Before we begin creating our wardrobe there are some tools that you are going to need. Most of these are things you probably already have around the house or in with your sewing and craft supplies.
Sewing Supplies
Sewing Machine – That’s sort of a given. At the very least you’ll want a machine that can sew straight lines, zig-zag stitch, and buttonholes.
Basic Sewing Notions– This includes thread, pins, a seam ripper, iron, and scissors
Fabric– One of my favorite things to buy. This will vary based on what you make.
Pattern Weights-You will need some sort of paper/pattern weights to hold down your paper and patterns. You can use just about anything. I use cement pattern weights that I made.
Measuring tape– There is no way around having a measuring tape.
Drafting Supplies
To Alter Patterns or Draft Your Own (we’ll be doing a bit of both)
Measuring tape– As I mentioned above, this is a must-have. Accurate measurements are the key to great fitting clothes.
Drafting Rulers– I like to use clear Dritz rulers. The clear ones are light-weight and allow you to see the lines underneath your paper when altering store-bought patterns.
Scissors- You’ll need scissors for your fabric and for a separate pair for paper. Snips are also great but you can get by without them.
Pencils-I like having several colors so I can differentiate between old and new pattern lines and for the stitching lines when I include them. My favorite is the black Ticonderoga pencils. These pencils erase very clean, sharpen easily and don’t break.
Eraser– A good eraser is like a good seam ripper, you’ll need it more than you like to admit. I use a Pink Pearl just like I did way back in elementary-college.
Pen or Marker – I like creating dark bold lines for my final changes.
Paper– I like to use medical pattern paper. I got hooked on it when I was working for a doctor whose PA also sewed. She got me off brown paper bags and onto this stuff. The medical pattern paper is stable and an affordable option to use in your home studio.
Clear Tape– Tape is useful when altering patterns and to piece your drafting paper when needed.
Would you like to see the specific tools I use and recommend? You can check them out on my resource page by clicking here. I try and update the page frequently when I find new tools I can’t work without.
I am a beginner and purchased your dog stocking pattern. Having trouble with pouch instructions after sewing flat side and pressing and before layering between large stocking pieces. Thanks
I’ll email you.