Unusual tool?
 

Does anyone have any weird, "unintentional" favourite quilting tools in their sewing box?

I was squaring up some blocks this afternoon and my fingers were getting sore swiping away the skinny wisps of thread and fabric cut from each block when I hit upon the idea of using a recently purchased shaving brush...you know the sort....nice chunky little handle for easy grip and big boof of soft bristles. Now with a quick swipe around the edge of my square and block I can woosh away all those pesky little threads and fabric tatters leaving me with a lovely neat freshly squared block. :)

Ansel Hy-Flex foam work gloves . . .FAAAAAARRRRR superior grip for free motion quilting, than made for quilting gloves sold in LQS. I wouldn't think of quilting without them . . .and the best part, they're half the price.

I have long fingers and find the size 8 fits a little snug and size 9 a tad baggy, but both work just fine.

We've had some recent discussions on this

http://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1...s-t265325.html

http://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1...g-t127919.html

http://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1...g-t223192.html

I use plates and cups when I need to draw a perfect circle.

I like my 3M Command hook....the metal hook, that I have placed on my sewing machine to hold my nippers. (scissors) Keeps them handy.

I have a natural animal hair cosmetic/make up brush that has a engraved silver handle that I clean out my bobbin area with. It is very clingy, so I only have to touch the fuzz and it clings to the brush to remove it. The handle is quite long so it is easier to use inside all the sections down there. I really love it. I know it is overkill, but, the idea came to me one day and sure enough it was perfect for the job.

From the automotive section in Sears, I got an adjustable small mirror that comes in very handy when replacing the needle in my sewing machine. Now I can see that I am aligning it correctly. There were a few other items in the package as well. I think one was a long handle with magnet on the end. I haven't had a need to use that one yet. But The mirror gets used frequently.

I love the mirror for replacing needles idea - that long-handled magnet might work to pick pins up off the floor.

I use a long-handled narrow stiff-bristled paint brush to clean the bobbin compartment, makes it easy to get the linty stuff out.

I use chopsticks to stuff things and to poke out corners
I have nice pink ones I keep with the sewing tools

I do this too except I use one of the plastic hooks. Have one on each machine except my treadle. That way I can always find those little suckers.