A couple of "tools" I like aren't found in a quilt shop. First, door stops. I place that at the back under my machine to tilt it towards me giving me a better view of my work so I'm not so hunched over - better for my back. Second, a spiral key chain. I attach my thread snip scissors to one end and attach the other end to my sewing machine's cord up where it plugs into the machine (using a clip to keep it from sliding down). If I drop my scissors they never hit the floor and it's easy to retrieve them again.
I put a thin yoga mat under my cutting mat to keep it from moving and I cut a piece of the yoga mat to keep my foot pedal in place. I use two pound weights on my quilting rulers when I'm cutting fabric. I added the non slip disks to all of my rulers. Dollar Tree has a face roller in the makeup section that's great for pressing seams open. Make up brushes are great for cleaning lint from your machines. Elmer's school glue used with a dry iron is great for holding fabric in place like applique and it washes out completely.
I totally agree with all your tool tips. I bought a stick on silicone pencil holder in the office supply dept at Walmart, put on the front of my machine to hold a small seam ripper. When I turn my iron on (an all metal Continental dry iron ), I slip on a plastic bead stretch bracelet - if I leave the sewing room, it reminds that the iron is on. Love all your videos!
I could never sew again without my wonder clips. They were a game changer for me. I do a lot of double fleece blankets and could never go back to pins.
I'm a lefty and blind in my left eye. The Martelli rotary cutter helps me a lot. I also put a 5lb. Weight at the end of my ruler to help keep my ruler from sliding.
I use toilet paper rolls that I customize the length for securing any tools that have plugs. I use the various washi tape to cover them for identification for a specific tool. They make me happy to put things away neatly…when I do LOL 🧵🪡💖👠
I use a magnetic pin holder if I drop pins it also is great to hold upside down and just wave over the floor or carpet to pick those pins up from. I used double sided tape to stick a ruler with both inches and centimeters in front of my sewing or cutting area. When using cm, for example, that I'm not used to, it's handy always. I also use my seam ripper as my stiletto and it cuts threads perfectly. I do use scissors too but the seam ripper is already in my hand with some projects. They are cheap if bought in groups. I've not had any get dull that I've noticed and I've been sewing for decades. Love your videos. Look up the pattern, Fly The Coop, it's adorable for chickens.
I have a magnetic bowl in the longarm studio, I should probably have one in my sewing room but I dearly love my chick pincushions. I checked out the pattern, it's adorable! The pinwheels add so much!! Thanks for watching!!!!
I have an magnetic that telescopes out to pickup dropped pins. I walk around barefoot and pins get lost in the carpet. Hate to find them with my barefoot. Thanks for the tips on quilting tools. I have all of them but the little chick pin cushions. Need one😂❤
I would also add "The Purple Thang" to the list of favorite tools. I use all that you mentioned and my purple thang often, especially for small piecing.
I made a ‘garbage’ bag that I keep next to my sewing machine that has a pin cushion that I filled with rice, and I’ve also used crushed walnut shells. It’s attached to a garbage bag.
I absolutely love my Bloc-Loc ruler for squaring half square triangles! Always quick and accurate. And my Bluetooth speaker for happy tunes and interesting podcasts. Cheers!
One of my favorite tools is an antique cast iron metal, non electric iron. Most people use them as door stops. I use mine when I press seams. After I press a seam, but before it cools, I lay the heavy iron on the pieces and leave it there until it cools. I flattens the seams. I now have 2 of them so that I can iron more pieces at a time.
Thank you, Nancy. What a wonderful idea for the flat iron. I'll have to get mine off my bookcase, clean, and the bottom of it. My grandma would be happy seeing it being used instead of a decoration. Thank you again for the wonderful idea.
The needle down feature on my machine and the low bobbin thread alarm. Rocked my world! Right up there with rotary cutters. Ive always had vintage models and stil do, but having a modern machine I great too.
I also love my fabric boxes. I used one for hand stitching bindings. I never lose my scissors and spool of thread. Like you, I have one next to my machine. I also have one on my cutting board. Love the scrappy middle on yours.
Thanks Deb 😊, that scrappy middle is from Tula Pinks Parisville line. They are handy to have. I also use one as a small trash can on my ironing table. Thank you for watching my channel😊❤️🐥
Best Press by Mary Ellen! Since I started using it, my piecing is so better, plus my borders are not wavy. I buy it by the gallon and add it to a mister. I press with the wool pad, covered with an old pillowcase. I use no water in my Oliso iron. Love this iron, especially since I burned my wrist when I bumped on a standing iron 4 years ago. Happy Sewing!
Lov ehte old pillow case over a wol pressing mat idea! I make my Best Press by the gallon with vodka and distilled water. The recipe is all over the interne. I also go double on the vodka for a tad heavier startch. Iron burns are the worst! Thanks for watching!!!!
I recently added hemostats to my tool box. I am a nurse and why it took me this long to add them, I’ll never know. They work great for grabbing this corners to turn, getting that little end of thread when starting a new spool and probably a million other uses I haven’t discovered yet!! I just know I don’t leave home without them!! Very inexpensive on Amazon.
A strip stick for ironing seams open. I made two, so I always have one on hand at home and with my travel set. To borrow an overused phrase, it was a game changer for me!
@@AIassistingquiltsandcraft If you google "strip stick for ironing" you should find it. Multiple places sell it, including Missouri Star and Fat Quarter Shop. I wanted to make my own, so I went to Home Depot and bought a 12 inch long pre-cut piece of finishing wood (near the mouldings) and covered it with thin batting and then fabric. Love how it turned out, and super useful.
An Accuquilt is very helpful for people who can't or don't want to cult pieces of fabric. It wastes more but is easier if you have arthritis. I love my retractable rotary cutter. It has a push button on the side, it makes it easy to remember to close the blade.
