When you’re just starting out with sewing, the big question is always: how much $$ is this going to cost me??

The good news: not as much as you’d think! We’ve broken down the exact tools you need to start sewing at home, plus the cost of each item.

 

The bare minimum sewing kit

Here’s what you’ll actually need:

• Tape measure – $3 AUD or $2 USD
  
• Pins – $4 AUD or $2.50 USD
  
• Scissors
  • Fabric scissors – $50 AUD or $35 USD (never use them on paper!)
  • Paper scissors – $6.50 AUD or $4 USD
  • Snips/small scissors – $5.50 AUD or $3.50 USD (for trimming threads)
• Thread – $4.50 AUD or $3.00 per spool
  
• Bobbins – $10 AUD or $6.50 USD
• Erasable fabric pen or tailor's chalk – $12 AUD or $8 USD
  
• Hand sewing needles – $5 AUD or $3.20 USD
• Extra machine needles – $8.50 AUD or $5.40 USD (incase you break a needle)
• Seam ripper – $8.50 AUD or $5.40 USD (every makers most used item)
  
• Iron and ironing board – You probably already have this! 

Love a bargain or a handy tool? Have a scroll through our Amazon sewing finds page.

 

The big one: your machine

The priciest part of sewing is, of course, the sewing machine. A solid beginner-friendly machine will set you back around $380 AUD or $240 USD.

Look for one with all the essential presser feet. Including, a standard presser foot, zipper foot, and buttonhole foot.

If you’re not ready to go all-in on a brand-new machine, check Marketplace for a second-hand one. They’re usually much cheaper and perfect if you just want to test the waters and start learning before committing.

 

The grand total

When you add it all up, it costs around $500 AUD or $320 USD to start sewing.

This doesn’t include fabric or notions (like zips, buttons, or elastic), and these prices are based on major haberdashery stores, so you might find slightly cheaper or more expensive.

Remember, these are once-off investments that last years and unlock endless creative projects.

 

Final thoughts

So, is sewing expensive to start?

Turns out, it's not as expensive as it looks. If you’ve been curious, this is your nudge to grab the basics and start sewing.