This video discusses some basic sewing notions to get started sewing. Pins can come in traditional flat metal head, glass ball head (to prevent melting), and a flat novelty pin. Plastic heads can melt when you iron over them. A good pair of scissors is a must for someone who sews professionally. 8″ scissors are the best length for everyday use. Smaller scissors are used for trimming seams. A pair of small snips are used to cut threads and can be kept at the sewing machine. Rotary cutters have a round blade that rolls across fabrics. Rotary cutters need to be used on rotary cutting boards. The smaller the rotary cutter, the closer and tighter curved lines can be cut. Larger cutters are good for cutting longer strips and wider curves. Measuring tapes come in different lengths. Some are retractable, while the classic measuring tape is cloth. Clear rulers are also useful, as they are divided into 1″ grids. Curved rulers are for designing–creating curves at necklines, armholes, and crotch seams. But curved rulers can also be used when doing window treatment pattern alterations. Tracing wheels are not usually used when making window treatments, but tailor chalk is used in drapery workrooms. Powdered chalk is a good choice for home decor fabric. Marking pens and water soluble pens should be used carefully on home decor fabrics, since they are not usually washed. Sometimes marking pens will have the marks reappear after a period of time, due to home dec fabrics’ finishes. Lastly, a seam ripper is a must-have workroom tool. It not only rips out mistakes, but it is necessary when sewing in pillow and cushion zippers.