Another great use for the bobbin winder is making decorative cording for embellishment. I take 2 or 3 strands of different color embrodery floss, razzle dazzle thread, perle thread, etc and tie them onto the holes in a bobbin. Turn on the bobbin winder and it will then twist the treads together and make unique cording in the colors you want.
Hi Kim, I just watched your show on favorite sewing notions. One of my new favorite sewing notions is a necklace with a magnifying glass pendant. I bought mine years ago from my optometrist and came across it the other day. It is fabulous for that extra boost over my sewing glasses to read the sizes of needles and for threading them. I just found them on Amazon if anyone is interested.
Sometimes yes this is true! And I prefer to buy from my local stores so they stay in business, but I live more than 50 miles from a quilt shop (and yes, I do love Joann’s which is about. 2-1/2 miles from me but doesn’t always carry what I want or need - I’m a quilter, not a garment sewer). Just please don’t buy from TEMU, SHEIN or other Communist China places!!!
@@User1_2_3_4 If you signup to get their mailings, they have some really incredible sales on all kinds products but especially the fabrics. They may have the brochures in the shop sometimes but it seems like the quilting fabrics are almost always on sale. Joann’s has a few different types of cotton fabrics which can get very reasonable. I do stay away from the precut fabrics that are usually right in front of the shelves with the bolts. Probably it’s a personal thing with me but the fabrics just don’t feel like I’d want to use them. I’ve purchased fabrics on sale that ended up about $4/yard with a good sale. I do understand about the prices of fabrics though. Oh and if you have a Hobby Lobby within a reasonable distance, their whole fabric department does have 40% off every other week - and you can get some nice fabric at a good price! Hope this can help😀😀😀😀
Yep. Auto parts shops are a great place to pick up several items used in the sewing room I really like the Telesopic magnetic wand with the light for when things fall underneath the cutting table or sewing table. I also purchased- magnetic parts dishes (various sizes and shapes - all metal), dent pullers (used as ruler handles), long nosed pliers for retrieving things from hard to get to places, and a set of off-set screwdrivers to remove the screws on the sewing room machines. Really need to think outside the box to find alternatives which are almost always cheaper than the branded "pretty" ones put out by the crafting companies.
I get patterned satin ribbon, use about 2”, fold in half and sew it in back of garment for quick identification of the back when putting a garment on. Works great for me and the grandchildren.
Thank you for the informative video. The purple thing is one of my favorite tools, but you didn’t mention my preferred use for it . . . The square end is 1/4”. Especially helpful for binding corners.😊
Hi Kim, I watched your show for the first time. I have about 1/2 of the items you showed. I also have a favorite, not actually to help you sew but for storage if that is ok on your channel, I buy clear fishing tackle boxes that have dividers in them. I have found them at Fleet Farm at a good price. I can store my thread and bobbin in them and I have boxes for embroidery thread and utility thread. I keep them in cabinets and can see through them and they really work fantastic for me and my craft/sewing room. I even use them for holding my extra Cricut blade cutters and extra sewing feet that don't fit in my bernina attachment box. I subscribed to your channel as I heard you say you show a lot of different things related to sewing. Looking forward to seeing more.
I don't like scratchy tags in my clothing either. Few years ago I got a stamp in my stitch supply company Advent calendar that said handmade by Nancy. I stamp all of my garments where one would ordinarily put a tag. I've never had one fade in the wash yet.
I remember the electric scissors from years gone by. The problem I had was trying to find someone to sharpen the blades. But it’s good to see that they’re back now.
I enjoyed your recommendations very much. I own lots of the items, but not all (yet!). One favorite and helpful items in my sewing room are pressing hams and a sleeve roll.
Wonderful recommendations. I am a Post-it- note Queen. I layer my WIP's with the notes. When I accomplish my project I toss it. Or put on my project planner page. Using the heat erase pen, i can iron it off. Use again or alter info. Valuable in my life!
In response to your invitation to identity favorite tools😊 Inexpensive... *mixed makeup brush set (for defuzzing machines) *dental set (for cleaning machine) *super small crochet hook (for pulling thread loops, seam deconstruction, tying short thread knots) * smooth surface needle nose pliers (for yanking needles through thick seams or hems) *small curved upholstery needle (for hand sewn hems and attaching trims or bindings)
And for those who do embroidery and/or need to remove an embroidered motif from an article, use an eyebrow trimmer as a thread remover. I also purchase the retractable pencil style erasers to remove unpicked threads, any style of soft eraser will work, I just like one that is longer for my hand to grip. Quite a few items for sewing machines are magnetic, where almost all sewing machines are plastic (except for the needle plate), that I am giving some thought to re-cycling the calender/business fridge magnets and using thin double-sided adhesive tape to adher to my machine so I can use some of these gadgets.
If you are going to have 2 spools of thread, why can't you just use the bobbin winder on the machine? Needles come in a case anyway so why buy something so expensive? I have the hem clips and they neverr stayed in place for me. Use rubber bands or elastic bands for you hair instead of the spool clips. You can even get small ones to hold the thread ends of you bobbin.
With all the gadgets and hacks, I’ve never seen those before. Thanks for sharing! Since you’re happy with yours, do you mind sharing where you bought them?
