Sewing Wellness | Collette Costello

Author: Collette Costello

  • Top 10 Sewing Kit Essentials for Beginners

    Discover the top 10 sewing kit essentials, so you have everything you need to start sewing.

    When learning how to sew, start with just 10 essentials in your sewing kit:

    • Fabric Scissors
    • Tape Measure
    • Pin Cushion
    • Tailors Chalk
    • Dressmaking Pins
    • Paper Scissors
    • Sewing Needles
    • Sewing Threads
    • Thread Un-picker
    • Bodkin

    You can sew most sewing projects using the tools listed above. See top picks below, to ensure you buy only quality sewing items for your kit.

    Beginners Tips – 10 Sewing Kit Essentials

    Learn about the different types of sewing tools below and where to buy:

    • Dressmaking Scissors – Buy quality dressmaking scissors and only use to cut fabric. Scissors are easier to use then cutting wheels.

    Highly recommended tailoring scissors with free snips under £20. Shop now Milward Dressmakers Scissors Amazon.

    • Snips – Buy snips to unpick sewing, they can take a little practice to use. Avoid un-pickers, they can rip your fabric.
    • Threads – Buy quality thread that won’t snap easily, brand such as Coats and Gutermann. Get a selection of colours, including black and white.

    Highly recommended Gutermann thread starter box under £15. Shop now Value Pack Gutermann Thread Amazon.

    • Tailors Chalk – Buy simple triangular tailors chalk in white and one colour. Other options are chalk pencils, yet they snap easily and dissolving pens can take a few days to fade.
    • Tape Measure – For measuring bodies, fabrics, elastic and other things when sewing.
    • Dressmaking, Tailoring Pins – Simple metal pins are fine. Avoid decorative pins with large heads, they can get caught in the sewing machine.
    • Pin Cushion – For storing all your pins when sewing, to keep your sewing space tidy.
    • Paper scissors – Use to cut dressmaking patterns. Never use fabric scissors to cut paper it will blunt them.
    • Spares for Machine – Keep spares for your sewing machine, including spare needles and light-bulbs.
    • Bodkin – This tool is for pulling elastic and cord through a garment. Great for making pyjamas and drawstring bags.

    Top Tip:

    • Many dressmakers use rotary cutters, for cutting fabric. They can slip easily when cutting, so fabric scissors maybe better for beginners.

    Where to Buy Sewing Kits?

    Sewing kits are available in many online sewing stores including:

    Also see “40 of the Best Sewing Kits for Beginners”, for more sewing advice.

    For more top sewing tips:

  • Best sewing subscription boxes for beginners UK

    It has never been easier to dive into crafting supplies and fresh project ideas with sewing subscription boxes.

    Why we love sewing subscription boxes?

    Imagine a delightful package arriving at your door, packed with everything you need to kick off a new sewing adventure!

    These boxes are ideal for beginners and those who have mastered basic stitches and want to enhance their skills. Each month, you’ll eagerly unwrap a box filled with new fabrics and projects.

    Like all great craft kits, monthly sewing subscription boxes simplify your creative journey. They come complete with colourful fabrics, essential tools, and easy-to-follow instructions to help you create stunning projects.

    Feeling inspired by the Great British Sewing Bee? Subscription boxes are also eco-friendly, providing just the right amount of materials for each project. This means less waste and more fun!

    What’s Inside the Best Sewing Subscription Boxes?

    We’ve rounded up some of the top sewing subscription boxes that are perfect for every sewing enthusiast. Whether you’re eager to try your hand at dressmaking or simply want some fab fat quarters, there’s something for everyone! Plus, you’ll pick up new skills with every project, letting you create beautiful pieces for your home and wardrobe.

    Most boxes come with an exciting project or pattern to tackle each month, while others offer a mix of lovely fabrics and supplies, encouraging you to unleash your creativity.

    Dive into our list of the best sewing subscription boxes below and find the perfect match for your crafting style. Happy stitching!

