Learning to sew is an advancement in one’s life. Whether as a hobby or for business uses, learning to sew can be both educational and fun. To get started, there are a few items that will be needed. It is usually best to purchases the best available and not try to “skimp” on sewing items and supplies. With this is mind. Let’s begin: First, invest in a good pair of shears. Note that shears are not the same item as scissors. Shears are for cutting fabric only. Using shears to cut paper will dull the blades quickly.

Shears have a notch in the handle, and the blades are typically at least 5” long. The better quality shears’ blades are joined together by a screw instead of a rivet. This allows for future adjusting and sharpening. Tested and true brands that I myself use include Gingher and Mundial. These companies also offer left-handed models and warranties. Secondly, a good pair or two of scissors will be needed. Again, do not skimp. Scissors differ from shears in that they have no notch in the handle. The blades are usually 5” or less. The handles are usually round shaped. These are used to cut paper patterns and trimmings. When cutting fleece or metallic fabrics, use scissors as these fabrics will dull quality shears.

Thirdly, a seam ripper, or picker as they are often called will be needed. Even experienced stitchers sometimes need to remove stitches. These often are available in a beginner’s kit with a metal thimble and some hand-sewing needles. Often a pair of scissors will be included in the kit. Next, tracing paper and a tracing wheel will be needed. Add to that tailor’s chalk and pencils. You will need these to mark fabric with necessary pattern symbols. Keep in mind, though, that often these markings will not wash out of fabrics, especially the yellow. So use caution when marking. Now, the item everyone wants the most- a sewing machine. With so many on the market, the decision can be overwhelming. As a beginner, only a basic machine that performs the basic stitches- straight, reverse, and zig-zag will be necessary. Some of the more complex machines can cost upwards of $500.00, but you may not want to invest that much to begin. Singer, Brother, and Janome all offer good beginners sewing machines. A word about buying used machines: buyer beware. Usually, second ownership voids the warranty. Plus, you have no idea how or if the former owner maintained the machine.

Try to purchase in person as opposed to online if buying used. Ask the seller to test sew on the machine by sewing a few stitches on a scrap of fabric. Note to self: a dusty, dirty machine has likely not been cared for at all. Just be alert and aware. A serger is a machine that finishes the seams and /or edges of fabric all in one operation. These are very nice to own, to get that professional-quality look to garments. These machines are not like sewing machines, and must be operated accordingly. They have no bobbin, and run very fast even with the pressure foot raised. Threading a serger can also be complicated, but many have the instructions inside the machine door. More about sergers (and sewing machines) in the next article. If you do not wish to invest in a serger just yet, there are several other ways to finish seam edges. Keep in mind that running a sewing machine on zig-zag too much will prematurely wear out the motor. Edge finishing methods will be in the next article, as well as sewing machine and serger operation and care. Until then, happy sewing!