I have the rotary pinking blades by companies listed below. These are the ones I have and when not used I keep them in their original packaging and since there's more than I company I use a ziplock to keep them in one place. Thumb tacked on the wall behind the bedroom door. I use straight pins too, to hang things up behind the same door, like extra scissors, misc tools and even extra Velcro, (in ziplocks or from original packaging). The sewing pins virtually leave no hole seen if removed. Keeps my notions in one area and not taking up space in a drawer. Types... Recollections from Michael's Store Inc called Scalloped Edge and it's for a 28mm rotary cutter. The sticker says it was on clearance $0.49 and from Ben Franklin. Boy that dates me since this store's been closed for decades. Fiskars Pinking Trimmer, made for 45mm rotary cutter or a cutter that has a rail fence like a paper cutter. The palm holder type is by June Tailer, 45mm. One blade is curved (scallop), pinking without the sharp points, one is for the blanket stitch to mark the stitching line evenly across whatever you need marked and the 3rd is regular pinking with the point more rounded but there. Mine came in a handheld that fits your palm so I don't have to use the rotary cutter. Hope this helps someone... Babs near Tombstone AZ
A useful items I have utilized is an inexpensive rubber shower floor mat purchased on Amazon for $5.99. I cut it into thirds and placed one under each of my 3 sewing machines. These have worked wonders in reducing noise, vibrations and movement. I suspect this could be found in a dollar store although mine was only $5.99 and provided 3 matts.
I have a buttonhole guide I found at an estate sale for almost nothing. I also have a magnetic seam guide I’ve had for over 50 years. I’ve found lots of stuff at estate sales for really cheap prices. I never knew about the bobbin winder, it sounds like a great gadget to have. I have a couple pair of the all metal snips and agree they are much better than the plastic ones. I got them when I worked in the garment industry.
I actually don't have to unthread my machine to wind bobbins so a sepearte bobbin winder is not a necessary item for me to purchase. Since I almost always use a light grey thread to piece with (I'm a patchworker) I always have at least one additional cone of thread on hand to wind my bobbins from if I need to. However to avoid that bit of stress I tend to wind multiple bobbins at a time, I like to have a dozen bobbins wound before I start a project so that I don't have to wind a bobbin part way through a project - just change out and keep going. I also use the metal snips, not that brand or style but metal all the same as opposed to plastic, last for ages - have multiples beside each machine. The buttonhole guide is great for any project that requires spacings at regular intervals - like spacing handles for bags/totes from each side, or the middle, at a specific mesurement.
Love your new intro. I already own and use several of the items you highlighted. I'm always looking for good quality rotary blades, so I decided to order your recommendation. I also ordered the drawstrings. Praying your cervical issues are resolved soon.
Vintage CD shelves are super cheap on craigslist, and they are the perfect size for showing off your fat quarter collection. I have one from Ikea that’s 6 inches wide and and 6 feet tall, and I have the fabric arranged by color like a rainbow.
I got a purple thing many years ago when it first came out & it's the single most useful tool I have. It gets used heaps of times for big & small uses & just sits there quietly waiting for it's moment 😂
Just a note that the Purple things are not the original ones (notice I used things and not things!) which cost more, but I do have a whole pack of purple ones like these multi-color ones and they work just fine! I do like this pack of the multi colors so I probably will get them - mine seem to hide from me all the time😟😟💜🤭🤭
Family members that I sew for each have a tiny design that I embroider on the inside of the pocket of hems. That way, each person knows it is for them from me, like a secret hug. You also can invest and design a rubber stamp. Stamp using waterproof inks. I have one with my logo, no I don’t sell items but decided why not have a design brand for anything I make.
Thanks for this info! I’m a beginner and I’m working on a neckline that asks for trimming it. It’s a brushed back satin blouse for my mom. So I really want it to be nice.
Would they work for when you need to clip real close to the stitch line of a curve to turn inside out an appliqué shape, prior to stitching it on a quilt block? Has anyone tried it ?
Really great notions. However, she hasn’t actually bought the exact brand of many of the items she is recommending. Which makes me wonder if I should actually purchase the items. Brands can make a difference. But love the content and I got some great ideas for notions I can try.
😢To the lade who uses size 60 rotary cutter blades, YES - I just checked and there is a choice of sizes with this product. Thank you Kim for such a good recommendation for these blades - I’ve been a bit nervous about purchasing them but I will now give them a try! My first time watching - I’m not a garment sewer but I am a quilter and this list is very helpful!
YES!!! As a quilter I’m always looking for reasonably priced but excellent cutting rotary blades and I so appreciate the comment about these! I definitely will be adding them to my wish list and basket!😊😊
Thanks for this helpful information and the links in case I am unable to find something locally. One of my most often used items is a pair of long, curved ended & extremely pointed (sharp) metal tweezers which may have been intended for use with a serger, but I use them beside my sewing machine. They’re handy when threading a needle, removing stitches and after being dipped in alcohol, were once used to remove a splinter from a child’s bare foot.🥴
Thanks for all the info! I especially appreciated hearing about the magnetic sewing guide! I bought one with the very handy Seam Guide Ruler but then heard it could ruin the electronics so I didn’t use it! I got the combo from Madam Sew and I’ve used the heck out of the acrylic ruler needle guide! I’ve sewn for many years, but new to quilting so everything is more complicated to me. Because I’m sewing different type projects I find it very handy to use post it notes to remind me what stitch length I’m using on the different projects and also a reminder of what type of needle I’m using. Going through so many layers at the quilting of my table runner needed my heavy duty needle! Post it notes are so handy stuck to your machine as well, since every time I turn off my machine I lose my latest stitch needed! 😉
I use snips the most and they are the plastic ones. I'll need to try those Madam Sew snips and I use chalk markers a lot. Constantly on a quest to find ones that go on the fabric easy.
@@dorothysdaughtersews I wasn’t able to cut cleanly through only two layers of quilters cotton. And I was working on a brand new mat so it wasn’t that. I thought they looked great and I was really disappointed.
