pretty spectacular! Keep pushing yourself to get better.
11. Always check to see if a seam is to be pressed open. If it does, overlock it before sewing it. It’s better and easier to do it now than after sewing.
12. Love what you do and keep working hard!
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