We all know that sewing tools are essential for creating something nice. Some people might think that all you need is fabric, a needle, and thread. Well, sure, if you want to keep it extremely basic. But realistically, you need a sewing machine – actually, at least two. Add a serger, a coverstitch machine, and an embroidery machine, and the list keeps growing. But I am not a millionaire to buy all these.
In reality, there are sewing tools and accessories that you absolutely must have, and then there are those that are simply nice to have. In this article, I’ll share some tools and gadgets that I use regularly. They aren’t all must-haves, but I genuinely enjoy using them. The best part? All but two are under $20, and most are even under $10!
#1. Duckbill Scissors
When I first heard about duckbill scissors, I couldn’t help but chuckle at the name. I mean, who would have thought that a pair of scissors could be named after a duck’s bill? So, let’s chat about this sewing tool.
Have you ever worked on a sewing project and found yourself struggling to trim fabric close to the stitches without accidentally snipping something important? That’s where duckbill scissors come in.
They get their quirky name from their unique shape – they have a wide, flat blade that resembles a duck’s bill. This design isn’t just for laughs; it serves a very practical purpose. The flat, paddle-like blade helps to lift the fabric away from the stitches as you cut, making it easy to trim close without the fear of cutting into your main fabric. The slightly angled handle adds to the control, helping you to make a precise cut every time.
One of my favorite uses for duckbill scissors is in applique work. If you’ve ever tried to trim around an applique design with regular scissors, you know how stressful it can be. With duckbill scissors, you can confidently trim around your design, knowing the flat blade will protect the base fabric.
But that’s not all. These scissors are also great for grading seam allowances, trimming seams on delicate fabrics like lingerie, and even for notching and clipping curves. They might look a bit odd, but once you try them, you’ll like them.
Note: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. This means I will receive a commission if you order a product through one of my links. I only recommend products I believe in and use myself.
✅ Related tutorial: Duckbill Scissors: What They Are And How To Use Them
#2. Loop Turner
If you’re tired of struggling with turning fabric tubes, do yourself a favor and check out this simple sewing tools – the loop turner. This set includes three different sizes, each designed to handle various widths of fabric tubes. Using these loop turners is simple and efficient. You just slide the appropriate cylinder into your fabric tube, hook the end of the fabric onto the cylinder’s latch, and pull it through. Voilà! Your fabric tube is turned right side out without any fuss.
I use my loop turners all the time for making spaghetti straps, fabric belts, small bag handles, etc. The best part is how much time it saves. No more wrestling with stubborn fabric or ending up with a twisted mess. Just smooth, perfectly turned tubes every time.
#3. Bodkin
A bodkin is a sewing tool that looks a bit like a large, blunt needle. It’s designed to help you thread elastic, ribbon, or cord through fabric casings. It makes the job so much easier and more efficient, allowing you to focus on the fun parts of sewing instead of getting bogged down by tedious tasks.
There are different types of bodkins, each suited for various tasks. Some have a large eye for threading wider materials, while others have a small hook that securely grasps the elastic or ribbon as you pull it through the fabric casing.
Using a bodkin is straightforward. You simply attach your elastic, ribbon, or cord to the bodkin, insert it into the casing, and gently push or pull it through. The tool’s smooth surface ensures that it glides through the fabric without snagging, making the process quick and hassle-free.
I’ve found bodkins especially useful when working on projects like drawstring bags, elastic waistbands, decorative trims, etc.
✅ Related tutorial: What is a bodkin and how to use it?
#4. Sewing Clips
Sewing clips are a fantastic alternative to traditional pins. Imagine trying to sew thick layers of fabric or working with delicate materials like leather or vinyl. Pins can leave holes or even get bent out of shape. That’s where sewing clips come in handy.
These clips are small, sturdy, and easy to use. They come in various sizes and colors, which not only makes them fun but also practical for different types of projects. I love using them for quilting, as they can hold multiple layers of fabric together without shifting. Plus, they’re perfect for binding edges and keeping everything in place while you sew.
Unlike pins, which can sometimes be tricky to handle and can prick your fingers, sewing clips are simple to attach and remove. They have a flat base, which allows your fabric to lie flat and smooth, making it easier to feed through the sewing machine.
I also find sewing clips useful for holding folded hems, fitting garments, and even organizing my sewing space by clipping together pieces of fabric or patterns.
