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Sewing Tips & Tools for Beginners to Intermediate Sewers

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Learning to sew doesn't have to be hard.  I'm sharing some sewing tips and tools for you too jumpstart or restart your sewing journey. A lot has changed in sewing and there are better ways to develop your skills. Stop here on your sewing journey, you won't regret it.--- Disclosure: Some of t...
Sections
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Sewing Machines

 
Susan profile picture
Hey friend! Just a heads up: sewing machine hiccups are bound to happen, no matter how pro you get. Knowing how to troubleshoot those aggravating problems is a lifesaver. And when in doubt, always check out these recommendations before you think abou...
17 Common Sewing Machine Problems and How To Solve ...
 
Susan profile picture
Hey friend! Quick tip: Before diving deep into sewing, make sure you've got threading your machine down pat. It's a game-changer and trust me, it'll save you loads of hassle later on. Happy sewing!
How to Thread a Sewing Machine
 
Susan profile picture
I believe a sewing machine for intermediate to advanced sewists should offer a blend of precision and versatility. Whether you're tailoring intricate garments or working with complex materials, I recommend the Brother machines. Dive into the advanced...
Computerized Sewing Machines
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Susan profile picture
I believe your first sewing machine should possess features suitable for both beginner and intermediate levels. Whether you're sewing clothing as a beginner or crafting with heavier materials, I recommend the Brother machines. Check out their user-fr...
Home Sewing Machines - Brother
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Susan profile picture
For those tackling demanding projects or thicker fabrics, a robust sewing machine is a must. I believe the heavy-duty Brother sewing machines rise to the challenge. From durable construction to powerful stitching, Brother's heavy-duty lineup is a gam...
Brother ST371HD Strong and Tough Sewing Machine
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Akn Fabrics Inc
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SINGER Professional 14T968DC Serger Overlock
 
1034D | HomeSewingEmbroidery | By Brother
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Susan profile picture
This is one of the more comprehensive instructions on how to take measurements
Measurements
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Susan profile picture
If you know anything about your sellers friend or family member, you know they love being unique. Give them this & thank me later.
Ruler Bracelet™ for Quilters / Handyman / Gifts for mom / Knitting gifts / Portable Tape Measure / Mother's Day

Patterns

 
So Sew Easy
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300+ Free Sewing Patterns | Mood Sewciety
 
Susan profile picture
Fashion forward PDF patterns
Lekala Sewing Patterns - Site
 
Susan profile picture
Create your own designs using the many pattern block designs on their site.  They're easy to create and you can print PDF copies of your pattern at home.
Sewist - Online Sewing Pattern Designer - Sewist CAD Clothing Patterns
 
Susan profile picture
Zipper Jig for attaching zipper pulls to zipper tape.
Zipper Jig

Sewing Tools/Notions

 
Susan profile picture
This flexible ruler is my most frequently used tool, next to my scissors, when I hack patterns.
Flexible Ruler
 
Susan profile picture
Second to scissors, this is a much needed tool for cutting fabric.
Fiskars Classic 45mm Loop Rotary Cutter for ...
 
Susan profile picture
You have to have  pattern weights this cute added to your toolkit.
Pattern Weights Set of 6 - (3 Gold and 3 Silver)
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Susan profile picture
This is great for tacking & basting fabric in place. Also holding buttons in place before sewing. Love this!
Sewline Glue Pen
 
Susan profile picture
For rusching and gathering fabrics this ruffler foot is a must have. Be sure that it is compatible with your machine shank height (high or low).
Ruffler Attachment Presser Foot, Spaced Pleats
 
Susan profile picture
This is all around household tool, but I find that it would be super useful for those nagging little screws that are on your sewing machine.
Fanttik X5 Max Precision Screwdriver Set, 50-in-1
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Susan profile picture
I have this electric scissors & rotary cutter set (pic) and I love it. No more hand fatigue and It slices through fabrics with ease.
Pink Power Electric Fabric Scissors Box Cutter
 
Susan profile picture
Great stay tapes that keep your fabrics from buckling and stretching where you don't want it to. Especially greate when installing zippers.
Tapes
 
Susan profile picture
The perfect glue for bonding to fabric, among other things. Great for use with rope designs, applique, quilt tacking, etc...
Surebonder DT-100 Mini Glue Gun & Sticks Bundle
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Susan profile picture
If you don't have this in your sewing kit, then what are you doing JK. This tape is a timesaver for a basting in for holding down those narrow seams or hems before Sewing. You will find many more uses for it as well, so just grab some.
Dritz 1/4" x 10yd Wash-A-Way Wonder Tape | JOANN
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Susan profile picture
Super simple loop pressing bar and Loop Turner all in one
Clover Loop Pressing Bars
 
Susan profile picture
Get this before you get your 10th project under your belt. The best sewing bobbin storage solution I've Seen.
Stack 'N Store Bobbin Tower

Sewing Resources & How to find them

 
Susan profile picture
Fit is the number one thing you need to address as you're learning to sew. I have this book and it's well illustrated and I do think that it's a great tool for sewist's who are going to always have to alter their patterns to fit.
The Fitting Book: Make Sewing Pattern Alterations
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Susan profile picture
Database of stitches for all sorts of fashion, applications, and utilitarian applications for crafting and DIY
RSN Stitchbank
 
Susan profile picture
If you’re a sewing enthusiast who loves creating fabulous outfits for dolls, “Doll Couture” by Kenneth D. King is the book you’ve been waiting for. Explore the world of high-fashion doll clothing, inspired by King’s popular social media tales of Craz...
For many of us in the sewing community, doll fashion was our kickstart into the world of clothing construction. Who doesn’t remember making outfits for their favorite dolls as a kid? This beloved craft is not only nostalgic but also a wonderful way...
Kenneth D. King, a couture sewing expert, will guide you through the process, blending the technical aspects of garment making with the fun of working with luxurious fabrics and stunning designs. This book is a delightful and inspiring project for ...
Doll Couture
 
Susan profile picture
Help for better sewing.
Stress-Free Sewing Solutions: A No-Fail Guide

Tips for Troubleshooting Sewing Problems

 
Susan profile picture
Let's go to Jojo's!
Official JOANN™ Fabric and Craft Stores Online
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Susan profile picture
One of my favorite go to online fabric stores. Great fabrics at affordable prices.
Online Fabric Store by the yard | Discount Wholesale Fabric: 40% off! | Big Z Fabric
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Susan profile picture
Anothe of my favorite fabric stores
Fabric Wholesale Direct: Wholesale Fabric Suppliers Online
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Susan profile picture
TessWorld store has been around for a long time and they have a nice selection of quality african print fabrics. Very good service as well.
TessWorldDesigns - Etsy

Fabrics

 
Fabric for sale
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Susan profile picture
Perfect grid fabric for a DIY cutting table or mat.
White / Lake 1-Inch Grid Fabric | Spoonflower