by Barbara Guess

Created on: November 24, 2011   Last Updated: November 28, 2011

A sewing machine.

The most expensive piece of equipment is a sewing machine. It is possible to make clothes without one but a sewing machine makes the whole process much quicker and the result more robust and wash resistant. Machines are available in a wide range of prices and capabilities, from the simple basic stitcher to the sophisticated electronic embroiderer. If you’re just starting out then visit a large department store that will demonstrate how they work and will give sound advice about what to look for.

As a beginner you need a machine that is easy to thread and adjust for the correct tension on different types of fabric and if you intend to make buttonholes, then it will need a swing needle, that creates a zigzag stitch.

If you don’t want to make a huge investment to start off with, then perhaps a second hand machine is a good option, though be very careful that you’re not buying something that doesn’t work properly. There are many good, cheap machines that are perhaps a better option, that at least you can get your money back if they don’t work properly, though do check that the instruction book is clear enough to get you started.

Work table.

The old draw-leaf dining tables were ideal as a work surface, as they provided plenty of room for cutting out the pattern pieces from the material. A rectangle or square shaped table is best as these maximise the useful working area. A round dining table is great for a dinner party but not very useful to work on. In desperation the floor can be used but it’s not an ideal height to work at and you will have more of a problem keeping everything clean.

Scissors.

Good sharp cutting out shears make the job far easier, they also make the cutting on the line more accurate. The handles need to be comfortable to hold with big enough places for your thumb and the other fingers. Both left and right-handed scissors are available so do be careful that you buy the right ones for you. Very cheap scissors tend to go blunt very quickly and can be a false economy. Use them only for dressmaking as cutting paper and other household tasks will damage them.

You will also need a smaller pair of scissors for general use, such as cutting threads.

Needles.

It’s useful to have a selection of both hand and machine needles, as different sorts of fabrics require needles with different characteristics. For knitted fabrics and delicate fabrics a ballpoint needle is used so that the fibres of the fabric aren’t damaged, whereas a sharp needle is needed for denim and dense cotton fabrics.

Pins.

Buy pins that will not rust, as rusty pins will damage and mark your material. Glass headed pins are good if you have children or pets as you can keep more control of them, you keep them on the round presentation wheel, counting them out and back, so knowing whether you have them all back in place at the end.

Thread.

A large reel of cheap quality white and black thread is useful for doing tailor tacks and general tacking. Each time you buy material for a project you will need to ensure you have sufficient thread in the correct colour and type for the work you are going to do.

Tape measure.

A sixty-inch tape measure is very useful for checking the straight grain position when you lay out your pattern. Just make sure that it is marked with inches and is easy to read.

Light.

Your sewing machine should have a light above the sewing foot, but sometimes this is not enough and if you intend to work in the evening make sure you have a good angle poise lamp that you can adjust as necessary to see the work that you are doing, especially threading the needle, which can be difficult.

Learn more about this author, Barbara Guess.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.