Sewing Gift Guide

I know you're most likely being inundated with gift guides right now, so I promise to post only one (or maybe two.)  The other day, in a sewing group I belong to, someone new to the sewing world asked for suggestions for tools or other items she would find useful.  I thought it may be helpful to pull together a list of things I use on a regular basis when sewing for those who are buying gifts for newer sewists.  Or perhaps you are newish to the sewing world yourself and would like to see what I use on a regular basis when sewing.


Desk Lamp

My sewing space is in our finished basement and, unfortunately, that area does not see a ton of sunlight.  Around the holidays last year, I picked up this table lamp (in white) during a mega sale and it was a game changer.  I have it set up on a half-wall ledge shining onto my sewing table and the light is perfect, not harsh at all.




Sewing Gauge

I use a sewing gauge for almost every single project I work on to ensure my seams, lines, everything is straight and even.  It doesn't take up much storage space and it's super inexpensive.




Rotary Cutter and Mat

The easiest and fastest way to cut nice even lines is with a rotary cutter and a self-healing mat.  The mats can be expensive so I would suggest shopping around for prices and coupons.





And don't forgot a quilting ruler.




Comic Book Boards

So, yes, comic book boards are technically used in storing comic books, but they are very popular in the sewing community for fabric organization.  I also use these to copy pattern pieces and create my own templates instead of having to pin a paper pattern onto fabric.  The boards are really the perfect thickness for this - easy to cut but not flimsy like paper, so it won't bend or crinkle.




Bodkins 

These have so many different uses that I can't imagine not having one.  I own both the ball point and tweezer versions.






Thread and Zippers

When in doubt, anyone and everyone who sews can use thread.  You'd be surprised at how much we use.  I always feel like I'm winding a new bobbin.  If thread seems like a lame gift on its own, toss a bunch a spools in with something else to beef up a gift box.

Those of us who sew pouches, wallets, etc. will always be thankful for more zippers.  (Check out the store zipit on Etsy.  Much less expensive than purchasing individual zippers through craft stores.)



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