Easy Quilting Tips for Beginners

Capture Nature's Glory with a Green Quilt

2011-06-18T07:52:00.000-07:00

When thinking about blankets and designs and more specifically, the designs I would like to do in the future, I barely ever appear to think about using green as the main theme color. When I thought about why it is that I never made a green quilt, I realized that I did not have a strong reason for this.

When I thought about it, I realized that I had been missing out on making an insipring assortment of natural themes. Just how many nature themes had I been overlooking? Well...

Farms
There's nothing as old fashioned as a rustic quilt, and you can't get much more rustic than a farm themed quilt. With fields and field of green, its easy to imagine how it's possible for you to use green as the primary colour for this quilt. Dot the quilt with sheep, cows and the occasional tractor and you'll have a gorgeous, country quilt in no time.

Rolling Hills
If you've ever been out to the country, you'll find a sweeping array of luscious green rolling hills. This scene is the ideal base to your green quilt. With so much variance in the country, you may have it littered with trees, boulders, or simply the odd bush or cottage. How busy or sparse the decorations are is totally down to you.

Rain Forests
I'd be missing a very large part of nature if I didn't mention rain forests when talking about nature themed green quilts. With so many different types of plants, bushes, ferns and trees, it truly is like another planet when it comes to rain forests.

The great part about this is that you have so much flexibility and plants to choose between when coming up with your design. No two rain forest quilts will look the same.

So whether you're a fan of woods, gentle hills or farms, there is a green quilt theme that is perfect for you!

For lots more simple ideas about how to make a patchwork quilt, go to Jane Green's patchwork quilt website right now!

How To Use a Quilting Frame

2010-09-24T14:18:00.000-07:00

A quilting frame is a piece of equipment which holds all of your quilting material together so that you can sew your quilt without having to worry about holding everything together. A quilting frame is not much different from an everyday needlework frame, except for the size and material used.

The key use of a quilting frame is to maintain tension throughout. Before you begin to stitch your quilt design, you should lightly trace an outline of your pattern on top of the quilt so that there is a pattern for you to follow once your project is loaded on a quilting frame.

Once you have loaded your project onto the quilting frame, make sure that all edges of your fabric line up so that your quilt will hang properly when completed. You should always work from the center of the quilt towards the outer sides to make sure that everything stays smooth.

There are three basic types of quilting frames. A full sized frame, for larger quilts, is usually called a stretcher frame because your quilt is completely spread out. It is usually just constructed with four long pieces of board held together with clamps. This frame is good because basting is not needed, but it takes up so much space that it needs to be put somewhere where it will never have to be taken down.

The next type is a three roller frame and is called so because it has three attached bars that roll back and forth. The quilter will attach their backing and batting to two of the bars and the quilt on the third bar. This frame is beneficial because it eliminates sagging, but there are more adjustments to be made throughout the quilting process.

The final frame type, a Q-Snap Floor Frame, is made out of PVC pipe. With this frame, you will lay your quilt over the frame and then clamp it down at the edges. With this frame type, it is lightweight and portable and is easily disassembled if needed. Most models of this type also come with a carrying case.

Mindy writes articles for Quilting Frames Online on subject matter relating to everything about Quilt Frames.

Adding Interesting Borders to Your Quilt

2010-09-24T14:11:00.000-07:00

Making a quilt is very much like creating a painting; and generally will benefit from having a frame, or border, or two. As with the quilt itself, your fabric selections will determine the look of your quilt, and are limited only by your imagination.

The easiest borders are simple strips added to the sides of your quilt. Many quilters use the same fabrics that are in their quilt blocks. Other quilters use completely different fabrics.; This adds a design dimension or introduces a new and interesting color.

A simple way to add interest to your border is to add cornerstones. These are squares in each corner that are different from the fabric used in the border. I began to appreciate cornerstones when I ran out of border fabric on a quilt. The cornerstones filled in the missing fabric.

To add a little more complexity and interest, another option is to piece one or more of your borders. This can be done in a number of different ways. One simple way is to sew rectangles together, looking like bars, perpendicular to your quilt.

Another way to piece a border is to use blocks. For example, you could add one row of simple nine patches around the outside of the quilt.

Sometimes changing the color of the blocks in your quilt makes an effective border. If the blocks in the center of your quilt are in green tones, you could use blue tones around the outside of the quilt, using the same block pattern.

Determining the Width of Your Border

As with everything, you have complete freedom of choice regarding the width of your borders. Artists have made a couple of suggestions, but they are just that (suggestions):

* If you have more than one border, vary the width of each, or at least the ones next to each other. You could have two borders the same size with a narrow strip between them, but generally it adds more interest to the quilt to have different widths of borders.

* Try to use a different width than the size of the pieces in your quilt. For example, if your quilt consists of 2" squares, using a narrower (i.e., 1" finished size) border might add some interest, and serve as a frame for the quilt top. If you have only two borders, the outside one is generally wider than the inside one. However, you could easily make a wide inner border and narrow outside border.

* Limit the size of your border width if you are using a strip of fabric without piecing or some other design feature (such as stenciling or embellishing with buttons, lace, appliqué, or an interesting quilting design).

These are all just design suggestions. Remember, it's your quilt; do what makes you happy.

Happy Quilting!

Penny Halgren

Penny is a quilter of more than 26 years who seeks to interest new quilters and provide them with the resources necessary to create beautiful quilts.

Visit http://www.TheQuiltingCoach.com and sign up for our free Weekly Quilting Tips. Resources on the site also include free downloadable quilt block patterns and Quilting Articles to help you learn to quilt. Membership brings even more quilting resources including active Discussion Forums.

Baby Quilt Patterns - A Brief History of Quilting and Quilt Patterns

2010-09-04T20:03:00.000-07:00

My interest in quilting and patchwork started many years ago and I found that starting with a small project and using Baby Quilt Patterns as a source of ideas and inspiration, I was able to produce a very pleasing quilt for a baby's cot without too much gnashing of teeth and wringing of hands.

I think the term The Quilt became a product of the verb To Quilt as there is evidence of ancient statues wearing quilted garments, a quilted linen carpet was found in Siberia around the beginning of the first century and of course the very fashionable quilted doublet and hose of the Elizabethan era. Even today we have quilted body warmers, trousers and sleeping bags.

To quilt is to attach two pieces of fabric together with a sandwich of wadding or batting between them (to provide warmth if required) by sewing through all the layers. Attaching the layers together ensured that the padding remained evenly distributed particularly during the washing process and also air was trapped which provided further insulation.

Baby Quilt Patterns are unlikely to have been used in the first quilts created because coloured fabrics were scarce. Therefore the first quilts were made out of one piece of white calico and the stitches used to secure everything would have been small running stitches. Probably initially they would have sewn the fabrics diagonally but as they became more imaginative, they created more intricate patterns.

It is unlikely that quilts were made as the first form of bed coverings - they took too long to make. Blankets were spun and woven out of wool. However, once the very necessary need to keep warm in bed had been met, I think the more affluent ladies who did not have to bother with household chores and therefore had time on their hands wanted something to occupy their time and an outlet for their creativity. They started to make pretty bed coverings. White calico with a couple of lines of running stitches was somewhat boring so gradually stitching a pattern on the calico developed until some very intricate patterns were created. As the art developed, so did the competition to become the most proficient quilter.

With the increasing availability of coloured fabrics, colour was introduced to The Quilt by sewing shapes to form applique quilt patterns to the top cover. Any shape could be used (even a motif cut out of an old curtain). The edges were turned under and the shape sewn onto the fabric with a variety of stitches. Once again creativity blossomed as the shapes to be appliqued could make a pattern depicting a scene, tell a story, help a child to read by sewing on the letters of the alphabet. The ideas were and still are endless.

Block patterns came later. It has been a general assumption that the poorer families re-used old clothes and old furnishings by cutting them up into a variety of shapes or strips and sewing them back together to make a new garment. An early example of recycling. It became known as "patchwork" quilting. One example is the Log Cabin Quilt effect. When I first started to learn to quilt I looked for some easy quilt patterns. Log cabin patterns are made up of strips of fabric cut at the same width but differing lengths and then sewn together to create a block effect. An additional pleasing effect is achieved by lighter and darker shades of the same colour.

Paper played an important part in quilting too. In the early American pioneering days, paper was scarce. Used envelopes, letters, newspaper cuttings were cut into shapes - (hexagonal being very popular) and a piece of fabric was cut of the same shape, slightly bigger. The fabric was tacked to the paper and then the shapes were sewn together to make pleasing patterns. The paper was left in to provide insulation and many years later was a source of information about pioneer life.

Of course all this activity was taking place without the aid of electricity which meant hours of sewing by hand in natural light and then by the poor light of a candle or paraffin lamp if there was a deadline to finish the quilt. These days we may not get together as much to help make a quilt for a young girl's bottom drawer but the art of quilting is still very much alive and there are lots of quilting groups both in America and Britain.

The invention of the sewing machine in the 1850s and subsequent electric models has considerably reduced the time it takes to make a quilt. Quilts have become a work of art and are used as wall hanging as well as bed covers. There is a lot of information available to anyone considering making a quilt but I would advise you to start small and what better way than to look at some Baby Quilt Patterns to get inspiration and you could create a quilt which in time becomes an heirloom.

Davina has created an number of quilts, duvet covers, beach bags, cushion covers over the years. It is a very satisfying hobby and I would encourage any one who is interested in colour and patterns to have a go. Be warned though, you will find your spare room becomes filled with bags of material just waiting to be attached to other bags of material!

http://mybabyquiltpatterns.com/

http://mybabyquiltpatterns.com/baby-quilt-patterns/baby-quilt-patterns-how-they-will-help-you-learn-to-quilt

Quilting Tips - 5 Ways to Use Your Digital Camera

2010-09-04T19:59:00.000-07:00

If you are interested in quilting tips for using your digital camera, you have come to the right place. Most of us think of our digital camera as a tool to capture family memories. It can also be used to document and help you with your quilting projects. Here are five ways of using your digital camera that you may not have thought of before now.

Quilting Tip 1 - Determine Fabric Values

Do you have a hard time telling what is a medium fabric versus dark fabric when it comes to quilting projects? You can use your digital camera to help you out. Simply, set your camera to take a black and white picture. Then, take a picture of the fabric next to either other. When you view the fabrics next to each other in shades of gray, you can better tell if you there is a nice contrast.

