Crafty little sew-and-sew
From sewing machines to pinking shears, get everything you need for your start-up sewing kit.
Get started on those homemade sewing projects by making sure you have all the tools you need. Try John Lewis for sewing boxes, scissors and pinking shears.
* Fabric tape measure
Essential for working our sizes and cutting to patterns
* Dressmaking scissors
Keep them for cutting fabrics only
* Needlework scissors
These should be as sharp and fine as possible for intricate jobs
* Stitch un-picker
Makes light work of correct mistakes
* Pinking shears
These create the zigzag edge that reduces fraying and can be decorative
* Glass-headed pins
The bright colours make them easier to find if you drop them
* Needles
Both sewing machine and hand-sewing ones
* Thimble
Essential for protecting your thunb or finger when working with tough materials
* Thread
Tacking thread, button thread and sewing thread, which should be the same as the fabric you're using: cotton for cotton; polyester for mixed fibres, and so on
* Notions
Buttons, safety pins, elastic and press studs
* Sewing machine
From a good beginners' basic to state-of-the-art models, a sewing machine is an essential investment for making your own soft furnishings
Pictured: Square floral sewing basket from John Lewis.
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