A storage container is a great place to start.
Items to include in a sewing kit:
- 2 pair of scissors- an inexpensive pair of paper scissors and a good quality pair of fabric shears. By including both pair of scissors, you are insuring that the fabric scissors will last a long time.
- Straight pins & Pin Cushion - many people, find the quilting pins with colored heads, easier to handle. Visit a notions department and see the vast assortment available on today's market. A magnetic pin holder is also available in most notions departments.
- A tape measure
- Tracing wheel - there are smooth wheels and spoked wheels on the market. Each has it's place and are great notions for any sewer to have on hand. More on Marking Tools
- Dressmakers carbon - this is a special carbon paper that is available in combination packs or for light fabric or for dark fabric. This is available in department stores that have a fabric department or at fabric stores. More on Marking Tools
- A gauge - This is a great tool for making accurate measurements and for tracing straight lines such as darts.
- A seam ripper- These are available in many sizes and some are glorified. All new seam rippers are sharp and precise.
- Hand sewing needles - a nice assortment to fit various sewing needs Thread - a variety of basic colors in a good quality thread. This is one place the skimping is not worth while. See Thread - Seeing Is Believing for more information.
Optional Items
- Rotary Cutter, cutting pad and Quilting rulers - These are fantastic to have on hand when cutting straight lines.
- Thread Snips - These are a very handy devise to have next you your sewing machine. They are available in a variety of colors.
- A Sewing Magazine Gift Subscription. I personally recommend Sew News and Threads
- Sewing Books
- A notebook with page protectors and print outs of the many, many free on line projects.
- Hardware Bin organizer Boxes - available in most hardware stores. Some are able to be hung on the wall and make a great organizer for machine feet and tools.
- Thread racks - make your own or explore the many available on the market at most fabric stores.
- Light weight fusible interfacing - yards of it are great to have on hand. This makes a great backing for tissue patterns that become a favorite, to keep them strong and durable.