Sewing your own clothing is such a rewarding creative outlet! Whether you’re brand new to sewing or a seasoned pro, having the right tools can make all the difference—especially when working with stretchy knit fabrics. Here are five sewing tools and accessories I recommend for making your sewing projects easier and more enjoyable. Each of these beginner-friendly tools is a game-changer for sewing clothing, and you can easily find them online. I’ve even included links to some of my favorites to help you get started (As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases which helps keep this site running)!
1. A Good Iron
I surprised myself by putting this so high on the list, because I rarely (read: neverrr) iron any of my family’s ready-to-wear clothes. However, this will make life so much easier and really elevates your garments if you press seams as you go. An iron with steam settings is ideal for gently removing wrinkles and creases. This feature is especially useful when working with knit fabrics, which rely on their natural elasticity to fit and drape properly. A good iron will allow you to press your seams and hems effectively while maintaining the fabric’s stretch, ensuring your finished garment moves and feels comfortable to wear. Look for an iron with adjustable heat settings to handle all fabric types, from delicate jerseys to sturdy ponte knits.
Shop one of my favorite irons here (it has a retractable cord!).
2. Bodkins
If you’ve ever struggled to thread elastic or drawstrings through a casing, a bodkin will be your new best friend. This small but mighty tool makes pulling elastic through waistbands and other tight spaces so much easier. It’s a must-have for sewing knit garments like dresses with gathered waists or for turning out tiny straps.
Check out this highly-rated bodkin here.
3. Fabric Clips
Fabric clips are a fantastic alternative to pins, especially when working with knits. Pins can leave holes or snag stretchy fabric, but clips hold layers securely without damaging your material. They’re also perfect for keeping edges aligned when sewing tricky curves or bulky seams. A set of colorful fabric clips will quickly become one of your go-to tools!
Grab a set of fabric clips here.
4. Ballpoint Sewing Machine Needles
Using the right needle is crucial when sewing knit fabrics. Ballpoint needles are specifically designed for stretchy fabrics, as their rounded tip slides between the fibers rather than piercing them. This prevents runs and skipped stitches, ensuring smooth and professional-looking seams. Be sure to stock up on these handy needles before starting your next knit project. You’ll want multiple sizes to different weights of fabric.
5. A Rotary Cutter and Self-Healing Cutting Mat
Cutting knit fabric can be tricky, but a rotary cutter makes it much easier to achieve clean, accurate edges. Pair it with a self-healing cutting mat to protect your work surface and extend the life of your blade. This duo is especially helpful for cutting out pattern pieces with curves or small details, saving you time and frustration.
Shop a rotary cutter and cutting mat here.
Ready to Sew?
Having the right tools on hand can transform your sewing experience and help you create beautiful clothing with confidence. If you’re just starting out, these five beginner-friendly tools are a great place to begin. They’ll make sewing easier, more efficient, and a lot more fun!
Do you have a favorite sewing tool that’s not on this list? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your recommendations!