Quilting Tip 2 - Choose Layouts

Sometimes you are just too close to a project to tell which quilt block layout will work the best. By taking pictures of the different layouts, you will not have to remember. You can look at different possible layouts objectively and make the right choice.

This makes a digital camera invaluable for scrap quilts. By taking a picture, you know exactly where you want each unique, scrappy quilt block to fit into your design. Sometimes it is easy to get these blocks mixed up as they make their way from the design wall to the sewing machine.

Quilting Tip 3 - Christmas Store

For Christmas, set up a Christmas store that contains the quilts you plan to give as gifts on a picture-sharing site. Take a picture of each quilt and invite your family and friends to select their gift. This way everyone is happy. They get the quilt that they want and you won't have to guess if your hard work will be appreciated.

Quilting Tip 4 - Blog It

Consider starting a blog documenting your projects. Blogging is a great way to broaden your quilting network and learn new quilting tips and tricks. It is also good for getting an objective opinion when you are trying to decide what border fabric to use or if you are having a hard time making the call on a layout.

Quilting Tip 5 - Second Opinion on Fabric

OK. I have seen this last tip in action. Have you ever been in a store and sent a trusted friend a quick picture of a dress you were thinking of buying for a second opinion from your camera phone? You can do the same for fabric in a fabric store if you are not sure of making a purchase. Better than that, if you see a piece of fabric that would be perfect for a friend, you can send a picture of it to her to see if she would like some of it and how much. In some cases when it comes to quilt fabric, what you see at your local quilt shop one day will be gone tomorrow.

So, there you have five quilting tips for using your digital camera. Use it for to pictures to determine fabric values, decide on block layouts, open your own Christmas store, blogging and sharing possible must-have fabric purchases. As you begin using your digital camera with quilting, I am sure you will come up with more uses. This is just to get you started. Now, get to snapping!

Interested in more easy quilting tips, techniques and tricks? Visit http://www.easyquiltingcentral.com/

The Happy Needle

2010-06-26T22:49:00.001-07:00

Quilting tips and tricks

Well, last week I mentioned having a quilting tips and tricks post this week and since today is Friday and I have ran out of "week" I guess it had better be today. Here is a book that I find very helpful and I think you will too! ...
Publish Date: 06/18/2010 6:50
http://thehappyneedle.blogspot.com/2010/06/quilting-tips-and-tricks.html

Quilting Tips. Determining Bed Quilt Measurements

2010-06-26T22:48:00.001-07:00

Quilting Tips: Determining Bed Quilt Measurements

By Tweets that mention Quilting Tips: Determining Bed Quilt Measurements -- Topsy.com on June 8, 2010 at 9:11 am. [...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by C&T Publishing, Julie Mills. Julie Mills said: Quilting Tips: Determining Bed ...
Publish Date: 06/08/2010 10:33
http://www.ctpubblog.com/2010/06/08/quilting-tips-determining-bed-quilt-measurements/

How to Make a Crazy Quilt

2010-01-31T08:00:00.000-08:00

The term “crazy quilting” is often used to refer to the textile art of crazy patchwork and is sometimes used interchangeably with that term. Crazy quilting does not actually refer to a specific kind of quilting (the needlework which binds two or more layers of fabric together), but a specific kind of patchwork. Crazy quilts rarely have the internal layer of batting that is part of what defines quilting as a textile technique.

Crazy Quilting created a stir in the 1880’s when it became quite a fad in the United States. The Japanese Exhibit in the 1876 Philadelphia Centennial Exposition inspired the crazy quilt with its asymmetrical art. Articles encouraging crazy quilting, or condemning it could be found in women’s publications. Women could purchase packages of random fabrics, as well as already embellished pieces to use in their own crazy quilts.

During the first several years of the crazy quilting fad fine fabrics and heavy embellishment was the norm. As time passed quilters began to make simpler quilts in the crazy quilt style. These used everyday fabrics like wool or cotton and little or no embellishment. Crazy quilting is also used on clothing like vests and jackets. Some art quilters use crazy quilting as a part of their art quilts. Today, crazy quilting is enjoyed by quilters with an organic approach to their art. They often use cast off clothing and photographs to infuse the crazy quilt with meaning and memory.

Crazy quilts differ from “regular” quilts in other ways as well. Because the careful geometric design of a quilt block is much less important in crazy quilts, the quilters are able to employ much smaller and more irregularly-shaped pieces of fabric. In comparison to standard quilts, crazy quilts are far more likely to use exotic pieces of fabric, such as velvet, satin, tulle, or silk, and embellishments such as buttons, lace, ribbons, beads, or embroidery. Crazy quilting as a textile art is extremely creative and free-flowing by nature, and crazy quilters will often learn as much about specific embellishments as they will about crazy quilting itself.

Regular patchwork combines the pieces of fabric into a predetermined and regular design, but crazy patchwork uses irregular pieces of fabric on a foundation fabric or paper. This may create haphazard-looking and asymmetrical designs, or the designer may use some control in placement. Patches can be hand appliquéd onto a base fabric. This method gives the most variety as every patch is unique. There are also block patterns designed for crazy quilt that can be sewn by machine.

Sometimes part of a crazy quilt is haphazard while other parts are placed in a planned pattern. A common example of this the placement of patches in a fan pattern. The patches and seams are then usually heavily embellished.

New To Quilting? Looking forward to Your first Quilting Project? Did I mention quilting can be addictive? Check out the resources and videos on Quilting How To and get a head start in your quilting venture.

Article Source: http://greatarticlesformoms.com/

Quilting for Beginners: How To Quilt Beautiful Heirlooms Your Family Will Enjoy For Generations

2010-01-30T08:00:00.000-08:00

Did you know that more than 6 million beginner quilters decided to learn how to quilt during the last 3 years?

That brings the total number of quilters to about 27 million – that's just in the United States. And most of those quilters, just like me, are presented with limited drawing and painting abilities.

Quilting is a fantastic way to create a work of art with fabric. It is well understood that the “painting” will not be perfect, and that colors and patterns are limited to what's available in a quilt shop or hand dyed fabric.

Here Are My Top Tips to Help You Get Started in Making Quilts for You, Your Children & Grandchildren:

Combine blocks of fabric to create your quilts. By changing the shapes of the pieces within a block such as substituting triangles for squares and switching light fabric for dark fabric you can create a whole new quilt design. And, you will still keep the construction of your quilt the same.

Simple is the name of the game for many quilters. As a beginning quilter, focus on learning and practicing basic quilt making techniques that you will need to develop your craft.

Use one or two shapes for all of the quilt patches. This makes it easy to sew a quilt together. Squares and triangles offer many advantages in terms of simplicity.

Remember, interesting variations in quilt blocks are achieved just by where you place the fabrics in your quilt block, in addition to how each patch is divided in the quilt block pattern.

8 Easy Quilting Patterns to Get You Started

Quilt Pattern 1: A simple nine-patch quilt block can be used as an example of how different a block can look just by changing the placement of colors within the nine parts of one block. Using only two colors of fabric in alternating squares creates a checkerboard design.

Quilt Pattern 2: With the same nine-patch of two colors of fabric, using only square patches in each block, you can create a quilt pattern that looks like a big X.

Quilt Patterns 3 and 4: Want more of a challenge? Take some of the square patches in the blocks and divide them in half from corner to corner (commonly called half-square triangles in the quilting world), and create an Ohio Star or Pinwheel quilt block.

Quilt Patterns 5,6,7,and 8: Change the placement of your fabrics once again, and your block turns into a May Basket Quilt Block, a Maple Leaf Quilt Block, a Bow Tie block, or even a series of diamonds, called Slanted Diamonds.

Increase the number of colors in your quilt, and your design changes once again. And, by using only two basic shapes (squares and triangles) you can create all of your design changes.

Quilts are amazing works of art that have survived the test of time, and will continue to do so as long as there is fabric and quilting imagination.

Happy Quilting!

This article courtesy of theQuiltingCoach.com.
You may freely reprint this article on your website or in your newsletter provided this courtesy notice and the author name and URL remain intact.

As the author of more than 9 books on quilting and a quilter of more than 27 years, Quilting Coach Penny Halgren provides beginners and advanced quilters with easy-to-understand, step-by-step instructions for making a beautiful family heirloom. Now, you can sign up for her free set of 10 quilt block patterns, and a wide variety of beginner quilt block patterns at TheQuiltingCoach.com

Patchwork Quilting – A History Summary

2010-01-29T08:00:00.000-08:00

Patchwork Quilting goes back many years. Examples of quilting have been found in tombs of Pharohs dating back to 3400BC. Joseph’s coat of many colors was probably patchwork. Even armour was made by quilting heavy fabrics together. Quilted bed covers were recorded in household inventories from the 17th century. Patchwork quilting has even evolved into an art form known as art quilts. The Amish have developed the quilting traditions of other immigrants into America, into their own style.

Emigrants from Europe took their traditions of making quilts from scraps with them to America. Ideas and designs and even fabrics were exchanged across the Atlantic. The Log Cabin Quilt Design that was originally known in Ireland as the Folded Quilt Design, was a good way of using small scraps of fabric to create a very practical piece of art. It is doubtful if women quilters viewed their creations as art, it is much more likely they were simply seen as a quilt to cover a bed and provide warmth, albeit still a beautiful item. Crazy quilts are made from randomly stitching together odd pieces of cloth. In colonial times all cloth had to be shipped from Europe at great expense so nothing could be wasted.

A patchwork quilt was never regarded as being finished until it had been quilted. Quilting combined the three layers of the quilt – the backing, the wadding and the pieced top together, so the woollen or cotton wadding would be held in place. Quilting was a time consuming yet essential task as it provided a hard wearing warm durable quilt that had cost very little as it was made of the scraps from other projects.

Quilting is generally regarded as a female pastime since traditionally men did not learn to sew, while sewing was an essential skill for a young woman. Quilting was also a social pastime. Women would gather together to piece the top together and while they worked they would exchange gossip and tales. Sometimes after a quilting party the men would join the women for supper and often romances would begin.

Lives are displayed in traditional patchwork quilts. Part of the dress of a dead child or part of a cherished Father’s shirt could be pieced in to allow the maker to hold her memories. Quilts have been made over years, lifetimes or even generations. Telling the tales of women’s lives though embroidery, color and embellishment.

One group of special mention is the Amish, a religious group who migrated to America in the 1800s’. Quilting was not a skill they bought to America, but rather a skill they learnt from ex-English neighbours in their new land. In Amish societies, a simple life is a core belief and continues to be today avoiding modern mechanisation. While they do use a treadle-operated sewing machine to piece their quilts together the quilting is always done by hand.

