I have had a number of emails recently asking where I purchased the various tools or sewing materials that I use when sewing my doll clothes patterns. This got me thinking that there are probably tons more people who would like to know where these things are available. So below is a list of various tools, fabrics and notions that I have had queries on. I explain where I purchased mine and list some online stores that I found stocking these items.
BODKIN
Handy for threading elastic or chord through a casing and I know they are available at my local Janome store so try your local sewing machine store. Online I could only find one that is a little different to mine although it does the same job.
- Joann fabrics http://www.joann.com/dritz-bodkin-threader-tweezer-3-/prd10311/ so you could probably purchase both the Loop Turner and the Bodkin online from Joann’s if you are unable to find them locally.
- Ortensia Sewing Supplies http://www.ortensia.com.au/product.php?productid=9020432
CRAFT FUR
I use this to trim my Funky Fur outfit and Fur Trimmed Jacket. I purchase my craft fur from my local Spotlight store and can buy a minimum of 20cm (approx 8 inches). I notice that if you purchase online, they seem to sell it by the yard, if they sell less, that would be great, otherwise I suggest you check out your local craft or fabric/haberdashery store. Below are a couple of sites I found when doing a Google search:
- Fabric.com (I think you can purchase ½ yard) http://www.fabric.com/SearchResults2.aspx?Source=Header&SearchText=fur&CategoryID=1d5f47dc-9991-4088-93f3-26a376046a5e
- Distinctive Fabric http://www.distinctivefabric.com/category.php?cat=FAUXFUR
If you cannot find suitable craft fur, you can always use a contrasting color of the same fabric you use for the jacket and pants.
DISPLAY FOLDER
These are inexpensive and handy for keeping my doll clothes patterns organized and if you would like to see how I set them up, please read my blog ‘How to Keep Your Doll Clothes Sewing Patterns Organized’ .In Australia these folders are readily available at discount stores, grocery stores and stationery stores. Online I found them at
- Especially Office http://www.especiallyoffice.com/webalogue/index.html?target=dept_471.html&lang=en-gb
FLOWER SEQUINS
I use these on my Fairy Costume and often as decoration on bodices or hems of skirts. I get mine from the local craft store in multi color packs. Following are some links to sites I have found online selling similar flower sequins, some are in the UK but I’m sure the postage on such a small and light item would not be much.
- Fred Aldous http://www.fredaldous.co.uk/craft-shop/beads-sequins-stones/sequins/flower-sequin-15mm-2g.html?p=2
- Cartwright’s Sequins and Vintage Buttons http://www.ccartwright.com/flower.html
- Regal Crafts http://www.regalcrafts.com/sequins/flower-sequins/cat_98.html these look interesting (I haven’t seen them before)
LOOP TURNER
I absolutely love the Loop Turner (I call it ‘Looper the Trooper’). They are an inexpensive tool and I use mine all the time. I purchased mine from my local Janome store but it should be available at any good sewing store. Online I found it at:
- Joann fabric stores http://www.joann.com/dritz-loop-turner/prd2991/
- Amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/Prym-Dritz-647-Loop-Turner/dp/B000Y3GS5E
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Sewing-online.com.au http://sewing-online.com.au/haberdashery/dressmaking/Dressmaking_Products/Loop_Turner/?gclid=CIvniYCrrq8CFdA2pAodXzKHnw
I hope this helps you find what you are looking for more easily and if you have found other great places to purchase these things from please let me know via adding comments to the blog so that others that are interested can source them too!
Happy Sewing
Hi Rosie,
I’ve found everything I need for sewing at my local Joann’s store, and also Michael’s which is a craft store that carries many items for sewing and crafting.
Another idea for organizing patterns and instructions are regular 3 ring binders. I buy page protector sheets and they hold the instructions and the pattern neatly inside. My patterns and instructions are all at my fingertips right in one binder. I have several of them. One for all my knitting and crochet patterns for my AG dolls, and another for sewing patterns. I have a separate one also for my Barbie patterns as well. I know exactly where everything is when I need them.
Now, all I need is to find a decent operating sewing machine. I just learned that we have a sewing shop about 20 minutes away that carry different types of sewing machines, including the Janome. I’ll be visiting there soon.
Happy sewing to everyone. Rosie, I love your new site.
Thanks for that information Ann. I think the Joann’s stores that you have in the US must be very similar to our Spotlight stores in Australia. Yes, the 3 ring binders are also a great idea for storing patterns and they are usually available everywhere. When buying your sewing machine, ask if you can try out the ones you are interested in because this will let you ‘feel’ them working eg. easy to control the foot pedal, is it noisy, etc. I know in Australia when you purchase from a sewing machine store you receive free lessons on how to use the machine and the various features and then if you ever have any questions down the track, they are usually more than happy to help. Good luck and thanks again for sharing your information with us. Glad you like my new site. Happy sewing, Rosie.
Hi Rosie, I was just wondering what size rotary cutter you prefer to use and if you have a brand that you favour? My hands don’t like using scissors much these days and the cutter looks much more user friendly…a comment for Ann Mellor..I’ve had my Janome machine since 1978. It has been well used and well loved. I have it serviced regularly and it is still as good as new….look for clear markings and simple dials and the features you will most use ( an automatic threader is a nice bonus ) Best wishes Cherrylm.
Hi Cherrylm, I do love my rotary cutter and must admit that I have only used the Olfa brand so don’t know what the other brands are like, perhaps some of my other members will be able to advise what they use. I find I use the 28mm blade when cutting out my doll clothes patterns but if I’m using the ruler or cutting through the craft fur, I prefer the 45mm blade. Just be really careful to not bump the blade against anything solid as this will damage the blade in that spot and you will find it won’t cut properly. These blades are really sharp so be careful to slide the cover over the blade as soon as you are finished cutting. You must also have a cutting mat when you use the rotary cutter and the size that you purchase will depend on what you will be cutting out mostly but I think it is best to go with the biggest that you can afford as I’m sure you will be using your rotary cutter for cutting out all your sewing projects in the future. If you do purchase a rotary cutter, let me know what you think. Happy sewing, Rosie.
Hi Cherrylym. Thank you for your input about the Janome sewing machines. I mostly sew dolls clothes, and pajamas and small things for granddaughters, so I don’t need anything too fancy, but something that works well. I recently found that there is a dealer that sells Janome sewing machines not far from where I live and will probably take a ride out there this week. I want to be able to try the machine before buying. I’m most thankful for your help, and also for yours too Rosie.
Happy sewing,
Ann