    Best 8 Monthly Subscription Boxes UK

    1. My Sewing Box: Offers a monthly box filled with sewing supplies, including fabrics, patterns, and notions, designed for various skill levels.

    2. Sew Hayley Jane: A curated box that includes high-quality fabrics, patterns, and treats for sewing enthusiasts, focusing on fun and creativity.

    3. Lamazi Fabrics: offers a fantastic range of sewing kits that include all the necessary materials to bring your sewing projects to life. With free UK shipping on orders over £75.

    4. Guthrie & Ghani: For those who enjoy a regular sewing challenge, Guthrie & Ghani has a brilliant monthly dressmaking kit subscription.

    5. Clothkits: If you’re after premium materials, Cloth Kits is the place to go. Their selection of dressmaking and crafting kits features luxurious fabrics like silks and soft linens.

    4. Simply Sewing Magazine Subscription: A magazine subscription that comes with free patterns, fabric bundles, and projects each month for sewing enthusiasts.

    5. Crafty Creatives: Provides a variety of crafting kits, including sewing projects, to inspire creativity and encourage new skills.

    6. Sewing for Success: Online sewing classes providing unique sewing projects each month, along with access to online tutorials and community support.

    7. Sew Over It: A subscription that includes monthly patterns, fabric bundles, and exclusive access to new designs from a well-known UK sewing brand.

    8. The Crafty Kit Company: Offers a variety of crafting subscription boxes, including sewing kits that feature everything needed to complete fun projects.

    These subscription boxes cater to a range of sewing interests and skill levels, making them great options for anyone looking to enhance their sewing journey.

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  • Top 10 best gifts for people who love sewing

    Discover the best gifts for friends or family that love sewing.

    Whether they are a beginner or an experienced sewer, these products will help them unleash your creativity and take their sewing skills to the next level!

    1. Sewing Machine for Beginners

    A beginner’s sewing machine is user-friendly, lightweight, and affordable, featuring essential stitches and easy threading. It’s perfect for new sewers starting their sewing journey.

    2. Sewing Books

    Beginner sewing books are essential for new sewers, offering clear instructions, step-by-step projects, and helpful tips to build confidence and creativity in sewing.

    3. Sewing Scissors

    Sewing scissors are essential tools for any sewist. Designed for precision cutting, they provide clean edges and are perfect for fabric, thread, and trimming.

    4. Sewing Boxes

    A sewing box is an essential organiser for any sewer, providing convenient storage for tools, threads, fabrics, and accessories, keeping everything neat and easily accessible.

    5. Dressmaking Scissors

    Dressmaking scissors are specially designed for cutting fabric with precision. Their sharp, curved blades ensure clean edges, making them essential tools for any sewing enthusiast.

    6. Sewing Threads

    Sewing threads are essential for all projects, offering strength and flexibility. Available in various colours and materials, they ensure durability and a polished finish for creations.

    7. Embroidery Kits

    Sewing threads are crucial for any project, providing strength and durability. High-quality threads come in various colours, ensuring a polished finish for your creations.

    8. Dressmaking Pins

    Dressmaking pins are essential tools for securing fabric layers during sewing. Their sharp points and sturdy design allow for precise placement, ensuring accurate stitching and alignment.

    9. Dressmaking Chalks

    Sewing chalks are perfect for marking fabric temporarily. Available in various colours, they allow for precise lines and easy removal, ensuring accurate cutting and stitching.

    10. Beginners Sewing Equipment

    Sewing equipment includes essential tools like machines, scissors, and pins. These tools enhance creativity and precision, making sewing enjoyable and efficient for beginners and experienced crafters alike.

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  • 1930s Flour Sack Dresses Ready to Sew

    Flour sack dresses from the 1930s were the original ready-to-sew kits, showcasing sustainable fashion at its best.

    During the Great Depression in the USA, when resources were scarce, women would up-cycle old feed sacks. They turned these cotton sacks into dresses, aprons, and even children’s clothing.

    Once flour companies discovered this trend, they started using printed fabrics for their sacks so they could be transformed into attractive items.

