What's on my sewing desk!

The supplies I actually use

If you're just starting out- watch my video so you can feel relieved of pressure! I've put little "Buy This First" notes on the things that will help you thrive, the rest is just because once you get going... you're going to want it all!

Watch first

A walk through my basic sewing kit

I show every item on this page, what I use it for, and which ones you can skip for now.

Some of these are affiliate links and if you buy through one, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only list things I've owned and will be purchasing soon. Thanks for supporting our family and this little sewing dream!

Cutting & measuring

Accurate cuts make everything after them easier.
Rotary cutter, 60mm

Rotary cutter, 60mm

AmazonBuy this first

Faster and straighter than scissors for straps and panels. This is a total game changer, friend. If you are wanting all your projects to go faster and save brain space, this is a must!

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Self-healing cutting mat

Self-healing cutting mat

AmazonBuy this first

This one is an investment but WORTH IT! An absolute must to go with your rotary cutter and acrylic ruler. Trust me- you will enjoy sewing so much more.

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Clear quilting ruler, 6×24"

Clear quilting ruler, 6×24"

AmazonBuy this first

This bad boy is a MUST with your rotary cutter and cut mat. It will make your life so much easier, friend!

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Soft tape measure

Soft tape measure

Amazon

This is a staple sewing item, and will do the job if you're wanting to start cheap!

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Fabric Shears

Fabric Shears

AmazonBuy this first

Repeat after me: FABRIC SHEARS ARE ONLY FOR FABRIC!! I've used Fiskers for a decade and haven't needed a replacement with that rule.

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Notions

The small things that hold it all together.
Scalloped Pinking Shears

Scalloped Pinking Shears

Amazon

Pinking shears are awesome for stopping frays in your fabric- and these things are bomb for trimming circles/curves. Also scalloped?? Are you kidding me?? Could these be any cuter?

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Snap Tool

Snap Tool

Amazon

This is the snap tool I use and I honestly love it. It's so easy, works every time, such a win.

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Cute Sewing Pins

Cute Sewing Pins

AmazonBuy this first

How cute are these?? Any pins will do, friend, these are just adorable.

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Seam Ripper

Seam Ripper

AmazonBuy this first

I hate to say it, but you're going to need this, no exceptions. So you might as well have one that doesn't make your hand ache, and this bad boy is perfect.

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Zipper Tape

Zipper Tape

Amazon

When you are ready to dive into zipper projects I can't shout the praises of zipper tape loud enough. Don't let intimidation lie to you- its superior in every way!

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Point Turner

Point Turner

Amazon

You could totally just use a chopstick, pencil, or what have you, but this guy is pretty sturdy.

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My machine

A dependable beginner machine is all you need.
Erica's Sewing Machine

Erica's Sewing Machine

Walmart

This is the updated machine in all my videos (mine has been discontinued and replaced with this model). I really really love it! It has all the bells and whistles for when you get brave, but is simple and easy to use to start!

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Fabric shops

Where I buy the cottons and canvas you see in my samples.
My go to for affordable fabrics

My go to for affordable fabrics

Hobby Lobby

Listen. Hobby Lobby is my ol' standby for all things creative. Their prices are near impossible to beat, and they have some really beautiful prints. If you are needing a confidence boost to start you can't go wrong here!

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Threadbear Canvas

Threadbear Canvas

Threadbear

This is the most wonderful fabric shop in my hometown. They have such an incredible eye for prints and going into their store feels like Christmas and sunshine and rainbows. Quality fabrics, stupid beautiful prints, support local!

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Treat Yo Self

Absolutely not necessary, but absolutely treat worthy
Tailor's Chalk

Tailor's Chalk

AmazonBuy this first

This chalk makes my life so much better. It's crisp, goes on fabric like butter, and I'm obsessed.

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Sewing Clips

Sewing Clips

Amazon

These feel like luxury for speed and ease. They're easier than pins on thick layers and vinyl. And they don't leave holes on synthetic fabrics! Treat yo self!

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Wool Ironing Mat

Wool Ironing Mat

Amazon

I'm honestly obsessed with my little ironing mat. It makes ironing "way less of a thing" and I love that I can throw it anywhere and use it. Brilliant.

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Not sure what you need?

Every pattern lists the supplies you'll need. Start with the free Pen Pocket and buy only what it calls for.