Learn These Top Sewing Safety Tips Before You Sew

When it comes to sewing, following basic sewing safety tips is crucial for avoiding injuries. From sharp tools to hot irons, sewing involves handling items that require caution.

Before you break out your latest project, take the time to review some fundamental sewing room safety guidelines. Whether you’re new to sewing or have years of experience, it never hurts to refresh your knowledge of sewing safety best practices.

In this article, we’ll provide an overview of key areas to focus on, including using the right tools and equipment, practicing caution with sewing machines, maintaining proper workspaces, handling materials carefully, taking special steps with kids, and staying safe with electricity.

Following these common sense sewing safety tips will help ensure your hobby remains creative and enjoyable, not hazardous.

Let’s get started.

Use Proper Tools and Equipment

Having the right tools for sewing is crucial for both success and safety. Investing in high-quality equipment will help your projects turn out perfectly, while also reducing the risk of injury. Here are some of the most important tools to have on hand:

Sharp Scissors, Rotary Cutters, and Needles

Sharp scissors – Cheap scissors won’t cut fabric cleanly. Invest in a good pair of dressmaking shears with micro-serrated blades. Gingher and Kai scissors are excellent choices. Keep them sharp by having them professionally sharpened annually.
Rotary cutters – Use a rotary cutter on a self-healing mat for fast, accurate cutting. The blades are extremely sharp, so store them safely when not in use. Replace dull blades promptly. Popular brands include Fiskars, Olfa, and Omnigrid.
Needles – Don’t scrimp on needles! Use fresh, high-quality needles in the appropriate size and type for your fabric. Schmetz and Organ are reputable needle brands. Change needles frequently to avoid skipped stitches, snags, and breakage.

Proper Cutting Tools

Tool	Usage
Scissors	For detailed cutting of fabric
Rotary cutter	For long straight cuts on fabric laid flat
Snips/embroidery scissors	For clipping threads or precise trimming

Seam Rippers

A good seam ripper is invaluable when you make a mistake and need to rip out stitches. Look for an ergonomic seam ripper with a comfortable rubberized grip. Avoid the flimsy seam rippers that come with most sewing machines – they tend to break quickly. Highly rated brands include Dritz and Collins.

Pins and Pincushions

You’ll need a variety of pins for sewing, including:

Glass head silk pins – ultra fine pins for delicate fabrics
Ball point pins – won’t damage knits or stretchy fabrics
Pearl head pins – all-purpose pins for most fabrics
Flower head pins – large balls prevent fabric damage

Store pins safely in a pincushion while sewing. There are many styles to choose from:

Magnetic pincushions attach to your machine or workspace
Wrist pincushions attach to your wrist with an elastic band
Tomato pincushions have a weighted base and emery filling for pin sharpening

Avoid putting pins in your mouth – you don’t want to accidentally swallow them!

Thimbles

Protect your fingers from needle pricks with a thimble. Traditional metal thimbles can be uncomfortable, so look for rubber or leather options too. Make sure the thimble fits snugly on your finger.

By using high-quality tools designed specifically for sewing, you’ll have an easier, safer, and more satisfying sewing experience. Treat yourself to some new gadgets and supplies – your fingers will thank you!

Practice Caution Around Sewing Machines

Sewing machines are incredible inventions that make sewing faster, easier, and more consistent. However, their speed and power mean you need to practice caution when using them. Follow these tips for safe operation:

Keep Fingers Away From Needle

The fast moving needle is the biggest hazard on a sewing machine. Make sure to:

Maintain a 1 inch clearance between your fingers and the needle at all times
Use sewing aids like edge guides instead of your fingers to steer fabric
Stop sewing if you need to adjust fabric placement near the needle

Needle Safety Zones

Unplug When Changing Feet or Walking Away

To avoid accidental pedal presses:

Unplug the machine when changing presser feet, needles, or making any adjustments
Even if stepping away for a minute, unplug the machine
On computerized machines, lock the controls before leaving

Establish the habit of unplugging your machine before adjustments to avoid mishaps.

