The term hope chest appears to have fallen out of usage for modern western women however in times past it was known by many names - as a trousseau chest, cedar chest, bottom drawer or dowry chest among others. Sewing tools were once so precious centuries ago that they were often attached to a decorative clasp or hook (sometimes referred to as a chatelaine) that held several chains from which a watch, tiny purse, or important household keys were secured to a woman’s dress waistband.

Times change as do customs. Sewing as a practiced and practical art has changed along with the times. From bone, bronze or iron needles, straight or curved, with oval eyes at one end or even in the middle shank to piece together animal skins using sinew as thread to construct clothing, shelter, or carryalls - modern sewers have the advantage of a dizzying array of choices to select from many types of specialized sewing tools.

A variety of sewing machines, new and used, designed for beginners, seasoned crafters, business owners, and sewing hobbyists can be found in some fabric stores, chain discount department stores, specific online dealers, newspaper classifieds, or lovingly handed down. Tasks for quilting, embroidery, sewing, mending and more are now efficiently and quickly managed to stitch fabric and many other materials together. Sergers evenly trim layered fabric, stitch and overcast seam edges all at once and with astounding speed. Measuring tapes both standard and metric, specialized precision engineered needles and pins, durable, lightweight flexible threads made from plant, animal or synthetics and hundreds of types of sewing shears and rotary cutters all make the process of sewing anything a modern wonder.

Pressing and ironing are today an essential part of many sewing projects. Some additional pressing aids can be very helpful in acquiring a skilled finished result. Besides of course a steam iron, a seam roll (useful for pressing seams open such as sleeves or slacks), tailor's ham (for pressing darts, princess seams and sleeve caps) and a point presser or tailor’s board (to press open seams on detail or tight areas) are useful to aid in shaping a garment’s many seam edges. A pressing cloth is indispensable in protecting fabric from excessive heat damage as well.

Ages ago, mothers or other female family members passed along their sewing knowledge as a matter of course to young girls. Today’s how-to sewing books and magazines (printed or eBook), videos and classes are encyclopedic resources for novice to expert sewers alike, regardless of personal or social identification. Every sewing tool and every sewing technique can be explained and demonstrated in great details whether sewing home furnishings, garment construction, toys, couture, bridal, traditional or contemporary quilting, embroidery, embellishment, pattern making, designing, and so much more.

Contemplating sewing? It can turn into love at first stitch!

Better Homes and Gardens Sewing projects, glossary, guides, basics and more.

AllFreeSewing Free sewing patterns, tips, tutorials and articles.

Sew happy, sew inspired.