I like the concept of the video. I was expecting to see things you actually owned, or absolutely need. The video is called “must have”. Some items you barely use yourself, you said it yourself, and others you don’t even own. I skipped to the next video. I do enjoy your calming voice, and I will give other videos on your channel a try. Thank you for putting in time to share your thoughts, and opinions.
I have thread that is 5-10 years old and breaks every few minutes in my sewing machine is it because of the age and what brand of sewing all purpose thread is a good brand
On thread, I was told years ago in a tailoring class that thread does have a lifespan. Of course I can't remember how long...but I never buy old thread. I've used Gutterman thread for 30 years. Now they have recycled thread that I'm using.
The only thread I have ever used that broke was black serger thread that was new by Maxi lock. I regularly use thread I inherited from my mother. The spools say 5 cents on them, so it is safe to say it is pretty old. BUT, my mom didn’t & I don’t store thread where it is exposed to light. I want it dust free, so I store it in a tightly closed container & only get it out when I am using it. My sewing studio has blinds & low E windows, I am currently going through every item in my studio for Spring Cleaning & have numerous items damaged either from heat ( from when my A/C broke) or from sunlight. Sewing stuff looks so pretty out on display but that ultraviolet light can cause many different kinds of problems.
I loved this video. Thank you I am shocked that I have everyone of these in my sewing space. Some were not the exact item but for the same purpose. My button gage is more than 30 year old I am sure and works perfectly. Other must have tools in my sewing room would be tweezers, because if you have to rip out the seam, you can use the seam ripper get the end of the thread and the tweezers help pull out the bobbin thread. It’s so much easier. I also used comic book cardboard to wrap my fabric on for storage. I also make labels from my brother scan and cut and fuse that down so it won’t be scratchy to the children. Another thing I do it’s not a notion but when I make a little girls dress, I’ll put in a double 4 to 5 inch deep hem. Both hemmed. I turn up a half inch press then turn it up 4 to 5 inches and press that down and sew it either by hand, or by a blind hem stitcher. Then I turn it up another 4 to 5 inches and hem that. Usually when a young child from size 2 to 6 is growing up, they grow upwards not outwards so a lot of times the same pattern will fit except the length. This will allow the mother to just remove that 5 inch hem and still have a 5 inch hem finished. She can just press the demarcation line and if she brings it back, I’ll run a row of lace or ribbon over the demarcation line. The child can have additional years in the dress. The mothers love the kids dresses I make because of that reason.
I think those clips come in 3 sizes. Love the chalk markers. I have them in 5 colors which takes care of light and dark fabrics. I mostly use them for turning a square into two triangles. I have just about everything on your list except for things I know I don't need. I got many of them courtesty of Amazon as I am a Vine reviewer and sewing things are my 'specialty'. I have so many things in abundance they will last me the rest of my life! We are retired on a smal fixed income, so having the sewing supplies given to me in exchange for a review is okay by me. Thank you very much.
Question - I see the Headley titanium blades only come in 45. I stopped using that size decades ago and only use my 60. They make a 60 Japanese steel but not titanium. I am curious if it makes a difference? Definitely a ton less expensive than the Olfa ones!
I’m a quilter and have every size rotary cutter - use the 45 the most. I’m going to check out this site and see if they have other sizes as it would be really handy - the blades are expensive to buy normally and this price is very good along with an excellent recommendation - and the ones die the 60 are ridiculously expensive, even when in sale. Hoping this company makes them in 69 but also 28!
My first time watching your channel and I really enjoyed it! I've been sewing for many years. However a lot of those items I have never had or used. But it's good to know about. I subscribed!👍
I have most of those but I will check in the two or so that I don't have. I do t-shirts, etc so I have the t shirt guide. I sew so I have a lot of sewing notions.
Hi Kim, I have only 3 of the items you mention 🤨, but this is a great list of products. I might just go to Amazon to get some items 👏👏. Thank you for a great video 💕💕 Karen
Foot pedals - I put velcro loop side on underside of my pedals. My sewing room has berber carpet. Works like a charm and the carpet doesn't seem to mind.
I saw somewhere on RUclips where someone had used the nonslip rubber drawer/shelf liner for this. They folded it double, cut the size of their pedal, then stitched trim along the edges.
I tried that seam guide…it does not work well…the piece on the top hangs up on the fabric. I sent it back. Th electric bobbin winder is another tool I don’t use….it’s noisy and the bobbins don’t wind evenly. I gave it away. I LOVE THE THREAD SNIPS. I have 3 or 4 pair…They are the best.
I'm afraid you didn't use the bobbin winder correctly if it was uneven. I love mine and so does many other quilters I have gifted them to. If you quilt they are amazing
We own Montana's leading estate liquidation company, start shopping your local estate sales for sewing notions you will find anything and everything you need at a fraction of the price of shops & Amazon - rotary blades, all the notions you mention in this video, things no longer made like really cool quilting rulers, fabric & more. I rarely buy anything new and I have a very well stocked sewing studio thanks to our estate sales.
So happy to see you Kim! Sorry to hear shingles found you. I'm definitely in for the book club, yes, please!!! Ty for the audible trial. I'm very excited ❤
Love your list. About the clapper, first, I’d never heard of it, then realized just how useful they are. My neighbor loves woodworking. I told him that I needed a sewing clapper and gave him a picture. I now have a lovely custom clapper. Indispensable. I have the plastic clips, hem clips, hot hem pressing ruler, expandable gauge, thread spool savers, magnetic seam guide, stubby screwdrivers, buttonhole cutter, and pinking shears. Just a few items to add from your list, but love that we are so closely aligned with our sewing must haves 😀
I have magnetic seam guide but, have always used it on a non-computerized sewing machine. Been afraid to use it my computized as it might damage it. I have some of these. the thread clippers I have used for years.
