A cutting mat is essential when rotary cutting to provide the surface on which to cut and to prevent the dulling of the rotary cutter blade. They come in different sizes but the most convenient board to carry around is the 18" x 24".  Store the board flat as it can become warped. Also dont leave the board in the sun as it will warp! So dont leave on the parcel shelf of the car in summer....!

Rotary Cutters differ by the size of the blades, which can be 28mm,45mm,or 60mm set into both straight and/or curved  handles. It is better to try them out before buying.

Rulers which go with the rotary cutter and cutting mat are made of thick, clear acrylic in a variety of sizes. A good quality first ruler could be 6"x24", this allows you to cut long strips of fabric with only one fold.  There are also square rulers with bias lines for cutting diagonals.  These come in 6 " ,12.5" squares and larger too.

The choice of needle is important to achieve a smooth stitch when machine sewing. Always use a good quality needle. Choose a needle that is appropriate for the weight of the cloth. Quilting needles are sharp and strong, whilst still being fine a 75/11 is a good size. 'Jeans' or 'Top Stitch' needles are also good for machine quilting.  The smaller the size number the finer the needles. When foundation piecing and sewing through paper that is to be torn away from the back, working with a larger needle is better, for instance a size 90/14 is ideal.

"Betweens" are short sturdy (1"- 1.25") quilting needles, sizes 7 through 12. The higher the number the shorter the needle,the smaller the stitch.  It is suggested you start with a Size 9.

"Sharps" are long (1.25".1.5"), thin needles used for hand piecing and hand applique. Sizes 9 and 10 are suiable for most work.

"Milliners" or "Straws" are very long (2"-2.5"), thin needles in sizes 3 through 9,used for basting and sometimes preferred to "Sharps".

The Schmetz 'N' needles (also known as topstitch needles) have a huge eye to allow metallics and thicker threads to pass through smoothly.

This needle will take two or three threads at a time.

This is a needle we highly recommend, and will always suggest if purchasing metallic or thicker threads.

5 Needles per pack size 80/12.

The Schmetz 'N' needles (also known as topstitch needles) have a big eye to allow metallics and thicker threads to pass through smoothly.

This is a needle we highly recommend, and will always suggest if purchasing metallic or thicker threads.

5 Needles per pack size 90/14.

The Schmetz 'N' needles (also known as topstitch needles) have a big eye to allow metallics and thicker threads to pass through smoothly.

This is a needle we highly recommend, and will always suggest if purchasing metallic or thicker threads.

5 Needles per pack size 100/16.

Schmetz Machine Needles – Jeans (Blue Tip)

The Schmetz Jeans needles are strong needles used extensively by quilters and are great for denim and heavier fabrics, artificial leather etc.

Schmetz Machine Needles – Jeans (Blue Tip)

The Schmetz Jeans needles are strong needles used extensively by quilters and are great for denim and heavier fabrics, artificial leather etc.

Schmetz Machine Needles – Jeans (Blue Tip)

The Schmetz Jeans needles are strong needles used extensively by quilters and are great for denim and heavier fabrics, artificial leather etc.

The Schmetz Metallica Needles have a big eye to allow metallics and thicker threads to pass through smoothly.

This is a needle we highly recommend, and will always suggest if purchasing metallic threads.

5 Needles per pack Size 80 (12)