Hey guys! This lockdown (even though restrictions are lifting) has brought up some questions. Lately a lot of you have been asking me how I got started, what are my favorite tools and some patterns that are great for beginners. I’m definitely going to talk about all of that, but I believe success starts with preparation.
Let’s get started!
Okay, so yes, you need a sewing machine and eventually a serger. Those are obvious givens! I recommend Brother or Singer. I’ve never worked on any other types of machines but Bernina is another great machine. One thing is for sure, you don’t need the best or the latest and greatest machine, just something to get started. You can upgrade any time that you feel like you’re ready.
But what are some other accessories that you’ll need?
Scissors. Okay y’all. You need at least 2 pairs. This is not an option. One for fabric and one for paper. Why? Well, the blades are different. Sewing scissors are usually referred to as shears. They’re much sharper and will last longer when used only for fabric. As you progress, you’ll start to grow your scissor collection. I have a pair for fashion fabric, and a pair for quilting cotton fabric. I also have pinking shears and snips. And rotary cutters. I don’t want to overwhelm you, but this could go on for a while. Let’s move on!
Cost: $10-$30 for a pair.
Thread snips. So are these different from scissors? Ummm, heck yes! Thread snips are smaller, handier and have a spring to help you clip away those pesky threads that are left at the beginning and end of the seam.
Cost: $5-$10
Rowenta iron. Listen y’all… my boyfriend had a Rowenta iron and I had a Black & Decker when we first met. Now, I have his Rowenta. The plate is smooth, it’s never burned any fabric, nor have I had a water leak. It’s a really fabulous (and expensive) iron that you need if you’re serious about ironing out wrinkles or sewing! LOL.
Cost: $70-$80
Madam Sew presser foot kit. It’s pricey but so worth it. Yes, your sewing machine comes with feet. You get your most popular ones. A button foot, zipper foot, J-foot, an edge stitch foot. But have you heard of an invisible zipper foot? Or a piping foot? Or…a bias tape foot? The list goes on and on. And if you think you don’t need them, think again. These help your project look professional, crisper and will cut your production time down tremendously.
It has 30 different types of feet in the kit that will fit any low shank machine. Any low shank machine! So let that sink in. You can keep your kit and upgrade your machine at any time without having to overhaul your entire collection of parts. Worth. It.
Cost: $69
Blue flexy ruler. Okay, so I don’t know the real name of this ruler, but you can find it anywhere. It’s a staple for me since I am constantly shortening my patterns. I really like that it’s see through and that you can measure up to two inches from any direction on the ruler. My ruler has been through the ringer, but it’s an old faithful for sure.
Cost: $3
Have any questions about any other tools or recommendations? Just ask me! You can find me on Instagram @ravenmaureen_
RAVEN MAUREEN 