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My Ultimate Sewing StarterKit: Tried, Tested, and Loved
19
items Whether you're just learning to sew or looking to upgrade your setup, this list has the best sewing tools I use every day… from fabric scissors and notions to machine add-ons and workspace must-haves. All tested, loved, and beginner-friendly!
Sections
4
Cutting & Measuring Must-Haves
Machine Essentials
Pinning, Holding, & Marking Tools
Workspace Setup + Handy Extras
Cutting & Measuring Must-Haves
For clean cuts, straight lines, and smooth edges.
If you're cutting multiple layers of fabric or want crisp, clean lines, a rotary cutter is a game-changer. This one’s super sharp and glides through fabric like butter… way easier (and faster) than scissors for straight edges or curves!
Rotary Cutter
These shears are perfect for finishing raw edges and helping fabric resist fraying… plus, they leave the cutest zigzag edge on seams. I use them whenever I want to skip a serger but still keep it clean and cute!
Sewing Pinking Shears
A must-have for clean, precise cuts! This self-healing cutting mat has tons of built-in angles and measurements that make lining up fabric easy. Pair it with a rotary cutter for smoother, faster pattern cutting: especially if you’re working on smalle...
Self Healing Cutting Mat
Flexible and accurate for body measurements and pattern adjustments. Bonus points if it retracts or has markings on both sides.
Sewing Tape Measures
Get a pair just for fabric and never use them on paper. These make clean cuts through all kinds of materials - a sewing essential.
Fabric Scissors
Machine Essentials
Everything you need to get started with your sewing machine.
Beginner-friendly, budget-friendly, and ready to go right out of the box. This machine is super easy to thread and use, even if you're just getting started. I love that it gives me consistent stitches without being intimidating - it’s perfect if you'...
SINGER | SM024 Sewing Machine With Included ...
A multi-pack of universal, ballpoint, and heavy-duty needles means you're covered no matter the fabric. Always have extras on hand!
Sewing Machine Needles
Pre-wound bobbins = stress-free sewing. Make sure you have empties to match those special thread and projects. I keep mine sorted by color in a simple clear case to avoid tangles and guesswork.
Bobbins / Sewing Notions & Supplies
If you’re quilting or sewing thicker layers, this foot feeds the fabric evenly and prevents shifting. Total game changer.
Walking Foot
Pinning, Holding, & Marking Tools
I didn't realize how much easier these would be than pins… no more stabbing myself or worrying about dropped needles on the floor! They’re especially great for holding layers of fabric together without shifting, and they don’t leave holes in delicate...
Sewing Clips
Great for precise pinning and safe to iron over! They’re sharper and straighter than basic plastic pins.
Glass Head Pins
This little tool saves SO much time. No more dropping pins on the floor… just swipe and they’re all collected.
Magnetic Pin Cushion
Classic and reliable. I use tailor’s chalk to mark hems, darts, and adjustments, especially on darker or thick fabrics where pens don’t show up well. Super easy to brush off when you’re done!
Tailors Chalk
This genius little tool leaves a temporary crease in your fabric… no ink, no chalk, no residue. Perfect for quilting lines or marking without worrying about removal.
Hera Marker
My go-to for lighter fabrics. It marks clearly and fades on its own or with a dab of water - ideal for temporary markings that don’t need to be ironed or brushed away.
Disappearing Ink Pens For Sewing
Workspace Setup + Handy Extras
Make your sewing space calm, efficient, and inspiring
Bright, focused light makes everything easier to see… especially for small details and darker fabrics. I didn’t realize how bad my lighting was until I got one.
Lamps For Sewing
Keep these next to your machine for quick thread trims.
Thread Snips
Transparent quilting rulers or grid rulers help you measure seams, hems, and fabric with precision.
Clear Rulers For Sewing
Trust me, you'll need this. Whether you're fixing a stitch or opening a buttonhole, a good seam ripper is your best friend.
Best Sewing Seam Rippers