Sewing Cosplays for Beginners

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Tools of the Trade

 

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Scissors

One of the most important tools is your scissors. You'll want at least two pairs. One pair for cutting and a small pair to make small cuts and to do light work. You'll find that after a period of time you may want to and a rotary cutter. Rotary cutters will make it easier to cutting out fabric faster.

There are to popular brands to pick from Friskers and Gingham. Friskers are the standard scissors and Gingham are the pricey ones. You'll probably want to start with Friskers.

Remember that fabric scissors should only to be used to cut fabric. You'll want a different set of scissors to cut other products. Switching scissors between mediums can cause the scissors to dull really fast.  

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Thread and Hand-Sewing Needles

Needles

So I'm going to start with a little blurb about sewing needles. There are several different type of sewing needles, but not one for everything. Some needles are for special actions and movements and other are for special materials, however most things can be handles with a just a basic needle. You will usually buy them in a pack with several different basic sizes.

Here's a website to learn more about hand needles.

As you learn to use other materials such as leather or jewelry, there will need to learn to learn about different needles.

Thread

There are a variety of different option for thread that are made up of different material. It's important that you do use the proper thread for your costume. The type of thread will depend on several factors including: material, what is used for, appearance and strength.

Some thread are based around the material that it was designed to be used with. This is really important when you're working with leather or with denim and other heavier fabrics (see fabrics page for more details).

How you are using the thread is also important. You don't want to grab those large cone shaped threads, thinking they're the better deal. There are three general uses for every thread. Those cone ones are for sergers and tend to be weak and terrible for holding a seam. When using a serger you'll need more to help create a strong bond.

Embroidery thread comes in a couple of forms. You can find them in stein form like that of yarn or you can find them in bullet shape form. Embroidery thread is a little thicker, but too thick to use for your seams. It's meant to be seen.

Sewing thread is the most common type you'll see and is between serger and embroidery in thickness. It's important to use thread that isn't old, as old thread is weaker over time. So don't grab that thread at the dollar store or the consignment shop. There are three general colors you always want to have black, white, and red. I do also recommend having a dark blue as well. The most recommend type (easy to find) is Gutermann and I can tell you it's worth the money.

To learn more about thread please visit the image below.

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Machine Sewing Needles

Like regular needles there is a sewing needle that you'll need for every situation. I found this lovely website to give more details.

Website  

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Pins

Info on pins  

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Other Important Tools of the Trade

Seam Ripper
Iron
Ironing Board
Pin Cushion
Measuring Tape
Tailor's Chalk  

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Cutting Board

 

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