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Steve Kowalsky

Regardless of whether you’re constructing your ideal studio from scratch, have only a corner of the family room, or have to recover a space once the kids have moved out, there are a few items that all sewists should consider to ensure that their studio works for their needs.

Electricity

While it may seem like something that is a given, your sewing room needs access to electricity for the machines, iron, task lights, and computers, among other things. While having a dedicated set of wall sockets is ideal, it is not always achievable due to room layouts and the amount of equipment and if you are using extension cords and adapters, that you do not overload one outlet. To prevent equipment damage, it is recommended to invest in a good surge protector. Furthermore, to prevent accidents, try to keep extension cords from crossing busy intersections. If additional outlets are required, speak with an electrician and specify what equipment will be plugged into them.

Lighting

Having good lighting is essential for successful stitching. While general room lighting can work, many sewists benefit from a task and table lighting. These lights can illuminate specific workstations, computers, sewing machines, and overlockers. True-colour illumination can also be made possible by daylight lamps and upgraded sewing machine lighting, allowing for perfect colour matching indoors.

Cutting Table

Try to locate some space for a dedicated cutting area (depending on the size and orientation of the room). For quilters, a 45″ fabric width is adequate; if you make clothing, it should be big enough to accommodate a folded 60″ fabric width. The length will depend on the amount of room you have. The cutting surface’s height is crucial for comfort. While using scissors, it should be 3–4” below your elbow height, and when using a rotary cutter, it should be 6–8” below. If both are used, choose a middle ground.

A padded sheet of plywood or a hollow core door from the hardware store can make a great tabletop if you have not picked up a cutting table. This wood/door can be placed on a chest of drawers or a set of solid shelves so that you can make use of the space underneath.

Flooring

The optimum flooring solutions are frequently debated among sewists. Some like soft-surface flooring like carpeting and rugs, while others prefer hard-surface flooring like wood, tile, or vinyl. The kind you choose will depend on how you sew and clean—hard flooring makes it simpler to find pins, while carpeting is warmer if you sew barefoot! Consider your options for floor cleaning if you intend to complete other crafts in the same space. The majority of hard flooring options are easier to clean than carpet when it comes to dyes, paints, glues, etc.

Storage

Storage is often one of the main focuses that sewists think of when re-designing their sewing space, and as such, it is a great consideration for those creating their sewing studio for the first time. This storage is not just for their growing collection of fabrics but also for the assortment of notions and feet, attachments, and tools. It’s beneficial to be able to locate the items you require. There isn’t a single ideal technique for storing sewists; some people prefer plastic tubs for everything, while others prefer to keep their possessions on display and don’t want them hidden behind cabinets or in boxes. It’s crucial to keep your sewing supplies organised, spotless, and out of direct sunlight where they can fade and harm textiles. Make sure to clearly identify any covered containers, such as tubs and bins, so you know what’s within. The adage “out of sight, out of mind” can lead you to make further purchases just because you can’t locate anything.

Some sewers choose to organise their supplies in compartmentalised bins, many of which can be carried to class or utilised in the sewing area. Consider using wire bins to store fabrics; they are available in various widths and depths and can pull out like drawers from racks. However, keep in mind that they do not shield contents from light or dust. Look for over-the-door pocket storage, hooks, wall units, stackable bins, etc. if you need as much storage as you can get, but be sure to leave yourself space to walk around. If the space permits, installing a wall-mounted magnetic rail (available from a kitchen supply store) near your cutting area allows you to keep your scissors and shears out of the way while still being easily accessible. If you read guides and sewing/quilting magazines, consider installing a bookcase or wall-mounted bookshelves to keep your library accessible. This can double as a storage place for your larger attachments and notions. If there is simply not enough space, keep them close by for easy access.

Pressing Station

It’s practical to keep your iron close to where you’re sewing so you can press as you go. The amount of space in the room will determine whether you select a full-size ironing board, a tiny tabletop board, or a padded pressing surface. Whatever option you choose, ensure that the board is at a height that is comfortable for you. After all, a tip that many designers and dressmakers will attest to is that pressing your fabric is a key to success.

Hanging Space

If your room has a closet, keep unfinished sewing items in there, such as clothing that has to be fitted or hemmed. Some people choose to hang their fabric supplies than fold them. If you don’t have room for a separate closet, install a clothing rack or an over-the-door hanger instead.

Mirror

Make sure you have a full-length mirror in your home if you make clothes so you can examine the fit, length, and other aspects of your work. While this does not have to be in your sewing studio per se, it is convenient, especially when making adjustments to a garment. 

Sewing Station

When setting up a sewing room/sewing studio, the most crucial area is clearly where your sewing machine(s) and overlocker (and cover stitch machine, if you have one) are located. It’s important to have a chair that is both comfy and the right height for your body and sewing surface. Your chair should enable you to sit at the device straight and upright, with your knees and elbows bent at a 90° angle and the floor should be parallel to your forearms.

Your sewing table should be set at a height that puts your elbow parallel to the floor when in use. If you prefer a tilted sewing surface, you can invest in a specialised mat that can support the machine while offering a 10-15° angle. Additionally, you can use a sit-stand desk if you enjoy standing while you sew.

Refuse

Don’t forget to have a rubbish can in the space. The majority of sewists prefer to have a bin close to the machine, whether it be a full-on floor container for dumping trimmings and scraps or a small weighted bin that sits next to the machine.

Display Space

When planning your area, keep in mind that if you collect sewing-related items like thimbles, vintage sewing machines, figurines, etc., you might require space to show your collection. The key to sewing happiness is that you should love being in your sewing space and that the setup should be comfortable for you. Depending on the space you have and how you use it, there are numerous ways to achieve the same pleasure.

Computer Station

Lastly, if you have an embroidery machine and use a computer to download designs, you may want to incorporate your computer into your sewing space. Even if you don’t have an embroidery machine, you can use your computer to find free patterns, and online technique resources, thus making it an honourable mention in the sewing studio.

Hopefully, this has helped you set up your sewing studio for success. What are your recommendations for the ideal sewing studio?