Magnetic parts tray

I have one on my desk all the time. I use it to hold my needles, safety pins, T-pins, little scissors, knitting accessories, picture frame hanging nails, and whatever little bits and bobs I need. Incidentally, my stitch marker tins are metal, so they magnet around the base of the main tray for a super organized bit of kit.

Hand sewing needles basics

This video goes over the different kinds of hand sewing needles and which one is best for which type of work or fabric. The biggest thing to remember is that for stretchy knit fabrics, you are better off with a ball point needle.

Hand sewing stitches

This video shows a bunch of basic stitches which are super useful in all sorts of projects. For a hole along a seam, I recommend a combination of a back stitch or running stitch along the seam line, then maybe a blanket stitch to make the seam even more secure and finished.

Invisible seam

 This video shows another useful stitch for closing up seams that are more visible. This stitch can also be used on small holes that are not on a seam.

How to sew on a button

This video shows how to sew on 3 different styles of buttons. The most common will be a 4 hole button, but it's useful to know how to do other types as well.

Sewing clips

This video goes over how to use the craft clips to hold your work while you sew. There are some bits that aren't relevant, like the bit about the scissors and how to use sewing pins, but it does give you a good idea of ways you can use the clips.

How to sew velcro

This video uses a sewing machine, but the basic idea is still there. It's important to sew an X through the piece so that it is super strong and won't pull apart.

How to use Fray Check

Sometimes you just need to heal a fraying edge without doing any sewing, and fray check is your friend in this situation. You have a different brand than in the videos, but the concept is the same.

How to use iron-on hem tape

If you don't want to sew a full hem, which is kind of annoying, hem tape is a great alternative.

How to hand sew a hem

This video has a lot of info and tips and tricks in order to hand sew a hem. There are a few things she uses that aren't in your box, but you can use other things or eventually buy them if needed.

• seam ripper - The scissors in your kit will be just fine. Only consider buying a seam ripper if you find you need to unpick a seam a lot or if the scissors aren't working well for you.
• pins - The clips will work fine if you clip along the fold of the hem.
• ruler - I sure do hope you have a ruler around the house. Any kind will do.

How to use Wonder Fuse to do applique

Wonder Fuse is similar to the iron-on hem tape, but much larger. It's great to add a patch or other applique to your project. You can also finish the applique with a blanket stitch for a neater look.