Any child or adult who has discovered the love of sewing will no doubt have their own little collection of bits and pieces thrown into a box that we call a sewing kit. Sadly, however, as time goes by, we can easily get caught up the hustle and bustle of everyday life and forget the love that once had in sewing the things we love – toys, clothing and household items. Rather, our sewing abilities become left to fixing last minute disasters such as the hems on our spouse’s pants, rips in our kids’ clothes caused by the family dog, or buttons that seem to be forever falling off five minutes before leaving the house. However, to ignite the “passion” for our love of sewing, why not browse around your local craft or online store and allow your creative juices to flow over some of the exciting and new items on the market today. Throw them into your sewing kit, and before long your sewing bilities will go from practical to fun.

New Items – New Horizons

Most sewing kits will consist of: scissors, pins, needles, rolls of thread, elastic, tape measure, seam rippers, tracing wheels, and perhaps a bottle of random buttons and odds and ends that we have found lying around the home during clean up. However, throw in a few new bits and pieces and you’ll have a sewing kit that you’re excited to own. Throw in items such as squeakers or music boxes – these can be used to sew into teddy bears and toys to give your child an interactive play mate. Or get creative with fabric paint - an item perfect for incorporating your kids into the world of sewing without the dangers of scissors and pins! While you’re at it, why not have a look at some stencils and stippling brushes so you can create some professional looks on t-shirts and bags. By involving the family, these sorts of activities can be great time fillers for rainy days or to create some much-needed family time.

No Cash – No Worries

Finding items to add to your sewing kit doesn’t have to be expensive – just keep an open mind and try to be creative. Keep hold of scraps of felt and material to use as designs on clothing, cushions and toys. You can also pick up nick-knacks such as goggle eyes, trinkets and zangles for only a dollar or two from your local craft store. Zangles are a nifty idea if you’re looking for a way to add a bit of fun to the zip on your child’s sweater or bag, with designs ranging from flags, to animals, to sports themes. And keep in contact with your other sewing fanatics you may know of – compare new finds, swap items of interest, and before you know it, your sewing kit will be something you’ll be proud of.