I keep the basics, threads in a few different colors,needles, thread clippers, rotary cutter, fresh blades, pins, Good Scissors, beeswax, quilting thread, emery board, needle threader, gel pen and pencil, I also keep some fabric clips and a tape measure. I suppose I keep more things in my sewing kit than others. I do add things from time to time especially if I am working on a project. Oh yeah I also keep a 6" square cutting board and ruler and seam ripper with me at all times. It goes with me many places and is alway in my sewing bag if I am doing some hand piecing or hand quilting. It is rarely away from my traveling sewing machine (which is were it is now). Oh yeah there is one more thing I keep in my sewing kit. A few buttons are a necessity. This gives you an idea of what I like to have on hand to keep me busy when out and about or just at home so I can sit in bed with DH and enjoy watching tv with him.