Toolkit

Check out some of these helpful sewing resources:

	Sewing Supplies, Sewing Machines and More Not sure what supplies you need to have at home when you’re putting together your first sewing kit? Want to get your own machine but don’t know which one to buy or what you really need? We’ve created a new page with our suggested supplies, products, and more. Click here!
	Fabric Stores in the Washington, DC Area G Street Fabrics Joann Fabrics Hancock Fabrics Sarah’s Fabrics
	Sewing Machines Used in My Studio Alas, the sewing machines we use in our studio have been discontinued by Janome/Kenmore. However, you can sometimes still find them on Ebay or Sears Outlet. We’ve also developed a list of some other good machines to consider. Go to the Supplies page and select “Sewing Machines, Sergers, and Accessories.”
	Threading Diagrams Threading your machine correctly is essential to successful sewing! SewUSA provides a library of free threading diagrams for many major sewing machine brands.
	Sewing Machine Instruction Manuals 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.
	Needle-Thread-Fabric Guide 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)
	How to Sew a Throw Pillow Cover A video tutorial from the Washington Post with step-by-step instructions on how to make a basic throw pillow cover.
	Guide to Presser Feet This tutorial from flossie teacakes featured on Sew Mama Sew has some great information on what different presser feet are for and can do.
	Shop for Patterns Online Check out patterns from home (or work!) from the following pattern companies: Simplicity Butterick McCalls Vogue Burda
	Free Tutorials, Patterns, and Project Ideas 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
	Great Books on Sewing We’ve updated our new supplies page with a section full of book titles for learners of all levels, from basic skills to high couture techniques. Check out the Supplies section and click on “Books”
	Design Your Own Fabric Can’t find exactly the right fabric? Make your own! Spoonflower offers print-on-demand fabric for $18-32/yard.