At Nanna Betty Sewing School we keep sewing simple: no fiddly fastenings and no cupboard full of gadgets. A few spools of thread, needles, pins and a good pair of scissors are all a beginner needs.
Here’s what to put in a beginner sewing kit, whether to buy a ready-made one, and what to check before you spend your money.
What goes in a beginner sewing kit?
Start with these essentials:
- Fabric scissors (only for fabric)
- Paper scissors (for patterns)
- Soft tape measure
- Dressmaking pins and a pin cushion
- Tailor’s chalk or a fabric marker
- A mixed pack of hand sewing needles
- All-purpose thread in black, white and beige
- A seam ripper
Add an iron and you’re ready. I explain what each one does in 10 sewing tools every beginner needs (with names).
Should you buy a ready-made sewing kit?
Ready-made sewing kits are everywhere, from supermarkets to craft shops. Some are brilliant value. Others are full of things you’ll never use, with scissors too small to cut fabric.
A ready-made kit is a good idea if: you want everything in one box, you’re buying a gift, or you’re not sure yet if sewing is for you.
Building your own is better if: you already have some bits at home, or you want better scissors and thread than a cheap kit gives you.
Many people do both. They buy a small kit, then replace the scissors and thread with better ones.
What to check before you buy a sewing kit
- Scissors: are they big enough to cut fabric? Tiny folding scissors are only good for snipping threads.
- Thread: lots of tiny spools in every colour look pretty, but the thread is often weak. A few good spools are better.
- Tape measure: it should be soft and have both centimetres and inches.
- Pins: look for long pins with glass or plastic heads.
- The box: a sturdy box with compartments keeps everything tidy. A biscuit tin works too.
Sewing kits with fabric and craft kits for adults
Some beginner kits come with fabric and instructions for one make, like a tote bag or a cushion. These are a lovely way to try sewing without choosing fabric yourself. The downside is you only learn one make. When you’re ready for more, pick your own fabric. A medium-weight cotton is the easiest to sew.
Sewing craft kits also make great gifts for adults who want a calm, screen-free hobby. Crafting is good for us, and the Crafts Council has plenty on why making things by hand matters.
Do I need a sewing machine in my kit?
Not on day one. You can learn hand stitches with just a needle and thread. When you’re ready, read my best sewing machine for beginners UK guide. If you’ve been given a small handheld machine, here’s how to use a handheld or mini sewing machine.
What to make with your new sewing kit
Start with something small and flat, like coasters or a drawstring bag. Here are 16 easy beginner sewing projects you can finish in an afternoon. And if you’re new to all of this, start with my simple guide to learning how to sew.
Learn how to sew the Nanna Betty way
Got your kit? Nanna Betty Sewing School shows you what to do with it, one skill at a time. Simple cards, short videos for your phone, and every make takes 2 hours or less.
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