Beginner Sewing Supplies Checklist (and Where to Buy Them in Trinidad)

The short answer: to start sewing you need fabric scissors, pins, a seam ripper, a tape measure, tailor’s chalk, all-purpose polyester thread, a pack of universal machine needles, an iron, and some medium-weight cotton fabric. A sewing machine helps, but you can begin with hand sewing. In Trinidad, you’ll find most of these at fabric stores and sewing supply shops in Port of Spain and around the country.

It’s easy to overspend on gadgets when you’re starting out. This is the list our instructors actually use.

What sewing supplies does a beginner really need?

• Fabric scissors: keep them for fabric only. Cutting paper with them dulls the blades quickly. Use a separate pair for paper patterns.
• Seam ripper: for unpicking mistakes neatly. Everyone uses one, including our instructors.
• Pins and a pincushion: glass-head pins are easier to see and won’t melt under the iron.
• Tape measure: a soft, flexible one with centimetres and inches.
• Tailor’s chalk or a fabric marker: for marking cutting lines, darts and hems. Chalk brushes away easily.
• Thread: all-purpose polyester thread is strong and works for most projects. Match the colour to your fabric or go one shade darker.
• Machine needles: a pack of universal needles in size 80/12 to start, plus ballpoint needles if you’ll sew knits. Our needle guide explains the sizes.
• Hand sewing needles: a mixed pack for buttons, hems and finishing.
• Iron and ironing board: pressing every seam is what makes homemade clothes look professional.
• Seam gauge: a small ruler with a slider for measuring hems and seam allowances accurately.

What can you add later?

Once you’ve finished a few projects, consider a rotary cutter and cutting mat, a pressing cloth, a tracing wheel, a dress form, clips for slippery fabric, and a stock of zips, buttons, elastic and interfacing.

What fabric should a beginner start with?

Choose a medium-weight woven cotton, such as poplin, cotton twill or cotton linen blends. These fabrics don’t slip, don’t stretch, press easily and forgive small mistakes. Save stretch knits, satin and chiffon until you’re comfortable, then use our guides to sewing stretch fabric and sewing satin. Wash and dry your fabric before cutting so it doesn’t shrink after you’ve sewn it.

Where can you buy sewing supplies in Trinidad?

• Fabric: Jimmy Aboud, Yufes, Daisy’s and Vanity Fair carry a wide range, from cotton and linen to suiting and occasion fabrics.
• Thread, notions and tools: Fakoory’s, Tailors Centre and Accessories Bargain Centre stock thread, zips, needles, elastic and other essentials.
• Sewing machines: Sew Rite and G. Paul specialise in machines; Courts, Standards and PriceSmart also carry beginner models. See our guide to choosing a beginner sewing machine.
• Online: some items, like good pincushions and specialist presser feet, are easier to find online.

Stock changes, so call ahead if you’re travelling for something specific. Students who register for our classes receive a full local supplier list.

Do you need to buy everything before your first class?

No. Students in our Beginner Sewing Bootcamp can buy a professional sewing kit through the Academy, which includes the essential tools listed here, or bring their own using our supply list. Machines are provided in class.

Can you start sewing without a machine?

Yes. Hand sewing is a good way to learn how seams, hems and buttons work. A few hand needles, thread, pins and scissors are enough to repair clothes and make small projects while you decide on a machine.

Frequently asked questions

What sewing supplies do I need as a beginner?

Fabric scissors, pins, a seam ripper, tape measure, tailor’s chalk, polyester thread, universal machine needles (size 80/12), hand needles, an iron and some medium-weight cotton fabric.

Where can I buy fabric in Trinidad?

Popular fabric stores include Jimmy Aboud, Yufes, Daisy’s and Vanity Fair. Call ahead for specific fabrics, as stock changes.

Where can I buy sewing notions in Trinidad?

Fakoory’s, Tailors Centre and Accessories Bargain Centre stock thread, zips, needles, elastic and other sewing essentials.

What is the best fabric for beginners?

Medium-weight woven cotton, such as poplin or cotton twill. It doesn’t slip or stretch and is easy to press.

Do I need my own supplies for Taylor M Academy classes?

Machines are provided. You can buy a professional sewing kit through the Academy when you register or bring your own tools using our supply list.

Learn it hands-on in Trinidad

Reading about sewing is a good start, but most people learn fastest with a teacher beside them. Our Beginner Sewing Bootcamp is TTD 1,500 for three sessions at our Woodbrook studio. Machines are provided, no experience is needed, and you leave with a garment you made yourself. Not ready to book yet? Download our free Sew From Scratch Starter Kit and start practising at home.