I’m happy to announce the second installment of our Sewing 101 series of how-to videos! In Lesson 1, we introduced you to your machine. Now, in Lesson 2, we’ll be showing you the typical supplies you’ll need for a successful sewing session and how to use them. Enjoy!

Sewing 101: Lesson 2 — Tools of the trade

If you have trouble viewing the embedded video, try viewing it directly here.

Here are the supplies in a list, for your convenience.

• Fabric scissors – Don’t even try to use your regular household scissors for fabric. Spend a little on a good pair of fabric scissors and your cutting will be SO much easier.
• Tape measure – A soft and flexible tape measure is crucial for measuring people or non-flat surfaces.
• Seam ripper – If you plan to mess up at all (and all new sewers will!) you’ll need a seam ripper to help you undo your stitches. They’re cheap insurance. Get one.
• Straight pins – It’s kinda hard to hold fabric pieces in place without pins, so get some! I especially like the ones with large, colorful heads on them, which make them easier to see and use.
• Magnetic pin cushion – I LOVE these, and they make managing your tiny, sharp pins so much easier!
• Thread – A critical element to the sewing process If you’re just starting out, you might want to get a set of small spools in various colors, so that you’ll have something to match any fabric you use.
• Needles – You’ll need needles for small bits of sewing by hand when the machine just won’t cut it.
• Rotary cutter – If you’re going to do a lot of cutting, a rotary cutter is a lot easier to use than scissors, and easier on your hands.
• Cutting mat – Unless you hate your tabletop, you’ll want to use a self-healing cutting mat when using a rotary cutter!
• Pinking shears – Great for cutting decorative edges and useful for reducing unraveling on seams.
• Fray check – A great way to handle fraying ends of ribbon or fabric.
• Needle threader – If you have trouble threading tiny needles, try this little device to make it easier.

In the next lesson, we’ll start sewing! How exciting!