I have chickens and just started quilting. I love your logo and the little chick in your intro 😍 That wood turned stiletto is beautiful. I did not know they made them. For now, I use a cheap dental kit I found years ago (can't remember where). There is a sharp pic, a hooked smooth pic and a tiny mirror. I use the 2 pics as needed while sewing and the mirror when replacing a needle or when cleaning out my machine to see little corners I might have missed 😊
Look up the pattern, " Fly The Coop" it's adorable and the applique can even be put onto clothing like jackets, sweatshirts and even totes. This is a fun quilt pattern.
I bought two suction handles at Dollar Tree over a year ago and attached one to my 2 1/2 ruler. They are bright and I notice them, so see them easily, and they have never come off. I don't have to fuss trying to pick up a ruler now, love it. They are about 5 inches long.
I'm a Brother Luminaire girl. I always have my battery powered mini Wahl seam ripper. It looks like a shaver for men but it works like butter. Love it!
Thanks Kathie😊 Here is a link to the video on how to make the Chick Pincushion. th-cam.com/video/8xYCJLmgpFc/w-d-xo.html. Thank you for watching my channel😊🐥
You've pretty much covered what can be found by my machine while I'm sewing. In addition to what you listed, I do keep a bag by my machine for the longer threads for the birds to use for making their nests in the Spring. Thanks for sharing.
@@annablock8037 I was not aware of the dangers, I only use cotton and thought that would be ok. Thanks for the info. I will be tossing those threads in the bin.
This isnt something that is going to stump you but I love the Strip Tube Ruler. Basically you sew two strips of fabric down both sides, place the ruler on, cut, unfold and its a perfect square. Then you dont have to square them up, which is a HUGE time saver!
I love to use Crayola brand Ultra Washable fine tip markers for marking my HSTs and for quilting. I wash all my quilts when done. I haven't had any lines stay in. 😊
I love my Rowenta Pro steam iron. No more refilling a water reservoir every few minutes. Admittedly, it takes some regular maintenance to ensure good performance but I can’t live without it.
I am busy with my second ever quilt. Like the first, this one is a large photo/story/memory quilt, 100% hand sewn and quilted. This is a quilt made from my son’s gangsta hoodies. My favourite tools are the small ironing board my husband made and the small cutting mat I bought a week ago. With the quilts being so heavy, I sew my seams then bring the ironing board to the table and iron both sides without moving the entire quilt. With trimming off the ends of the borders, I use the small cutting mat the same way.
Martelli has a pink square cutting mat with the wool pressing mat on the back side And, yes, their circular cutting mat set is fantastic. I have all parts of it also.
Check us out, we have all the same tools & machine👯♂️♊️ You might enjoy this video where I use a lot of quilting acronyms, it’s a good laugh 😂 and I FART in it ! th-cam.com/video/6n9SPBVkRdg/w-d-xo.html Thanks for watching my channel😊🐥
I love my gravity steam iron. No auto off switch. A gallon of water so I never run out of steam. Gets very hot. I get the flattest seams with that iron, a wool mat, a clapper and if there are meeting seams? clover's seam folder fluid and pen. Makes my fabric as flat as paper.
My must have tool is my antique iron. It has a flat plate, no steam holes, and heat to 500+degrees. Using it with a clapper; you just cannot get a flatter press. Tweezers! I must have my tweezers!
I'VE BEEN STUMPED BY SEVRAL OF YOU! I've not heard of these tools before, here is a list. But first, I discovered from your commets that a large number of us aren't using a clapper for flatter seams, including myself. I'm going to get busy on that and try one. Here are the viewers that stumped me: Susan: she uses a hair flat iron to iron and flaten her seams! Nj and one other viewer puts thier thread outside for the birds to make nests with! Louise, Janis, Audrey, Sherri & Frances: All love thier Stripology ruler, I need to get one of those! Audrey: Uses a Sew Mate 3 in One Finger Presser? Carolyn: Uses Tops Penpal felxible pen holders on her sewing machine! Cynthia: Taught me that Quilters Select has a rotarty cutter with an easy change blade system. Sarah: Uses Acorn Seam align glue, never heard of that! Debbie: June Tailor Shape Cut Ruler Virginia: Uses door stops under and at the back of her machine which gives her a better view and her back doens't hurt! Kerry: Folded Corner Clipper ***Several of you wanted a link to heat erasing pens here you go, there are several options: www.amazon.com/s?k=heat+erasing+pens+for+fabric&crid=H5OB3840Y0KQ&sprefix=heat+erasing+pens+for+fabric%2Caps%2C170&ref=nb_sb_noss_1
Thanks Sister Chick & y’all as well-such great ideas, except for putting thread outside for the birds, because they have found that it causes more harm than good…..the Audubon Society-“Not only can the string get tangled around the birds feet, but it can also strangle them and cut off circulation leading to missing limbs or death. Birds can also accidentally eat the thread and that leads to internal obstructions. Sometimes the string can get really tangled and actually tether the bird to the nest so they can’t leave! Even if you cut your thread into really short pieces so it can’t tangle it’s still harmful. Cotton and wool retain water and will make the nest cold and moldy. And while a bright colorful rainbow nest might look pretty to us humans, it makes the nest much easier to spot by predators.” Last Christmas I bought some clear glass Christmas balls and filled them with thread bits or tiny fabric scraps and they turned out great….. I have also seen how someone took their leftover thread and made bowls out of it. PS I use Elmer’s washable glue sticks (the kind that goes on purple so that you can see it and then dries clear), to among other things like holding binding in place to help keep my seems aligned. It also helps if you give it a quick press after you glue it-the heat helps to set the glue AND it still washes out. A dab of Arlene’s tacky craft glue on the back of elastic keeps it from stretching and moving-it washes out & doesn’t gum up my needle.
