Rotary Cutter – The Sharpest Tool in the Box

This is your go-to for cutting through latex like it’s a breeze. A sharp rotary cutter is key to clean, smooth edges. The blade’s round shape means you can slice with ease and without jagged edges.

Pro tip: Keep the blade fresh and sharp. A dull cutter will pull and stretch the latex, making it harder to control.

Cutting Mat

A self-healing cutting mat is a must to keep your work surface intact and ensure your blades stay sharp. It’s a small investment that will save you a lot of trouble in the long run.

• Pro tip: Make sure it’s large enough to handle your sheets — and have a super small one around when gluing, so you can do small cuts when needed

Scissors – For the Tiny Details

For the smaller, trickier bits — like trimming off excess latex after gluing or cutting delicate details like appliqué — a good pair of sharp scissors is essential.

Pro tip: Invest in small, sharp scissors (best are quality fabric scissors) for fine cuts.

Steel Ruler

No, a flimsy plastic ruler won’t cut it (literally). A sturdy steel ruler helps keep everything aligned and gives you the precision you need for those perfect straight lines. Plus, it won’t be cut by your rotary cutter^^

Pro tip: Make sure to press the ruler down, where you cut that moment, to avoid movements of the latex sheet.

Gel/Whiteboard Marker

When you’re working with latex, you need a marker that won’t leave permanent marks, but you still want to mark things on your sheets. Markers can give you clean, temporary lines to guide your cuts and gluing.

• Pro tip: If you have problems getting your marks off, gently use some thinner on a paper towel

Pattern Weights

As we can’t use pins, pattern weights are the way to go. These little beauties keep your pattern pieces in place without leaving holes or marks in your precious latex.

Pro tip: If you’re using a pattern with curves, make sure your weights are evenly distributed to avoid slipping.

Glue Spatula

When it comes to gluing, the last thing you want is a lumpy seam. A glue spatula gives you the control you need to spread the adhesive evenly across your latex pieces. You can also use a brush, just make sure, the glue doesn’t dry in

Pro tip: Low budget version wanted? Just cut an old credit card to the right size^^

Wood or Silicone Rollers

When it’s time to bond your latex pieces, a wood or silicone roller will help you press everything into place smoothly and evenly. These tools let you apply consistent pressure without sticking, ensuring a perfect seam every time.

Pro tip: Use a silicone roller for flexibility or a wood one if you need firmer control.

Cling Film

Prepared latex seams love to stick — so to avoid that sticky situation when aligning seams, try using cling film or wax paper. Also, if you just need to cover parts or come to the point, where you can’t avoid other latex parts beneath the seam: It is so useful to have it…

• Pro tip: If you can find it, use small rolls, like a few centimeters wide instead of big rolls. It’s much handier.

Paper Towels – Not only a cleaning tool

You’ll need these to clean up any glue smudges, wipe away excess thinner, or dry your work after prepping. And: it is a perfect way to apply thinner in a controlled way

Pro tip: Prepare your towels in small squares for easy access during those long gluing sessions.

Tape (masking tape or painter’s tape)

Support your latex while applying glue. Tape helps hold your pieces steady and aligned as you work.

Pro tip: Sounds weird, but take the cheapest, least sticky one you can find, as it can attach to the latex annoyingly if there is no talc. If it sticks too much, just stick it onto your clothing before, to reduce that. Try to avoid your cat’s hair though^^

Glue – The Bond That Holds It All Together

Of course, no latex creation is complete without glue! It’s the magic that makes your pieces stay together and keeps them looking sleek and polished.

Pro tip: There are two main types to know about:

Latex Milk: is more temporary and doesn’t create a tight bond We don’t use that for our projects. Rubber Cement: is typically used for bonding latex pieces together permanently, but it rolls the edges of the latex. No worries, that won’t last. If needed, you can support the latex with some painter’s tape.

Gloves & Mask – Safety First!

Working with thinner and glue means extra care. A good pair of gloves will protect your hands from solvents, while a mask will keep those fumes at bay, especially during longer sessions.

• Pro tip: Put your glue and thinner into small, little jars, to reduce the surface and to have it around, wherever you need it.

Liquid Latex

For preparing extra bits and pieces like zippers, you sometimes need to apply some liquid latex onto the fabric. After drying you have a nice surface for applying onto your piece. Best is, to have the latex in a little bottle. You can also use glues which are sold as latex milk.

Latex Cleaner (Thinner) – Smelly but necessary

Before you glue, you need to clean the surface — and that’s where latex thinner comes in. Also, it helps you to remove marks and glue stains.

• Pro tip: Think about your health: Use gloves and a mask, if it is a strong thinner