vondae

You could even make her (if it's allowed) one of the pin cushions with the thread catchers attached. The tutorial was given on her several months back I believe. I have made several of them, and I use mine ALL the time and love it. When I make mine I use a different lining to coordinate with the outside fabric and they look so cute. It doesn't take much fabric or time.

Bobby's Girl

I'm crazy about my square straight pin holder that has a magnetized bottom. It helps me keep up with my straight pins and needles. Now I don't sweep them off my sewing table onto the floor when I move fabric around when I'm sewing.

jitkaau

I bought a stiletto that cost $3.00. It is a nice looking tool and is very handy. There is also a button hole cutter in the same range.

nhweaver

Glass head fine silk pins, the longer the better. A gift certificate, a seam ripper (never can find one when I need one!!) is a great idea, a timer (I set it when I have something in the oven, or have to get to an appointment, saved a many cake when I am lost in sewing heaven).

jeannie t

seam ripper, magnetic pin holder

soccertxi

I second this! I have had to buy multiples of the "Thang" as I seem to use it multiple places! I find it friendlier than an awl or sharp stylus.

Betty Ruth

Where do you find rotary cutter blades for less than $5.00? The last time I bought a single blade, it was over $6.00.
My favorite cheap sewing aid is a ruler from Office Max. It cost me less than $2.00 and is exactly 1 1/2 inches wide,
which is perfect for cutting strips for string quilts. Thread, sewing machine needles and measuring tape as already
suggested are good ideas. May I suggest two identical tapes so that they can be connected to make that center point
measure. I've been unable to find a ruller with -0- in the middle. Hobby Lobby didn't know what I was talking about.

Betty Ruth

Maybe you cow ld make one of those caddies to hold a hot iron. Surely the materials would not cost more than $5.00.
How about a pin cushion? Easy to make and cost almost nothing.

QuiltingJaguar

Great question and even greater answers for us all. I like a leather thimble but not sure how much they now cost. Metal ruler at WalMart's in the office supply section, as I cut up wooden ones and even try to kill off the plastic ones ouch!!

babyquiltlady

I collect all types of pin cushions. There are so many designs on the market or even better sew on of your own.