Wow! You did a learn much and thank you, Again! I too, do not have a clapper and decided to get one after reading many of the comments the other day. Thank you, quilters 😍 I am sew loving my new hobby! And most grateful to the TH-camrs out there, I recently discovered… INCREDIBLE people
So many great suggestions in the comments. One of my favorites is a suction cup magnet to put on my machine and then I love the little Karen Kay Buckley’s little scissors. Couldn’t live without those! I also love my Stash’n Store. It keeps all of my handy tools organized next to my sewing machine.
My top favorite tool is the Quilter’s Select ruler. I bought it after a quilt shop employee gave me a demonstration. It has pretty much solved the sliding ruler dilemma. It is easy to see through also. Worth any extra expense.
I recently got a clapper with a wool covered bar on top. It is especially helpful for pressing open seams. You can drape your block over the bar which helps it open. …. I also love my Accuquilt.
Hemostats can also be used to thread machine needles if you have trouble accomplishing this tasks. Great item to add to your sewing tool kit! (I actually use them for many many sewing tasks. )
A couple of "tools" that I can't do without are my mister bottle and my huge white boards on the closet doors. They keep me organized with all my projects. One of the other main tools I use is my stitch-in-the-ditch foot that I use putting on binding. I am going to have to get (or have hubby make) a clapper. I have never used one.
Panasonic portable iron. I love mine. It is lightweight so my hands appreciate it. Very useful for collage work, appliqué, piecing. It is small so can fit into corners. 😊
I wish, wish that i could find someone to show myself how to motivate myself into quilting.. This is so odd to say is that I love, love , love to quilt but can not get myself motivated into quilting. .. when it comes to fabrics that I considered myself is someone that is a hoarder.. I have so much fabric that I could qult at least 1000 quilts!!! .. lol.. I would love to find someone that teaches someone to motivate themselves.. I am 60 year old and I am able to get around. I don't work no more. I live byself & if you can see I have plenty enough time to quilt. I can say right now its, 1:30 in the morning where I am at & this is the time I feel like to quilt. But, as I am sitting here thinking about it... I know it is way pass my bedtime!! ...lol.. I don't go to sleep till 2:30 am & I sleep all day. Once i get up the next day. I go & have a cup of coffee & sit and watch tv all day till it is this time every day... lol...lol.. I hope that I am explaining this right?? ?... But, this is my life... lol..lol.. Then I have wasted away the days!!! ...lol..lol..
I always start with a small easy project when ‘m having a difficult time starting. You might consider seeing a professional, I’m a fan of therapy. Hugs and thanks for watching my channel😊 😊❗️
I must add a stiletto to my wish list! The ones that you have shown are lovely, and I'm sure are turned by a wood craftsman! My handy husband made me 6 clappers which are also a game changer for flat seams. Thanks again, Di, for sharing your tips and knowledge. Can't wait to see what project you have for next week!
I like the Seam Guide by Lori Holt. I have tape on my machine but it ends with the edge of the machine, which does not have an extended bed, so I can't always see both corners of the square that I'm sewing. The seam guide is a little rigid so it extends and I can see the whole square to stitch the corner-to-corner lines. And I also love the Blade Saver Thread Cutter for chain piecing. I absolutely love your selvage quilt. It's the only one I would ever want to make. So boring to see all the other designers/quilters just making half-square triangles out of them.
I use the colored pins for the same reason. I don't' have a design wall, use the bed, so when I gather the blocks, each row gets the pin. Helps organize when sewing individual blocks then the rows together.
I used a design bed for 11 years until I made my design wall quilt. Here's a video link on how I made my desing wall quilt: th-cam.com/video/jcujLmyW6Ak/w-d-xo.html Thanks for watching Diane :)
NEW TO SEWING AND NEW TO YOUR CHANNEL. MY ADVICE FOR OLD FABRIC THAT IS NOT IN STOCK ANY MORE CHECK OUT ONLINE AUCTION FROM RESELLERS. I HAVE A FEW OF THEM THAT GET FROM CLOSING BUSINESS AND STORAGE SHEDS AND BUY FROM ESTATE SALE AND THEY BRING THE ITEMS TO THEIR AUCTIONS.
This is one tool that I use and it is not considered a quilt tool ,,they are called== ((Dumbbells)) . I to use that to help a ruler when you cut something long. It helps with ruler from moving around. .. Just a thought
Lori Holt’s I call it Sun Flower shaped sewing guide that you can washie xtape to the machine bed. It has line markings for different width seams. It’s very well marked and easy to place.
I love my Stripology ruler, the Acorn Precision Piecing Easy Press pen and refill as well as Best Press and my wonder clips. I keep a large stock of the wonder clips and gift them as well. Then there's my clapper and Martelli rotary cutter that's ergonomic. I love your list too!
I love the pressing sticks. I have been pressing nearly everything open lately to get nice, flat seams. I just bought a stick from Amazon made from the same wool the mats are made of. It’s nice and long (17.5”). I love it!!
Yes to the stiletto - I also can't do without mine. I also agree to much of your list plus want to add the clapper as many others already did. They do some serious magic for seams. I ❤ your spools quilt from selvages - one of the best ideas for selvages I've seen.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts about your favorites. I use 80% of the brands you showed. There are so many tools out there to use. Depending on what I am working on that is what I grab. Top tools I use are Bernina sewing machine, Baby Lock serger, rulers, cutting mat, rotary cutter, wool pressing mat, and Oliso iron. The other notions fall into line on a need to use basis. In all tools. I try not to waste money. I get the best of the best. Price higher, but they live longer. Thank you again for your sharing with us what works for you. There is not nearly enough space here to list all my favorite notions and tools.
Are you talking about the polka dot on my logo quilt that Sister the chick walks on at the opening of the video? If so that piece is from about 2010 . It’s Michael Miller, called circus something. Thanks for commenting😍🐥
A couple of "tools" I like aren't found in a quilt shop. First, door stops. I place that at the back under my machine to tilt it towards me giving me a better view of my work so I'm not so hunched over - better for my back. Second, a spiral key chain. I attach my thread snip scissors to one end and attach the other end to my sewing machine's cord up where it plugs into the machine (using a clip to keep it from sliding down). If I drop my scissors they never hit the floor and it's easy to retrieve them again.
