Sewing Supplies 101

I love to sew! I think most of us do..  When I have the right tools to start a project, I find the entire sewing process much easier and so enjoyable.

I am a sewing supply junkie. Some may call it a sewing supply nerd, my husband calls me a hoarder.. I get a lot of joy when I bring home a new ruler, marking pen, some scissors and then it becomes my go-to instrument for a next project.

For each DIY post I write, I like to show a picture of the materials needed for that project.  It’s a great snapshot for the reader and also a reminder for myself.  The other day I was reviewing my blog and realized I use the same tools over and over. A sewing 101 blog post came to mind, one that a beginner could read and follow for what tools to possibly buy next..

So, here it is.. My top 5 sewing tools:

1. Self healing cutting mat – I like having mulitple sizes. The large mat covers my table, while the small mat is mobile and can be rotated around. The small mat helps with cutting at unique angles.
2. Olfa Rotary Cutter – Great for all projects with straight lines. I have had the same rotary cutter from studying design at University! While I have purchased new blades, the cutter itself has lasted me for quite some time.
3. Creative Grids quilting ruler – Love this ruler and I want a longer one! It has small circular grips on the bottom that hug your fabric or cutting surface..
4. Dritz disappearing ink pen – I have used this pen for YEARS! The ink is dark and noticeable. Use it lightly. It is great for marking notches and placement positions. It fades away in about 24+ hrs. You can also get one that is erasable. It works just as well.
5. Clover Chaco lining pen – This is my new fave!  My local quilting and sewing store “Keep Me In Stitches” got me onto it.  It is a refillable chalk marking pen. I bought it awhile ago and haven’t had to refill yet. Use it like a pen and the chalk rubs off your fabric. Overtime, the chalk can’t be seen! Although, I do say overtime.. I have a few unwashed quilting projects and the yellow chalk line is still there.

Well, short and sweet. That’s it for today. Have a great day and happy sewing!