Golden Rose Guide:✂️ The Essential Sewing Kit
- goldenrosesewing
- Sep 15
- 2 min read
A complete guide to the tools every dressmaker should own
Whether you’re just starting out or refreshing your toolkit, these essentials will see you through almost any dressmaking project.
🧵 Core Tools for Every Dressmaker
Tool | Purpose | Pro Tips |
Fabric Shears | For cutting fabric only. | Keep one sharp pair and never use them on paper to avoid dulling the blades. |
Paper Scissors | For trimming and adjusting paper patterns. | Mark them clearly so they’re never used on fabric. |
Pins & Pincushion | To hold fabric pieces together. | Glass-head pins can be ironed over; always choose fine, sharp steel pins. |
Seam Ripper | To remove unwanted stitches. | Always point the blade away from you for safety. |
Clear Ruler | For straight cuts and pattern adjustments. | A heavy quilter’s ruler can double as a pattern weight. |
Measuring Tape | For accurate body measurements. | Fibreglass tapes last longer; check accuracy every few years. |
Chalk / Fabric Marker | For transferring pattern markings. | Choose triangle, square, or pencil styles based on preference. |
Hand Sewing Needles | For finishing, repairs, and detail work. | Keep a variety for different fabrics and techniques. |
Machine Needles | For all machine sewing. | Sizes range from 60 to 120; use ballpoint for knits and stretch needles for elastic fabrics. |
Thread | To stitch your garment. | Polyester is versatile; match colour to fabric or use contrast for decorative effect. |
Iron & Ironing Board | For pressing seams and finishing garments. | Press as you sew for a professional finish. |
Haberdashery | The finishing touches. | Keep a stock of buttons, zips, hooks & eyes, ribbons, piping, bindings, tapes, and elastics. |
🌟 Useful Extras for Better Results
Tool | Why It’s Worth Having |
Point Turner | Perfect for crisp corners on collars, cuffs, and plackets. |
Rotary Cutter & Mat | Speeds up cutting, especially for knits. |
Pressing Ham | Makes pressing curves (like sleeve caps) easier and more accurate. |
Seam Roll | Ideal for pressing seams in sleeves or trouser legs without creasing. |
Clapper | Locks in crisp seams, especially on thick fabrics. |
Upgraded Marking Tools | Water-soluble pens or pencils offer precision beyond chalk. |
Hand-Held Steam Brush | Gentle on velvet, corduroy, and synthetics. |
Velvet Board | Prevents crushing the pile when pressing napped fabrics. |
🪡 Quick Care & Safety Tips
Label your scissors to prevent accidental misuse.
Store pins and needles safely to avoid injury.
Press, don’t iron — lift and press rather than dragging the iron to avoid stretching fabric.
Replace worn tools — dull blades, bent pins, and stretched tapes can ruin accuracy.
Happy Sewing!!!!
Check out our in person shop to get stocked up!!! If you need more assistance, why not jump on one of Absolute Beginners workshops or our Beginners Dressmaking Course!!!
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