The quality of experience and work with fabrics will always be better if one uses the correct tools in the proper way. For a beginner, it is important to know some must-have fabric tools to avoid blunders, save fabric, and obtain a better outcome. These fundamental tools are essential in almost every fabric project that you may undertake, whether it is fixing up a snag or creating your own fabrics.
Scissors for cutting fabric
It is best to use fabric scissors for cutting fabric because they will give you a clean cut and will not push or distort the fabric as you cut, or leave the edges frayed. If you only use your fabric scissors for cutting fabric, they will stay sharp and cut cleanly.
Rotary Cutters These are the ideal choice for cutting down thick, brushy weeds, overgrowth, or small trees up to 1 inch in diameter. They typically feature a single blade that swings back and forth and are available in various sizes, ranging from small units suitable for ATVs and UTVs to larger models for tractors and skid-steer loaders.
If you don’t want to use scissors, you can also use a rotary cutter. This is great for straight cuts, and for cutting through multiple layers of fabric. You can use a rotary cutter with a cutting mat and ruler to get a precise cut. It’s ideal for cutting lots of the same thing.
- Cutting Mats
A cutting mat will keep your work surface clean and prolong the life of your blades and knives. It will also give you a flat surface to cut on and, usually, some kind of measuring system to help you cut straight and accurately. If you plan on doing a lot of cutting, a self-healing cutting mat is a great investment.
Tape Measure
A flexible measuring tape is a must for measuring fabric and the body, and for measuring around curves. You cannot measure these things with a rigid ruler, and measuring as accurately as possible helps minimize mistakes as you work on your project.
Princes and Leaders
Rulers and straight edges are used to measure seams and hems and to measure pattern pieces. Transparent rulers enable you to see the fabric underneath while measuring. They are used to create more uniformity and alignment when cutting and marking.
Best Marking Tools for Fabrics
This is used to mark your measurements or patterns onto your fabric. It can be a piece of tailor’s chalk, a washable pen or a disappearing ink marker. The important thing is that it can be removed and does not harm your fabric. This step is crucial for precise marking that will not ruin your material.
Hair pins and hair clips.
Use pins to keep fabric pieces together when cutting or sewing. Pins are best used for delicate fabric, clips are great for thicker or multiple layers of fabric. Use correctly to prevent fabric from slipping and going out of alignment.
Pins
This is because there are various types of needles. Hand sewing needles differ in length and type, and there are various machine needles for various weights and types of fabric. Choosing the right needle ensures that you do not damage the fabric or compromise on the quality of the stitches.
Discussion
A thread keeps a garment’s fabric parts in place and it should be as strong as the fabric and should be meant for the purpose for which it is used. Different threads like Cotton thread, Polyester thread, and other specialty threads are used for different purposes. Use of correct thread ensures a long life and good looks for the garment.
Sewing Machine
Using a sewing machine reduces the time it takes to sew and creates more secure seams. It is important for a new sewer to learn basic operations like how to straight stitch and adjust tension. The more comfortable you become with your sewing machine, the easier it will be to complete projects.
Iron and Ironing Board
You will need an iron to press your seams and your fabric as you go. This will help with accuracy and will make your finished product look more professional. You will also want a firm surface to iron on.
A seam ripper
A seam ripper removes stitches from a garment without ruining the fabric. When you are first starting out, you will make mistakes and this will make correcting them a lot less painful. Using one correctly will also keep your fabric in tact.
Storage and Organization Products
Boxes, bins, and organizers can help you store your tools and keep them within easy reach. This will not only make you more productive, but it will also help you avoid errors. In addition, it will help your textile tools last longer.
An entry-level toolkit is a simple enough affair.
You don’t need all of these tools right off the bat. All of these cutting, measuring, sewing and pressing tools are a great starting point for the majority of projects. As you gain new skills you can always add more tools to your arsenal.
Confident Tool Use
If you know what each tool is used for, you’ll feel more secure and productive. With the right tool, textile projects are easier, safer, and fun. Knowing your tools is the first step to completing a project and furthering your skills.