I love pincushions! But, I use my magnetic dish or my magnetic pincushion. I love great scissors. I have good Ginghers and some from Germany that my son gave me. I find a wool press mat is my favorite, unless I'm ironing big things. I also love my OLISO iron. Best Ever Thank you for sharing this with us 😊❤🦓✂️🪡🧵✨
I have heard twice now that the clips come in two sizes. I have always had 3 sizes. Small medium and large. I mostly use them for hard to handle fabrics, heavy fabrics and general hand binding and rarely for a craft project.
Great Video! Thank you for sharing all of these great little items. The embroidery threads drive me crazy, so I just purchased the spool covers and I'm going to try the rotary blades.
The bobbin winder is a game changer if you quilt. I make a bunch before starting my project. I was surprised with the price from Amazon. I got mine at walmart for under $15
I filled my Amazon cart during your video in order to remember your recommendations. I will shop locally and try to find them. Thanks for this great video!
Great tips! My favorite is your gift tag attachment- Love the idea since most of my projects are gifts. First time watching your channel and I just subscribed-thanks for sharing!
When I started sewing for my baby granddaughter I wanted to tag the size of the garment but didn’t want anything scratchy. I had leftover white PUL fabric and it works great! I use a fine tip permanent marker and stitch a small piece onto an inconspicuous inner seam. The marker doesn’t wash off and the tag is very soft. Also, I have dogs and grandkids and I bought small inexpensive metal magnetic bowls and have pins, clips, snips, needles, and lots of other bits in them. They really cut down on losing things and are great to gather things quickly if I do drop pins on the floor.
Didn’t keep count but I know I have most of the gadgets in my sewing room. Love and use all of them. I do not have electric scissors or the button gadget but the others described are invaluable to me.
Newbie here. I was surprised at how many of your selections I already have! Must mean I spend too much time on Amazon. I love my magnet kitty cat needle holder for on top of your project.
I have many of these. The short screw drivers are a godsend. Hot hemmer...love that thing. I use it to crease my binding a a perfect 45" as well as for hemming. For paper piecers...a great tool for folding the paper over.
I want to thank you for providing your Amazon list - I’m a quilter and do not ever sew garments so some of your items are not for me - but many are! And I will definitely be adding them to my Wish List!!! Thank you😄😄
To keep the pedal from moving across the floor I use rubber shelf liner I get from dollar tree. Works as good and a heck of a lot cheaper. Also you can get this magnet at harbour freight cheaper too
Hi, I got some electric scissors for Christmas this year and I love them. I had used them befroe maybe in the 70's, they were a Singer. I used them a lot. The ones that I got as a gift this year are similar but they are USB and there were 3 blades, 2 for sewing and one it says metal but I never in my life have cut metal anything but I can see them for things like cardboard.
Another great use for the bobbin winder is making decorative cording for embellishment. I take 2 or 3 strands of different color embrodery floss, razzle dazzle thread, perle thread, etc and tie them onto the holes in a bobbin. Turn on the bobbin winder and it will then twist the treads together and make unique cording in the colors you want.
Hi Kim, I just watched your show on favorite sewing notions. One of my new favorite sewing notions is a necklace with a magnifying glass pendant. I bought mine years ago from my optometrist and came across it the other day. It is fabulous for that extra boost over my sewing glasses to read the sizes of needles and for threading them. I just found them on Amazon if anyone is interested.
The seam guide frustrates me as it slides it doesn't fit my axhines magnet placement as should
Sometimes yes this is true! And I prefer to buy from my local stores so they stay in business, but I live more than 50 miles from a quilt shop (and yes, I do love Joann’s which is about. 2-1/2 miles from me but doesn’t always carry what I want or need - I’m a quilter, not a garment sewer). Just please don’t buy from TEMU, SHEIN or other Communist China places!!!
I would love to buy from Jo Ann’s but my budget doesn’t allow it .I haven’t bought from Temu yet.😊
@@User1_2_3_4 If you signup to get their mailings, they have some really incredible sales on all kinds products but especially the fabrics. They may have the brochures in the shop sometimes but it seems like the quilting fabrics are almost always on sale. Joann’s has a few different types of cotton fabrics which can get very reasonable. I do stay away from the precut fabrics that are usually right in front of the shelves with the bolts. Probably it’s a personal thing with me but the fabrics just don’t feel like I’d want to use them. I’ve purchased fabrics on sale that ended up about $4/yard with a good sale. I do understand about the prices of fabrics though. Oh and if you have a Hobby Lobby within a reasonable distance, their whole fabric department does have 40% off every other week - and you can get some nice fabric at a good price! Hope this can help😀😀😀😀
AMEN!!!! 💯🎯👍💯👍🎯👍💯
Amen amen! Don’t buy from either!
I agree about Temu
O’Reilly Auto Parts has a 18” telescoping magnet pick-up tool for $2.99. It supposed to be able to pick up 3 lbs. 😊
Wow! I’m on my way to get one.
If you’re just picking up pins or something light weight, Dollar Tree sells them.
Harbor Freight sells them, too.
Yep. Auto parts shops are a great place to pick up several items used in the sewing room I really like the Telesopic magnetic wand with the light for when things fall underneath the cutting table or sewing table. I also purchased- magnetic parts dishes (various sizes and shapes - all metal), dent pullers (used as ruler handles), long nosed pliers for retrieving things from hard to get to places, and a set of off-set screwdrivers to remove the screws on the sewing room machines. Really need to think outside the box to find alternatives which are almost always cheaper than the branded "pretty" ones put out by the crafting companies.
