</div>I've never seen one of these before but this is genius! I can see it being super helpful for keeping hems straight, too. If anyone knows what it's called (other than seam measuring tool thingy which is certainly helpful but probably not what Amazon.com calls it) I'd love to know.
It's a seam gauge I think? Mine came Ina sewing kit I bought for my high school fashion class.
I like glass ball pins so I can iron over them without worrying about the plastic melting. Disappearing ink marker. Small embroidery scissors with a sharp point. A little lint brush so you are able to clean the bobbin area.
Post by beefcheeks on Nov 24, 2014 17:17:36 GMT -5
Oh also, offset scissors make cutting on a flat surface easier. You can use the mat and rotary tool for smaller stuff, but for large cuts, like curtains, it's helpful to have the scissors.
Post by Miss Phryne Fisher on Nov 24, 2014 17:46:40 GMT -5
I know you have scissors but Gingher scissors are fantastic. Spendy, but so worth it. Also, I have a rotary cutter and self-healing mat...and have cut through the side of my ruler before. I suck at cutting even with it.
With the cutting mat, don't go below 18x24. At least with quilting, you can cut most fabric easily on that. I have a 24x36 too, but bought on a good sale. For a cutting ruler, get a 24" length. At least with quilting, fabric folder in half is 22" so you can get a long straight cut. I prefer my 8" x 24"one, but 6" is common too. I really like creative grid rulers because they have nice ribs on the bottom, but you won't find those at Joann's.
I like a 28mm rotary when cutting patterns, but a 45 or 60mm when cutting long strips for quilts. Be extra careful with them, I cut the side of my finger off.
You could also ask for an assortment of needles. I replace needles around once a project, or more if it's a long project.
I LOVE wonder clips.
I've dulled all my seam rippers. I had to go get a file to sharpen them.
People have given great ideas, which I will second, but I wanted to recommend this as well. (One person also mentioned it.) It's called a bodkin, and it grips your elastic as you shove it through the channel you've sewed. It's SOOOOO much better than trying to use a safety pin. It's inexpensive, but definitely worth it.
</div>I've never seen one of these before but this is genius! I can see it being super helpful for keeping hems straight, too. If anyone knows what it's called (other than seam measuring tool thingy which is certainly helpful but probably not what Amazon.com calls it) I'd love to know.
OOh yes, rotary cutting board and rotary cutter. You'll also want the clear thinnish plastic rulers to go along with it. My mat has lots and lots of lines on it, so you can line everything up.