The Amish do not use patterned fabrics in their quilts, the piecing patterns they use readily distinguish Amish quilts from other varieties of patchworking. The patterned fabrics are considered to worldly for use in a conservative Amish home. Some Amish quilts do not even use pieced tops; the only pattern is the intricate quilting designs. For an Amish woman an elaborately quilted design is not extra work but a creative outlet.

Traditionally Amish quilts were made from scraps left from clothes or recycled fabrics. This is another Amish value to waste as little as possible. Characteristically Amish quilts will have borders (almost always at least one and usually two) added because they increase the size and frame the pieced design. Borders are cut conservatively on the grain so as not to waste fabric. The inner border is cut from strips of cloth with a square in the corner to join it. Mitre corners or bias cut borders are rarely used as this wastes fabric. Often the quilts are bordered simply by cutting the backing larger, allowing it to be folded over.

Amish quilts are very striking despite their simplicity. This is usually due to the colors used. Although it is commonly believed that there are color restrictions in Amish quilts, this does not appear to be true. The only restriction is what is available to the quilter and the quilter’s own color sense. Typically an Amish quilt will feature two or three dominant colors with an accent color, e.g. Slate blue, black and deep mauve. White is not often used as it is hard to keep clean.

For the wider quilting enthusiast population, quilting has evolved into more of an art form. While traditional patchwork relies on pattern and color to create an image. Art quilts (or water color quilts) are more like painting with fabric than traditional patchwork designs.

Art quilts range in size but generally they are more often seen hanging on a wall rather than on a bed. There is no form of embellishment that is forbidden in Art Quilting, if you can imagine it you can use it. Because of these rather vague boundaries this is the perfect art form, for any creative fabric artist.

There are many groups for modern quilters to join and sell their works. The internet provides an excellent medium for groups to collaborate with each other to create a quilt together. Thanks to T.V. shows, Quilting is reaching a wider audience and is no longer viewed solely as a women’s pastime. Quilts and quilting have never been more popular.

Erin Mayers
http://www.readymadequilts.com

Make The Best Quilts With The Long Arm Quilting Machine

2010-01-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

It is said that the first signs of quilting originated in Egyptian historical clothing artifacts and in the times of the templer knights. It was originally used to re-enforce clothes in order to make them warmer for winter. Contemporary quilting has become a rather work of art instead of a clothing necessity and there are many exhibitions that support the beautiful creations of quilt makers. People that choose to make quilts for a living can be considered true artists, even if they do not use the hand quilting techniques. The modern technology helps them to express their artistic ideas in modern or traditional patterns of their quilts, using the Long Arm Quilting Machine. It is perfect for the people who want to begin a business related to quilts sale and need to create a larger number of quilts. Therefore, the long arm quilting machine can assure you a high productivity and an increased efficiency.

Before women were able to work, they often spend their time quilting and sewing. Few women came to the quilter's house and spend their nights working together at the quilt. It was a great occasion for them to talk about food recipes, new quilt designs and share their experience to younger women. They managed to ease the long hours of hand quilting by the pleasant company. Today women are working mothers or corporate individuals and they have so little time that they would rather get together for a quick coffee instead of sewing together for a quilt.

That is why instead of hand quilt and waste the few spare moments you have in your life you should use a long arm quilting machine. It is better than struggling with a king size quilt on your sewing machine. This will help you realize how you have worked on different parts of your quilt almost effortless and allow you to create your own king size or queen size quilt according to your own color or patterns preferences.

Many traditional hand quilters don't agree with the fact that the Long Arm Quilting Machine was added to the list of the necessary tools in creating a quilt, considering that it would take the pleasure and the individuality of quilting.

There are two types of quilting machines: regular quilting machines and long arm quilting machines. The first category includes the machines with an approximately 7 inches arm. They allow you to work on different parts of the quilt, but you will have to change your position quite often because the arm is short. The long arm-quilting machine has an approximately 16 inch arm and does the exactly same thing but the longer arm allows you to work without having to change your position and this means extra-time for you in the process of creating the quilt. It works on the principle based on several poles that hold your quilt tight on the position and a sewing machine rides along the track, quilting as it goes. But what are the advantages of a long arm quilting machine compared to the other quilting machines? It has a synchronous belt, which increases the speed and eliminates slippage. It wraps around the pulley and eliminates the tear and wear of the machine, and reduces the noise level too. The synchronous drive system gives you efficiency, saving energy and has a low maintenance quilting machine. It can also give you a better perspective upon the work you have done so far, how you have assembled the pieces, while keeping them tight for you to work on.

If you intend to start a quilts business, you should probably invest a higher budget on a Long Arm Quilting Machine that can assure you swift and accurate work. Some of the biggest names of the manufacturers that produce long arm quilting machines are Gammil, Nolton and Hanson, but the best European models might get up to 3000$. Therefore, the more quality the machine produces, the more expensive might get and in order to have the best quilts for sale you need the best long arm machine you can get. The quality of your quilts will draw more customers you could handle. Though, you can find less expensive models if you do not afford a top-line model and you intend to create quilts just for your own personal use. If you decide you want a more performing one later for business purposes, do not worry the offer is very rich.

Using a long arm-quilting machine can help you in your quilt business or to create king size quilts in a variety of patterns, colors and designs for your own home and you will have the satisfaction of having accomplished it by yourself.

If you are truly interested in learning more about quilting then you absolutely must visit the Long Arm Quilting Machine Site. Clive thoroughly recommends this site so check it out today here: - http://www.longarmquiltingmachinesite.com/ For comprehensive and helpful quilting advice and tips. Ever thought about doing something seasonal this year? Why not try christmas fabric for quilting?

How to Keep Your Quilts Beautiful

2010-01-27T08:00:00.000-08:00

Creating a quilt requires much time and effort. Meant to be cherished and enjoyed, quilts can end up damaged by improper use, cleaning, storage and display. Whether created for every day use or as heirlooms, proper care will ensure that they last to bring the pleasure intended.

Use

When planning a quilt consider the intended use. What fabrics are used, the type of quilting done, etc. - are dependent on the intended use of the quilt.

So decide if the quilt will be used as an everyday quilt on a bed or is it meant to be an heirloom and thus displayed but not used.

Keep in mind that a quilt for a cot, child or lap quilt definitely needs to be of a fabric that is durable and washable, as it will require more frequent laundering.

Cleaning

Baby and lap quilts will get soiled and need to be washed often. It is important that a mild soap is used and that the quilt is rinsed well. Quilt shops carry products specially designed for quilts. "Quilt Wash" is one such product. All commercial detergents are much too harsh and will strip colour from quilt fabrics. A great product for stains, yellowing or other stubborn marks is "Restoration".

Laundering a quilt may not be necessary. Many will only require having the dust removed. The best way to remove dust from a sturdy quilt is to place a nylon stocking, over the nozzle of a vacuum and then gently vacuum the quilt--preferably on both sides. Avoid surface abrasion.

Airing a quilt can also remove odours and dust. There is no need to beat the quilt and keep in mind that sunlight is bad for your quilt.

Dry cleaning a quilt is not recommended. It is not a gentle method as large tumble machines are used and harsh chemicals are applied, which can be quite damaging.

Storage

Light and moisture are a quilts worst enemies. Direct sunlight will not only fade the newest and highest quality fabric in no time at all, but it also will cause the fibers to weaken. Moisture can cause mildew to form, which can be not only difficult to remove, but impossible.

Many people use cardboard boxes and plastic bags with the intention of protecting their precious quilts. Both of these gather moisture, causing stains and encouraging mildew and musty smells. They are bad choices for storage. The big plastic storage boxes are not any better, as they do not have ventilation.

A closet shelf is a much better choice. Do not use open shelving as this exposes the quilt to light and you will end up with fading along the folds. The storage area should be clean, cool, dry, dark, and as free as possible from drastic changes in temperature and humidity. If you have shelf space, it is a good idea to fold the length of the quilt and roll, to eliminate creases. The next time, fold a different way before rolling.

It is also essential that the quilt is clean and dust free before put it away. Stains can attract insects while dust particles actually create abrasion, causing wear.

Avoid storing near an outside wall where condensation will occur particularly in winter. Be aware that smoke for cigarettes and fireplaces can seek out stored textiles leaving an ugly surprise. One of the best places to store a quilt is on a bed. Do you have a guest room? Pile your quilts on the unused bed, in layers, and then top with a cotton sheet to block the light.

No matter where you choose to store your quilts, it is important to inspect them every two to three months. Take them out to air them for a few hours and examine, front and back. It is a good idea to clean the storage area at this time before putting the quilts back.

Display

Both sunlight and artificial light will cause fading. Never display a quilt where direct sunlight will reach it. If you have fluorescent lighting, it is wise to cover the tubes with a UV shield.

When hanging a quilt, use a method that will distribute the weight over the entire width of the quilt. Sew a four inch wide tube or sleeve of fabric along the top edge on the back of the quilt and stitch through all layers of the quilt every inch or so. Do not use nails, pins or staples to hang a quilt. These can tear through fabrics, corrode and cause staining and cause distortion of heavier quilts.

Cherish your quilts and they will reward you with years of enjoyment.

Pauline Rogers has travelled throughout Australia and New Zealand for over 20 years, teaching the art of patchwork and quilting. She operates an award winning shop, Quilters World, in Toowoomba, Queensland as well as a successful mail order and online shop. She founded Quiltfest, an annual quilting event and Margie's Quilts of Hope, a quilting challenge which raises funds for breast cancer research. Visit her website at http://www.quiltersworld.com.au/

Elements Of Your Quilting Design

2010-01-26T08:00:00.000-08:00

You can transform your quilt from a Plain-Jane to an Exciting Quilt with simple design elements in your quilting design. Although books are getting better about this, often a book demonstrating a beautiful quilt top design falls short when it comes to suggesting quilting designs.

Many of the books have small pictures of the whole finished quilt top, leaving you guessing how it was quilted. Others have close up pictures of the quilting design for part of the quilt top, but don't show how that part connects with the rest of the top.

Effective quilting designs don't need to be intricate and detailed to be effective. A quilter might choose a pattern that simply echoes the pieced or appliqué design, outlines an individual design feature, or creates a grid or series of parallel quilting lines.