    The sacks were even printed with ready-to-cut dress patterns and instructions, making them the original pre-cut clothing kits.

    This story inspired me to start Sewing Success classes and design printed, ready-to-sew kits to promote more sustainable fashion by encouraging people to sew their own clothing.

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  • Best Sewing Starter Kits and Sewing Sets for Adults

    Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, a sewing starter kit is a must-have for anyone looking to dive into the world of sewing. With everything you need to get started, these kits offer convenience and the opportunity to learn new skills while creating your own projects. Whether you’re sewing clothes, home décor, or accessories, the right kit can set you on the path to mastering this timeless craft.

    Here’s a guide to some of the best sewing kits for beginners and sewing sets for adults, along with links to trusted companies that offer these products.

    1. Sewing Kit Starter from Hobbycraft

    Hobbycraft offers a variety of sewing starter kits perfect for those new to sewing. Their kits typically include essential tools such as needles, pins, scissors, thread, fabric, and measuring tape. With simple instructions and all the basic materials provided, Hobbycraft’s kits are ideal for beginners looking to get into sewing or crafting small projects like tote bags, pillows, or clothing.

    Explore their range: Hobbycraft Sewing Starter Kits

    2. Sewing Starter Kits by John Lewis

    John Lewis is known for its quality products, and their sewing sets for adults are no exception. Their sewing kits typically come with everything you need to start a project, including needles, thread, scissors, fabric swatches, and sewing patterns. These kits are great for beginners looking to explore sewing or for adults who want to try simple projects like home décor or basic clothing items.

    Check out their kits: John Lewis Sewing Kits

    3. Sew Over It: Sewing Sets for Adults

    Sew Over It specialises in helping adults learn how to sew with easy-to-follow projects. They offer a wide selection of sewing sets for adults, including kits for creating your own clothes, such as skirts, dresses, and tops. Each kit includes high-quality fabric, thread, patterns, and detailed instructions, making it simple to create stylish, handmade garments from scratch.

    Discover their kits: Sew Over It Sewing Sets

    4. The Makery: Complete Sewing Kits

    If you’re looking for a sewing kit starter that’s both stylish and easy to use, The Makery offers complete sewing kits designed for beginners and hobbyists alike. Their kits come with pre-cut fabric, needles, thread, and clear instructions to guide you through making items like cushions, bags, and more. These sets are perfect for adults looking for fun and easy projects.

    Shop their kits: The Makery Sewing Kits

    5. Singer Sewing Kits

    Known for their sewing machines, Singer also offers a range of sewing starter kits that are perfect for beginners. Their kits include everything you need to get started, from sewing tools to patterns and fabrics. With high-quality materials and a variety of beginner-friendly projects, Singer’s kits are a reliable choice for anyone wanting to explore sewing.

    Browse their products: Singer Sewing Kits

    Why Choose a Sewing Starter Kit?

    Sewing kits are a fantastic way to jumpstart your sewing journey, whether you’re just starting out or looking to refresh your skills. Here’s why:

    • Convenience: A sewing kit starter provides all the essentials in one place, so you don’t have to shop for individual tools.
    • Skill development: These kits are designed to teach you the basics of sewing while working on fun projects.
    • Creativity: Sewing is a highly creative hobby, and starter kits allow you to experiment with fabrics, colours, and designs.
    • Great for beginners: Kits often come with detailed instructions, making it easy for beginners to follow along and complete their first project.

    Conclusion

    Investing in a sewing starter kit is a great way to kick off your sewing journey, whether you want to sew your own clothes, create home décor, or work on fun accessories. Companies like Hobbycraft, John Lewis, and Sew Over It offer a wide range of sewing kits that cater to beginners and hobbyists alike.

    Ready to get started on your sewing journey? Explore these top-quality sewing kits for adults and start creating your own handmade projects today!

    Looking for the perfect sewing starter kit? Check out these trusted companies and find the best sewing sets for adults to bring your creative ideas to life!