@@Debee109 Most excellent ideas and thinking outside the box! Thank you for sharing!❤️
I get patterned satin ribbon, use about 2”, fold in half and sew it in back of garment for quick identification of the back when putting a garment on. Works great for me and the grandchildren.
Thank you for the informative video. The purple thing is one of my favorite tools, but you didn’t mention my preferred use for it . . . The square end is 1/4”. Especially helpful for binding corners.😊
Yep. I forgot to mention that!
Hi Kim, I watched your show for the first time. I have about 1/2 of the items you showed. I also have a favorite, not actually to help you sew but for storage if that is ok on your channel, I buy clear fishing tackle boxes that have dividers in them. I have found them at Fleet Farm at a good price. I can store my thread and bobbin in them and I have boxes for embroidery thread and utility thread. I keep them in cabinets and can see through them and they really work fantastic for me and my craft/sewing room. I even use them for holding my extra Cricut blade cutters and extra sewing feet that don't fit in my bernina attachment box. I subscribed to your channel as I heard you say you show a lot of different things related to sewing. Looking forward to seeing more.
I don't like scratchy tags in my clothing either. Few years ago I got a stamp in my stitch supply company Advent calendar that said handmade by Nancy. I stamp all of my garments where one would ordinarily put a tag. I've never had one fade in the wash yet.
I remember the electric scissors from years gone by. The problem I had was trying to find someone to sharpen the blades. But it’s good to see that they’re back now.
I enjoyed your recommendations very much. I own lots of the items, but not all (yet!). One favorite and helpful items in my sewing room are pressing hams and a sleeve roll.
Wonderful recommendations. I am a Post-it- note Queen. I layer my WIP's with the notes. When I accomplish my project I toss it. Or put on my project planner page.
Using the heat erase pen, i can iron it off. Use again or alter info.
Valuable in my life!
In response to your invitation to identity favorite tools😊 Inexpensive...
*mixed makeup brush set (for defuzzing machines)
*dental set (for cleaning machine) *super small crochet hook (for pulling thread loops, seam deconstruction, tying short thread knots)
* smooth surface needle nose pliers (for yanking needles through thick seams or hems)
*small curved upholstery needle (for hand sewn hems and attaching trims or bindings)
And for those who do embroidery and/or need to remove an embroidered motif from an article, use an eyebrow trimmer as a thread remover. I also purchase the retractable pencil style erasers to remove unpicked threads, any style of soft eraser will work, I just like one that is longer for my hand to grip. Quite a few items for sewing machines are magnetic, where almost all sewing machines are plastic (except for the needle plate), that I am giving some thought to re-cycling the calender/business fridge magnets and using thin double-sided adhesive tape to adher to my machine so I can use some of these gadgets.
My favorite notions is my light seam ripper, and sewing ltd light. Pushing sixty is all in to say.
If you are going to have 2 spools of thread, why can't you just use the bobbin winder on the machine? Needles come in a case anyway so why buy something so expensive? I have the hem clips and they neverr stayed in place for me. Use rubber bands or elastic bands for you hair instead of the spool clips. You can even get small ones to hold the thread ends of you bobbin.
If you don’t have a tailors clapper, use a scrap of 2x4.
That's what I did after seeing the cost.
I use the expandable button gauge for so much. Right now as I watch this I am working on drapes and I will use it to mark my header tapes.
Some of the products you recommended you said you were thinking about buying. How do you know they are good products?
I love the pinking blade on one of my rotary cutters. It cuts so well and never chews on the fabric. A very clean cut. Never going back to the shears.
With all the gadgets and hacks, I’ve never seen those before. Thanks for sharing! Since you’re happy with yours, do you mind sharing where you bought them?
My Pinking rotary cutter had been my mother's. The brand is Fiskars. @@Lola.004
I have the rotary pinking blades by companies listed below. These are the ones I have and when not used I keep them in their original packaging and since there's more than I company I use a ziplock to keep them in one place. Thumb tacked on the wall behind the bedroom door. I use straight pins too, to hang things up behind the same door, like extra scissors, misc tools and even extra Velcro, (in ziplocks or from original packaging). The sewing pins virtually leave no hole seen if removed. Keeps my notions in one area and not taking up space in a drawer.
Types...
Recollections from Michael's Store Inc called Scalloped Edge and it's for a 28mm rotary cutter. The sticker says it was on clearance $0.49 and from Ben Franklin. Boy that dates me since this store's been closed for decades.
Fiskars Pinking Trimmer, made for 45mm rotary cutter or a cutter that has a rail fence like a paper cutter.
The palm holder type is by June Tailer, 45mm.
One blade is curved (scallop), pinking without the sharp points, one is for the blanket stitch to mark the stitching line evenly across whatever you need marked and the 3rd is regular pinking with the point more rounded but there. Mine came in a handheld that fits your palm so I don't have to use the rotary cutter.
Hope this helps someone...
Babs near Tombstone AZ
I bought the rotary blade and sent it back. Its not the same as pinking shears. What brand do you have, fiskars was not good
@@valeriehofmann2615 Mine is Fiskars and it is the Fiskars blades.
My metallic seam guide is at least 40 years old..going strong..not harmful to any machine..🇨🇦
A useful items I have utilized is an inexpensive rubber shower floor mat purchased on Amazon for $5.99. I cut it into thirds and placed one under each of my 3 sewing machines. These have worked wonders in reducing noise, vibrations and movement. I suspect this could be found in a dollar store although mine was only $5.99 and provided 3 matts.
I have a buttonhole guide I found at an estate sale for almost nothing. I also have a magnetic seam guide I’ve had for over 50 years. I’ve found lots of stuff at estate sales for really cheap prices. I never knew about the bobbin winder, it sounds like a great gadget to have. I have a couple pair of the all metal snips and agree they are much better than the plastic ones. I got them when I worked in the garment industry.
