Materials 101
Collect these items to round out your basic sewing kit.
Needle Guide
Sewing machine needles come in several different types; here are a few of the more popular. Use sharps for woven fabrics, ballpoints for stretch fabrics, or a universal needle, which is a compromise between the two. Pay attention to the numbers at the bottom of the needle packaging—the higher the number, the larger the needle. Use size 70/10 or smaller for lightweight fabrics, 80/12 for regular sewing, and 90/14 or larger for heavyweight fabrics. Be good to yourself—and your machine—by inserting a new needle with every project.
Thread Guide
With so many kinds to choose from, looking at the assortment of thread at the fabric store can be dizzying. Luckily, some brands label their threads with clear-cut names, such as “outdoor,” “all-purpose,” or “heavy-duty.” For general-purpose sewing, look for a 40-weight thread in cotton or polyester. One rule of thumb to remember: The lower the number, the thicker the thread.
Presser Feet
Most sewing machines come with a variety of presser feet to accomplish various stitches. Your manual is the ultimate resource for your machine, but here’s a basic guide to what you’ll find.
Machine Anatomy
Whether you’re buying your first sewing machine (like this Brother CS6000I, $220, The Home Depot) or upgrading to a better model, here are some areas to know and features to look for.
Fabric Types
Fabrics stores are filled with materials in all sorts of weights, prints, and textures. Here is a guide to some of the most commonly used for home decorating projects.
Stitch Types
Although a basic straight stitch is what you’ll find yourself using most, here are a few additional helpful stitches for home decor sewing.
