My favorite type of polyester thread is Gutermann Mara 100, I usually pick mine up at Wawak.com (and most of the time I buy cones of basic neutral colors - cream, black, gray, etc.). I've used this thread for years and love it.
I have a healthy stash of sewing needles (thank you coupons!) that I picked up at my local big box sewing store. I use the Schmetz brand which I've found to be very reliable. I typically use a Denim size 14 or 16 needle. Now the size is important for a needle! The larger the number, the stronger the needle. Strength is the real workhorse we need in order to get through the layers of fabric/handles without your needle bending and breaking! I've also used Microtex (sharp) or even a Leather or Topstitching needle. Definitely experiment on some test scraps before using whatever needle/thread combination on your final bag. Also, here's a great chart with needle information.
The other item I use on almost every bag I make is this Bohin Chalk Pencil. I love because it creates a thin yet noticeable line on most fabric (not light colors, but you can pick up refills in other colors besides white). I also love that you can refill it! Although I think I've only really gone through one refill pack in YEARS, so it really does last a long time! And it's like a mechanical pencil, so handy.
And with all that said, please use whatever works best for you! Same goes for anything I show here, after all, that's one of the parts that is so great about sewing.
Scroll down for the video for this week's sew-along. I've put timestamps in the video's description so if you only want/need to watch a certain part, click on those timestamp links.
Lastly, if you haven't picked up your Sandhill Sling pattern, click the button below.