I actually don't have to unthread my machine to wind bobbins so a sepearte bobbin winder is not a necessary item for me to purchase. Since I almost always use a light grey thread to piece with (I'm a patchworker) I always have at least one additional cone of thread on hand to wind my bobbins from if I need to. However to avoid that bit of stress I tend to wind multiple bobbins at a time, I like to have a dozen bobbins wound before I start a project so that I don't have to wind a bobbin part way through a project - just change out and keep going. I also use the metal snips, not that brand or style but metal all the same as opposed to plastic, last for ages - have multiples beside each machine. The buttonhole guide is great for any project that requires spacings at regular intervals - like spacing handles for bags/totes from each side, or the middle, at a specific mesurement.
Love your new intro. I already own and use several of the items you highlighted. I'm always looking for good quality rotary blades, so I decided to order your recommendation. I also ordered the drawstrings. Praying your cervical issues are resolved soon.
Vintage CD shelves are super cheap on craigslist, and they are the perfect size for showing off your fat quarter collection. I have one from Ikea that’s 6 inches wide and and 6 feet tall, and I have the fabric arranged by color like a rainbow.
Well, you're an enabler. I bought the purple thangs and the blades.
I got a purple thing many years ago when it first came out & it's the single most useful tool I have. It gets used heaps of times for big & small uses & just sits there quietly waiting for it's moment 😂
😂😂😂
😅@@katl6426
Just a note that the Purple things are not the original ones (notice I used things and not things!) which cost more, but I do have a whole pack of purple ones like these multi-color ones and they work just fine! I do like this pack of the multi colors so I probably will get them - mine seem to hide from me all the time😟😟💜🤭🤭
Family members that I sew for each have a tiny design that I embroider on the inside of the pocket of hems. That way, each person knows it is for them from me, like a secret hug. You also can invest and design a rubber stamp. Stamp using waterproof inks. I have one with my logo, no I don’t sell items but decided why not have a design brand for anything I make.
That is a beautiful idea!
Pinking shears are great for trimming curves rather than clipping curves
Thanks for this info! I’m a beginner and I’m working on a neckline that asks for trimming it. It’s a brushed back satin blouse for my mom. So I really want it to be nice.
Ty for this. Will make things easier for me
Thank you so much! This is a game changer lol
Would they work for when you need to clip real close to the stitch line of a curve to turn inside out an appliqué shape, prior to stitching it on a quilt block? Has anyone tried it ?
@@rebeccamulkern1051 I haven’t tried it with appliqué, but i see no reason why it wouldn’t work
Really great notions. However, she hasn’t actually bought the exact brand of many of the items she is recommending. Which makes me wonder if I should actually purchase the items. Brands can make a difference. But love the content and I got some great ideas for notions I can try.
Thank you!
😢To the lade who uses size 60 rotary cutter blades, YES - I just checked and there is a choice of sizes with this product. Thank you Kim for such a good recommendation for these blades - I’ve been a bit nervous about purchasing them but I will now give them a try! My first time watching - I’m not a garment sewer but I am a quilter and this list is very helpful!
Kind of digging your new format! Keep up the good work.
Great recommendations! Especially the rotary blades. Thanks Kim.
YES!!! As a quilter I’m always looking for reasonably priced but excellent cutting rotary blades and I so appreciate the comment about these! I definitely will be adding them to my wish list and basket!😊😊
I see your showing these items with your Amazon Business search; are these the same prices on regular Amazon?
Yes
Thanks for this helpful information and the links in case I am unable to find something locally. One of my most often used items is a pair of long, curved ended & extremely pointed (sharp) metal tweezers which may have been intended for use with a serger, but I use them beside my sewing machine. They’re handy when threading a needle, removing stitches and after being dipped in alcohol, were once used to remove a splinter from a child’s bare foot.🥴
Lots of great ideas. I like the drawstrings. Good find.
Thanks for all the info! I especially appreciated hearing about the magnetic sewing guide! I bought one with the very handy Seam Guide Ruler but then heard it could ruin the electronics so I didn’t use it! I got the combo from Madam Sew and I’ve used the heck out of the acrylic ruler needle guide! I’ve sewn for many years, but new to quilting so everything is more complicated to me. Because I’m sewing different type projects I find it very handy to use post it notes to remind me what stitch length I’m using on the different projects and also a reminder of what type of needle I’m using. Going through so many layers at the quilting of my table runner needed my heavy duty needle! Post it notes are so handy stuck to your machine as well, since every time I turn off my machine I lose my latest stitch needed! 😉
I use snips the most and they are the plastic ones. I'll need to try those Madam Sew snips and I use chalk markers a lot. Constantly on a quest to find ones that go on the fabric easy.
Btw, I'll use your link to get my bobbin winder xoxo. I subscribed! Looking forward to learning from you.
Excellent, I have several already but you had some that would be very handy. Thank you.
I already own a few of these which is exciting but those rotary blades are going in my cart!
Very nice and useful video. I really enjoyed it. Thanks.
The chalk markers are great. You can refill them and they also have pink chalk.
Not that cheap on Amazon Au, cheaper at local stores.
Thank you! This is a great video! Usually I see must have vids and the tools are just silly or gimmicky. This was very helpful! ❤
I don’t know how you managed with those Headley blades. I thought they were terrible and gave them a one-star review.
That’s so weird. I wonder if you got a bad batch. They are the best blades I’ve ever used. I cut canvas & denim with them in one pass.
@@dorothysdaughtersews I wasn’t able to cut cleanly through only two layers of quilters cotton. And I was working on a brand new mat so it wasn’t that. I thought they looked great and I was really disappointed.
