Article by Sharon Stenning
The term, sewing notions, is used to describe a variety of sewing accessories. These include items that are sewn onto clothing, for example buttons, zippers, clasps, and snaps. Other items are tools that make sewing possible, for instance scissors, thread, thimbles, a variety of needles, and implements to remove seams and stitching.
Thread is available in varying strengths and types. This is the thin string that is threaded through a needle to join two pieces of cloth together. It is usually wound onto spools which can be used manually or fitted to an electrically operated knitting or sewing machine. Thread is available in hundreds of colors.
A sewing notions kit should also have a range of different types, colors and sizes of zippers, snaps and buttons. You can never have too many of these items, especially if you have a large family. Buttons get loose and fall off garments, while zippers and clasps frequently break. If you have a good supply, you will be able to do a quick mending job.
If you sew often, another useful item is a sewing gauge. This enables you to make measurements accurately and quickly. You will find it ideal for many uses. For example if you are making a new garment, you can mark the exact distance between each button-hole. The gauge is also handy when trimming, hemming or performing any task that requires precise measurements.
The two most essential items in any sewing notions kit are pins and needles. Pins are shaped like a needle but they are shorter. A needle has an ‘eye’ at one end which enables the thread to be placed through it, but a pin does not. Instead of an eye, a pin has a metal stopper at one end to keep two pieces of fabric together while the seamstress sews.
At the other end of the needle is a very sharp point which penetrates the fabric. The size and thickness of a needle depends on the fabric that is being used. When sewing by hand, the threaded needle is used to stitch the two pieces of fabric together permanently.
Needles and pins can be dangerous, therefore they should be stored safely. Equally important, they can be harmful while in use. Therefore, a sewing notions kit should also contain a pin cushion. This is a firm, small cushion where pins and needles can be stuck into, during and after use.
Also, from a safety aspect, you should have a couple of thimbles in your kit. These are hard cap-like objects that are placed over the finger that is in danger of being pierced while sewing by hand. Imagine you are pushing a needle through a piece of fabric with your right hand. There will always be a finger on your left hand that is holding the fabric in position. This is the finger that should be covered with a thimble.
The items discussed in this article are the most important components for a sewing notions basket. You can always build it up with other accessories as you go along. Everything can be purchased online through internet retail stores.
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