You will need a sewing box or basket and good sewing tools. Obtain a small box to hold your tools and another one large enough to hold your small box plus your apron or skirt. A small suitcase makes an ideal sewing box.

You will need

Thimble—This is for the middle finger. Make sure of a snug fit. A thimble protects your finger.

Needles—A package of needles, assorted sizes of 7 to 9 sharps, will give you the various sizes needed. Use as fine a needle as will carry the thread you are using.

Thread—White mercerized thread No. 50 is used for basting. Match other thread to your fabric.

Pins—Select smooth fine dressmaker pins so they will not leave a dark spot on your cloth. These usually come in a box.

Pin cushion—Plan for a pin cushion that can be worn on the wrist. You may make or buy this.

Scissors and shears—Scissors have short blades and are used for snipping threads and cutting small pieces of material. Seven-inch blades are a good length. Shears have one long handle for the fingers and one short one for the thumb. Scissors with bent handles are handy because the cutting blade rests flat on the table. Use plain scissors to cut out your articles. Do not use pinking shears.

Tape measure—Select a tape measure that will wear well and one that is numbered with “1” on each end on opposite sides.

Measuring gauge—You can cut a gauge from cardboard or buy a 4-inch metal one. From the start, learn to measure accurately. On a tape or measuring gauge, locate the 1-inch, ½-inch, and ¼-inch marks.