MumCraft Multipurpose Sewing Clips
✅ Related tutorial: Sewing Clips vs. Pins | Which To Choose?
#5. Magnetic Seam Guide
Let’s talk about the magnetic seam guide, a sewing tool that can help you achieve perfectly straight seams.
It attaches to the metal needle plate of your sewing machine. It uses a strong magnet to stay firmly in place, providing a consistent edge to guide your fabric along as you sew.
One of the things I love most about the magnetic seam guide is its simplicity. You just place it on the needle plate at the desired seam allowance distance, and it stays put. No screws or complicated adjustments needed. This makes it so easy to set up and adjust as needed, whether you’re working on a narrow seam or a wider one.
You can easily move it to different positions on the needle plate, depending on the seam allowance you need. This flexibility makes it suitable for a wide range of projects, from garment sewing to home decor.
It helps you sew faster and with more confidence, knowing that your seams will be accurate.
✅ Related tutorial: Seam Guide Tutorial – all you need to know about how to sew a straight line and keep seam allowances equal
#6. Magic Pins
Magic Pins are not your average pins; they come with a few thoughtful features that set them apart. First off, the comfort grip handles – they are designed to be easy to grasp and manipulate. The comfort grip handles also make it easy to spot and remove the pins as you sew, which is a nice bonus.
Another feature of Magic Pins is their heat resistance. If you’ve ever accidentally melted a pin head with your iron, you’ll appreciate this feature. These pins can withstand the heat of your iron, so you can press your fabric with the pins still in place, saving you time and ensuring your pieces stay perfectly aligned.
Their fine, sharp points glide through fabric without causing snags or damage.
Taylor Seville Originals Comfort Grip Magic Pins
✅ Related tutorial: Types of sewing pins and their uses: all you need to know about straight pins for sewing
#7. Hugo’s Amazing Tape
Let’s talk about Hugo’s Amazing Tape, an innovative tool that can simplify numerous tasks in your sewing room and beyond.
Hugo’s Amazing Tape is a self-clinging, transparent tape that doesn’t rely on any adhesive to stick. That’s right – no glue, no residue, just pure cling. This unique feature makes it useful for a wide variety of applications.
One of my favorite uses for Hugo’s Amazing Tape is wrapping around spools of thread. It keeps the thread ends neatly in place without leaving any sticky residue behind, which is a common issue with regular tape. This means no more tangled threads or messy drawers – just neatly organized spools ready for use.
Another great application is securing fabric rolls. Just wrap it around the roll, and it stays put until you’re ready to use the fabric again.
But the uses don’t stop there. Hugo’s Amazing Tape is also great for bundling up loose items like embroidery floss, binding together pattern pieces, or even temporarily holding fabric in place while you work. And you can use it over and over again without it losing its cling.
This tape is durable and water-resistant. It’s also easy to cut to the exact length you need.
✅ Related tutorial: How to Easily Hem Jeans at Home: A Beginner-Friendly Step-by-Step Tutorial
#8. Body and Clothing Tape
This is a double-sided tape that can be a real lifesaver for both your sewing projects and your wardrobe.
Fearless Body and Clothing Tape is designed to keep your clothing securely in place, so you look polished and put together at all times. This tape blends seamlessly with any fabric, so you don’t have to worry about it being visible. It’s perfect for those moments when you need a quick fix or a little extra security.
It’s great for fixing hems of pants or skirts in a pinch, when you can’t sew it. It holds the fabric securely but can be easily removed when you’re ready to make a permanent alteration.
Another use is for keeping necklines and straps in place. If you’ve ever worn a top or dress that just wouldn’t stay put, you know how annoying it can be. Fearless Tape adheres to both your skin and fabric, ensuring everything stays exactly where it should. They say it’s gentle on the skin, so you don’t have to worry about irritation, and it’s strong enough to last all day. I used it multiple times and didn’t have any problems.
Fearless Tape is also great for securing accessories. Whether you’re trying to keep a scarf in place or prevent a belt from shifting, a little bit of this tape can make a difference. It’s also handy for costume fittings and quick fixes during fashion shows or photo shoots.
The tape comes in pre-cut strips. It’s also residue-free, so it won’t leave any sticky mess behind on your clothes or skin.
Fearless Tape – Double Sided Tape
#9. Bobbin Organizer
This set is a practical solution for keeping your bobbins in perfect order.
