Since I was 5-6 years old all I dreamed of was to be a fashion designer, I was finally able to achieve my dreams. But one thing I never knew till I started studying fashion was that I had to stitch. Not that I don’t like to sew but my idea for a fashion designer was only the designing process.
As a beginner in sewing, you won’t need all the accessories an advanced designer would have. Always start with the basics. Before we start stitching there is a process to go through, starting with the design to making the pattern, and finally sewing the fabrics. There is a lot more in between this process but these will be the three main things you have to look at before jumping into a sewing machine.
I will be only talking about the sewing supplies,
1. Tailor Chalk – Also known as dressmaker chalk. This chalk makes temporary markings on cloth or a garment so that the fabric or garment is easy to cut or stitch when there is a visible line. This chalk can be easily removed when needed with a bit of water.
2. Pins & Clips – Sewing Pins also known as Straight Pins it is commonly used to hold the fabric in place while attaching and cutting patterns. There are also used to hold the fabric together at the seam line before sewing. Sewing Clips are also used to hold layers of fabric in place when sewing. The clips offer a firm grasp and are safe to use and do not prick as pins do.
3. Fabric Scissors – Fabric scissors are sharper than paper scissors. A paper should not be cut with fabric scissors as it can turn blunt. Fabric scissors are essential for cutting through fabric smoothly, efficiently, and precisely.
4. Pattern Paper – Kraft paper is used mostly used as pattern paper as well as tissue paper. This is use to create patterns and also used to trace existing patterns to preserve the original pattern.
5. Pattern Rulers – Pattern rulers help with the drafting of the patterns as it helps with the measurements, curves, and angles. There are many pattern rulers such as,
- French curves – Also known as the armhole curve, this helps to shape the armhole, sleeve caps, pockets, and neckline.
- L- Squares – This helps mark the straight corners creating an accurate 90o angles correctly. While keeping the grainline in place whenever needed. It is also known as the tailor’s square.
- Hip Curve -Known as the curve stick, it helps make hip curves, lapels, and trousers, giving it such long graceful curves in drafting patterns.
- Straight Ruler
6. Tape Measure – Tape measures are used to take measurements of the bodies it also helps with drafting patterns, measuring fabric, specifying the length of a garment, and much more.
7. Tracing Wheel – Known as pattern wheel, pounce wheel, and dart wheel, it takes the shape of a mini pizza cutter with multiple teeth on the wheel.
8. Thread Scissor – These are called thread nippers, thread clippers, thread cutters, and trimmers. This is used for trimming thread as it is easier to handle than a scissor.
9. Bobbin & Bobbin Cases – A Bobbin is a small spool prepared by winding thread on it. It is a part of the sewing machine. The bobbin case helps the bobbin stay in place when used in the machine.
11. Pinking Shears Scissors – Cloth edges that are unfinished will easily fray, the weave becoming undone and threads pulling out easily.
12. Cutting Mat – Protects your work surface so that it does not receive any marks from the rotary cutter’s blade.
All of these supplies can be purchased for under $10 and they all have five-star ratings on Amazon.
You also can visit these websites mentioned below to order your sewing essentials.
- UK – Hobby Craft
- The USA – Walmart
- Sri Lanka – Bobbin
- India – Itsy bitsy
Actually this is really helpful for upcoming fashion designers !!!