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Hem & Hustle: The Seamstress’s Workbench
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items A guide for anyone passionate about sewing, from beginners stitching their first hem to experienced seamstresses crafting intricate designs. This list is packed with essential tools, materials, and resources to streamline your workflow, enhance preci...
Sections
7
Books
Thread
Pins & Needles
Patterns
Rulers
Sewing Misc.
Books
A seamstress’s library is filled with inspiration, techniques, and expert advice to refine skills and spark creativity. Whether you're learning the basics or mastering couture techniques, the right books can take your sewing to the next level.
A good book for beginners. It has good tips and techniques.
Sew Your Own Wardrobe: More Than 80 Techniques
I personally created this book for myself, I had a hard time remembering which measurements to take for each of my clients and this helped me keep it all organized.
Style Blueprint: Fashion Designs & Insights
This is a good reference book for pattern drafting. It is also good for when you purchased a ready made pattern and would like to modify it to fit your body better.
Pattern Design: Fundamentals for Fashion
This is good just to have in your library. It was one of the books I purchased when I was a student in Fashion school.
Fashion: The Definitive Visual Guide
For inspiration of your own creations.
Yves Saint Laurent: Icons of Fashion
For inspiration of your own creations.
Chanel: Collections and Creations
For inspiration of your own creations.
Vivienne Westwood: Complete Collections
For inspiration of your own creations.
Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty
For inspiration of your own creations.
Dior: Couture
For inspiration of your own creations.
Valentino: Themes and Variations
I love to create historical fashion, this book has been suggested by many costubers. I have several different kinds of books in this area of knowledge, I look forward to adding this to my library.
The Tudor Tailor: 16th-Century Dress
Thread
The backbone of every sewing project, thread brings fabric to life with strength and style. From sturdy all-purpose options to specialty threads for embroidery and topstitching, having the right selection ensures flawless stitching every time.
This thread is best for domestic sewing machines.
72Pcs 36 Colors Prewound Bobbins & Thread
For hand sewn projects, this cotton thread works great.
Gutermann 26 Spool Cotton Thread Set
This is the thread I prefer to use in my custom sewing.
Heavy Duty Thread 1800 Yards T70 Polyester
Wooly nylon thread is best for serger machines but could also be used for a regular machine if you want to have a seam that stretches.
Threadart Wooly Nylon Thread 1000m - Navy
Wooly nylon thread is best for serger machines but could also be used for a regular machine if you want to have a seam that stretches.
Threadart Wooly Nylon Thread 1000m - Black
Wooly nylon thread is best for serger machines but could also be used for a regular machine if you want to have a seam that stretches.
Threadart Wooly Nylon Thread 1000m - Purple
Wooly nylon thread is best for serger machines but could also be used for a regular machine if you want to have a seam that stretches.
Threadart Wooly Nylon Thread 1000m Cadet Blue
Wooly nylon thread is best for serger machines but could also be used for a regular machine if you want to have a seam that stretches.
Threadart Wooly Nylon Thread 1000m - White
Wooly nylon thread is best for serger machines but could also be used for a regular machine if you want to have a seam that stretches.
Threadart Wooly Nylon Thread - Pine Green
Pins & Needles
The unsung heroes of precision sewing, pins and needles keep fabric in place and stitches secure. Whether hand-sewing or using a machine, choosing the right type for your fabric can make all the difference in achieving a smooth, professional finish.
I personally love these pins, I ordered two boxes of them and they pin smoothly and do not snag fabric.
Dritz Extra-Fine Glass Head Pins, 250-Count
I personally love this brand of needles, I haven't had any break on me while hand sewing. This is an assortment of sizes to help with any project you may have.
Colonial Needle Sharps Hand Needles 5/10
For those who are not a fan of thimbles, such as myself, these are a good alternative. I enjoy using these while hand sewing.
Colonial Needle Leather Thimble Pad 12 Sheets
For domestic machines, these are good needles to use. I have used this brand since I started sewing when I was younger.
Schmetz Universal Sewing Needles 80/12 - 20
For industrial machines this is a good choice, I will always recommend you go with the maker but if you're in a pinch these would work.
SCHMETZ 50pcs DPx17 Walking Foot Needles
Patterns
This is a professional style dress pattern that would be a great project for intermediate sewers
McCall's M8528 Misses' Blazer Wrap Dress
I personally have used this pattern, it is great for beginners.
McCall's M79585A Women's Crop Tank Top Pattern
I also have this pattern in my pattern stash, it is fairly easy to make, and you can make it your own with all the different options.
McCall's Misses' Dresses & Jumpsuits Pattern
Mimi G has great patterns and she also has tutorials on her youtube channel if you are a visual learner and are just starting out.
Simplicity S9894 Misses' Corset Top & Skirt
Here is another Mimi G pattern, this is for those work girlies that love to stay polished in their work attire.
Know Me V-Neck Bodysuits & Pants Pattern
This pattern seems fairly easy, I believe there are some tutorials on youtube.
McCall's M6838 Misses' Dress Pattern A5
Rulers
Precision is key in sewing, and rulers help achieve crisp lines, accurate cuts, and perfect measurements. From flexible measuring tapes to clear quilting rulers, having the right tools ensures professional results in every project.
This is a good starters pack for beginners, when I started sewing these options were not available. I am super happy to see they exist now.
French Curve Rulers For Sewers
I absolutely love this tool, I use it every single time I am sewing. I often misplace the one I have so, multiples is a good idea.
Sliding Gauge Sewing Measuring Tool
Here is another option for a sewing gauge. It is really based upon preference.
2 Inch Mini Sewing Measuring Gauge
This is a ruler I love, I have it and use it when I am measuring hems on the gowns I make. It is originally mean for quilting but I use it for garment construction.
Omnigrid 4" Square Grid Ruler for Quilting
Another great ruler, this is also in my personal stash
Omnigrip t5 Non-Slip Ruler, 6" x 12"
Sewing Misc.
The little things make a big difference! This section includes those extra sewing essentials—like seam rippers, fabric markers, tailor’s chalk, and pressing tools—that keep your workflow smooth and your projects looking polished.
I use these to mark my fabric, they erase using the heat of the iron.
Pilot FriXion Fineliner Erasable Pens, 12ct
Fabric
The foundation of every sewing project, fabric sets the tone for design, texture, and functionality. From delicate silks to sturdy denims, having a well-curated selection ensures you’re always ready to bring your creative ideas to life.
This is great for creating mockups or toiles before cutting into your fashion fabric.
AK TRADING CO. Unbleached Muslin Fabric 10 Yds
I absolutely love using this fabric for garments. It is a Double-knit Ponte with a 4 way stretch. It does have some weight to it but it is comfortable and luxurious.
Stretch Ponte Knit - Dark Teal - Papilio Collection