Hand sewing, in the past women used to sew their own garments stitch by stitch before any sewing machine was invented. Today, passionate seamstress do tried to enliven this forgotten trait in sewing by hand as it reqiures patience(lots of it). If you are a homemaker or a hobby sewist hand-sewing can be a way for you to practise mindfulness to escape from the rushes of your day.
Regardless whether it’s a small mending like a tear that you’re mending or creating a custom design, Here are a few hand sewing tools you need as you embark on your hand-sewing project:
Necessary Steps for Hand Sewing Tools
Gather Essential Tools:
- Needles: Different sizes for various fabrics (e.g., embroidery needles, sharps, or quilting needles).
- Thread: Match the thread type and color to your fabric. Polyester is versatile, while cotton thread works well for natural fabrics.
- Fabric: Choose fabric based on your project (e.g., cotton for beginners).
- Scissors: Sharp fabric scissors and small thread snips.
- Measuring Tape: For accurate measurements.
- Pins and Pin Cushion: To hold fabric pieces together.
- Thimble: Protects your finger when pushing the needle through thick fabric.
- Seam Ripper: For undoing mistakes.
- Marking Tools: Chalk or fabric markers to outline patterns.
- Thread: Match the thread type and color to your fabric. Polyester is versatile, while cotton thread works well for natural fabrics.
- Prepare Your Fabric and Thread:
- Pre-wash and iron the fabric.
- Cut fabric to the required size.
- Thread the needle and tie a knot at the end of the thread.
- Pre-wash and iron the fabric.
- Learn Basic Stitches:
- Running Stitch: For simple seams and gathering fabric.
- Backstitch: For strong, durable seams.
- Whipstitch: For joining edges or repairing fabric.
- Slip Stitch: For invisible hems.
- Secure Your Fabric:
- Use pins or basting stitches to hold pieces together.
- Start Sewing:
- Follow the pattern or guidelines you’ve marked.
- Maintain even stitching for neat results.
- Finish Off:
- Knot the thread securely.
- Trim any excess thread.
- Press the fabric with an iron if needed.
Hand sewing is a rewarding skill that opens up endless creative possibilities. By starting with the right tools and practicing simple projects like a fabric tote bag, you’ll build confidence and refine your technique. Happy sewing!
