Notions
Notions in the context of quilting, arts and crafts, and sewing refer to various small, often functional, items and tools that are essential for these creative activities.These notions help make the process of sewing, quilting, and crafting more efficient and enjoyable. Here are some common notions used in these areas:
Pins and Needles: Straight pins and sewing needles are fundamental tools used to hold fabric pieces together before stitching. They come in various sizes and materials.
Thread: Thread is used to stitch fabric pieces together. Different types of thread are available, such as cotton, polyester, and silk, each with its own properties.
Scissors: Good-quality scissors are crucial for cutting fabric accurately. There are specialized fabric scissors designed for clean, precise cuts.
Thimble: A thimble is a protective covering for the finger that helps push the needle through thick fabric and prevents needle pricks.
Measuring Tools: Measuring tapes, rulers, and fabric markers are essential for measuring and marking fabric accurately.
Seam Ripper: This tool is used to remove stitches when a mistake is made or when alterations are needed.
Pins and Pincushions: Pins are used to secure fabric during sewing, and pincushions are handy for keeping them organized and easily accessible.
Iron and Ironing Board: Pressing fabric with an iron and ironing board is vital for achieving neat and professional-looking seams.
Rotary Cutter and Cutting Mat: Quilters often use rotary cutters and self-healing cutting mats to make precise cuts when working on quilting projects.
Bias Tape Maker: A tool used to create bias tape from fabric strips, which is commonly used for binding edges.
Bobbins: Bobbins hold the thread that is used in the lower part of a sewing machine. They are essential for machine sewing.
Sewing Machine: While not a notion in the traditional sense, a sewing machine is a vital tool for many sewing and quilting projects, making the process faster and more precise.
Buttons, Zippers, and Fasteners: These are used to add closures and decorative elements to clothing and crafts.
Elastic: Elastic is often used in sewing for waistbands and other stretchy parts of garments.
Bias Tape: Bias tape is used to finish edges and add decorative trim to sewing projects.
Snap Fasteners and Hooks: These are used for closures in garments and other items.
Marking Tools: Chalk, fabric markers, and disappearing ink pens are used to mark fabric for sewing guidelines and patterns.
Sewing Patterns: These are templates or guides for cutting and sewing fabric pieces to create a specific design.
Quilting Templates and Rulers: Specialized templates and rulers are used in quilting to create precise shapes and patterns.
Fusible Interfacing: This is a material used to add structure and stability to fabric, often used in garment making.
These notions, among others, are essential for anyone engaged in quilting, arts and crafts, and sewing. They help ensure that projects are executed with precision and creativity, making the process more enjoyable and the final results more polished.