Jeanne Russell Learning about the world of sewing is one of the most exciting experiences. You will learn to cultivate skills, patience, and focus during the process. However, many beginners are still confused with some sewing definitions.
For example, sewing tools and equipment are often used interchangeably, but they possess some distinct features. So, what is the definition of sewing tools and equipment?
Is there any difference between these two categories? I will explain everything to you in this post.
Table of Contents
Definition Of Sewing Tools And Equipment
In general, sewing tools refer to the instruments that support you in doing a sewing task. Most sewing tools come in smaller sizes with high portability, allowing you to maneuver them by hand easily.
Meanwhile, sewing equipment indicates more complicated sewing tools, which usually come in larger sizes and are heavyweight. Its main purpose is to carry out a specific sewing function or process.
In the sections below, I will walk you through more in-depth details of these two categories and provide additional examples.
What Are Sewing Tools?
Sewing tools are meant to be used by hand and are just small tools that assist you in the sewing process. There are five main classifications of sewing tools depending on their utilities.
Measuring Tools
The measuring tools are instruments that help the sewers obtain dimensions, forces, or quantities of natural objects. The measuring tools include a tape measure, sewing gauge, yardsticks, rulers, French curves, and tailors square.
The tape measure is the most prevalent measuring tool. The sewers use it to take measurements of the human body’s sizes and clothes.
Cutting Tools
As the name suggests, cutting tools are meant for implementing cuts on sewing materials. Some examples of cutting tools are thread clippers, seam rippers, cutting scissors, pinking shears, and dressmaker shears.
The dressmaker’s shear commonly comes in steel material with a sharp cutting edge. It can cut most fabrics smoothly and satisfactorily.
Marking Tools
You need the marking tools to transfer the marked patterns to the garment fabric. Marking tools also help you adjust the designs on fabric pieces. Some popular marking tools are marking pens, pencils, and tailor’s chalks.
Chalk and pencils are the most common tools, helping the sewers draw erasable lines and patterns on the fabric pieces.
Pinning And Sewing Tools
The pinning and sewing tools include pincushions, hand needles, needle threaders, and thimble. The pincushion helps sewers hole the pins and needles straight during the sewing process.
Meanwhile, the hand needle helps you create buttonholes and stitches. If you want to discover more about sewing tools, follow this video.
What Are Sewing Equipment?
Sewing equipment refers mainly to sewing machines with larger sizes and heavier weights. They are commonly less portable than sewing tools.
Here are some examples of sewing equipment.
The Embroidery Sewing Machine
The embroidery machine is involved in the embroidery process. Its main utility is to create patterns on fabric and textile pieces. This machine is prevalent in product branding, uniform adornment, and corporate advertising.
The Serger Sewing Machine
Also known as a locker, a serger sewing machine features multiple threads rather than one on regular sewing machines. These threads can seam the fabric and cover the raw edges.
The Leather Sewing Machine
As the name indicates, this category is optimal for leather sewing.
This equipment can stitch the leather together using foot power or electricity. A needle will drive through the leather and stitch the pieces.
Related:
– How Hard Is It to Use a Sewing Machine?
– How do sewing machines work?
The Quilting Sewing Machine
Quilting sewing machines are similar to regular sewing machines in design and operation. However, they feature a wider range of utilities and capabilities that a standard sewing machine doesn’t deliver.
FAQs
Here is some additional information relating to sewing tools and equipment you may find interesting. Follow the sections below to discover more!
What Is The Meaning Of Tools And Equipment In Sewing?
Sewing equipment is generally larger, less portable, and features a higher cost, such as the sewing machine and button holder. Meanwhile, the sewing tools are very portable and lightweight.
Sewing tools also feature smaller sizes that users use their hands to operate, such as seam rippers, shears, and measuring tape.
How Are Sewing Tools And Equipment Classified?
Sewing tools and equipment are classified based on their primary utilities, including five main categories: measuring, cutting, marking, stitching, and pressuring. Some of their examples are:
- Measuring: Tape measure, hem gauge, and ruler.
- Cutting: Scissors, shears, and clippers.
- Marking: Tracing wheel, chark, pencil, and marking pin.
- Stitching: Needles, pin cushions, pins, and thread.
- Pressing: Ironing board, seam roll, and soleplate guard.
What Are The Benefits Of Hand-Sewing?
Hand-sewing brings you tremendous benefits regarding mental health and life utilities. When practicing hand-sewing daily, your coordination and control skills will gradually improve.
In addition, hand-sewing is an affordable and accessible way to relax and reduce stress, thus enriching your mental well-being.
Why Is It Important To Know The Right Tools For Sewing?
Each sewing tool or equipment is designed for a task, and you cannot produce a complete and high-quality sewing product without using the right tool.
Therefore, you’ll have to know about all the tools’ functions as well as learn to use them properly.
How Do You Take Care Of Sewing Tools And Equipment?
You should store the tools and equipment in a cover to prevent dirt and moisture. Remember to wipe the dirt off the sewing tools with a soft and clean cloth after a long usage period.
Remember to follow the owner’s manual when cleaning your sewing machine to avoid damaging the gadget.
Final Thoughts
So that is everything you should know about sewing tools and equipment. Sewing is actually an enjoyable activity that helps you reduce stress and cultivate patience in your spare time.
I hope that this information can satisfy you. If you have any further questions, feel free to comment and let me know. Thank you for reading the post!