It’s important to take care of our backs. Thanks for watching Virginia😊🐥
I love the spiral key chain tip!!
Clearly perfect slotted trimmers for squaring up half square triangles of any size,
My Bloc Loc ruler. 😊😍🐥
I put a thin yoga mat under my cutting mat to keep it from moving and I cut a piece of the yoga mat to keep my foot pedal in place. I use two pound weights on my quilting rulers when I'm cutting fabric. I added the non slip disks to all of my rulers. Dollar Tree has a face roller in the makeup section that's great for pressing seams open. Make up brushes are great for cleaning lint from your machines. Elmer's school glue used with a dry iron is great for holding fabric in place like applique and it washes out completely.
You've got some geat tips there!!!!! I like the yoga mat.
Thanks for atching Vanessa!
The selvedge spool quilt is wonderful!
Thank you 🧵👍🏼😊♥️🐥
I totally agree with all your tool tips. I bought a stick on silicone pencil holder in the office supply dept at Walmart, put on the front of my machine to hold a small seam ripper. When I turn my iron on (an all metal Continental dry iron ), I slip on a plastic bead stretch bracelet - if I leave the sewing room, it reminds that the iron is on. Love all your videos!
That’s a good about the iron Diane. Thanks and thanks for watching😊❤️🐥
I could never sew again without my wonder clips. They were a game changer for me. I do a lot of double fleece blankets and could never go back to pins.
Wonder clips are pretty dang nice to work with. I enjoy mine. Thanks for watching😊🐥
Martelli rotary cutter. So much less fatigue and wrist discomfort from a big fabric cutting binge. Worth every cent!
Totally agree! Martelli has great mats too 😊🐥
I'm a lefty and blind in my left eye. The Martelli rotary cutter helps me a lot. I also put a 5lb. Weight at the end of my ruler to help keep my ruler from sliding.
@@carolynlewis1264 I. Use a weight or two for cutting too!
I use toilet paper rolls that I customize the length for securing any tools that have plugs. I use the various washi tape to cover them for identification for a specific tool. They make me happy to put things away neatly…when I do LOL 🧵🪡💖👠
LOL, my mom corraled long cords in TP rolls when I was a kid :) THanks for watching my channel Poppies :)
I use a magnetic pin holder if I drop pins it also is great to hold upside down and just wave over the floor or carpet to pick those pins up from.
I used double sided tape to stick a ruler with both inches and centimeters in front of my sewing or cutting area. When using cm, for example, that I'm not used to, it's handy always.
I also use my seam ripper as my stiletto and it cuts threads perfectly. I do use scissors too but the seam ripper is already in my hand with some projects. They are cheap if bought in groups.
I've not had any get dull that I've noticed and I've been sewing for decades.
Love your videos. Look up the pattern, Fly The Coop, it's adorable for chickens.
I have a magnetic bowl in the longarm studio, I should probably have one in my sewing room but I dearly love my chick pincushions. I checked out the pattern, it's adorable! The pinwheels add so much!! Thanks for watching!!!!
I have a seam ripper like that. It has two different size seam rippers. I love mine. Was a gift from a friend
They’re pretty awesome, right Mary? I have two and love them both.
Just got to watch your video. Recovering from Covid
Take care of yourself and in glad to hear “recovering” ‼️🐥
I love my clapper with the wool mat. I also love my Sidewinder that fills my bobbins without unthreading my sewing machine.
I love the sidewinder bobbin winder, I don't have one but thankfully my Juki TL winds a bobbin while it's threaded. Thanks for watching Janell!!
My newest tool is a small UV flashlight. It helps identify the right side of white on white fabrics.
Cool, I use the light on my machine. I can see that a UV light would be the best though. TFW😊♥️🐥
I have an magnetic that telescopes out to pickup dropped pins. I walk around barefoot and pins get lost in the carpet. Hate to find them with my barefoot. Thanks for the tips on quilting tools. I have all of them but the little chick pin cushions. Need one😂❤
I love, love, love my telescoping man get 👍🏼🤣 yes, needs a chick pincushion😊🐥. A collectible chick pincushion comes in the swag bag at my retreat.
I love the 5 lb. weight to put on the end of my ruler when cutting fabric..
I see a lot of quilters using that and want to try it. Thanks for commenting Janice😊🐥
My Tailor's Clapper is my fav tool. 😍🥰🤩😆
They’re cool tools for sure 👍🏼😊♥️🐥
I would also add "The Purple Thang" to the list of favorite tools. I use all that you mentioned and my purple thang often, especially for small piecing.
I mostly use my Purple Thang fro turning applique'
The Fingerthing! Is like a thimble with an awl.
That sounds interesting. Your finger becomes a little Narwhal then? Thanks for watching🐥😊
Wonder clips and stripology ruler
Quilters wouldn't be quilters without Winder Clips, LOL!
I made a ‘garbage’ bag that I keep next to my sewing machine that has a pin cushion that I filled with rice, and I’ve also used crushed walnut shells. It’s attached to a garbage bag.
That sounds like the one I have in my Longarm studio. One can never have enough Weerd baskets if your a winter c thanks for watching my channel. 😊🐥
Such great tips! Thank you.
Thank you Johanna & thanks for watching 😊♥️🐥
I absolutely love my Bloc-Loc ruler for squaring half square triangles! Always quick and accurate. And my Bluetooth speaker for happy tunes and interesting podcasts. Cheers!
Oh yes! I have Alexa in my sewing room and I love her!!
Great video. Thanks for the information
You’re welcome Natalie 😊 and thanks for watching😊❤️🐥
My favorite tool is my design board.