In deciding how to quilt your quilt, you should first look at some of the overall design elements of the quilt top, and ask some basic questions, like: Are there design features I would like to emphasize? Are there elements I would like to have recede into the background? Are there large, open areas where a quilted design, such as a feathered wreath, could be effective? Does the quilt have movement that I would like to enhance (i.e. are there curves and waves vs. straight seams)? Is there interesting fabric I would like to highlight or create a contrast

Once you have some of those basic questions answered, it's time to look at some specifics.

A quilting design that echoes the basic design of the quilt is probably the easiest to accomplish, yet choosing which design elements of your quilt you echo can, indeed, affect the overall look of your quilt.

For example, if you take a simple Irish Chain quilt, by quilting parallel lines of quilting through the diagonal lines of squares creates a kind of channel affect, making the center squares stand out. The square in the center can be quilting in a completely different way, creating a new design element.

If your quilt is green and white, how about quilting a shamrock in each square? Quilting a heart in each square delivers yet a different message. Or, mix them up, a shamrock in every other square, alternating with a heart.

Another method of enhancing the pieced pattern of the quilt is to quilt additional shapes of the main design. For example, you can turn an eight pointed star into a 16 pointed star by simply quilting points in the background between each of the 8 pieced points. By varying the size of the quilted points, you can give the star even more dimension and interest.

Quilting designs in large and open areas can be used to repeat curves or angles appearing in other places on the quilt.

Going back to our Irish Chain, you could carry the shamrocks or hearts into the border by quilting them in one of the borders.

On a quilt using plaid fabric, you can create a plaid design with your quilting stitches, even in areas where you have placed solid fabric.

Although some quilters may advise you differently, there are really very few rules when it comes to designing the quilting pattern for your top. However, understanding a few things about quilting does help.

Quilting in the ditch anchors and sharpens the seam line so the seam looks as straight as it did when the top was pressed. In the ditch stitches also cause the adjacent pieces to puff up.

Because your quilting stitches cause the fabric to recede, a line of quilting can create the illusion of a seam where there is none.

Quilting across a seam line distorts that seam line and may soften the contrast between two pieces, thus easing the transition between areas on your top.

Quilting through a fabric design will distort the design. If the fabric design element is something you want to keep, consider quilting around it. For example, if your fabric has flowers, then quilting around the outside of the flowers will make them puff up in your quilt top. Adding more background quilting - whether it is stippling or quilting a grid - will make the flowers puff up even more.

The good news / bad news about quilting designs is that there are really no rules - only things that happen when you put quilting stitches in your quilt. Therefore, designing your quilting pattern, much like designing your quilt top, is very much an issue of personal taste and your idea of your final quilt.

So, take those unfinished quilts out of the closet, and plan a quilting design, knowing that it cannot be wrong! And that however it is quilting, it is better to have the quilt being used on a couch or bed or viewed hanging on a wall than it is to have it hiding in your closet.

Penny Halgren http://www.how-to-quilt.com/ Penny has been a quilter for more than 26 years and enjoys sharing her quilting knowledge with beginner quilters so they can avoid the mistakes she made as she was learning to quilt.

How To Earn Money With Your Quilting Hobby

2010-01-25T08:00:00.000-08:00

Are you a non-professional quilter or a part-time quilter looking to make some money from your quilting? Are you having a difficult time monetizing on your masterpieces? If the answer is yes, then read on.

Study the market before you start

If you are really serious about turning your quilts into cash, it's important that you study the market before you start. Studying the market helps you discover what types of quilts are in high demand. As soon as you find out, you may consider only making those quilts which are in high demand among your potential customers. Doing so makes it easy to sell your quilts while letting you get a good price for a quilt.

People that take quilting just as a hobby don't have to spend much time researching the market as the results from the research might end up in a conclusion that the demand for the item which they love to produce is very low. If your choices are flexible or if you are ready to produce any quilt then there shouldn't be any problems for you to earn a reasonable amount of revenue from your hobby as a quilter.

Pricing quilts

Determining a price for a quilt consists of a few steps, the first one being market research which you should have already done before sewing quilts.

Keeping track of the time you spend

The second step in pricing needs to be done during the creation of the quilt, which is "keeping track of your time". You should note down or maintain a record of the time you spend on the quilt; this includes the total time you spent on the quilt (from picking a design to finishing the quilt).

Start with finding out the overall time you spent on each of the steps in making a quilt (preparing the pattern, piecing, basting, quilting, binding, putting your sewing room back in order after the quilt is finished etc.), then estimate the total time it takes on all these steps and divide it by the size (in sq.ft) of your quilt. Now you have calculated the time it takes to produce one square foot of a quilt of that particular type.

Figure out how much your time is worth

The next step in pricing is determining the price of your time, or deciding how much the time you sped on making a quilt is worth.

If you are a relatively new quilter or if you are doing an unskilled work then the minimum wage might be between $6.00 and $7.00 per hour. If you are an expert quilter or performing difficult work, your time is worth significantly more than that. Something around $10-$15 per hour should be good rate in this case. Still, it's truly up to you to decide how much your time is really worth. The market research you had done can help you in making a decision about that. You may also wish to contact other quilt sellers in your area and talk with them about this and reach a conclusion.

Appraisal

An appraisal is a formally written document about the estimated value and other attributes of a quilt. Stuff that should be included in a quilt appraisal are, a complete description of the quilt, a defined value, system used in determining the value, the purpose of the appraisal (sale or resale, insurance purposes, IRS requirements, division of property etc.) and the signature of the appraiser.

Selling your work

After your quilt is finished, you would likely want to sell or market it so that you can generate money for the time and effort you had put in sewing your quilt. Small scale quilters, new quilters, part-time quilters, or someone doing quilting as a hobby usually discover that the marketing of their quilts is tougher than the production. So let me look at some quilt marketing methods which can be helpful for the above mentioned group.

Quilting brokers and stores

It's difficult for beginner quilters and part-timers to open their on quilt stores and sell their quilts there. For these types of quilters it will be useful to look for other ways of promoting their work. There are quilt brokers and handicraft stores that will be glad to sell your pieces upon paying a cut. It should be easy for you to find such brokers and stores in your area and offer your quilts through them. When your quilts become popular and when the demand for your quilts increases you may wish to step up to larger scale or full time quilting and consider directly marketing your products to customers.

Selling your work at internet auction websites

Another option available for amateur or part-time quilters is to list their work on internet auction sites. There are plenty of them available out there. Online auctions make it possible for a quilter to seek a way to sell the quilts at maximum price. Some of such sites even give you options to sell your quilts at a fixed price instead of listing it for auctions. It's up to you to figure out if you want customers to bid for you product or just buy it at a price you specified.

Some sites might even allows you to specify a "Minimum Bid" so that you can prevent your work from being sold at a lower price than you want. This is a really good way for part-time or hobby quilters to sell their work.

Alternative quilting related income sources

There are many other ways to generate income from quilting related activities. Next you'll find two of such ways that require a certain level of knowledge.

Offering quilt lessons

If you are an experienced quilter and don't have much time (only a couple of hours a day) to invest, you might want to pick this option. You could find some schools teaching quilting and contact them offering to run a quilting class for beginners. If you have a unique quilting technique of your own about which you can run classes, it will be much easier for you to get a contract as a quilting teacher. Another option is to offer quilting lessons at your own place. You might use your spare time like this and you should be able to earn good enough revenue from this.

Designing new quilt patterns

If you are someone who is good at sketching new and unique quilt patters, you can easily make lots of money selling them to other quilters as demand for fresh patterns will always be great. For marketing quilt patterns of your design, you could use the same methods described above for marketing quilts.

Like in any venture, if you use your time and resources in the most efficient way it's not hard to make a successful quilting career or generate good revenue from quilting.

Kirsten Stone is an avid quilt maker. You can find more of her tips at http://www.quiltingboard.com/forums/show/360/1.page

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kirsten_Stone

What You Need to Start Quilting

2010-01-24T12:46:00.001-08:00

What is Quilting?

Quilting is done by hand, sewing machine, or Longarm quilting system, and refers to the process of attaching various fabric materials and layers to make a large flat quilt. Each technique makes use of a needle and thread to merge at least two layers of material to create the final product. The most common quilting is done from three distinct layers -- quilt top, insulation, and backing. The actual act of quilting occurs as the quilter or the sewing machine passes the needle and thread through the layers and then brings the needle back through to secure the layers.

Quilting is done back and forth like that all across the quilt to secure all of the pieces. In most cases, quilters use a running stitch which adds a decorative look to the quilt. Quilts are most often showcased on beds, as wall décor, as clothing and attire, and within several different textile products.

What Do I Need to Know About Quilting?

Standard quilting generally follows four steps -- piecing, layering, quilting, and binding. Piecing occurs when the quilt top is sewn. The quilt top features small strips or squares of fabric set in a pattern. This is commonly the colorful and creative part of the quilt. The assembled pieces are called blocks, and they are the components that are sewn together to create the full quilt top. They are put together in one of two ways - either each pieces is laid together with their edges touching, or sashing (small strips of fabric) is sewn along the edges of each. In some instances, one full piece of cloth is used for the quilt top instead of pieced together blocks. Quilting occurs when the three layers (top, insulation, and backing) are sewn together. The quilting employs stitching in a decorative pattern that often follows or complements the design of the quilt top. Sometimes the top is not pieced but is a single piece, and only the stitching forms the pattern. Binding is the final step to finishing the quilt by adding the edges with a piece of trim fabric.

What Do I Need to Start Quilting?

If you will be quilting by hand, the basic equipment you will need include a thimble to protect your fingers from the needles, needle & thread to complete the quilting process, and a frame or hoop to hold the quilt fabric taut as you work. Should you decide to use a machine to quilt your craft, basic supplies include safety pins, thread, a walking foot, and a darning foot. Of course, you'll also need the fabrics, insulation, and backing materials from which you will create the quilt.

Where Did the Art of Quilting Originate?

In its earliest days, quilting was done for necessary purposes rather than for decoration. Some scholars believe that quilts were first created to provide additional protection under armor for soldiers in combat. These quilts were also used for warmth during cold winters and cooler weather. The ancient Egyptians are believed to have quilted clothing for warmth and protection - this belief is based upon the sculptures that have been discovered with ancient figures dressed in quilted clothing. By the time of the American colonial period, upper class women engaged in quilting as a showing of their class status.

Are There Different Kinds of Quilting?