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  • The Ultimate Guide to Sewing Sets for Adults

    Whether you’re new to sewing or looking to upgrade your supplies, having a sewing set is essential. Sewing sets for adults are designed to provide everything you need in one convenient package, allowing you to tackle a variety of sewing projects with ease. From basic repairs to full-scale creations, these kits offer the tools, fabrics, and accessories to get started or advance your skills.

    Here’s a guide to some of the best sewing kits available, along with trusted companies offering high-quality sewing sets for adults.

    1. Hobbycraft: Complete Sewing Kits for Adults

    Hobbycraft is a go-to destination for crafters, offering a wide range of sewing kits perfect for beginners and seasoned hobbyists. Their sets include essential sewing tools such as needles, scissors, threads, and measuring tapes, along with simple patterns and fabrics for projects like tote bags, cushions, and more. Hobbycraft’s kits are designed to make sewing fun and accessible.

    Explore their collection: Hobbycraft Sewing Kits

    2. John Lewis: Sewing Sets for Adults

    John Lewis offers premium sewing sets that cater to both beginners and experienced sewers. Their kits come with high-quality materials, including fabric, patterns, and essential tools such as pins, thimbles, and needle threaders. With everything you need in one kit, these sets make it easy to complete stylish home décor projects or even start making your own clothes.

    Check out their range: John Lewis Sewing Sets

    3. Sew Over It: Fashion Sewing Kits

    If you want to sew your own clothing, Sew Over It provides fashion-focused sewing kits for adults. Their kits include patterns for skirts, dresses, and tops, along with the fabric and instructions to guide you through the process. These sets are perfect for those who want to dive into fashion sewing while building their skills.

    Discover their kits: Sew Over It Sewing Kits

    4. The Makery: Fun and Creative Sewing Kits

    For crafters looking to create fun and useful items, The Makery offers a variety of sewing sets for adults. Their kits include pre-cut fabric, sewing patterns, needles, and thread for projects like pillows, tote bags, and other practical items. These kits are ideal for hobbyists who want to create personalised and stylish home accessories.

    Shop their kits: The Makery Sewing Kits

    5. Singer: Comprehensive Sewing Kits

    Singer is a trusted name in the sewing industry, known for its sewing machines, but they also offer sewing kits that are perfect for both beginners and experts. Their kits include everything you need for basic repairs and sewing projects, such as needles, thread, scissors, buttons, and safety pins. These comprehensive kits are a great addition to any sewing room.

    Browse their products: Singer Sewing Kits

    Why Invest in a Sewing Set?

    Sewing kits are convenient and versatile, offering everything you need to start or improve your sewing skills. Here’s why investing in a sewing set is a great idea:

    • All-in-one solution: With a sewing set, you have all the tools and materials you need in one place, making it easy to get started.
    • Beginner-friendly: Many kits are designed for beginners, with clear instructions and simple projects that teach basic skills.
    • Versatility: Whether you’re repairing clothes, creating home décor, or sewing your own wardrobe, a sewing set provides the essentials for any project.
    • Portable: Most sewing kits are compact and easy to store or carry, making them perfect for sewing on the go or taking to a class.

    Conclusion

    Whether you’re looking to create your own fashion pieces, sew home décor, or make small repairs, a sewing set is a must-have. Companies like Hobbycraft, John Lewis, and Sew Over It offer high-quality sewing kits for adults that cater to all levels, from beginners to more experienced sewers.

    Ready to start your next sewing project? Explore these top sewing kits and take your crafting skills to the next level!

    Looking for the perfect sewing set? Check out these trusted companies and find the best sewing kits for adults to get started on your creative journey today!

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  • Sew Christmas Pyjamas – Online or Manchester Classes

    Learn to sew your own Christmas pyjama trousers, with special sewing classes to get you in the festive mood!

    Join this Christmas Pyjama Sewing Class and learn to make cosy pyjama trousers. Create a pair in your size or make special gifts for family and friends this festive season.

    Manchester Sewing Class – Fully booked

    Online Sewing Course

    • Available until 8th December 2025
    • 4-hour course
    • Includes pattern, trimmings, and online video lessons
    • All materials will be delivered to your home; you just need fabric.