I like the concept of the video. I was expecting to see things you actually owned, or absolutely need. The video is called “must have”. Some items you barely use yourself, you said it yourself, and others you don’t even own. I skipped to the next video. I do enjoy your calming voice, and I will give other videos on your channel a try. Thank you for putting in time to share your thoughts, and opinions.
The top of the Purple Thang is 1/4" for quick measuring seams etc
Duh i didnt know that 😂
Good list. I want to buy almost everything!
The lint roller is my life saver! And my Dust Buster and don’t forget the bodkin!
I have thread that is 5-10 years old and breaks every few minutes in my sewing machine is it because of the age and what brand of sewing all purpose thread is a good brand
On thread, I was told years ago in a tailoring class that thread does have a lifespan. Of course I can't remember how long...but I never buy old thread. I've used Gutterman thread for 30 years. Now they have recycled thread that I'm using.
Gutermannmara thread is fabulous for everything. But I use aurifil when quilting
I use Gutermann, it's the gold standard
The only thread I have ever used that broke was black serger thread that was new by Maxi lock. I regularly use thread I inherited from my mother. The spools say 5 cents on them, so it is safe to say it is pretty old. BUT, my mom didn’t & I don’t store thread where it is exposed to light. I want it dust free, so I store it in a tightly closed container & only get it out when I am using it. My sewing studio has blinds & low E windows, I am currently going through every item in my studio for Spring Cleaning & have numerous items damaged either from heat ( from when my A/C broke) or from sunlight. Sewing stuff looks so pretty out on display but that ultraviolet light can cause many different kinds of problems.
I loved this video. Thank you I am shocked that I have everyone of these in my sewing space. Some were not the exact item but for the same purpose. My button gage is more than 30 year old I am sure and works perfectly. Other must have tools in my sewing room would be tweezers, because if you have to rip out the seam, you can use the seam ripper get the end of the thread and the tweezers help pull out the bobbin thread. It’s so much easier. I also used comic book cardboard to wrap my fabric on for storage. I also make labels from my brother scan and cut and fuse that down so it won’t be scratchy to the children. Another thing I do it’s not a notion but when I make a little girls dress, I’ll put in a double 4 to 5 inch deep hem. Both hemmed. I turn up a half inch press then turn it up 4 to 5 inches and press that down and sew it either by hand, or by a blind hem stitcher. Then I turn it up another 4 to 5 inches and hem that. Usually when a young child from size 2 to 6 is growing up, they grow upwards not outwards so a lot of times the same pattern will fit except the length. This will allow the mother to just remove that 5 inch hem and still have a 5 inch hem finished. She can just press the demarcation line and if she brings it back, I’ll run a row of lace or ribbon over the demarcation line. The child can have additional years in the dress. The mothers love the kids dresses I make because of that reason.
I Love them all, I need 20 out of 24 lol
I think those clips come in 3 sizes. Love the chalk markers. I have them in 5 colors which takes care of light and dark fabrics. I mostly use them for turning a square into two triangles. I have just about everything on your list except for things I know I don't need. I got many of them courtesty of Amazon as I am a Vine reviewer and sewing things are my 'specialty'. I have so many things in abundance they will last me the rest of my life! We are retired on a smal fixed income, so having the sewing supplies given to me in exchange for a review is okay by me. Thank you very much.
Question - I see the Headley titanium blades only come in 45. I stopped using that size decades ago and only use my 60. They make a 60 Japanese steel but not titanium. I am curious if it makes a difference? Definitely a ton less expensive than the Olfa ones!
I’m a quilter and have every size rotary cutter - use the 45 the most. I’m going to check out this site and see if they have other sizes as it would be really handy - the blades are expensive to buy normally and this price is very good along with an excellent recommendation - and the ones die the 60 are ridiculously expensive, even when in sale. Hoping this company makes them in 69 but also 28!
I guess my Amazon shopping cart will be getting filled up tonight.
I’m an enabler ;-)
Instead of a pen at 12 dollars, there are pen with rubber (eraser) around 2 dollars than can be used.
I need to look for a few of these. Just found your channel and subscribed
Thank you! Welcome! Feel free to reach out if you have questions!
Same here. I live this video. I can’t wait to watch more!!!
Put the tag in the side seam near the hem. Not the neck.
Great idea! ❤️
I made and use a wrist pin cushion a lot..love all your suggestions😊
Can you pin a list in comments please, would be very helpful
I have a long red plastic bodkin which bends.
Wow 5 for $5, i paid $4 for one purple thang
Thank you for sharing useful products
I came across this today on my birthday. I have been training my family to buy me Amazon gift cards so I hope Amazon UK have some of these items!
Happy Birthday!!!
My first time watching your channel and I really enjoyed it! I've been sewing for many years. However a lot of those items I have never had or used. But it's good to know about. I subscribed!👍
Thank you and welcome! ❤️
Thank you, Kim! I’m a tool junkie. 😂
Why not just buy circles?
I have most of those but I will check in the two or so that I don't have. I do t-shirts, etc so I have the t shirt guide. I sew so I have a lot of sewing notions.
Thank you!
Hi Kim, I have only 3 of the items you mention 🤨, but this is a great list of products. I might just go to Amazon to get some items 👏👏. Thank you for a great video 💕💕 Karen
Foot pedals - I put velcro loop side on underside of my pedals. My sewing room has berber carpet. Works like a charm and the carpet doesn't seem to mind.
Great idea! I also have carpet all over the house and my pedal always seem to be where I can’t reach it!
I saw somewhere on RUclips where someone had used the nonslip rubber drawer/shelf liner for this. They folded it double, cut the size of their pedal, then stitched trim along the edges.
