Sew! It’s a New Year!

Now that 2023 is behind us, there’s nothing like having a fresh start. With 12 new months ahead of us, now is the perfect time to set our sights on new outfits, new designs, new goals and even new sewing gear!

Here are seven items for you to consider. Note that these are just a partial list, and the Amazon and Etsy links are just examples of the items you can find - and are certainly available in many other places, including right here at Marshall Dry Goods!

Gear for the New Year

1. A Sewing Caddy

Image courtesy of Etsy

Sewing caddies are a must - whether you are a beginner or a pro! Instead of laying your scissors, pin cushion and thread on the table, having them in one convenient, accessible spot not only makes the sewing process easier, but keeps your work area clean.

2. Better Scissors

3. Sewing Accessories Kit

When most of us began tiptoeing into the sewing world, we started by adding one or two items at a time, resulting in a conglomeration of this and that with no organizational thought behind it all. One way to get on top of the mess is to invest in some type of sewing kit, similar to the one shown above, that contains several compartments where you can organize and store all of your basic items in one place! If you’re new to the sewing world, this would be a great way to start right off the bat - keeping many of your supplies in one spot. As you advance through projects, you can replace the kit’s items with your existing supplies as you go along. 

4. A Better Seam Ripper

Image courtesy of Etsy

A seam ripper is essential when sewing. After a few months of using a cheap, beginner ripper, it’s a great idea to step up to the next level on some of your tools. This is an example of a hand-crafted, wooden seam ripper. It not only can last for years,  but supports local craftsmen and women and local businesses. This is a great idea to consider for many of your sewing tools, investing in upgraded products that last longer and are more dependable.

5. Needle Threader

Image courtesy of Amazon

From day one, threading a needle has been a pain. As you get older, this tends to become a real issue to deal with as eyesight diminishes. By spending just a few bucks (usually under $10) you can eliminate the fuss and have a way to thread those needles effortlessly! If you don’t have one, do yourself a favor!

6. A Self-Healing Cutting Mat

Image courtesy of Amazon

There are cutting mats, then there are real cutting mats. These upgraded mats have several layers that won’t dull your cutting blades, and have professional grid lines and increment angle guides. They are usually less than $30, and make all the difference in the world!

7. A Sewing Machine LED Strip Light

Image courtesy of Etsy

Adding light to your sewing machine is one thing to seriously consider. Most sewing machines come with a built-in light, but these inexpensive strips - which are available where sewing supplies are sold - really light up your life (and sewing surface). The older you get, the more light it seems we need on the project. Regardless of age, the use of an LED strip like this keeps you from making several mistakes, and gives you more eye relief as you sew!

Marshall Dry Goods - Your 2024 Source

Marshalls has you covered when it comes to all types of fabric choices, patterns for all sewing levels, as well as many supplies you’ll need for all of your projects this year. We have a myriad of in house and online resources to assist you on your sewing journey. If you have questions, or simply need to gear up for your next project, come see us at 310 West Main Street in Batesville, Arkansas, or give us a call and let our staff help guide you in making your first or next project a success in 2024! Happy New Year and happy sewing!