Kree-ations!

I am just starting out. What do I need?  There are a few things that are essential and some which are really handy:

• Of course, you need a sewing machine!  Honestly, about $500 will get you a really good Janome.  Unless you really need an embroidery machine or a specific stitch, keep it simple - do you really need more than straight, zigzag, buttonhole and a few stretch stitches?  Unfortunately, I do suggest spending at least $300 on the machine as the cheaper ones tend to break down more readily and don't seem to work quite right most of the time.
• Appropriate sewing machine needles - a packet of universal size 80/12 needles is generally appropriate unless you are trying to use denim or stretchy fabrics.
• A flat place to cut out your fabric - this can be your kitchen table or you can even use your clean hard floor.
• a cheap pair of long-bladed scissors to cut out your paper patterns
• a good pair of sewing shears - long-bladed (at least 18cm) and sharp
• a small pair of sharp scissors with pointy blades for snipping threads
• Pins - I like the quilting ones as they are longer and have little balls on the tops.  A pin cushion is great too (especially if it will strap around your wrist) but you can just put them back in the container if you want to save some money (or make one!)
• Thread - you can just buy some cheapies and use black, white, navy and grey while you are discovering or match the thread to what you are making
• Thimble, hand needles
• An extra light to shine from the front of your work is really handy
• Another really handy thing is a cheap toolbox to store your items, but a green bag will do too.
• Of course, you need a paper pattern, fabric and any notions you need for your garment!

What do I need to start?

• A simple knitting pattern (there are plenty of free patterns online)
• I recommend buying the needle sizes either side of the recommended size as your knitting may be tighter or more loose than average.  You don't want to start out and have to go out and buy more.  Keep the package and reciept and you might be able to take the ones you don't need back.
• Something to store your work - a knitting bag is handy and easy to make if you are sewing-minded or a green bag will still be fine.
• Buy your wool all in one hit and check the dye-lots are the same so that you have the exact same colour each time.

Why do I need to buy wool from the same dye-lot?  There may be subtle differences between different dye-lots.  Very rarely can you find a big enough ball of wool for a whole jumper.