They are pretty fantastic, Brenda. Thanks for watching 😊🐥
One of my favorite tools is an antique cast iron metal, non electric iron. Most people use them as door stops. I use mine when I press seams. After I press a seam, but before it cools, I lay the heavy iron on the pieces and leave it there until it cools. I flattens the seams. I now have 2 of them so that I can iron more pieces at a time.
Thats cool Nancy, you have a couple of heavy metal clappers there. Good times :) Thank you for watching my channel! :)
Thank you, Nancy. What a wonderful idea for the flat iron. I'll have to get mine off my bookcase, clean, and the bottom of it. My grandma would be happy seeing it being used instead of a decoration. Thank you again for the wonderful idea.
I never chain piece without my blade saver!! Makes life simpler
Aren’t those amazing 😱⁉️ mine is green, what color do you have?
@@sisterchicksquilting i have a turquoise and i also have a purple gypsy quilter one
Great tools, I love The Purple Thang as my stiletto.
The people thang is a classic. Thanks Randi😊🐥
i made my own rotating mat so glad i did
You must tell us how! Please 😊
I’m impressed 😱😊🐥
Your selvage spool quilt is absolutely adorable ❤ I too save my selvages … fabulous idea … sew clever!! Nice job 😊.
Thank you ReaAnne😊 I loved making it and it’s its my favorite. Thanks for watching😊🐥
Graph paper, pencil(eraser and sharpener) and scratch paper. I am forever drawing things out, making cutting lists and shopping lists.
I have graph paper in several sizes, but I'm thinking about getting Electric Quilter.
Love my Juki!!! Loved your video.
Thank you! Do you watch Juki Junkies? They also have a Facebooko group with the same name. I love them!!
The needle down feature on my machine and the low bobbin thread alarm. Rocked my world! Right up there with rotary cutters. Ive always had vintage models and stil do, but having a modern machine I great too.
I’m with you, Marie, I love my Juki’s, just as much as my featherweight❣️😊🐥
I love the selvage thread spool quilt and your logo quilt, of course. Thank you for sharing your top ten quilt tools.
Thank you, the selvedge spill is my #1 fave 😊. Thanks for watching😊❤️🐥
I use clappers. Makes the seams so much flatter that piecing is more accurate. I just made some more of different sizes from my husbands scrap pile!:)
I’ve never used one but have seen them a ton. I have such a small sewing room I don’t know where I’d put one. Thanks for playing along and watching😊🐥
How did I ever manage without my Bloc-Loc Rule? So easy to use and the results are amazing! Thank you for sharing.
YESSSS Bloc-Loc rulers ar the best!! Thanks for watching :)
I also love my fabric boxes. I used one for hand stitching bindings. I never lose my scissors and spool of thread. Like you, I have one next to my machine. I also have one on my cutting board. Love the scrappy middle on yours.
Thanks Deb 😊, that scrappy middle is from Tula Pinks Parisville line. They are handy to have. I also use one as a small trash can on my ironing table. Thank you for watching my channel😊❤️🐥
Best Press by Mary Ellen! Since I started using it, my piecing is so better, plus my borders are not wavy. I buy it by the gallon and add it to a mister. I press with the wool pad, covered with an old pillowcase. I use no water in my Oliso iron. Love this iron, especially since I burned my wrist when I bumped on a standing iron 4 years ago. Happy Sewing!
Lov ehte old pillow case over a wol pressing mat idea! I make my Best Press by the gallon with vodka and distilled water. The recipe is all over the interne. I also go double on the vodka for a tad heavier startch. Iron burns are the worst!
Thanks for watching!!!!
Thank you both. Homemade Best Press...never heard of it...good news.
I recently added hemostats to my tool box. I am a nurse and why it took me this long to add them, I’ll never know. They work great for grabbing this corners to turn, getting that little end of thread when starting a new spool and probably a million other uses I haven’t discovered yet!! I just know I don’t leave home without them!! Very inexpensive on Amazon.
LOL, I have a pair on my sewing tools also, :)
Thanks for watching my channel:) !!!
DIY - 00 Steel wool pin cushion home made and must have 3 chrome bicycle pants clamp to hold my quilt in a roll to make going thru the throat easier.
The clips sound cool and I’ve never heard of a steel wool cushion. I’ll have to give that one a try😀 Thanks😍🐥
Wonder clips for hand binding.
Yes for wonder clips, can't live without them!!! Thanks for watching!
Love my clapper!! With my wool mat, it makes everything crisper! And I too am a Juki gal! 🥰
Juki quilters of the world UNITE!!
A strip stick for ironing seams open. I made two, so I always have one on hand at home and with my travel set. To borrow an overused phrase, it was a game changer for me!
A friend gave me one her brother made. It’s thinner on one side with flat angled bottoms. They’re pretty cool 😎 Carrie. Thanks for sharing.
Where did you buy or how did you make?? I have been looking for one!!!
@@AIassistingquiltsandcraft If you google "strip stick for ironing" you should find it. Multiple places sell it, including Missouri Star and Fat Quarter Shop. I wanted to make my own, so I went to Home Depot and bought a 12 inch long pre-cut piece of finishing wood (near the mouldings) and covered it with thin batting and then fabric. Love how it turned out, and super useful.
@@carriemayer2980 Thank you SO much. Idk it was called that!!
An Accuquilt is very helpful for people who can't or don't want to cult pieces of fabric. It wastes more but is easier if you have arthritis. I love my retractable rotary cutter. It has a push button on the side, it makes it easy to remember to close the blade.
