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FREE SHIPPING OVER $80 | Cut Yardage Only | U.S. Only |   Excludes Bolts, Bundles, Pre-Cuts, Batting 

10 MUST-HAVES FOR YOUR SEWING ROOM

DAVID JACKSON | SEWING | OCTOBER 15, 2022

When it comes to sewing, especially for a beginner, it can be overwhelming with all of the available sewing gadgets that are out there. Marshall Dry Goods has been in the business a long time - and has learned from experience that it is best to begin small and specific - avoiding busting the budget right off the bat. Once you master using the basic tools and  techniques, your confidence will grow, and you can then expand your tool chest! 


When you learned to type, you first mastered the home keys. Here are the “home keys” that your sewing room must have:


#1 - NEEDLES


Needles are hands down the most important item on this list. There are two needle types you absolutely must have for your sewing room. Your sewing machine needs one, and you’ll need one to finish project details that are unmanageable with your machine. Needles come in a variety of thicknesses, depending on the thickness of the fabric used. Note that needles are generally good for 8-10 hours of use on your sewing machine - so be sure to get plenty!


#2 - THREAD


Second only to the needle is the thread. Thread comes in multiple colors, labeled for the different uses, such as hand sewing, machine sewing, etc. Once you begin working on various projects you will eventually wind up with many colors and types. Initially, buy a large spool of black and one of white. Note that some threads will work better with your sewing machine than others. As you progress, you’ll eventually gravitate to a favorite brand. You’ll use a lot of thread, so be prepared!


 #3 - SCISSORS

There are so many options when it comes to scissors - but there are basically four types that you will use the most. Also remember that as a rule of thumb, scissors need to be sharpened once a year at a minimum.


  • Bent-Handle Shears

This is an area you do not want to scrimp on. You get what you pay for when it comes to bent-handle scissors. They have to be sharp, and they should fit your hand perfectly. These scissors are great for children, mainly because you don’t have to apply a lot of pressure when using them. Bent-handle shears also last forever. Get a good pair - you’ll be glad you did!


  • Regular Straight Scissors

These won’t be as expensive, as they just need to be good for general tasks, like cutting paper and patterns. Remember to not cut plastic with these scissors, as this will dull them quickly. 


  • Embroidery Scissors

These scissors are small, perfect for snipping off the ends of threads that are remaining after a completed project. Some embroidery scissors are very ornate, but will also be more expensive. As long as they perform well when you start and finish a line of stitching, you’ll be good to go!


  • Pinking Shears 

These scissors cut a zigzag pattern, and have notches cut into the blades. They are also used to cut the edges of fabric just before you wash it. This method of cutting prevents fraying. Remember when using pinking shears you will quickly realize they are much different than your normal scissors. You hold the blades steady, bringing them together on the fabric, aligning the cut to start with the second rear tooth. For the best results, completely close the scissors on each and every cut you make.


#4 SEAM RIPPER

Sewing is not much different than any hobby you can take up - especially when it comes to mistakes. They will happen - and for this reason a seam ripper will save the day. The seam ripper is the perfect “do-over!”


#5 – SEWING MACHINE FINGER GUARD AND THIMBLE


Protect those fingers! Accidents are going to happen, but if you can avoid one, do so. The finger guard installed on your sewing machine will help you keep fingers away from the moving needle while sewing. Depending on your brand of sewing machine, a generic finger guard usually works with most models. Some guards are specific for particular machines - so be sure you get the right one!


A thimble is also a protection device, but is worn on the finger that pushes the needle into the fabric while hand sewing. The thimble cup is pitted, allowing the user to gain transaction on the needle head. Some special thimble styles used by tailors have an opening at the working end, which allows them to manipulate the fabric more easily.


#6 - STRAIGHT PINS

Straight pins are an absolute must for any sewing project. They simply hold things in place as you adjust and cut, making sure the fabric will fit together correctly. As a side note - if you’re going to quilt, you will want to add quilting pins to your collection.


#7 - PINCUSHION

The pincushion simply provides you an easy place to keep the pins. If you don’t have a designated spot for pins they WILL wind up on the floor, and eventually into your foot. They are inexpensive, but are essential for your sewing room.


#8 - TAPE MEASURE

A soft tape measure can be used in so many ways. Primarily it is used to take measurements around the body. A carpenter’s tape, yardstick or ruler just won’t work as well when it comes to getting the fabric measured correctly. 



#9 - CLEAR RULER

The clear rules lets you see a previous mark or cut while making a new one. Your accuracy will improve, as these rulers help cut down on project time! They are typically made of acrylic, and are available in various shapes and sizes depending on the project.


#10 IRON AND IRONING BOARD


Wrapping up the essential sewing room supply list is the iron and ironing board. Your iron doesn’t have to be expensive, but it definitely needs to have a steam feature. A good, sturdy ironing board can also be used to spread fabric out on when in the middle of a project. Avoid buying a tabletop ironing board. You may start out with an inexpensive board, but will eventually want to upgrade to one that is more substantial.


MARSHALL DRY GOODS - A MUST HAVE AS WELL

In addition to these 10 items, you’ll also need FABRIC. Without fabric, you basically don’t have a sewing project. At Marshall Dry Goods we pride ourselves with years of experience and expertise. The trick is to understand what goes into making something, and making it right. We have been there, done that. Regardless of what your next project is, we have the fabric you need, and the knowledge to help you make it happen. Passing along our advice from lessons learned over the years is part of what we do best.


If you have any questions as to how to get started, or what you need to ramp up your existing sewing tool chest, give us a call or visit us online. Let us help guide you in making your next project a success!



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