Our Sewing Machines or Sewing Kits Allowed on Airplanes?

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The aunt I have is a seamstress and often travels via plane. Although I’ve flown myself, I’ve not had to carry any sewing equipment to a plane or even sewing equipment.

If you’re a seamstress in your own home might be wondering if this is permitted. Is it even possible to carry the whole piece of equipment on an airplane? Do sewing needles are allowed in carry-on bags? No one wants their sewing tools removed.

You are at ease and breathe with relief because the quick answer is Yes, they’re allowed. However, like the case with all pieces of baggage, you must adhere to some rules to adhere to.

After speaking with my aunt and conducting some research I was able to come up with solutions to the questions mentioned above.

Can You Bring Sewing Needles on Airplanes?

Can You Bring Sewing Needles on a Plane
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) permits you to carry knitting and sewing needles to an airplane. Both types can be placed in your carry-on bags, along with your checked baggage.

But, it is important to take care when packing your needles. One option is to insert straight needles and pins into a pincushion just before you put them in your bag. While this isn’t an official TSA policy, you must do it to ensure that they are safe during your trip. It’s expected that your sewing kit is intact.

What About a Seam Ripper?

What About a Seam Ripper
To be in compliance with TSA guidelines, you must be sure to cover all blades that you carry in your checked baggage. This applies not just to rotary cutters or craft knives, but also to the smaller seam rippers. Even though they’re small in size they’re still needlepoint instruments that have blades.

However, you are able to still take your scissors with you in your carry-on bag. You have to be careful, however. The scissors you carry needs to be less than four inches. It is recommended to pick a pair with a blunt nose.

Instead of using sewing equipment, you could take nail clippers with you or a container with dental floss to cut the threads. Consider this option when you prefer to keep it simple. Rules may change and airlines decide on their own.

After I have this completed, let’s consider what you are permitted to use your tools for in the course of the flight.

Can You Cross Stitch on a Plane?

To cross-stitch while on the plane, you’ll need two instruments. Obviously, these are needles as well as scissors. You’ve probably guessed by now you can carry the two tools with you in your carry-on bag.


However, there are some guidelines you need to observe:

1. The needles you use should be needles for embroidery with the ends that are rounded.

2. Make sure you place them in a sturdy shell. The most effective method to do this is to put them enclosed in a transparent shell. So, the airport personnel will be able to see the shells.

3. Don’t take lots of needles, since you’ll probably not require the entire set.

If the scissors go, you should try to find an appropriate pair that matches the following specifications. It is recommended to make sure they’re rounded off using a 1/1 curvature and are no more than 1 inch away from the point of pivot. If you’re not certain about this then nail clippers can be able to do the job.

And lastly, put the tools in a bag that is transparent for them to be easier to check. If you adhere to these guidelines, you’ll be permitted to stitch on the plane.

The TSA-Approved Sewing Kit

As mentioned previously, a lot of the materials you’ll require are included to be included in TSA sew kits. The list is like this:

  • Double pointed knitting needles
  • bamboo, aluminum-plastic, and metal knitting needles
  • knitting hooks
  • circular knitting needles
  • holders for knitting stitch
  • sewing pins
  • sewing needles
  • sewing scissors that have a blade smaller than 4 inches

Also, it is essential to take any tool with blades (circular thread cutters or another) in your baggage.

Can I Do Embroidery on a Plane?

Of course, you can. Make sure you follow the guidelines for sewing needles when traveling on planes. Before all else, be sure that the other equipment you use is compliant with the TSA regulations mentioned above.

Bring two or more needles to your travel baggage bags. Additionally, you might want to carry needle books or the second set of needles inside your suitcase that you have checked.

Be aware that your project must be easy to carry around. You can choose the smallest hoop you could comfortably carry in one hand. The hoop you choose to use will not take up too much space. Therefore, it will be possible to put it in the tiny airplane seat.

Can I Take My Sewing Machine?

Can I Take My Sewing Machine
Let’s discuss the most powerful tool you could ever need -sewing machines. Similar to other tools, it is possible to bring it along when you travel.

The TSA states that you are able to carry it in your checked baggage. Find this article to learn how to properly pack the machine prior to checking it into your luggage.

However, you should be prepared to carry it onboard for carry-on baggage. However, before you decide to go with the latter option, make contact with the airline. This will ensure that it will fit in the overhead bin or under your seat.

Sewing machines aren’t affordable, and you should make sure that you are protecting your sewing machine.

Now You Are Ready To Fly!

I hope that by now all your questions are clarified. Hope this post will help you get your sewing supplies and tools for your coming journeys.

If you’re looking in knowing more about the TSA’s regulations, take a look at the How Can I Bring page. If it leaves you thinking, you can call the security department at that specific airport.


After you have a better understanding of what you are allowed to and cannot bring, I would like to wish you a safe and enjoyable flight!

Make sure to share this post and let us know items in your kit while you’re on a plane.

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