I had the Accuquilt Studio cutter for years but it just was too big for my space. They are wonderful. Thanks Amanda for watching😊🐥
I have chickens and just started quilting. I love your logo and the little chick in your intro 😍 That wood turned stiletto is beautiful. I did not know they made them. For now, I use a cheap dental kit I found years ago (can't remember where). There is a sharp pic, a hooked smooth pic and a tiny mirror. I use the 2 pics as needed while sewing and the mirror when replacing a needle or when cleaning out my machine to see little corners I might have missed 😊
That's funny, aren't chickens great :) ??? Be careful, dental picks are sharp. THanks for watching :)
@@sisterchicksquilting Yes!!! I love my chickies. They really helped me through a few passed health issues and they have a home for life 😍
Look up the pattern, " Fly The Coop" it's adorable and the applique can even be put onto clothing like jackets, sweatshirts and even totes. This is a fun quilt pattern.
A blade saver for cutting threads when you have chain pieced. Uses an old rotary blade and is so convenient. Agree with all your other tools.
I love my blade saver Michelle, thanks for watching my channel 😊🐥
I bought two suction handles at Dollar Tree over a year ago and attached one to my 2 1/2 ruler. They are bright and I notice them, so see them easily, and they have never come off. I don't have to fuss trying to pick up a ruler now, love it. They are about 5 inches long.
I’ve seen a lot of quilts using those and Command hooks for rulers. Thanks Joan😊🐥
I'm a Brother Luminaire girl. I always have my battery powered mini Wahl seam ripper. It looks like a shaver for men but it works like butter. Love it!
I have that electric seam ripper and love it too. I had just posted that then saw your post.
I have the exact seam ripper, I love it. Thanks for watching Tracy😊🐥
I love your chicken pin cushion I need one!!! Thank you for some great tips!!! I love the chick pins also!!!
Thanks Kathie😊 Here is a link to the video on how to make the Chick Pincushion. th-cam.com/video/8xYCJLmgpFc/w-d-xo.html.
Thank you for watching my channel😊🐥
You've pretty much covered what can be found by my machine while I'm sewing. In addition to what you listed, I do keep a bag by my machine for the longer threads for the birds to use for making their nests in the Spring. Thanks for sharing.
Now that’s a new one on me Nj. Thanks for sharing😊
Please look up giving the birds the thread. It is actually very bad for them. If you google it you will see the reasons why not to do so.
@@annablock8037
I was not aware of the dangers, I only use cotton and thought that would be ok. Thanks for the info. I will be tossing those threads in the bin.
Thank you for all these wonderful tips. ❤
You are so welcome Rose! Thanks for watching my channel :) !!
This isnt something that is going to stump you but I love the Strip Tube Ruler. Basically you sew two strips of fabric down both sides, place the ruler on, cut, unfold and its a perfect square. Then you dont have to square them up, which is a HUGE time saver!
About a dozen viewers mentioned the strip tube ruler. I’m going to have to try one.😊 Thanks for watching my channel🐥
My favorite is my Stripology rulers!
😊🐥‼️
I love to use Crayola brand Ultra Washable fine tip markers for marking my HSTs and for quilting. I wash all my quilts when done. I haven't had any lines stay in. 😊
Oh my heavens 😱! What a surprise😊👍🏼. Thanks for sharing😊❤️🐥
I love my Rowenta Pro steam iron. No more refilling a water reservoir every few minutes. Admittedly, it takes some regular maintenance to ensure good performance but I can’t live without it.
Those are amazing irons Marian. Quilt on and thanks for watching😊🐥
Clapper and wool mat. Love them.
They pair together well 👯♂️♊️😃😃
I am busy with my second ever quilt. Like the first, this one is a large photo/story/memory quilt, 100% hand sewn and quilted. This is a quilt made from my son’s gangsta hoodies. My favourite tools are the small ironing board my husband made and the small cutting mat I bought a week ago. With the quilts being so heavy, I sew my seams then bring the ironing board to the table and iron both sides without moving the entire quilt. With trimming off the ends of the borders, I use the small cutting mat the same way.
Sounds like you’ve got it down 👍🏼😊😊 and in your very second quilt 😱. Keep it up, enjoy and thanks for watching my channel 🐥
Wilmington glass beads on lightest background would be a good alternative for quilt kits...maybe. 😊
I love the Sue Daly rotating mat
I’ll have to check hers out. Thanks for watching my channel😊🐥
Martelli has a pink square cutting mat with the wool pressing mat on the back side And, yes, their circular cutting mat set is fantastic. I have all parts of it also.
Those are such a nice tool :) Enjoy it :) !!
I love my rotating cutting mat, wool mat, and new Juki 2010. You have some great tools. Loved your F.A.R.T. acronym. 🤣
Check us out, we have all the same tools & machine👯♂️♊️ You might enjoy this video where I use a lot of quilting acronyms, it’s a good laugh 😂 and I FART in it ! th-cam.com/video/6n9SPBVkRdg/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for watching my channel😊🐥
@@sisterchicksquilting I will check out your video. Thanks.
I love my gravity steam iron. No auto off switch. A gallon of water so I never run out of steam. Gets very hot. I get the flattest seams with that iron, a wool mat, a clapper and if there are meeting seams? clover's seam folder fluid and pen. Makes my fabric as flat as paper.
There’s nothing as good as a hot steam iron 😊❗️. Thanks for watching my channel 😊🐥
Acorn pressing pen is my favorite!
It’s a good one 😊🐥
My must have tool is my antique iron. It has a flat plate, no steam holes, and heat to 500+degrees. Using it with a clapper; you just cannot get a flatter press. Tweezers! I must have my tweezers!
I agree. I use my grandmother’s travel iron (no vents either)with different clappers. Seams are a dream!
I used tweezers just yesterday, yes they are a must have ❗️ thanks for watching 😊🐥
I'VE BEEN STUMPED BY SEVRAL OF YOU! I've not heard of these tools before, here is a list. But first, I discovered from your commets that a large number of us aren't using a clapper for flatter seams, including myself. I'm going to get busy on that and try one.
Here are the viewers that stumped me:
Susan: she uses a hair flat iron to iron and flaten her seams!
Nj and one other viewer puts thier thread outside for the birds to make nests with!
Louise, Janis, Audrey, Sherri & Frances: All love thier Stripology ruler, I need to get one of those!
