What you need to start sewing
By Miriam Hassan on February 5, 2024
Sewing can seem daunting with the skills and equipment needed to get started. However, learning to sew allows you to create various projects, such as quilts, clothing and pillowcases.
It can take practice to master the basics of sewing, but the right resources can make things a little easier.
A sewing machine is the first and most important equipment to start sewing. When picking out a machine, you need to consider your skill level. If it’s your first time sewing, starting with a basic machine that does straight and zig-zag stitches is best.
Getting a basic machine will also help keep costs down. You can sometimes find second-hand sewing machines at your local thrift stores. However, they might not be in the best condition.
Once you’ve found a sewing machine, you’ll need a basic set of notions, such as:
- Machine and hand-sewing needles
- Scissors/shears
- Measuring tape
- Seam ripper
- Iron and ironing board
- Pins and pincushions
The next things you need to start sewing are fabric, thread, and a project. It can be overwhelming when you first walk into a fabric store, but cotton is the best fabric to start with. For thread, you will want to find either an all-purpose polyester thread or cotton thread.
Now it’s time to decide what you want to learn to make. On YouTube, you can find many sewing tutorials for beginners, like tote bags and pillowcases, or buy a pattern like McCall’s at your local fabric store.
An excellent resource for free patterns is Mood Fabrics, but they’re a little more advanced as they don’t have clear instructions.
All this can seem overwhelming, but learning a new hobby and creating your own projects can be a lot of fun. If you keep practicing and learning new techniques, you’ll be sewing in no time!