First Stitch

Fabric & Notions

Walk into a fabric shop and know exactly what to buy. These guides demystify the wall of bolts — the common fabrics, which are forgiving for beginners and which to leave for later, how to read a bolt end and why pre-washing matters — and the small kit of notions actually worth owning. You will learn to match needle and thread to your fabric, and to measure and cut accurately so your pieces line up and fit together the first time.

Fabric & Notions

4 guides

Fabric & Notions

How to Choose the Right Sewing Machine Needle

Learn which sewing machine needle to use for any fabric. Needle sizes explained, type-by-type guide, and tips to stop skipped stitches and thread breaks.

August 12, 2026

Fabric & Notions

Sewing Notions for Beginners: What's Worth Buying

New to sewing? Find out which notions you actually need, what can wait, and how to avoid wasting money on a beginner sewing supplies list.

July 29, 2026

Fabric & Notions

A Beginner's Guide to Common Fabric Types

Learn the most common types of fabric for sewing, from cotton to fleece, so you can pick the right material for every beginner project.

July 15, 2026

Fabric & Notions

The Best Fabrics for Beginner Sewing (and What to Avoid)

Discover the easiest fabrics to sew as a beginner, plus which materials to skip until you have more practice. Real advice for your first projects.

July 1, 2026

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