Audrey: Uses a Sew Mate 3 in One Finger Presser?
Carolyn: Uses Tops Penpal felxible pen holders on her sewing machine!
Cynthia: Taught me that Quilters Select has a rotarty cutter with an easy change blade system.
Sarah: Uses Acorn Seam align glue, never heard of that!
Debbie: June Tailor Shape Cut Ruler
Virginia: Uses door stops under and at the back of her machine which gives her a better view and her back doens't hurt!
Kerry: Folded Corner Clipper
***Several of you wanted a link to heat erasing pens here you go, there are several options: www.amazon.com/s?k=heat+erasing+pens+for+fabric&crid=H5OB3840Y0KQ&sprefix=heat+erasing+pens+for+fabric%2Caps%2C170&ref=nb_sb_noss_1
Thanks Sister Chick & y’all as well-such great ideas, except for putting thread outside for the birds, because they have found that it causes more harm than good…..the Audubon Society-“Not only can the string get tangled around the birds feet, but it can also strangle them and cut off circulation leading to missing limbs or death. Birds can also accidentally eat the thread and that leads to internal obstructions. Sometimes the string can get really tangled and actually tether the bird to the nest so they can’t leave! Even if you cut your thread into really short pieces so it can’t tangle it’s still harmful. Cotton and wool retain water and will make the nest cold and moldy. And while a bright colorful rainbow nest might look pretty to us humans, it makes the nest much easier to spot by predators.” Last Christmas I bought some clear glass Christmas balls and filled them with thread bits or tiny fabric scraps and they turned out great….. I have also seen how someone took their leftover thread and made bowls out of it.
PS I use Elmer’s washable glue sticks (the kind that goes on purple so that you can see it and then dries clear), to among other things like holding binding in place to help keep my seems aligned. It also helps if you give it a quick press after you glue it-the heat helps to set the glue AND it still washes out. A dab of Arlene’s tacky craft glue on the back of elastic keeps it from stretching and moving-it washes out & doesn’t gum up my needle.
Wow! You did a learn much and thank you, Again! I too, do not have a clapper and decided to get one after reading many of the comments the other day. Thank you, quilters 😍 I am sew loving my new hobby! And most grateful to the TH-camrs out there, I recently discovered… INCREDIBLE people
So many great suggestions in the comments. One of my favorites is a suction cup magnet to put on my machine and then I love the little Karen Kay Buckley’s little scissors. Couldn’t live without those! I also love my Stash’n Store. It keeps all of my handy tools organized next to my sewing machine.
My Karen Kay Buckley’s are my fave scissors ever! They should have been on my list😂🤣. Thank you for commenting and watching😊🐥
My top favorite tool is the Quilter’s Select ruler. I bought it after a quilt shop employee gave me a demonstration. It has pretty much solved the sliding ruler dilemma. It is easy to see through also. Worth any extra expense.
They are the best rulers, I have a 6” X 24”, love the non-slip😍 TFW🐥
I love that selvage quilt. ♥️
Thanks, I must say it's my favorite I'm so glad you lvoe it too :)
I recently got a clapper with a wool covered bar on top. It is especially helpful for pressing open seams. You can drape your block over the bar which helps it open. …. I also love my Accuquilt.
Both very good tools thanks for playing and watching my channel 😊🐥
I really like Acorn seam align glue to replace pins. Really great for folded corners
Never heard of it 😱 you got me Sarah ‼️😳🐥
And hey guys…..I got the little charcuterie boards at hobby lobby when spring shop was 90% off. They work great as clappers!!
Then, if you're hungry......LOL
12.5x2.5 is my absolute favorite ruler also! I use it all the time.
Great quilters think alike 😊🐥❗️
Hemostats can also be used to thread machine needles if you have trouble accomplishing this tasks. Great item to add to your sewing tool kit! (I actually use them for many many sewing tasks. )
I love my thermostat but I don’t use it every day. It is a great quilting tool. Thanks for watching Merry😂❤️🐥😬
A couple of "tools" that I can't do without are my mister bottle and my huge white boards on the closet doors. They keep me organized with all my projects. One of the other main tools I use is my stitch-in-the-ditch foot that I use putting on binding. I am going to have to get (or have hubby make) a clapper. I have never used one.
Me too on the clapper. Tell Fred they’re made from hard wood. Your quilts are done. Oh and I love my stitch in the ditch foot for appyling bindings.
I suggest the Martelli rotary cutter to go with your Martelli mat. The Martelli rulers and templates are my favorite.
I hear that Carrie, my friend loves her cutter. Thanks for the tip and for watching😊🐥
I love your spool quilt!
Thank you so much! It's my favorite quilt. TFW!!!
My favorite tool is a thread clipper on a stand to cut pieces apart after chain sewing.
I have one of those, they're magic with a long string of pieces chained together! Thanks for watching my channel
Panasonic portable iron. I love mine. It is lightweight so my hands appreciate it. Very useful for collage work, appliqué, piecing. It is small so can fit into corners. 😊
The smaller irons are very cool, I know a few Quikter that don’t use a full size iron, just the Little’s. Thanks for watching Janis😊🐥
I wish, wish that i could find someone to show myself how to motivate myself into quilting.. This is so odd to say is that I love, love , love to quilt but can not get myself motivated into quilting. .. when it comes to fabrics that I considered myself is someone that is a hoarder.. I have so much fabric that I could qult at least 1000 quilts!!! .. lol.. I would love to find someone that teaches someone to motivate themselves.. I am 60 year old and I am able to get around. I don't work no more. I live byself & if you can see I have plenty enough time to quilt. I can say right now its, 1:30 in the morning where I am at & this is the time I feel like to quilt. But, as I am sitting here thinking about it... I know it is way pass my bedtime!! ...lol.. I don't go to sleep till 2:30 am & I sleep all day. Once i get up the next day. I go & have a cup of coffee & sit and watch tv all day till it is this time every day... lol...lol.. I hope that I am explaining this right?? ?... But, this is my life... lol..lol.. Then I have wasted away the days!!! ...lol..lol..
