How to Care for Your Sewing Tools

Whether sewing is a hobby or your passion, it’s an investment of time and money, and keeping your tools in pristine condition is of utmost importance. Learn how to care for and extend the life of your sewing necessities including tips for purchasing the best tools and when to replace them.

Machine Care Tips

Annual maintenance for your sewing machine is covered in a separate post, so the following sewing machine tips are additional tips to keep your sewing machine at its best between routine tune-ups from professionals to keep the fabric free from damage.

• Protect your sewing machine with a cover to prevent dust buildup
• Use new and high-quality thread (like Guterman) to prevent dust buildup on the interior of the machine 
• Dust inside the bobbin case with a tiny brush 
• Use your sewing machine manual to clean each part of the machine properly
• Wipe the machine down with a soft cloth after each use to avoid future damage
• Plug the machine into a surge protector 
• Unplug the machine when it’s not in use
• Store machine in a safe temperature controlled area where it won’t endure damage
• Leave the presser foot down when not in use or when traveling with the sewing machine to prolong the longevity of the spring 

Care for Iron

• Clean the bottom of the iron with an iron cleaner to get rid of melted residue 
• If you experience clogging in your steam port, try using distilled water instead of tap water
• Store tools like embroidery hoops in a place where they won’t get warped or damaged

Care for Cutting Tools

• Buy quality scissors in any variety you need
• Keep tools dry and clean
• Only cut designated materials with their respective tool
• Avoid pins and zippers when using cutting tools to prevent damage
• Don’t drop or hit shears—This can cause damage 
• Buy a sharpening tool to keep cutting tools in tip-top condition
• Keep small tools in organized compartments where they are safe and easy to find 
• Invest in quality tools like metal shears
• Avoid cutting fabric using just the tip of the scissors to avoid misalignment and to create sharp, precise cuts
• Wipe off cutting tools with a soft cloth to remove fuzz or threads

Care for Other Notions

• Use sharp new needles. Remember to replace after 8 hours of sewing or between projects for best results
• Use the right needle for the weight and fabric being used
• Keep thread in a dry area where they will be free from damage 
• Keep pins in a container to avoid injury
• Roll-up measuring tape to prevent a tangled mess
• Use a bobbin topper to keep threads protected and free of tangles 

A little time and effort go a long way in keeping your sewing tools in good shape, so take care of all-stars that help make your clothing visions a reality.

If you had to pick your most useful sewing tool, what would it be?