Over my past few weeks of sewing I’ve come to the conclusion that there are a select few quilting tools that I just could not function without!

The obvious tools such as my sewing machine, sewing desk, scissors, threads, pins, rulers etc. don’t count in this definitive list because they’re already there without question!

This list focuses more on those little things that just make my sewing/quilting experience a breeze!

Let’s start with something small…

1. Quilting Thimble (The Quilter’s Thumb)

I just simply love this little tool. I love it so much that I actually have two!

It’s solid, fits snuggly on my thumb and allows me to push my super sharp needle through multiple layers of fabric without causing any serious injury to myself!

I particularly use this thimble when I’m stitching the binding onto a quilt or when I’m doing any ‘heavy duty’ hand stitching.

I bought mine at my local Spotlight store in packaging that looks like this…PS. I had a good look around on the web to find where they’re sold and I have a slight feeling this product has been discontinued. *insert sad face*

2. Clover Seam Ripper

This seam ripper is like the Hummer of all seam rippers!

It’s super sharp, feels sturdy and robust in hand and it rips up seams like there’s no tomorrow. I now no longer dread making a mistake because I then have a legible reason to whip this little baby out!

I can’t rate Clover products any higher – they make some of the best quilting tools around…but they can be quite pricey!

It’s totes worth it though!

3. Olfa Rotating Cutting Mat

This is a newly purchased item to my quilting tool stash so I’m still getting used to it.

But, from the time I’ve spent using, it’s safe to say, ‘I’m in love. I’m in love. I’m in love!’

Currently, I’m using mine as a mini cutting station for some blocks I’m piecing together. I am able to trim down one side of the block and then rotate the mat without having to move the block thus not stuffing around my measurements etc.

[CLICK HERE] to see a demo on YouTube.

I find using it handy.

Some may find it a nuisance and a bit lazy silly.

But hey, whatever works for you I suppose!

Like all good quality cutting mats, this one was on the expensive side – ranging around 70 bucks AUD.

4. Fiskars Mini Rotary Blade

Here’s another ‘little’ tool that I’d be lost without in my sewing practice.

I use this rotary blade for trimming and when I’m cutting curved pieces.

It’s quick, agile, non-bulky, fabulously light, feels wonderful in the hand and am able to retract the blade with super-sonic speed (like a cowboy with his gun!).

It’s just the best.

Full stop.

5. Basting Spray

‘Oh Basting Spray, where would I be without you! I bless the day when we first met each other and our quilting sandwiches came together as one!’

Okay, that was a tad bit dramatic.

But truly, I am so happy about the day I finally took the plunge and tried this product out.

It has saved me so much time, effort, muscle spasms, pinpricks and sobbing tears!

If you’re curious to see how spray basting works [CLICK HERE] to watch a simple yet informative how-to video on YouTube.

So that’s it.

Those are the five quilting tools that I just could not live with out.

And I don’t plan on sewing without them anytime in the near future!

Happy Sewing! xx