I always start with a small easy project when ‘m having a difficult time starting. You might consider seeing a professional, I’m a fan of therapy. Hugs and thanks for watching my channel😊 😊❗️
I must add a stiletto to my wish list! The ones that you have shown are lovely, and I'm sure are turned by a wood craftsman! My handy husband made me 6 clappers which are also a game changer for flat seams. Thanks again, Di, for sharing your tips and knowledge. Can't wait to see what project you have for next week!
You are so welcome Lynda and aren’t those handy husbands great ?! Di🐥
Great ALL IN ONE video❣
EXCELLENT job Di🤩
Thanks Sewing Channel! I love your channel 😍🐥
I like the Seam Guide by Lori Holt. I have tape on my machine but it ends with the edge of the machine, which does not have an extended bed, so I can't always see both corners of the square that I'm sewing. The seam guide is a little rigid so it extends and I can see the whole square to stitch the corner-to-corner lines. And I also love the Blade Saver Thread Cutter for chain piecing. I absolutely love your selvage quilt. It's the only one I would ever want to make. So boring to see all the other designers/quilters just making half-square triangles out of them.
Well thank you very much 😊 I’m truly honored by your comments about my selvage quilt 😊🐥
Isn’t your rotary cutter one of your favorites!!!????
I don’t know why it didn’t make the list🤷♀️? Thanks for watching my channel.😊❤️🐥
Great video Di!! I love all the items you showed and I agree with the quilters that mentioned the clapper! Love your Spool Selvage quilt!!!
Thank you Maria 😊🐥
I use the colored pins for the same reason. I don't' have a design wall, use the bed, so when I gather the blocks, each row gets the pin. Helps organize when sewing individual blocks then the rows together.
I used a design bed for 11 years until I made my design wall quilt. Here's a video link on how I made my desing wall quilt: th-cam.com/video/jcujLmyW6Ak/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for watching Diane :)
NEW TO SEWING AND NEW TO YOUR CHANNEL. MY ADVICE FOR OLD FABRIC THAT IS NOT IN STOCK ANY MORE CHECK OUT ONLINE AUCTION FROM RESELLERS. I HAVE A FEW OF THEM THAT GET FROM CLOSING BUSINESS AND STORAGE SHEDS AND BUY FROM ESTATE SALE AND THEY BRING THE ITEMS TO THEIR AUCTIONS.
Good idea, thanks and thanks for watching ❗️
This is one tool that I use and it is not considered a quilt tool ,,they are called== ((Dumbbells)) . I to use that to help a ruler when you cut something long. It helps with ruler from moving around. .. Just a thought
They are nice to have when you have a long of months to cut. TFW😊🐥
Lori Holt’s I call it Sun Flower shaped sewing guide that you can washie xtape to the machine bed. It has line markings for different width seams. It’s very well marked and easy to place.
I have
I love my wool pressing mat in conjunction with my clappers! Using bot make for the flattest seams.
I really need to try a clapper, I’ll work on it. Thanks for watching and commenting Lyn. Di🐥
Martelli rotary cutter. I have a Juki tl-15 which is a pleasure sew on.
Juki makes a good machine 😍
stripology xl ruler saves so much time
I really want one of those, I’ve only seen them demo’d so I’d have to say you’ve stumped me. Thanks Louise.
I recently got a clapper and it's a game changer! I already had the wool mat and it really works well on seams. Thanks for the washi tape ideas.
I’m going to get with it and buy a clapper to use. 👍🏼😊🐥
I love my Stripology ruler, the Acorn Precision Piecing Easy Press pen and refill as well as Best Press and my wonder clips. I keep a large stock of the wonder clips and gift them as well. Then there's my clapper and Martelli rotary cutter that's ergonomic. I love your list too!
Those pressing pens are pretty cool 😊 Thanks for watching 😊🐥
I love the pressing sticks. I have been pressing nearly everything open lately to get nice, flat seams. I just bought a stick from Amazon made from the same wool the mats are made of. It’s nice and long (17.5”). I love it!!
Yes to the stiletto - I also can't do without mine. I also agree to much of your list plus want to add the clapper as many others already did. They do some serious magic for seams. I ❤ your spools quilt from selvages - one of the best ideas for selvages I've seen.
THere are a ton of claper comments in this thread. I need to get one??
Thank you for sharing your thoughts about your favorites. I use 80% of the brands you showed. There are so many tools out there to use. Depending on what I am working on that is what I grab. Top tools I use are Bernina sewing machine, Baby Lock serger, rulers, cutting mat, rotary cutter, wool pressing mat, and Oliso iron. The other notions fall into line on a need to use basis. In all tools. I try not to waste money. I get the best of the best. Price higher, but they live longer. Thank you again for your sharing with us what works for you. There is not nearly enough space here to list all my favorite notions and tools.
We couldn't work our craft without all those wonderful tools You are sew welcome Suzie :) ! I love comments like yours :) :)
Love my glue stick!:)
I use one for EPP, is that the kind you’re talking about? Di🐥
I love using the acorn percision piecing pen. I get such flat blocks and my clapper.
They’re pretty a pretty neat tool.
I agree with the ones that mentioned clappers. Game changers. I use the shorter one mostly. A friend made them for me.
You’ve got a good friend 😍
I just bought that polka dot fabric at joanns, maybe a different maker
Are you talking about the polka dot on my logo quilt that Sister the chick walks on at the opening of the video? If so that piece is from about 2010 . It’s Michael Miller, called circus something.
Thanks for commenting😍🐥
I love the purple thang! Can you do a video and show how you made your weed basket!
I don’t have a pattern as it was a gift. I wish I knew how to make one😬. Thanks for watching😊🐥