22 Sewing Tools You Need To Start Sewing Today (Under $220)

If you would like to learn more about each tool such as why you need them, different options and at home alternatives, then view the video below. I have also included tips and tricks you can use when getting started as a beginner.

The 22 Beginner Sewing Tools
I have been sewing for over 8 years and I use these 22 tools EVERY TIME I sew something. Here is a list of the 22 tools, materials and machines you need in order be successful and as hassle free as possible on your sewing journey. As well as some at-home alternative options for the beginners who want to save as much money as possible when learning to sew. So let’s get right into it so you can start sewing!

1) Tape Measure/Measuring Tape

Alternatives: your dad’s or husband’s tool box tape measure or you can use a piece of string/yarn and mark accurately with a ruler.

2) Scissors (paper only)

Alternatives: sorry no alternatives to scissors but they are very affordable/accessible

3) Clear Tape

Alternatives: any tape you may have handy that will not damage or stain your tools, workspace or fabric if used on those.

4) Clear ruler

Alternatives: a regular ruler or an item that has a straight edge, possibly clear and is or can be evenly marked.

5) Sewing Patterns
Alternatives: No alternative to patterns. You will need to make or buy them. You can look up many ways to trace clothing to remake it or to copy patterns to remake if you don’t want to purchase patterns.

*Tip: Be sure to research sewing and sewing pattern terminology and familiarize yourself with a few terms.

6) Fabric/Pattern Weights

Alternatives: You can use things around the house to hold your project and items down. Use things that will not stain or damage your fabric in any way.

*Tip: sometimes it helps to steam or press fabric before cutting it to remove any discrepancies in the smoothness

7) Tracing Wheels

8) Tracing Paper

9) Fabric Marking Tool

10) Fabric - medium weight woven fabrics, and you will not regret it. My favorite practice fabric is unbleached muslin.

Alternatives: You can always practice with old clothing or bags, even old curtains and sheets just be sure the fabric is not stretchy and is of medium weight.

11) Cutting Mat

12) Fabric Shears - ONLY USE FOR CUTTING FABRIC

*Tip: It’s recommended to get your shears sharpened often. As a beginner, once a year is good to start if you cut fabric monthly. If you start to cut fabric weekly, getting your shears sharpened every 4 months will help with quality cutting. You can adjust the frequency depending on how often you sew.

13) Rotary Cutter - ONLY USE FOR CUTTING FABRIC

14) Sewing Machine - Choose one that is between

15) Sewing Machine Needles - get needles that are for your machines model and stick with universal needles u til you do more research on sewing machine needles

16) Thread - all purpose thread

17) Snips - only use for thread

Alternative: You can use any small pair of scissors that you have available

18) Bobbins - it is good to start with 5-6 bobbins that are for your sewing machine’s model

19) Pins and Clips - great to have either but it is a great investment to have both

20) Seam Ripper

Alternative: Some great alternatives to a seam ripper are razor blades, Xacto knives or even a small pair of trimming scissors.

21) Iron - iron every seam you sew, it makes your garments/projects look less homemade

22) Steamer - to steam hard to iron or delicate fabrics

Alternative: Iron with upright steam feature

Where can I purchase these tools to save the most money?

You can purchase these tools through the links I have below. Disclosure: Links I have provided are Amazon affiliate links and I do get a commission when links are used to make purchases.

Here are some helpful links for the beginner sewist:

Sewing Patterns


However, you are your final critic; So view multiple reviews and use your best judgment before making any purchases! I am not responsible if items and products do not work for you. These products are recommended based on the needs I had for them and the results I got personally using them. Items were used for 6 months to a year before reviews were finalized.