If you’re like me, you know how quickly bobbins can turn into a tangled mess. That’s where these organizers come in. Each set includes two sturdy boxes, each designed to hold up to 28 bobbins. This means you can neatly store a total of 56 bobbins, keeping all your thread colors and types easily accessible and untangled.
One of the standout features of these bobbin box organizers is their clear plastic design. This transparency allows you to quickly see what’s inside without having to open each box.
The boxes themselves are compact and easy to store in your sewing kit, drawer, or on a shelf. Despite their small size, they provide ample space for each bobbin. The secure latch keeps everything in place, so you don’t have to worry about spills if you accidentally knock the box over.
Another great feature is the foam inserts that come with the boxes. These inserts prevent the bobbins from moving around. This is especially useful if you’re transporting your sewing supplies to a class or a sewing group. Your bobbins will stay neatly organized and ready to use, no matter where you go.
✅ Related tutorial: Top Bobbin Thread Holders and Organizers (2023)
#10. Tailor’s Ham
So, you’ve probably heard of a tailor’s ham and thought, “Why on earth is it called a ham? Is it something you eat while sewing?” Well, despite its name, this ham isn’t edible. But it’s just as essential in the sewing world as the real thing is at a holiday dinner.
A tailor’s ham is a tightly stuffed, ham-shaped cushion used for pressing curved seams, darts, and collars. Its unique shape helps you achieve a smooth, professional finish on those tricky areas. But … the name is what really steals the show here.
Imagine explaining this to a non-sewer: “Oh, I just need to grab my ham to press this sleeve.” The look of confusion on their face is priceless. They might think you’ve lost it, or that you’ve got some secret, delicious sewing ritual. But once they see the tailor’s ham in action, they’ll understand its usefulness.
And let’s not forget the fun you can have with this name. “I can’t work without my ham!” or “Have you seen my ham? I left it right here!” It’s a surefire way to get a few laughs in your sewing circle. Who knew pressing seams could be so entertaining?
In all seriousness, though, the tailor’s ham is a very useful tool. Its firm, rounded surface allows you to press curves perfectly, something a flat ironing board just can’t do. Whether you’re shaping darts, setting sleeves, or pressing collars, this ham has got your back (or your seams, rather).
Tailor’s Pressing Ham
✅ Related tutorial: How to make a tailor’s ham
#11. Magnetic Pin Cushion
Imagine this: you’re in the middle of a sewing project, pins scattered everywhere, and you’re trying to keep track of them all without turning your sewing space into a pin-filled minefield. Enter the magnetic pin cushion, your new best friend in the sewing room.
Just wave it over your work area, and it sweeps up all those stray pins in one swift motion.
The magnetic pin cushion has shallow bowl design, which makes it super easy to grab a pin when you need it. The pins are neatly aligned and ready to go.
But the real magic happens when you accidentally knock it over – the magnetic pin cushion keeps all pins stuck firmly in place.
Beyond just holding pins, I’ve found it useful for other small metal objects too. It can keep your needles, small screws, or even paper clips.
#12. Bias Tape Maker
A Bias Tape Maker is a small investment that pays off in big ways.
If you’ve ever tried making bias tape by hand, you know it can be a hassle. Cutting the fabric strips on the bias, folding them precisely, and then pressing them into submission – it’s enough to make anyone reach for the store-bought stuff. But with a Bias Tape Maker, you can start making your own beautifully coordinated bias tape in no time.
So, what exactly is a Bias Tape Maker? It’s a small gadget that helps you fold fabric strips into perfect bias tape with minimal effort. The tool comes in various sizes, allowing you to create different widths of bias tape to suit any project.
Here’s how it works: you cut your fabric strips on the bias (at a 45-degree angle to the grain), feed one end into the wide end of the tool, and then pull the fabric through. As you pull, the Bias Tape Maker folds the edges of the fabric strip towards the center, creating a perfect fold. All you need to do is follow along with your iron, pressing the folds in place as they come out of the narrow end.
The result? Crisp, even bias tape that’s ready to use.
With a Bias Tape Maker, you’re not limited to solid colors. You can use any fabric you like. Want polka dots, stripes, or floral prints? Go for it!
✅ Related tutorial: Bias tape tutorial: how to use a bias tape maker
#13. Hardwood Tailor’s Clapper
A Tailor’s Clapper is a sewing tool that might look simple but is very effective for achieving professional-quality pressed seams.
