Sewing Equipment: Tools and Machine Parts

• Sewing equipment includes tools and machines for sewing, from basic hand-sewing implements to advanced computerized sewing machines.
• A sewing machine is a complex piece of equipment where its parts work together to form stitches.
• Sewing tools aid in measuring, cutting, marking, and manipulating fabric.

Sewing Machine Parts

• The spool pin holds the spool of thread in place.
• The bobbin winder winds thread onto the bobbin.
• The tension dial regulates tension on the needle thread.
• The thread take-up lever pulls thread from the spool and feeds it to the needle.
• The presser foot holds fabric in place during sewing.
• The needle clamp keeps the needle secure.
• The feed dogs move the fabric under the needle.
• The stitch length dial adjusts how long stitches are.
• The stitch width dial adjusts the width of zig-zag stitches and other stitches.

Types of Sewing Tools

Measuring Tools

• Measuring tools are essential for accurate sewing,
• Rulers measure straight lines and distances.
• Measuring tapes are typically 60 inches long and flexible for body and curved line measurements.
• Seam gauges are small rulers for measuring seam allowances and hems.
• Yardsticks are 36 inches long and measure fabric and long distances.

Cutting Tools

• Cutting tools are needed for precise fabric cutting.
• Scissors are general-purpose cutting tools.
• Shears, longer than scissors, are used for cutting fabric on a flat surface.
• Rotary cutters are used with a cutting mat for accurate, straight cuts.
• Seam rippers remove stitches.
• Pinking shears cut fabric with a zig-zag edge to prevent fraying.

Marking Tools

• Marking tools are essential for transferring pattern markings onto fabric.
• Tailor's chalk marks fabric and can be easily brushed off.
• Fabric markers have special ink that disappears over time or with water.
• Tracing wheels transfer pattern marketing when used with tracing paper.

Pinning Tools

• Pins hold fabric pieces together temporarily before sewing.
• Straight pins are basic pins for general use.
• Ballpoint pins are used for knit fabrics to prevent snagging.
• Safety pins are used for various purposes, like threading elastic through casings.

Hand Sewing Needles

• Hand sewing needles come in various sizes and types for different fabrics and purposes.
• Sharps needles, with a sharp point, are general-purpose needles.
• Crewel needles have a larger eye for embroidery floss and thicker threads.
• Ballpoint needles are used for knit fabrics to prevent snagging.

Thread

• Thread is a long, thin strand used to stitch fabric together.
• Cotton thread is used for sewing cotton and natural fabrics.
• Polyester thread is a strong, all-purpose thread suitable for many fabrics.
• Silk thread is used for sewing silk and delicate fabrics.
• All-purpose thread is suitable for most general sewing projects.

Pressing Tools

• Ironing is essential for achieving a professional finish.
• Irons press fabric smooth and remove wrinkles.
• Ironing boards provide a stable surface for ironing.
• Sleeve boards are used for pressing sleeves and small areas.
• Seam rolls are cylindrical cushions used for pressing seams open without creasing the surrounding fabric.

Other Useful Sewing Tools

• Thimbles protect fingers when hand sewing.
• Needle threaders help thread needles, especially for those with poor eyesight.
• Point turners are used to create sharp corners on collars and cuffs.
• Loop turners are used to turn fabric tubes right side out.
• Bodkins thread elastic or drawstring through casings.
• Beeswax strengthens thread and reduces tangling.

Explore essential sewing equipment, including sewing machines and hand-sewing tools. Learn about the function of each part of the sewing machine. Understand how different sewing tools help with measuring, cutting, and marking fabric.