    To view latest sewing classes now booking, see button below:

    See Sewing Classes

    Note: To join the classes, you need to have basic machine sewing skills.

    • If you have never used a sewing machine you can add on the ‘Introduction to using a sewing machine’ class, this can be completed online at home. 

    Contact us with any questions and subscribe below for upcoming course dates.

  • How to Thread a Sewing Machine Beginners

    Is Your Sewing Machine Thread Correctly? Handy Checklist

    Do the following checks before sewing, to ensure your machine is threaded properly and ready to start sewing:

    • Top thread between tension wheels.
    • Tension is set to approx 3 – 4.
    • Thread is tightly wound on spool/bobbin.

    How to Thread up Sewing Machine

    Domestic machines are usually threaded in a similar way. If you don’t thread your machine correctly, your threads may snap and become tangled in the machine.

    • When the top thread is threaded correctly, it is in the shape of the letter “N”.
    • Place bobbin in case so bottom thread unwinds anti-clockwise.

    Top Machine Threading Tips

    • Use top thread holding disc, to stop thread unwinding too quickly.
    • After threading machine, pull top and bottom thread out at least 10cm.

    What is Stopping my Machine Sewing?

    A sewing machine that is incorrectly threaded, can make the machine stop sewing. Use the check list below of common mistakes, to ensure your machine is threaded correctly.

    • Thread needs to be between tension wheels.
    • Cheap, thin thread will snap, change your thread.
    • Check bobbin winder is released, if your needle is not moving.

    Plastic or Metal Spool for Sewing Machine?

    Remember plastic to plastic, metal to metal!

    A spool also known as bobbin, is the small cylinder wheel that holds the bottom thread on a sewing machine.

    Which bobbin/ spool you use depends on the case, the spool is put in. Usually plastic spools drop into the top base of the machine. Metal spools are placed in a removable bobbin case, that fits in the side of the machine.

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  • My Sewing Machine Won’t Sew 10 Fixes

    Sewing machines are great when they work, much quicker than sewing by hand. Yet they can be a real pain to learn how to use and to fix when they break.

    Why Wont my Sewing Machine Sew?

    When a sewing machine won’t sew, it is usually due to the same faults. See the video and guide below for my top 10 fixes to get your machine working again.

    Top 10 Sewing Machine Fixes

    If your sewing machine isn’t sewing, there are a few things you can check to try to fix the problem. Here are my 10 fixes for a sewing machine that won’t sew.

    1. Check the needle, it maybe bent, dull, or damaged. To replace, put the needle in the machine with flat side facing the back
    2. Check the top thread, is threaded correctly. That is goes through all the holes and between the tension plates.
    3. Set the tension, for standard sewing set to between 3-4. Check your instruction manual for other settings.
    4. Release the bobbin winder. Check the bobbin winder is reset, as this will stop the needle in the machine moving.
    5. Insert bobbin correctly. Check the bobbin has been placed in machine correctly. The thread on bobbin should unwind anti-clockwise.
    6. Check thread. You thread maybe too thin for the project. Metallic threads are prone to breaking easily.
    7. Clean the Machine. Use a small brush to remove dust and threads from the bobbin case.
    8. Change fabric. Domestic sewing machines struggle to stitch through many layers and thick fabrics such as denims.
    9. Check machine timing. Tired everything, machine still not working? A professional service will be needed to check and fix any timing issues.
    10. Take regular breaks when sewing to avoid making mistakes. Machines do have a knack to stopping working when your stressed, only to start working again the next day!

    For more sewing tips:

  • Best Sewing Machine for Beginners UK

    The best sewing machines for beginners are domestic sewing machines. Surprisingly, the most inexpensive, basic sewing machines are best for beginners. Sewing machines that start at £80 by quality brands such as:

    • Singer
    • Brother
    • Janome

    What is the Best Sewing Machine for Beginners?

    The Only 3 Sewing Machines You will Ever Need!

