NotIONs

Notions is a term with more than one related meaning in English. In everyday and philosophical use, a notion is a general idea, concept, or impression about something. It can refer to a mental understanding of a topic, such as the notion of freedom or the notion that effort is required for success. The word derives from Latin notio, through Old French, and historically distinguished notional understanding from empirical fact.

In sewing and crafts, notions designate small accessories used with fabric, excluding the fabric itself. Retailers often group these items under the category “notions” or “notions and accessories.” Common examples include buttons, zippers, snaps, hooks and eyes, elastic, seam rippers, needles, pins, thimbles, chalk or marking pencils, measuring tapes, and needle threaders. Notions are distinguished from notions in a purely conceptual sense by their tangible, practical use in garment construction and craft projects.

Notions have a long-standing place in the history of dressmaking and tailoring. Before the industrial standardization of clothing production, home sewists relied on a personal collection of notions to complete garments. Today, the notion category remains a defined segment in fabric shops and online retailers, reflecting both its historical roots and ongoing practicality for sewers and crafters.