Sewer's Toolkit

Download and print this list of supplies needed when first learning how to sew.

View and print  this list of fabric stores in the Washington metropolitan region.

Sewing Machines Used in My Studio

Below you can find a list of sources for purchasing Janome 11590 Sewing Machines, the models I use in my studio. (And no, I don’t receive any kick-back from Janome for recommending these machines, I just find them to be good-quality, user-friendly machines for a very reasonable price).

• Overstock.com
• Sewing Machine Outlet
• Sears (branded as Kenmore machines)

Threading your machine correctly is essential to successful sewing! SewUSA provides a library of free threading diagrams for many major sewing machine brands.

Lost your instruction manual? This manual finder from www.sewitworks.com can help you find a copy of your manual for free or at a low cost directly from the manufacturer.

This guide from www.sewitworks.com can help you understand the differences between sewing machine needles and help you choose the right type of needle and thread for your project.

How to “Catch” Your Bobbin Thread

This video tutorial shows you how to “pick up” the bobbin thread when you’ve loaded a new bobbin in your machine. The machine shown here has a top-loading bobbin (similar to the ones I use in my studio), but the process is the same even if your machine does not look exactly like this. (Doubleclick to see full size view)

This tutorial from flossie teacakes featured on Sew Mama Sew has some great information on what different presser feet are for and can do.

Check out patterns from home (or work!) from the following pattern companies. The links here go to the “easy” line of patterns with each of the companies, which are ideal for beginners:

• Simplicity It’s So Easy
• Butterick Easy See and Sew
• McCalls Easy Stitch n’ Save
• Very Easy Vogue Dresses, Sportswear, or Custom Fit (*Keep in mind that Vogue’s easy patterns are a little more stylish, but also a little more challenging than some other companies)
• Burda Easy

Looking for free patterns, tutorials, or just some inspiration? These sewing sites are a great place to start:

• DC Threads
• Sew Mama Sew
• Burda Style
• The Brassy Apple
• Martha Stewart Sewing Ideas
• My Spare Time
• U-handbag (has some terrific tutorials for cute bags on the right sidebar
  

Small Projects

• Sew Everything Workshop by Dianna Rupp
• One Yard Wonders by Rebecca Yaker
• Linen, Wool, Cotton: 25 Simple Projects to Sew with Natural Fabrics
• Lotta Jansdotter’s Simple Sewing for Baby: 24 Easy Projects for Newborns to Toddlers

Clothing

• Sew U: The Built by Wendy Guide to Making Your Own Wardrobe
• Built by Wendy Dresses: The Sew U Guide to Making a Girl’s Best Frock
• Patternmaking Made Easy by Connie Crawford
• The Art of Fashion Draping by Connie Crawford
  

Reference

• Reader’s Digest New Complete Guide to Sewing
• Sew Everything Workshop by Dianna Rupp

Can’t find exactly the right fabric? Make your own! Spoonflower offers print-on-demand fabric for $18-32/yard.