    Brand you can trust starting at £80, make great gifts. The 3 types of sewing machines below, are the only 3 machines a beginner will ever need. See my top picks below:

    1. Basic Domestic Sewing Machine

    Beginners can make most sewing projects on a basic domestic sewing machine. The budget machines below can be used to make dresses, cushion and accessories. They are great machines and won’t break easily.

    Highly recommended, this is the machine I use to teach all my online sewing classes.

    2. Overlocker Machine Domestic

    If you are planning on doing a lot sewing and want to give clothes a professional finish, invest in a domestic overlocker machine. These machines seal the edges of fabric and are an essential for stitching stretchy garments.

    Highly Recommended £250 Domestic Sewing Machine, Shop Now Brother M343D Amazon

    3. Heavy Duty Sewing Machine

    A heavy duty sewing machine is perfect for sewing thick denim, coats and leathers upholstery. This machine is perfect for confident beginners that want to take their sewing to the next level.

    Great Value £350 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine, Shop Now Brother 4423 Amazon

    Which Sewing Machine for Beginners?

    • Domestic Sewing Machine – You can learn to sew using only a domestic sewing machine. This machine can be used to sew everything from cushions to dresses.
    • Domestic Over-locker Machine – To give your sewing a professional finish, you may wish to invest in an over-locker machine. This machine is used to stop the edges of fabric fraying.

    Top Tip – When buying budget machines, avoid small “Mini” sewing machines. These machines are more like toys and will break when used. For more machines see “Best Sewing Machines for Beginners”.

    1950s Style Vintage Sewing Machines Under £200!

    To get a vintage style sewing machine, without the hassle of an old machine that breaks.

    Try the range of colourful sewing machines by Janome, exclusive to John Lewis. Shop now “JL220 by John Lewis”.

    This sewing machine comes in a range of vintage colours, so looks great in any home. This machine has a range of stitches and is great for any beginners sewing project.

    Learn more about this machine see, 1950’s Vintage Machine Under £20.

    Types of Sewing Machines Beginners Guide

    As you become more confident at sewing you may invest in other types of sewing machines.

    To learn more about the differences between sewing machines, see list below:

    • Domestic machines: Are for home sewing, they will sew everything other than heavy fabrics or through lots of layers of fabric. 
    • Semi-industrial: Are heavy duty domestic machines for professional and home sewing. They will stitch through heavy fabrics.
    • Industrial machines: Are professional, used in factories. Yet if you have the space, money and can stitch fast they really are the best machines. You can sew really fast using them and they are not fiddly.
    • Over-lockers: Are for stopping the edges of fabrics fraying, they are worth the investment. Can be used the stitch stretchy clothes together, without the use of a general sewing machine. You can buy domestic or industrial.
    • Cover-stitch: Is for hemming garments made in stretchy fabrics, such as t-shirts for a professional finish.
    • Embroidery Machine: This feature can be built into a domestic sewing machine or maybe purchased as a separate machine.

    Other machines are available yet they are more specialist. For more see “13 Types of Sewing Machines and Their Uses” or list below:

    What is the difference between budget and expensive sewing machine?

    I have made clothes, taught classes using budget domestic machines. The difference between budget and expensive machines is that. The more expensive machines are slightly heavier, so may move around less. Yet they stitch exactly the same as the cheaper models.

    When you buy a more expensive machine such as Janome, you are paying really only for extra decorative stitches. Which when learning to make clothes you would very rarely use. I am currently teaching online sewing courses, using an Singer 2250. It is great machine, does everything I need and I had it a few years now.

    Where to buy beginners sewing machines?

    Budget domestic sewing machines, by quality brands such as Singer. Can be purchased at budget high-street stores. I have purchased beginners machines from the stores below. For more ideas see “Best Tested Sewing Machines”.

    The beginners machines I purchased from Argos, were their own brand and worked well. I also love the colourful budget machines sold at John Lewis. Instead of traditional white, they come in many rainbow and pastel colours.

    Quality Sewing Machine Brands:

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