Although there are many variations to the art of quilting, the two most common types are quilting done by hand and quilting done by machine. When a quilt is created by machine, the person operating the machine runs the material through in the stitch pattern desired while the elements of the machine handle the actual process of the needle and thread. When hand quilting is done, the frame is usually used to hold the material solid and tight for the quilter. He or she will then manually pull the needle and thread through the material to create the stitch pattern.

What Fabric Do I Use for Quilting?

Quilts are so popular partly due to the fact that there are a number of fabric designs, colors, and materials available for creating custom, colorful quilts. Many of these quilts are so unique and personalized that they quickly become family heirlooms. To make a quilt, you must first decide on the design and print of the main part of the quilt. Major hobby and craft stores will carry a wide variety of these fabrics, which can be purchased by the yard. In addition to the fabric, you will also need to select insulation, backing, and sashing, which is optional and depends on your preference.

Mary Amos loves arts and crafts and has been quilting for years. See her favorite quilt patterns at Quilts and Quilt Patterns, and be sure to visit Quilts and Quilting for more quilting fun!

Navigating the Quilting Bakery - Fabric Advice For Beginning Quilters

2010-01-24T12:42:00.000-08:00

For the person who is just getting into the art and craft of quilting, the first visit to a quilting store can tend to be a bit overwhelming. On the surface, a person might thing that quilting is a simple as finding a pattern, finding the right fabric, having a few quilting specific tools and supplies. While this is true, like most things that are taken seriously by a lot of people, once you start peeling back the layers of the onion, there is a lot to learn.

Take fabric for example. Once you start your investigation you will begin to see lots of new and wacky terms. The conversation could go something like this; "Like this pattern? It is very easy, all you need is this quilt kit. However, is you like a different color, you could also make it with these pretty fat quarters, charm squares, jelly rolls, layer cakes or turnovers." Hold on just a minute! Are we trying to quilt here, or have we accidentally landed in a New Orleans Bakery? "Pass the beignets please!". Here is a quick rundown of the terms that you will need to familiarize yourself with to help you navigate this strange new world of quilting fabric.

Quilting Fabric

The best fabric to use for quilting is 100% cotton. Most quilting fabric is 42" wide although you can find wider yardage that can be found to use for backing. Obviously, quilting fabric comes in and infinite number of colors and patterns. It is usually recommended that the fabric be washed prior to using to minimize shrinkage and/or fading. Keep in mind, though, that fading and shrinkage is not quite as much of a problem with higher quality fabric. If this is a concern you can always wash a small piece of the fabric prior to using.

Quilt Backing

Quilt backing is the fabric panel used as the back piece of a layered quilt. Backing can be made from a single piece of fabric or it can be pieced or assembled in another decorative way. Sometimes it is possible to find specific fabrics that are made in wider yardage that can be used specifically as backing. This may be a good approach for getting started with beginners quilting.

Quilt kits

Quilt kits contain all of the necessary fabric, in the yardage that you need, to complete the specific quilt patterns that you would like to make. Usually the backing fabric, batting, and thread are not included in the kits. For the busy quilter kits eliminate a lot time, effort and initial confusion that it takes to pick out fabrics that will work for a specific pattern. It also minimizes waste. Also, if you see a quilt kit that you like then you can be assured that yours will look the same.

Quilt blocks

Quilt blocks can be a single piece of fabric cut to your specification or pattern specifications or it can be a pieced block (several pieces already sewn together in a particular pattern). A single quilt block can be used for different purposes such as a quilted wall hanging, quilted potholder, quilted table topper, quilted candle mat or several blocks can be sewn together to make a larger quilt. For the beginning quilter or quilters on a budget, you may want to search the internet, or our quilt pattern section for a free quilt block pattern.

Quilting Fat quarters

This is a one fourth yard cut of fabric that usually measures 18" x 22" instead of the typical 9" x 42" quarter-yard cut. The advantage of a fat quarter is that it is a wider cut of fabric and more economical than the 9" wide quarter yard for certain quilting patterns. There are many quilt patterns designed specifically for fat quarters.

Quilting Charm squares

These are also sometimes referred to as charm packs, are 5" squares of fabric from a specific fabric line. These come with forty squares in a pack with at least 1 square of every fabric in the line. These may be used to make quick and easy small quilts by sewing coordinating squares together and bordering with coordinating fabric from that same fabric line or any other coordinating fabric of your choice. There are also new patterns out using charm squares to sew piece blocks.

Jelly Rolls

These are 2 ½ inch wide strips of every fabric from a specific fabric line rolled up jellyroll style. These are nice for sewing the strips together for strip quilts, eliminating the need for you to cut each strip. They can also be used for checkerboard patterns but sewing the long edges of a desired number of strips together lengthwise and cutting across the seams. These can then be arranged in the desired checkerboard pattern. Again, it is easy because there are a lot of patterns calling for 2" strips and this eliminates the cutting time.

Charming Jelly Cakes

These are a charm pack, jelly roll and a layer cake of every fabric in a fabric line. There are patterns written specifically for these.

Layer cakes

Quilting Layer cakes are 10" squares with at least one of every fabric from a fabric line. Usually used in the same way as charm squares but for use in making larger quilts. They can also be cut into half and quarter square diamonds to be used in piece blocks.

Quilting Turnover

These are 6" triangles each fabric in the line with 40 pieces in every pack. This eliminates the need for you to have to cut the charm squares into triangles

Honey Buns

Honey buns (used to be called cinnamon buns) are 1 ½ inch wide strips of each fabric in a fabric line. Used the same way as Jelly Rolls, they honey buns eliminate having to cut the strips.

Quilt Panels

Quilt panels are a panel of fabric with a pre-printed design. The whole panel may be quilted or sections of the panel may be cut out and used in a pieced quilt. These are time savers if you use the whole panel because they can be sandwiched and then hand or machine quilted.

Quilt Batting

Quilt batting is the middle part of the quilt that is sandwiched between quilt top and the back. The batting is what gives the quilt its depth and thickness. There is a large variety of quilt batting to choose from. The batting that you choose for your quilt is basically a personal choice. Specifically, you should think about what the quilt will be used for and also experiment until you develop a personal preference. High loft batting is very puffy. 100% cotton batting is a thinner bat and is used when you want the quilt to have an aged appearance as it shrinks when washed, giving the quilt a slightly wrinkled appearance. Pellon, which comes in several thicknesses, is a batting used for table quilts and wall hangings that you wish to have a flatter appearance.

Quilting Applique

This is the process of sewing one or more smaller pieces of fabric onto a larger background. Applique can be accomplished by hand or by machine. Busy quilters generally use an iron-on applique product. These iron onto the back of the fabric, are cut out into specific designs and are then ironed onto the quilt top. For seldom washed quilts this is all that is required, for quilts with heavier use a button hole or zigzag stitch holds the applique firmly in place.

Annie B

For more tips, hints and advice on quilting and quilting fabrics as well as a calendar of regional quilting shows go to http://www.highplainsquilting.com/.

http://www.highplainsquilting.com has been developed as a full service quilting web site that offers fabrics tools advise and a community forum where users can get together talk about upcoming quilt shows, give quilt store reviews and display their best work for others to see in the quilting gallery.

Hand Quilting Made Easy

2010-01-16T11:26:00.000-08:00

Now that quilting machines are widely available, hand quilting is often considered the last option. This is because hand quilting is associated with finger sore and pain, eats up a lot of time, and seems a laborious process. Yet, there are still a good number of quilters who devote themselves to hand quilting and, while putting up with these kinds of drawback, manage to come up with beautifully and intricately designed quilts and receive awe and admiration from peers. Their works, which yield a classical appeal, eventually become some sort of a standard.

How do they do it? Aside from not having their drive sapped by the thought of hand quilting being hard, time-consuming, and painful, they apply some techniques to make the activity more fun and enjoyable. Since then, they experience minimal, if not zero, difficulty or pain. You can do it as well, and here’s how:

1. Use a thimble. This will keep the middle finger, which maneuvers and pushes the eye end of the needle, from sore and needle pricks. There are now various options for thimbles. There are those that are designed for people with long nails and those that address sweating. In place of a commercial thimble, some quilters use homemade thimbles made from leather scraps and other like materials.

2. Quilt with a hoop or frame. A quilting hoop is more like an embroidery hoop that holds and stretches out the quilt, making it steady. This consequently keeps a proper tension and makes stitching a lot easier. But unlike an embroidery hoop, in which a fabric for embroidery is tightly tucked, quilting hoop functions best when the quilt is loosely attached. The center of the quilt must be pushed down and the sides should be hanging loosely.

3. Keep the thread, at the most, 18 inches long. If it is too long, the thread is more likely to get tangled. It is also best to thread all the needles before beginning the actual quilting session. Doing so will keep you from stopping to thread again and again.

4. Use smaller needles. In quilting, smaller stitches are more ideal, but the problem with hand quilting is often about the stitches being large, uneven, and non-identical. Smaller needles can solve this problem.

5. Practice hand movement and rhythm to perfect stitch size and consistency. This will be at first difficult, but as you progress from project to project, you will be able to make beautiful stitches. The key here is not to be overly obsessed with the size of the stitch. Focus on the stitch evenness first; after a while, making smaller stitches will come almost naturally.

6. Stick to tools and materials that you are most comfortable working with. But try to experiment with different kinds of brand every once in a while because manufacturers are always introducing innovative products.

7. Remember that hand quilting is a continuously improving craft and that quilting techniques are developed every now and then; therefore, never stop learning from different people and other sources even if you’ve become a master yourself.

Guidelines In Using Quilting Thread

2010-01-15T11:25:00.000-08:00

No quilt project is ever complete without the use of a thread. Whether to piece fabrics together or to embellish, a quilting thread is an important material. Presently, quilting is steadily blossoming as a form of art and it follows that quilting threads, along with other materials, are improving and are made available in various options. In fact, nowadays, threads come in different beautiful colors and fiber content, and thread makers are constantly developing their products to satisfy every quilter. But because of the many available options, confusion sometimes creeps in, and quilters, beginners most especially, find it hard to choose which thread to use.

There are tips that can guide quilters along. And if you are one of those who are often confused and overwhelmed by the enormity of choices, the following can immensely help in your thread selection.

1. Know the different kinds of thread. Cotton is the commonly used thread in quilting as it has added strength and can stand the test of time. It is mercerized, meaning it went through some processes and was treated with sodium hydroxide, to give it a luster finish and to enhance dye absorption. Cotton is also coated, allowing it to easily slide through multiple fabric layers. Rayon also has luster quality and is used in embroidery and embellishing.

