Essential Sewing Supplies: A Beginner’s Guide
Jun 11, 2025
When you first start sewing, having the right tools can make all the difference. From holding your fabric in place to making clean cuts and finishing your seams, each supply has its specific purpose. Here’s a rundown of some basic sewing supplies every beginner should consider, and how they can be used to enhance your projects.
1. Pincushion
A pincushion is a small, soft cushion used to hold your sewing pins when not in use. It's a handy way to keep your pins organized and easy to access while working on your projects. Having a pincushion also reduces the risk of losing pins on the floor or in your fabric.
2. Pins
Pins are essential for holding fabric pieces together temporarily while you sew. There are different types of pins available, like straight pins and safety pins, but straight pins are most commonly used for basic sewing projects. Just make sure to remove them as you sew to avoid damaging your sewing machine needle.
3. Sewing Clips
Sewing clips are a great alternative to pins, especially for thicker fabrics that are hard to pin. These clips hold fabric layers together without causing pinholes or damaging the fabric, making them ideal for quilting or heavier materials like leather.
4. Fabric Scissors
Fabric scissors are specially designed to cut fabric cleanly without causing fraying or distortion. Unlike normal scissors, which are often too blunt, fabric scissors have sharp, precise blades that ensure a smooth, accurate cut every time. Always use fabric scissors only for fabric to keep them sharp.
5. Rotary Cutter
A rotary cutter is a versatile tool used to cut fabric quickly and accurately. It’s especially useful for cutting multiple layers of fabric or straight lines, and when paired with a cutting mat, it makes the process much easier and faster than using scissors.
6. Cutting Mat
A cutting mat is a self-healing surface used as a base for cutting with rotary cutters or craft knives. It protects your work surface, provides measurement grids, and ensures accurate cuts. It's an essential tool when using a rotary cutter or any blade to cut fabric.
7. Pressing Mat
A pressing mat is used as a surface for pressing your fabric with an iron. It provides a heat-resistant area that prevents your fabric from getting damaged while you press seams, hems, or any other part of your project. Pressing mats often come in portable sizes, making them ideal for smaller workspaces.
8. Marking Tools (Chalk, Water-Soluble, or Air Erasable Markers)
Marking tools are used to transfer pattern markings, such as darts, pleats, or seam allowances, onto your fabric. Chalk is the most common marking tool, but water-soluble or air-erasable markers are great options as they vanish after a few hours or once washed, leaving no trace on your fabric.
9. Quality Thread
Quality thread is essential for strong, durable seams. Cotton or polyester threads are commonly used for most sewing projects. A good quality thread helps your seams stay intact over time, and it’s especially important when sewing heavier fabrics or machine stitching.
10. Extra Bobbins
Bobbins are small spools of thread that sit in the bottom of your sewing machine. It's a good idea to have extra bobbins on hand, as they’re necessary for winding your thread and changing colours or types of thread during a project.
11. Seam Ripper
A seam ripper is a small tool designed to remove stitches when you make a mistake. It’s sharp enough to cut through threads without damaging your fabric, and it’s a must-have for any sewer. Mistakes happen, and the seam ripper is there to help you correct them!
12. Double-Sided Tape
Double-sided tape can be a handy tool for holding fabric in place without the need for pins. It’s particularly useful for hems or in delicate situations where you don’t want to puncture the fabric with pins.
13. Sewing Machine Needles
Sewing machine needles come in various sizes and types, each designed for different fabric types. It's important to choose the correct needle to avoid damaging your fabric. Always keep extra needles on hand, as they can wear out over time.
14. Bonus Helpful Supplies
Masking Tape: Masking tape is a decorative tape that can also be used to temporarily hold fabric or as a guide for straight lines when cutting or sewing.
Turning and Creasing Tool: This handy tool is used for turning fabric pieces like straps or tubes inside out, and for creasing seams. It helps give your project a clean, professional finish.
Glue for Leather and Fabric (Stitching Glue or Fabric Glue): Some fabrics, like leather or heavy canvas, can be tricky to sew by hand or machine. Fabric glue helps hold things together temporarily, or can be used in combination with sewing for a sturdy finish.
Rotary Punch: A rotary punch is used to create holes in fabric, leather, or other materials, perfect for projects involving grommets, snaps, or other hardware.
Hot Ruler: A hot ruler is a specialized tool used for measuring and pressing fabric while working with heat. It's especially useful for creating crisp, accurate folds, hems, or seams. For beginners, a 12-inch hot ruler is ideal for most small projects.
Thimble – From the classic metal thimble to the innovative silicone and rubber varieties, thimbles come in a diverse array of types, each tailored to different sewing needs and preferences This protects the end of the finger when hand sewing. Thimbles come in various shapes and sizes. It is good to choose one that fits your finger as there are many to choose from.
These sewing supplies may seem like a lot to gather at first, but each one serves a specific purpose in making your sewing projects easier, faster, and more enjoyable. As you gain experience, you’ll develop your own preferences for tools and techniques. With the right tools in your sewing kit, you’ll be ready to take on any project that comes your way!
Happy stitching!