Maintain and Service Regularly

Perform regular maintenance to keep your machine running smoothly:

Clean lint and threads from bobbin area
Oil machine per manufacturer instructions
Replace needles frequently (after 6-8 hours of sewing)
Service machine professionally every 1-2 years

Proper maintenance prevents broken needles, tangled threads, skipped stitches, and other problems.

Go Slow Until Experienced

When learning to sew, or trying a new machine:

Start slow – use low speed setting until you gain confidence
Practice on scrap fabric before sewing good projects
Don’t attempt complex tasks until you master basics
Ask an experienced sewist for lessons if needed

Rushing into complex sewing can lead to frustration and mistakes. Build skill safely at an easy pace.

Treat your sewing machine with care and caution, and it will reward you with many years of creative enjoyment!

Mind Your Surroundings

Creating a safe, ergonomic sewing environment will help you avoid injury and stay comfortable during long sewing sessions.

Good Posture and Ergonomics

Use proper ergonomics to avoid back, neck, and shoulder strain:

Sit up straight, don’t hunch over the machine
Position chair height so thighs are horizontal
Keep elbows close to body while sewing
Place machine directly in front of you

Proper Sewing Posture

Take regular breaks, stretch, and change positions often. A wedge cushion on your chair can help maintain good posture.

Proper Lighting

Good lighting prevents eye strain and mistakes:

Position a bright lamp over your shoulder pointing toward your work
Daylight sewing bulbs provide natural light
Avoid shadows on your work area
Reduce glare with lamp shades

Tidy Workspace

A cluttered workspace poses tripping and injury risks. Follow these tips:

Store tools in labeled containers and cabinets
Return items to storage after each use
Don’t leave cutting tools, irons, or cords lying around
Use drawer organizers to neatly arrange supplies

Avoid Loose Hair and Clothes

Contain loose hair and clothes to avoid entanglements:

Tie long hair back when sewing
Remove dangling jewelry
Wear well-fitting clothes
Use an apron with pockets for small tools

Rolled or buttoned sleeves help keep cuffs out of the way.

No Distractions or Impairments

Sewing requires concentration. Avoid distractions:

No multitasking – focus only on sewing
Wait to answer calls/texts
Choose quiet sewing times
Close the door to keep pets/kids out

Never sew when overly tired, rushed, or impaired. Mistakes under those conditions can be dangerous.

Creating a safe, focused workspace will allow you to sew comfortably and prevent problems.

Handle Fabrics and Tools with Care

Fabric and sewing tools require careful handling to prevent injuries and accidents. Follow these guidelines when cutting, sewing, and finishing projects.

Cut Away From Your Body

Always cut away from yourself with scissors or rotary cutters
Don’t cut toward your hand or cross hands over the fabric
Use a large cutting mat to provide plenty of room

Proper Cutting Technique

Cutting away from your body prevents accidental slips or cuts if the blade slips.

Remove Pins Before Sewing

Don’t sew over pins – the needle may break or damage the machine. Remove pins as you approach the presser foot.

Pin Removal Technique

Use an awl, chopstick, or Purple Thang to guide fabric instead of your fingers.

Store Sharp Tools Properly

Close scissors and shears before storing
Cover cutting blades or store in sheaths
Don’t leave rotary cutters on work surfaces
Use containers or guards for safe storage

Sharp Tool Storage

Proper sharp tool storage prevents accidents.

Dispose of Broken Needles Safely

Don’t throw broken needles in the trash
Use a “sharps container” like a labeled pill bottle
Seal full containers before disposal
Keep away from children and pets

Careful handling of scissors, pins, rotary cutters, and other sharp tools is crucial for safety. Develop good habits to prevent injuries.

Extra Precautions with Kids

Sewing can be a wonderful creative outlet for kids, but extra safety steps should be taken to prevent injuries. Follow these tips when sewing with children:

Supervise Closely

Always directly supervise kids when sewing
Don’t allow play in the sewing room unaccompanied
Sit together at the machine and guide their hands
Monitor hand positioning to avoid needle contact

Sewing with Kids

One-on-one supervision prevents mistakes and injuries.

Lock Away Dangerous Items

Keep these tools locked up or out of reach:

Scissors
Rotary cutters
Seam rippers
Pins
Needles
Iron

Only allow access during supervised sewing time. Use child locks if needed.