Metal/plastic thread, which actually is not a thread but strands made from thermoplastic, is also best used in embellishments because of its shiny look. Metallic in the same way gives a shimmering appeal to projects, and like metal/plastic thread, it requires a metallic needle. Polyester lends a silky finish and doesn’t fade in time. It also doesn’t shrink, which makes it a durable embellishing thread.

2. Use the appropriate threads for hand quilting and machine quilting. Hand quilting threads are sturdy, durable, and usually made of cotton. While machine quilting threads are also often made of cotton, they are less durable and strong than hand quilting threads. They can, however, make finer and tighter stitches.

3. Match the thread to your fabric. In other words, if you are working on a polyester fabric, your thread must as well be polyester. Or, if you are using a fabric made from multiple materials, choose a thread made from the dominant material. Consider also the delicateness of the fabric. For the more fragile fabrics, use silk or polyester thread. But remember that for most projects, especially those that include standard fabrics, cotton is still the most preferred thread as it can work well with a variety of fabrics.

4. Learn to read thread weight and number of plies. These are printed on the thread label and are usually expressed in fraction, with the thread weight on top and the number of plies below. Thus, in 50/2, the thread is 50wt and has two plies. The thread weight, which can be anywhere between 28 to 60, indicates how fine and sturdy a quilting thread is. Threads with 28 to 30wt are good for embellishments and decorative purposes, while those with 40 to 60wt are sturdier and are best for quilting and piecing.

Four Methods Of Basting A Quilt

2010-01-14T11:23:00.000-08:00

Although basting is the least favorite task of many quilters, it is an important part in the entire quilting process. It keeps the quilt sandwich—top, batting, and backing layers—together, making sure they are properly aligned and do not slip apart during the actual quilting process. This in turn prevents puckered and sloppy quilts. When basting, the three layers are placed flat on top of each other—with the backing laid beneath, the batting in the middle, and the top over the batting—and are joined through different methods. There are four methods of basting a quilt. Quilters choose which to execute depending on the quilt size and, mostly, personal preference.

Hand Baste
The most traditional basting approach, hand baste involves hand-sewing. Hand basting is done at the center toward the outer sides using horizontal and vertical stitches across the quilt, leaving a grid-like stitch pattern. Stitches should be around three to four inches apart. A thin needle is recommended so as not to create big and visible holes in the quilt.

Machine Baste
Machine basting is faster to do than hand basting, but it adapts the same stitching pattern. Stitches should be made at the center and progress outward and should come in a grid pattern.

Pin Baste
This requires a huge amount of pins. A small project may need around 75 pins, while a big one may require, at the very least, 400 pins. Like the previous methods, pin basting should be started at the center, with each pin placed 4 to 6 inches apart from each other. The last rows of the pins must not touch the edges of the quilt and so must at least be an inch away. Pins should also be in a horizontal and diagonal pattern to keep the layers securely joined. While pinning, it is best to smooth out wrinkles and press the layers flat. Although fine pins work well in pin basting, safety pins are more often recommended.

Spray Baste
When hand, machine, and pin basting all seem to be quite a task, spray basting comes as a good alternative. It is a sticky adhesive formulation sprayed over the sandwich layers. To use this, the batting must first be layered flat over the backing. Its top half must then be folded toward the backing edge and sprayed. When put back, the batting must be smoothed out to remove any wrinkle. The same procedure is done to the other half. Next, the top is placed over the batting. The top half should then be folded and sprayed. After which, the top is put back over the batting and pressed flat. The same applies to the bottom half.

When basting a quilt, it is important to have a spacious working area. Others lay their quilt on the floor, on a table, or on a similar flat and large working space. Whichever method to use and wherever basting is done, the goal remains the same; that is, to properly put the layers together without creating crumples and puckers in the quilt. With that goal kept in mind, basting is not anymore a dragging task.

Quilting By Hand

2010-01-14T08:00:00.000-08:00

As a craft, quilting had its heydays in the good old days when it was done by hands. Quilts then would take months and sometimes years to finish, but it was all worth it. Today, modern quilting using machines can finish a project in less than a week.

However, there seems to be a trend today for people to work on their quilts by hand, especially beginners. Speed seems to be relegated in favor of the good old feeling in the quilt-making process by hand.

Techniques

The following are a few time-tested tips in quilting by hand. Most of them were handed down by mothers to their daughters and friends to friends.

Some other techniques were copied from neighbors and other ethnic and religious groups. On their own, these communities of people developed their own beautiful quilt-making traditions and styles.

Random tips

As every true-blue quilt-makers have learned, quilting by hand needs a quilting hoop (or frame), a box needles and threads, and a steady supply of patience.

Quilting hoops and the tandem of needles and threads are standard sewing equipments. (The patience is for use in the process that could sometimes take years to complete, depending on how much time was spent on it.)

After attaching the quilt into a hoop (or frame, if it is very large), beginners are advised to start in the middle and work through to the edges. If there is appliqué used, go first around the shapes to give them a puffed-up look and make them prominent.

Sew a little bit away from the line of material (about 2 millimeters) to accentuate the appliqué forms. Use small and even stitches. Never rush or you will have the unpleasant task of undoing sections that look sloppy.

For patchworks, start in the middle of the quilt and simply follow the lines of the squares.
An alternative would be to cross hatch sections or the whole quilt.

When cross-hatching, draw the lines first in soft-leaded pencils because it is difficult to keep them even at all times. Another alternative to cross-hatching or tracing shapes is stippling. This fills up entire areas and gives out a heavily-quilted texture and looks.

Mainly, this is for background filling, or even covering an entire quilt. Stippling is an organized pattern in sewing where the quilter makes smooth curves that do not meet or do a cross-over.

Materials

To keep the quilt top and the backing aligned, there is need for basting. If the two fabrics do not match up, the quilting process could be difficult, and the material could pucker up or curl.

Loosely-woven fabrics do not do well in quilting, while densely-woven fabrics and blends are difficult to work on. Go for medium-weave, middle-weight pure cotton fabrics (if possible) if you want uniform stitches, durability and relative ease in the quilting.

Threads to be used should be those for quilting. They are thicker and stronger than plain threads. For other design considerations, you can always choose what you think is best, especially if the project is simply a decorative quilt.

These are only some of the very few basics in quilting. All the other tips you will learn as you along in the happy and exhilarating process of sewing with your own hands a potential work of art.

Quilting Supplies And Accessories

2010-01-13T11:22:00.000-08:00

After hundreds of years, quilting has evolved into such a specialized craft that had produced some of the most spectacular works of craftsmanship. Today’s art of quilt-making has come a long way since needles, pins and hoops.

The following are some of the many tools that can help drastically reduce the time in quilt-making. It is important to learn how to be fluent in their use.

Fabric markers

Pencils with soft lead are the most commonly used in marking fabrics. They leave some faint marks that will fade later. Chalk is also a good alternative because it washes out easily. It is, however, not recommended for use in detailed drawing because it is blurry.

Today’s fabric marker pens washes off in time and are better than pencils and chalks.

Long arm quilting machines

First, the bad news is that these machines are quite expensive. Unless you do enough quilting work or are into business, or have the money to burn, it is not recommended.

On the other hand, this sewing machine with a 12-foot wide frame is a quilter’s dream. Essentially, it can do intricate designs and does a month’s typical quilting work in a much shorter time.

Machine quilting needles

Modern technology had also given today’s quilters the machines and needles designed solely for quilting. They allow the use of stippling and other techniques which used to be painstakingly slow in those days.

The most popular are Schmetz needles for both thin and thick quilts. They are compatible with a lot of different threads.

Pins and thimbles

Pins are for holding fabrics together for sewing, basting, pressing, or tacking. Safety pins provide quick solutions in holding quilt fabrics during quilting.

Thimbles had been around since the advent of sewing by hand. Traditionally, they are made of silver but there are china thimbles and those made of leather. The leather kind is popular because they are flexible and more comfortable on the finger.

Quilting hoops and frames

These wooden devices (which every quilter must have) are for holding fabrics together. They are badly needed when working on large projects. They keep the working material taut enough and easier to work on.

The four-sided quilting frames are for very large quilts. Round quilting hoops are for working on smaller areas.

Hand sewing quilting needles

Called ‘betweens’, traditional quilting needles are smaller and stronger than sewing needles. They have smaller eyes to make it easier to pass through layers of fabrics.

They can make very small stitches and help reduce puckering.

Rotary cutters and boards

Rotary cutters are very strong and very sharp instruments to cut precise and accurate blocks of quilting materials. It is a circular blade which is very strong and accurate for cutting and trimming.

It is used with a rotary board which resets any cut or tear done to it by the cutter. The board also prevents material slippage.

Templates

In creating patterns, a quilt-maker needs templates to work with. Made usually of acrylic, templates ensure all your pattern pieces are of the same size every time, whether they have curves, angles, and other intricate line.

Other tools

Threads, with the correct color and strength, are part of your needs in quilting. They should, of course, be closest to the fabric’s color.

Scissors are also essentials in your work. Pin cushions are needed to temporarily store your needles while working. Happy quilting!

How To Make A Quilt: Easy Quilting Guides

2010-01-12T11:20:00.000-08:00

Quilting is centuries old. History tells that as far back as 3400BC, quilting is a famed activity among Egyptians. The activity is then passed from generation to generation and from continent to continent and is now being enjoyed as a form of art. Over time, quilting enjoyed several innovations in techniques and methods. But there are actually no strict rules in quilting, as quilters discover new ways of making quilting more fun and achievable. There are some basic quilting guides you can follow at each start of a new project, though. And they are the following:

1. Choose a quilting pattern. The pattern should of course match your skill level. This means that if you are a newbie, work on a pattern that is simple and easy. If you have been quilting for quite a while and have gained enough confidence, then by all means, choose the pattern that will translate the progress in your skill.

2. Identify whether the project would be a pieced or whole cloth quilt. A pieced quilt has strips and pieces cut from other different fabrics and stitched together to make a top. These pieces can take the form of flowers, butterflies, animals, and other decorative patterns. A whole cloth quilt, on the other hand, uses a single fabric to make a top, which is cut into strips and sewn together.

3. Gather all the materials. These include the fabrics and the quilting threads. The patterns sometimes include a list of fabrics and threads to use, but think of it only as a suggestion and allow it not to impose limitations on you. Explore your options and find alternative and better materials that can complement the pattern. Your knowledge of the thread and fabric characteristics, textures, and color values comes into play here.