It’s a solid piece of hardwood, typically made from dense woods like maple or oak. Its primary function is to help you get crisp, flat seams by trapping steam and heat from your iron, allowing the fabric to cool and set in place.
So, how does it work? After pressing your seam with a hot iron, you immediately place the clapper on the seam and hold it there for a few seconds. The clapper absorbs the moisture and retains the heat, which helps the seam to cool down quickly and stay flat. This technique is particularly useful for thick fabrics, tricky seams, and areas where you need a sharp crease, like pleats and hems.
The weight and density of the hardwood are key to the clapper’s effectiveness. A lighter wood wouldn’t retain heat as well or provide the necessary pressure to flatten seams. That’s why high-quality clappers are made from dense hardwoods.
Another great feature is its simplicity. There are no moving parts, no complicated instructions – just a straightforward tool that does its job exceptionally well.
Mardili Hard Wood Tailors Clapper
#14. Cam Snaps
Cam Snaps is a fun fastening solution that can add both functionality and flair to your sewing projects.
They are plastic snap fasteners that come in a variety of colors and sizes. Whether you’re making baby clothes, bags, accessories, or home decor items, these snaps are a handy alternative to traditional buttons, zippers, or hook-and-loop fasteners.
One of the best things about Cam Snaps is how easy they are to use. Cam Snaps are applied with a simple snap press tool or pliers. Here’s how it works: you punch a hole in your fabric, insert the snap components, and press them together with the tool. The result is a secure, professional-looking fastener that’s ready to go in seconds.
The variety of colors available for Cam Snaps is another big plus. You can match them perfectly to your fabric for a seamless look or choose contrasting colors. This makes them especially popular for children’s clothing and accessories.
They are strong enough to withstand frequent use, yet gentle enough for delicate fabrics. This makes them ideal for items that will be washed often, like cloth diapers, bibs, and reusable snack bags. They hold up well to repeated snapping and unsnapping.
They’re perfect for creating custom closures on handmade bags, wallets, and pouches. Because they’re so easy to apply, you can experiment with different placements and designs without a lot of hassle.
Use them to create snap-on labels, attach removable parts, or even make adjustable straps.
#15. Holographic Thread Set
I’ve always enjoyed using metallic threads in my projects, but I often find that they don’t quite deliver on the shine I’m looking for. You really have to look closely to catch those subtle sparks. But with holographic thread, it’s a whole different story – the sparks are there, and they’re visible from the get-go.
The iridescent quality of the thread catches the light beautifully, creating a dazzling effect that you can see from across the room. It adds a whole new dimension to my work.
What I love most about holographic thread is its ability to elevate even the simplest designs. Whether I’m stitching a delicate floral pattern or adding some flair to a garment, the holographic thread ensures that the final result is anything but ordinary.
Plus, the variety of colors available in holographic thread sets means I can always find the perfect shade to complement my fabric. And the best part? The shine doesn’t fade with time.
#16. Martelli Rotary Cutter
I use my Martelli Rotary Cutter constantly. The ergonomic design is what initially drew me to it. Unlike traditional rotary cutters, the Martelli Rotary Cutter is designed to fit naturally in your hand, reducing strain and fatigue
The cutter’s design allows me to maintain full control, ensuring that my cuts are straight and consistent.
It handles a wide range of fabrics with ease, from delicate silks to thick denim. I’ve even used it on batting and felt with great results. Changing the blade is quick and easy.
#17. Martelli Rotary Cutter Blades
Whenever I need to replace a blade, I always use the Martelli Rotary Cutter Blades. These blades are very sharp and durable, and they are a perfect match for the high standards set by the Martelli Rotary Cutter itself. They slice through fabric effortlessly, and make clean, accurate cuts every single time.
One of the things I appreciate most about Martelli Rotary Cutter Blades is their longevity. Unlike some other brands that seem to dull after just a few projects, these blades stay sharp for a surprisingly long time. This means fewer blade changes.
The sharpness of these blades is particularly noticeable when I’m cutting through multiple layers of fabric. Whether I’m working on a thick quilt or cutting several pieces of fabric at once, the Martelli blades handle the job with ease. They glide through the layers without snagging or skipping, ensuring that all my pieces are cut accurately and consistently.
Martelli Ergo 2000 Rotary Cutter 45mm Refill Blade
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Vicki Lamb
Wednesday 26th of June 2024
Great list of amazing tools. I cannot wait to start sewing again.
Olga Balasa
Sunday 30th of June 2024
Thank you!