Teach Patience and Focus

Encourage slow stitching to start
Praise focused listening and following directions
Take breaks to reboot attention if needed
Make safety practices part of every project

Kids often rush when excited – gentle patience must be instilled.

Define a No-Touch Zone

Use tape or coloring:

Mark a 1 inch perimeter around the needle as a no-touch zone
Explain that fingers don’t go past the tape boundary
Check hand position frequently as a lesson
Apply the rule during threading and needle changes too

Visual markings help cement safe habits.

With lessons in patience, close supervision, and restricted tool access, sewing can be a safe, rewarding activity for kids.

Stay Safe with Electricity

Sewing machines and irons rely on electricity, so proper electrical safety is crucial.

Don’t Overload Outlets

Plugging too many high-wattage appliances into one outlet can cause problems:

Overloaded circuits can trip breakers or blow fuses
Excess current flow produces heat that can start fires
Motors may overwork due to insufficient current

Average Appliance Wattages

Appliance	Watts
Iron	700-1500
Sewing machine	50-100
Serger	100-200

Calculate total watts needed before plugging in
Spread appliances over multiple outlets
Never plug > 1800 watts into a 15 amp circuit

Don’t Run Cords Across Floors

improperly run cords pose tripping/injury risks:

Don’t string cords across walking areas
Tape down or enclose cords around edges instead
Avoid placing cords under rugs or furniture
Use short extension cords for temporary needs

Inspect cords regularly and replace frayed/damaged ones.

Unplug Iron When Not in Use

Turn off and unplug iron when unattended:

It takes seconds to reheat when needed again
Prevents accidental contact with hot iron
Reduces energy consumption
Eliminates fire risk if accidentally left on

Iron Safety Steps

Make unplugging irons an automatic habit, even if leaving briefly.

Using sewing appliances safely requires awareness of electrical capacities and risks. With proper precautions, you can sew safely.

Keep Pets Out of the Sewing Room

Our furry friends are curious and love to be involved in everything we do. However, the sewing room contains many potential hazards for pets. Here’s how to keep them safe.

Dangers for Pets

Several common sewing items pose risks:

Needles and pins – if swallowed, can cause internal injury
Thread and ribbon – can cause intestinal blockages if eaten
Scissors – sharp blades can cut paws
Fabric – may be chewed and swallowed
Cords – can be chewed, causing electrocution risk

Cats especially like to play with and chew on sewing notions.

Prevention Tips

Keep pets out to avoid harm:

Close sewing room door
Use baby gates to block access
Place sticky shelf liner on surfaces to deter jumping up
Hide waste thread promptly to avoid curiosity
Store supplies in cabinets or containers

Supervise When Allowed In

If you do wish to let pets be present:

Provide designated pet beds so they’re not on your work surfaces
Directly supervise to monitor behavior
Reinforce “leave it” training with toys and treats
Never leave pets alone in the sewing room uncrated

Even well-trained pets can get into things if bored.

Check for Missing Items

If pets have been unsupervised in your sewing room:

Search for missing needles, pins, etc.
Check no fabric pieces were ingested
Inspect electrical cords for damage
Watch for signs of illness and contact vet if concerned

Prompt vet care can retrieve ingested objects.

Pet in the Sewing Room

With some simple precautions, you can keep your pets safe while enjoying their company as you sew. Restrict access when unattended, and supervise closely when they are allowed in the sewing room.

bottom Line

Following basic sewing safety tips requires awareness and care, but it doesn’t have to hinder your enjoyment of sewing. With the right tools and workspace setup, caution around equipment, proper handling techniques, kids supervision, and electrical safety, you can focus on creativity without undue worries.

While no hobby is 100% risk-free, implementing these common sense sewing safety tips will help you avoid many of the most common sewing room injuries. Your creations will turn out beautifully, your equipment will last, and your fingers will thank you.

We hope reviewing these fundamental guidelines provides both new and seasoned sewers with a helpful refresher on keeping projects accident and injury-free. What are your top sewing safety tips? Please share in the comments!