4. Prewash your fabric. This makes sure that the fabric doesn’t shrink or fade. When prewashing, use hot water and detergent and soak the fabric for about 20 minutes. After which, dry and press the fabric.

5. Familiarize yourself with the quilting steps. A quilt is made of three layers—the top, the batting, and the backing—which you have to stitch together. This process is actually the quilting itself. But first, you have to create the top by sewing blocks and strips of fabrics as indicated in the pattern of your choice. Next, select the batting and the backing material. The three layers are then put in their proper order to prepare them for basting. Basting means temporarily keeping the layers together using pins or stitches to prevent them from sliding and falling apart as they are quilted. Then, the actual quilting follows, which involve joining the three layers using small, fine stitches. As a final touch, a binding material is sewn to the quilt to trim and hide the fabric edges.

6. Sign the finished quilt. Some quilters are so attached with their quilts that they affix their name and date on one corner of the quilt. Unlike the other quilting guides, this one is a purely personal decision.

Practical Tips For Machine Quilting

2010-01-12T08:00:00.000-08:00

Machine quilting doesn’t enjoy the same stitch-quality reputation hand quilting has. In fact, when machine quilting was first introduced, it wasn’t received well and was thought inferior to hand quilting. But now that quilting is given modernity touches, machine quilting is widely recognized and appreciated because of its several benefits. It is, for one, way faster to do. It can complete work for a fraction of time required in hand quilting. Aside from that, machine quilting can accommodate heavy-duty embellishment threads that would otherwise not be possible with hand quilting. This benefit, in effect, opens up more artistic possibilities.

The problem, however, is that some people are easily intimidated by just the sight of a machine and view machine quilting as too complicated. The truth is, machine quilting is easy to learn and with some practical tips, it is manageable. Following are some tips that can make machine quilting more fun and less laborious.

1. Run a test. If you are yet unsure of how machine quilting goes, get a piece of fabric and practice machine quilting. Don’t be disheartened if the stitches are unsightly. You can adjust the tension setting, improve your rhythm, or reposition your hand. When you get the hang of it, the stitches will be more even and consistent.

2. Plan how your stitches would go. Planning ahead can keep you from making too many stops and starts. Visualizing the overall appearance of your quilt can also help you decide as you move along the project.

3. Guide your quilt through the machine with a gentle and smooth sliding motion. Too much pressure in your hands will yield erratic movements and consequently irregular stitches.

4. Use an even-feed walking foot when making straight lines. To use this, roll the quilt into a tube, use bicycle clips or safety pins to secure the quilt, and stitch the center and work your way out to the edges. Alternatively, use a darning foot when making freehand quilting to do curved and other decorative stitches. Keep in mind, though, that doing freehand quilting is never perfect at first attempt and takes a lot of practice to come up with the desired stitches.

5. Relax. Take your mind off the other parts of the quilt; instead, focus on the part under the needle and that which is next to come. It would also help you relax if you have a good working space, one that can provide you and the quilt enough room. Also, have a comfortable chair to rest your back well. When your back, neck, and arms are relaxed and your mind free of distractions, you can work longer and produce a better quilt.

6. Rest for a while. If your hand feels stiff, your back slightly aches, or your eyes seem to blur when machine quilting, the body calls for a rest. Take a break and move around. Don’t forget to shake your hands and shoulders, close your eyes, or look up from your work once in a while. Remember, fatigue is likely to show in your quilt.

Batting – The Fabric Filling in Quilting

2010-01-11T11:19:00.000-08:00

After the quilt top had been finished, remove all the pins and other basting devices and iron out all the seams. It is now time for batting, one of the more important phases in quilting.

Batting materials

It is called by other names depending on the place where one comes from – batting, padding, or wadding. Batting is the bulk or the heft of the entire quilt project. It is the middle section of the quilt sandwich.

Depending on the style and region, batting comes in different thicknesses, compositions and textures. There are also a great number of choices of batting materials from natural fibers (cotton and wool) to synthetics and man-made fabrics (polyester, rayon, etc).

Cotton

For small projects, cotton is the ideal batting material. It is also good for beginners because it is easy to work with and is natural. Cotton can achieve a more even look in your finished quilt.

Polyester

This is a lightweight and an inexpensive material to use. It adds puffiness in your quilt and packs well enough.

However, polyester fabrics tends to “beard” (unraveling of the fabric’s thread and weave) more than the other natural fibers.

Wool

This is one of the most ideal materials for batting. Wool is quite warm, absorbs moisture, and is perfect for use in cool and damp climates. It is flat compared to other man-made or synthetic fibers, but feels good when used in quilts.

When washing and caring for your wool-filled quilt, be sure to read and follow instructions well. (Ask some expert if you do not know how.) Wool can easily warp and change the form of your quilt in ways you will not like.

Batting thickness

Ideally, a thin light batting is very good in quilts. The advantage is that it is easier to sew compared to heavier or thicker batting.

It is important to make small and even stitches in quilts. If the batting is thinner, it is much easier for the needle and the thread to go through.

If you intend your quilt for use in your bed, and consequently, needs it for the warmth, then choose a thicker batting. Experts suggest, however, that it would probably be much easier to tie it, rather than quilt it.

Batting size

One thing to remember is to have the quilt batting bigger than the quilt top, but smaller than the backing. This allows for any pull or in cases when the quilt had already been sewn up and edges had moved and do not measure up anymore. An overlap is your insurance for any mishaps.

Never worry about left-over batting materials from previous quilts. These can be combined with the others to make a mixed piece, especially for very large quilts.

Left-over strips can be laid out side by side and carefully tacked together employing some loose stitches.

These left-over strips of fabric should at least be a fourth in terms of size to the actual quilt it will be used for. Anything smaller would be too much work in terms of piecing them together to come up with the correct size.

It is not advisable, either, to overlap the batting because it can produce a double thickness more than you intend. Plus, it will be difficult to quilt.

Quilting should be a breeze to do.

Knowing Quilting Fabrics and Fabric Grains

2010-01-11T08:00:00.000-08:00

Quilting is not just the simple pushing of needles and threads in and out of fabrics and come up with a beautiful craft appreciated for years. Like in any other art form, there are pieces of information a quilter has to master to be able to improve his craft.

In quilting, knowing and understand fabric grains is a plus for quilt-makers who want to excel.

Straight grain

Simply put, this is the way threads are woven in place in the fabric. This is important when quilters want to cut their quilting blocks accurately and with precision.

Ignorance in fabric grains can result in great waste of time, effort and materials.

Long threads are called warps. These are the ones that are stretched and secured on the loom. In effect, these become the fabric’s lengthwise grain, the continuous fabric yardage as it comes off the bolt.

The weft is the thread that is woven into the warps, perpendicular to the whole length.

This is the crosswise grain of the fabric.

The lengthwise grain and the crosswise grain are both called straight grain, or straight-of-grain. The selvage is the bound edge in the outermost lengthwise grain, formed when the weft thread change direction in the weaving process.

Fabric pieces cut along straight grain (with edges parallel to either warp or weft) are less likely to stretch out of shape. The interwoven threads give it extra support.

However, cuts along the lengthwise grain stretches less than their crosswise counterparts. This is because warp threads were firmly attached to the loom enhancing their strength.

Fabric Bias

A bias is a 45-degree angle cut in the fabric. (In quilting, any cut that is not parallel to the straight grain is called a bias cut.)

Bias cuts are stretchy and this can work for or against you. There are no threads to stabilize the fabric in a bias.

However, bias cuts have several uses. One, they are easy to apply as binding to a quilt with curved edges. Tubes can be made from them for shapes in appliqués, for instance.

They are also easier to be turned under for other curved shapes.

Bias edges can stretch out of shape and makes it difficult to sew accurately. Triangles have one bias edge and there is need to determine the best place for it because it is not stable. (Best is sewing them in the interior parts and with a straight grain piece for stability.)

Using straight grain cuts

Squares and rectangles are cut along straight grains to minimize stretching during handling. They are good in making borders and sashes. Moreover, they stabilize the outer edges of blocks and quilt tops.

Knowing and being accustomed to these different fabric grains would give you quite an idea on where and when to use any on your project. It can even make you quite an expert in identifying fabrics without the usual selvages or other marks.

At a certain stage in your quilting life, you can do your own fabric grain experiments. It does not take so much to know the best possible ways to achieve what you want in your quilt masterpiece.

Appliqué Quilting: How To Do It

2010-01-10T11:17:00.000-08:00

Originating from the French word appliquer, appliqué means to “put on.” It is a quilting basic technique that includes cutting pieces of fabric of various designs, sizes, and shapes and sewing them onto a background material. Appliqué quilting expresses a quilter’s artistic potentials and yields beautiful, pictographic quilts. However, some quilters often think that appliquéing is so hard a technique and therefore should be left to the master quilters. How afraid they are to try their hand on it. The truth is, appliquéing is not as difficult as people imagine. It is quite easy to learn and, if mastered, opens so many creative quilting possibilities.

So how do you exactly make appliqués? Here’s how:

1. Prepare the design pattern. You can do this by tracing the design you want on to a freezer paper using a marker. Note that you have to draw the reverse side of the design. Then, cut out the pattern. Do not add a seam allowance.

2. Place the shiny side of the cut-out freezer paper on the wrong side of the fabric. Next, press it with a hot iron. Take note: press. Do not slide the iron over the freezer paper. Note that the freezer paper will adhere to the fabric, but it can be peeled off easily.

3. Cut out the fabric following the pattern of the freezer paper. Make a seam allowance of about 1/8 to1/4 inch. Then, fold the seam allowance over the edges of the pattern. If you are dealing with curves, you have to notch the allowance all the way around to make smooth, rounded curves. Again, press the seam allowance. After which, remove the freezer paper.

4. Begin sewing the appliqué pieces to the background fabric. Remember to first sew the bigger pieces onto which you will lay and stitch the smaller pieces. For example, if you are doing a butterfly appliqué, first stitch the wings, then follow it with the body. You have to keep a stitching order in attaching appliqué pieces.

5. Make small stitches. Whether you do hand or machine appliqué, it is important to make small stitches because they prove to be stronger and less visible in the quilt. You can use several kinds of stitches in appliqués, although the most widely used is blind stitch. If you are using a machine, you can do zigzag stitch, satin stitch, among others.