I tried that seam guide…it does not work well…the piece on the top hangs up on the fabric. I sent it back. Th electric bobbin winder is another tool I don’t use….it’s noisy and the bobbins don’t wind evenly. I gave it away. I LOVE THE THREAD SNIPS. I have 3 or 4 pair…They are the best.
I'm afraid you didn't use the bobbin winder correctly if it was uneven. I love mine and so does many other quilters I have gifted them to. If you quilt they are amazing
@@debbiegeorge5880 That could be true, but just wasn't my cup-of-tea so I passed it on. It's new owner likes it.
I have 3 sizes of the clips.
We own Montana's leading estate liquidation company, start shopping your local estate sales for sewing notions you will find anything and everything you need at a fraction of the price of shops & Amazon - rotary blades, all the notions you mention in this video, things no longer made like really cool quilting rulers, fabric & more. I rarely buy anything new and I have a very well stocked sewing studio thanks to our estate sales.
So happy to see you Kim! Sorry to hear shingles found you.
I'm definitely in for the book club, yes, please!!!
Ty for the audible trial. I'm very excited
❤
Cool! I like this. Good ideas.
Love your list. About the clapper, first, I’d never heard of it, then realized just how useful they are. My neighbor loves woodworking. I told him that I needed a sewing clapper and gave him a picture. I now have a lovely custom clapper. Indispensable. I have the plastic clips, hem clips, hot hem pressing ruler, expandable gauge, thread spool savers, magnetic seam guide, stubby screwdrivers, buttonhole cutter, and pinking
shears. Just a few items to add from your list, but love that we are so closely aligned with our sewing must haves 😀
Great suggestions. thank you very much. I had no idea that there are automatic bobbin winders !!! I love all your tool suggestions. Very grateful ❣
That was such a good video with a lot of helpful things. Thank you so much. Also I don't know you, but you just seem so very sweet.
I have magnetic seam guide but, have always used it on a non-computerized sewing machine. Been afraid to use it my computized as it might damage it. I have some of these.
the thread clippers I have used for years.
I love pincushions! But, I use my magnetic dish or my magnetic pincushion.
I love great scissors. I have good Ginghers and some from Germany that my son gave me.
I find a wool press mat is my favorite, unless I'm ironing big things.
I also love my OLISO iron. Best Ever
Thank you for sharing this with us 😊❤🦓✂️🪡🧵✨
The magnetic seam guide didn’t work on my Juki DX 2000 QVP. Not enough metal for the magnet to stick to.
I love the foot pedal mat you mentioned 20:42
I scrap of carpet works great. My floor is hardwood so I use double sided tape to keep it still.
I have heard twice now that the clips come in two sizes. I have always had 3 sizes. Small medium and large. I mostly use them for hard to handle fabrics, heavy fabrics and general hand binding and rarely for a craft project.
I use this clapper on my polyester satin fabric.. any fabric that won't lay flat
Great Video! Thank you for sharing all of these great little items. The embroidery threads drive me crazy, so I just purchased the spool covers and I'm going to try the rotary blades.
The little stubby screwdrivers are really handy. Much easier than what is provided with the sewing machine
Thank you so much for your list. I'm definitely getting myself a bobbin winder! I appreciate you taking the time to put this list together.
The bobbin winder is a game changer if you quilt. I make a bunch before starting my project. I was surprised with the price from Amazon. I got mine at walmart for under $15
I filled my Amazon cart during your video in order to remember your recommendations. I will shop locally and try to find them. Thanks for this great video!
Great tips! My favorite is your gift tag attachment- Love the idea since most of my projects are gifts. First time watching your channel and I just subscribed-thanks for sharing!
Thank you for this information! I can definitely use several of these that I did not know existed 💖
When I started sewing for my baby granddaughter I wanted to tag the size of the garment but didn’t want anything scratchy. I had leftover white PUL fabric and it works great! I use a fine tip permanent marker and stitch a small piece onto an inconspicuous inner seam. The marker doesn’t wash off and the tag is very soft. Also, I have dogs and grandkids and I bought small inexpensive metal magnetic bowls and have pins, clips, snips, needles, and lots of other bits in them. They really cut down on losing things and are great to gather things quickly if I do drop pins on the floor.
Didn’t keep count but I know I have most of the gadgets in my sewing room. Love and use all of them. I do not have electric scissors or the button gadget but the others described are invaluable to me.
Newbie here. I was surprised at how many of your selections I already have! Must mean I spend too much time on Amazon. I love my magnet kitty cat needle holder for on top of your project.
I have many of these. The short screw drivers are a godsend. Hot hemmer...love that thing. I use it to crease my binding a a perfect 45" as well as for hemming. For paper piecers...a great tool for folding the paper over.
I want to thank you for providing your Amazon list - I’m a quilter and do not ever sew garments so some of your items are not for me - but many are! And I will definitely be adding them to my Wish List!!! Thank you😄😄
I’ve been sewing for 66 years. Im still learning new things!
Oooof! This video is dangerous, so easy to just want everything haha!
To keep the pedal from moving across the floor I use rubber shelf liner I get from dollar tree. Works as good and a heck of a lot cheaper.
Also you can get this magnet at harbour freight cheaper too
I love a slide ruler, a purple Thang, wonder clips, and a seam ripper that never gets dull.
Hi, I got some electric scissors for Christmas this year and I love them. I had used them befroe maybe in the 70's, they were a Singer. I used them a lot. The ones that I got as a gift this year are similar but they are USB and there were 3 blades, 2 for sewing and one it says metal but I never in my life have cut metal anything but I can see them for things like cardboard.