Sewing machine accessories can be a great way to expand the capabilities of your machine and make sewing easier and more enjoyable. However, with so many different accessories available, it can be difficult to know which ones are essential and which ones you can live without.
We’re going to discuss some of the most common sewing machine accessories & explain which ones are essential for beginners and experienced sewists alike.
Essential sewing machine accessories
Here are some of the most essential sewing machine accessories:
- Presser feet are versatile attachments capable of executing various sewing functions, including zipper installation, fabric hemming, and quilting. While many sewing machines are equipped with a range of presser feet, you might consider acquiring supplementary ones if your sewing ambitions encompass specialised projects.
- Needles: Needles are the sharp metal rods that pierce the fabric and create the stitches. Needles come in a variety of types & sizes, so it’s important to use the correct needle for the fabric you’re sewing.
- Thread: Thread is the material that is used to create the stitches. Thread comes in a variety of weights and colours, so it’s important to choose the right thread for the project you’re working on.
- Bobbins: Bobbins are the small spools that hold the thread for the underside of the fabric. Most sewing machines come with a few bobbins, but it’s a good idea to have a backup supply on hand.
- Scissors: Scissors are essential for cutting fabric & thread. It’s a good idea to have a pair of sharp fabric scissors and a pair of thread scissors.
- Measuring tape: A measuring tape is essential for measuring fabric & ensuring that your projects are the correct size.
- Seam ripper: A seam ripper is a small tool that is used to remove stitches. This is a handy tool to have on hand in case you make a mistake.
Optional sewing machine accessories
Here are some optional sewing machine accessories that can be helpful for beginners, experienced sewists and everyone in between.
- Quilting foot: A quilting foot is a presser foot that helps to create even stitches for quilting projects.
- Walking foot: A walking foot is a presser foot that helps to feed the fabric through the machine evenly. This is a helpful accessory for sewing thick fabrics or multiple layers of fabric.
- Hemming foot: A hemming foot is a presser foot that helps to hem fabric evenly, and professionally.
- Zipper foot: A zipper foot is a presser foot that helps to sew zippers accurately and easily.
- Needle threader: A needle threader is a small tool that helps to thread the needle. This is a helpful tool for people with poor vision or dexterity.
- Extension table: An extension table provides extra workspace for sewing large projects.
Which sewing machine accessories do you need?
Your choice of sewing machine accessories should be tailored to both your proficiency and the nature of your intended sewing projects. For novices, commencing with fundamental accessories is prudent, encompassing items like presser feet, bobbins, needles, thread, scissors, measuring tape, and a seam ripper. As your expertise advances, you can expand your repertoire by incorporating optional accessories into your toolkit.
If you’re not sure which sewing machine accessories are right for you, ask a friend, family member, a sewing teacher or a sewing machine engineer for help. They can help you choose the accessories that are best for your needs, budget and intentions.
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