6. Be careful with curves. Approaching curves is relatively easy when hand-sewing. It can be quite a concern, though, when using a machine. To perfectly machine-stitch curves, decrease your speed, make a few stitches, then put the needle down and slightly reposition the fabric. Doing so will avoid gaps in between stitches. Make fewer stitches and do more fabric repositioning as you approach tighter curves.

Your first attempt at appliqué quilting may not produce your desired result. But don’t be disheartened; rather keep this as your motivation to do better each time you do appliqué. Before you begin with actual appliquéing, it would help to get a few scraps and practice your stitching. What you need to watch out for are puckered background, uneven stitches, and sloppy appliqué pieces.

How To Choose Quilting Fabrics

2010-01-10T08:00:00.000-08:00

Quilting fabrics decide the aesthetic appeal of the quilt, so choosing which to use is perhaps one of the most crucial decisions you have to make when quilting. If you fail to form a quilt with a cohesive color palette, all your stitching skills are laid to waste. It is a good thing that different kinds of fabrics today provide many options, but how do you exactly know which fabric is best for your quilting project? Here are the things to look out for:

1. Fabric type. There are many different fabrics you can use for your quilt: velvet, wool, leather, denim, silk, among many others. But although you can use nearly any kind of fabric, 100% cotton fabric is still the most preferred material for quilt. One, it is easy to press and quilt. Second, it is less likely to fray. And third, it maintains its color. Of course, the type of fabric to use still depends on the pattern you have in mind, so don’t feel limited with your fabric choices.

2. Thread count. It refers to the number of threads per square inch and is used to indicate how fine a fabric is. A thread count that is anywhere between 68 to 78 is a good indication that a fabric can last and is less likely to shrink. To know if a fabric has an ideal thread count, check the threads. If the threads look intact and don’t easily pull apart, you are holding a good choice.

3. Print. There are three things you need to remember when choosing prints. One, you should have a variety of small, medium, and large prints in your fabrics to lend texture and dimension to your quilt. Fabrics with almost the same size of prints tend to look boring and flat if pieced together. On the contrary, a range of sizes gives depth and movement to the quilt. Second, check that the print is on the grain. A print that is not aligned with the grain has the possibility of creating a distorted and crooked design. Finally, examine pattern consistency and make sure that the entire fabric is printed. If there seems to be empty spaces where prints should have been, you may not be able to use some parts of the fabric.

4. Color. The most important component of a quilting fabric is the color. A coherent and dynamic color scheme gives the quilt an interesting visual appeal, so it is very important to be careful with the color combination. To come up with a coherent color combination, you have to choose a main fabric that has many different colors. Then, select fabrics with colors pulled out from the main fabric. To avoid dullness, pick the quilting fabrics within the range of light, medium, and dark hues.

These are the color values and are important in balancing the overall color of the quilt. Two tips when buying a fabric: make sure the color doesn’t fade in some parts; choose the fabric whose color doesn’t come off on the hands when rubbed.

How To Choose Quilt Patterns

2010-01-09T11:29:00.000-08:00

Quilting poses no limitations. A quilter can create designs as far as the imagination allows, which is probably why there are thousands of quilt patterns in existence today. Quilters just never run out of ideas and they pass them on from one quilter to another. The patterns keep on evolving then, which eventually gives birth to hybrid patterns.

Novice quilters may at first be overwhelmed by the enormity of pattern options. And this commonly becomes a problem especially when they figure that the pattern they have is actually not what they want to work with. The result is half-hearted commitment and a lopsided quilt, if at all it gets done. You can avoid this, though, if you consider the following when choosing a quilt pattern:

1. Identify your skill level. Before setting out, you must first realistically and honestly assess your quilting skills. This is important because a pattern-skill level mismatch can turn an otherwise beautiful pattern into a sloppy quilt. Patterns are normally classified as beginner/easy, intermediate, experienced/hard, so determine into which your skill level fits.

2. Decide on your intended theme or message. Quilt patterns are oftentimes thematic. There are patterns for holidays, nursery, seasons, among other things. If you are celebrating a birth, choose a baby quilt. If the quilt is for the approaching spring, choose a bright, floral quilt pattern. Consider the message as well. Do you want the quilt to convey a political message? An advocacy perhaps? An inspiring story? Whatever message you intend to communicate, make sure the quilt pattern represents it well.

3. Consider pattern combination. If your skill level allows, you can combine a number of patterns to achieve an exquisite and original look. Don’t be afraid to experiment because, in the first place, quilting encourages exploration of all your creative tendencies. Get out of your safe harbor. Think out of the box. Mix and match.

4. Determine how much time you are willing to commit. The simple patterns are of course quick to do, while the intricate ones may require a lot of time to complete. If you know you won’t be able to finish a pattern in a given time, save it for a future project. In the meantime, work with the pattern that you are likely to finish.

5. Get as many sources as you can. Ask fellow quilters for pattern suggestions. Some of them may even have designed their own quilt patterns. Don’t forget to also look samples in quilt shops and to research online. The good about the Internet is that you can find free quilt patterns—from the simplest and traditional to the more complex and intricate. Online patterns are too plenty you might want to create a collection. Of course, you can also try to look up in quilt books. These books are a compilation of designs derived from the traditional and old patterns.

Therefore, these designs, which may look new and complicated, are just as easy to do as the conventional quilt patterns you are familiar with.

A Brief History Of Quilting

2010-01-09T11:16:00.000-08:00

What is quilting?
Why is it popular in cold countries than in tropical ones?
What makes is special?

For beginners who do not have any faint idea about quilting, introduction to this old but growing craft can elicit a lot of questions. The following are some of the answers, including a brief history of the craft.

The craft

The dictionary defines quilting as a method of securing or wadding of two layers of fabric, usually with a soft, thick padding (cotton, wool, etc) between them, by way of stitching them together.

In the old days, this extra padded fabric is used to make garments for insulation against the cold. Later, the stitching that keeps the stuffing evenly distributed provided the opportunity for quilters to express their artistic inclinations through designs and colors.

Very old quilts were found in the mountains of Mongolia dating as far back as the 1st century. A wadded carpet found has a center quilted in an overall pattern of spirals and bordered with diamond designs and animal shapes.

The patterns and the techniques of those old quilts are still in use today and are already part of the quilter’s catalog of techniques.

Coverage

The first quilts were thought to have originated from ancient Egypt, went all over Asia, and then to Europe in the years of the Crusades in 11th century.

In the U.S., it first became popular for use in petticoats and comforters. At the end of the 18th century, American quilters were already using colored fabrics sewn on the outer layers known as the appliqué.

Later, the patchwork patterns became widely used as well.

When emigrants from Europe brought over their quilting skills with them on their new home, quilting flourished in the U.S. in the colonial era. American women learned to create patchwork quilts from fabric scraps.

African-American women began quilting as well and continued the art form to this day.
Their quilts have been much praised for their bold, asymmetrical designs and bright colors, usually with tied knots.

When there was a rush to migrate to the West, the quilting patterns reflected the new experiences then that included designs and names such as wagon wheels and log cabins.

Picture quilts and friendship quilts became widely known, too. The picture quilts have designs that looked like pictures were sewn on the quilt itself. Friendship quilts are ‘albums’ of special events like weddings, births and anniversaries.

The most famous friendship quilt is the 1987 AIDS Memorial quilt. It contained the names and dates of persons who died of AIDS.

The American quilt blossomed in the 19th century. (Early 18th century samples have largely disappeared.) This was the time where several traditional patchwork patterns have evolved and are still popular today: Sunburst, Sawtooth, Log Cabin, Bear’s Paw, etc.

Some of the most compelling works of art are the quilts made by Amish women. These were utilitarian quilts with geometric designs that are color-rich and are now much-sought-after by collectors.

Today, quilting is used as a form of textile art. It already has incorporated a utilitarian function in modern life. And like any other art forms, it continues to grow and evolve.

Quilting Basics: Tips For Beginners

2010-01-09T10:53:00.001-08:00

Anyone who says that a quilt is simply a patchwork is wrong because behind every quilt is a story and behind every quilter is a storyteller. To become a skillful quilter, not to mention a storyteller, however, is not an overnight task. It involves time, patience, dedication, and most importantly willingness to learn the quilting basics.

It is quite true that it is never easy to be a beginner because you have to learn a lot of things and sometimes experience disappointments when things don’t turn out the way you intended. Self-expectations are enormous, which oftentimes are the most formidable enemies of every beginning quilter. But if there is one thing that can spell success for every beginner, it is the ability to take baby steps, and that means getting down to the very basic and following some tips for beginners.

1. Learn quilting jargons and terminology. Just as a would-be physician studies all the medical terms, you have to learn every word that is associated with quilting. Of course, you don’t do it in a day, all curled up in bed and studying. When you encounter unfamiliar words as you read quilting literature and instructions, find out the meaning at once. If you know the jargons and terminology, you can better follow instructions and communicate with fellow quilters.

2. Choose simple patterns. It is always tempting to get your hands on the intricately designed patterns; the problem is, they are often more complicated to work with. Save them for future projects. Now that you are starting, be realistic in assessing your skills. It is way better to begin with less complex patterns, those that can guide you through the art, than work on advanced patterns that can potentially exhaust you.

3. Work on less complicated projects. Again, be realistic. Choose smaller projects like pillowcases, placemats, or table runners and have them as experiments. Because they are small, it is more likely to get them done. As your skills advance, you can do bigger projects.

4. Decide whether to hand quilt or machine quilt. Hand quilting is an old method of quilting and is preferred by many quilters because of its traditional and recreational appeal. It gives quilters more control of the project, an avenue for socialization especially if the quilt is done by a group of people, and a greater sense of hand work. Machine quilting, on the other hand, is faster and easier to do and creates more identical and consistent stitches. It works to your advantage if you know to do both. There are times you may want to hand quilt or machine quilt an entire project, and other times when you feel like hand quilting a part, say the top, and machine-stitching the rest.

5. Learn the different stitches, styles, and techniques. The heart of quilting is in piecing and stitching strips and layers of fabrics, so you have to know how to do these. Take also some time to develop your cutting and basting skills.

6. Avoid being too critical. Remember, you are just starting, and it is very likely that the stitches are less than perfect. It’s okay. Don’t fret over errors; instead, relax and enjoy the quilting process. As you move from project to project, you will discover that your consistency and precision develop. As with anything, practice makes perfect. And before you know it, you have already mastered the quilting basics and moved on to becoming an expert quilter.