So You Want To Make A Quilt
The process of making a quilt involves several basic tasks: measuring, cutting, marking and stitching. Each step has special tools and or techniques that can save time and make the project you choose easier to complete.
The first step is to select a quilt design or pattern, and your fabric. If you are a beginner, choose a simple design to begin with. Try to envision you finished quilt. What color do you want it to be? Do you want to incorporate different prints with solids? Prints may range from plaids to florals and even stripes. Solid fabrics come in just about every color imaginable. Cotton fabric is generally the easiest fabric to work with. Do not be afraid to experiment. All fabrics should be pre-washed in mild detergent and warm water, dried and pressed.
Step two involves measuring and cutting. If you buy quality-cutting tools, use them only for sewing. This will keep them sharp and make your cuts precise while saving time too. Rotary cutters are available in different sizes. They allow you to cut smooth edges on multiple layers of fabric quickly and easily. Small cutters work well on curves: larger cutters are great for long straight lines and many layers of fabric. Cutting mats should be used with rotary cutters. A good clear ruler is also a valuable tool. Sewing scissors and shears are also necessary. Accuracy is important in quilting. Taking the time to cut accurately will ensure your quilt pieces fit together perfectly.
Marking tools should be tested before you use them. You want the marks to come out easily without damaging the material. Special quilter's pencils are available with white or gray lead, and an eraser on the end. Other types include soapstone, which is made of pressed talc, and water-soluble, which is great for darker fabrics. Marks from both types may be removed with a damp cloth.
Knowledge can give you a real advantage. To make sure you're fully informed about quilting, keep reading.
Step three involves stitching. Every quilt project should be layered and basted before the actual quilting is involved. Quilting pins should be used to hold pieces together. If you are hand basting there are special needles, with small round eyes, that are favored by quilter's. Use a single strand of white cotton thread to baste. You may however, prefer to use curved, rustproof safety pins to make the basting process quicker and easier.
Pressing at each stage of the construction is also important. Use the tip of the iron and move in the direction of the grainlines. The general rule of quilting is to press each stitched seam before crossing it with another.
Quilting is the fourth step. Quilting holds the quilt top, batting, and backing together. It also adds texture and enhances the design. You may quilt by hand or by machine. Hand quilting is the traditional method; machine quilting takes less time and is more durable.
Binding is the final step in creating a quilt. Binding fabrics may either match or complement the other fabrics in the quilt. Binding also helps to square up your finished quilt.
Now you can understand why there's a growing interest in quilting. When people start looking for more information about quilting, you'll be in a position to meet their needs.
Menu
More...
All About Thread For QuiltingChoosing And Preparing Fabric
How To Choose The Right Batting
All About Quilting
Add Life To Your Quilting With Embroidery
Quilting 101
All About Appliqué
Sewing Tips For Beginning Quilters
So You Want To Make A Quilt
The Best Quilting Pattern ForYour Needs
Making Sense OF Quilt Patterns
Best Books For Quilting
Discovering RJR Fabrics
What Are Quilts?
Patchwork Techniques
Essential Supplies For Quilting
Moda
Choosing Fabrics For Quilting
How To Use Stencils For Quilting
How To Use Templates In Quilting
Where To Find Free Quilt Patterns
All About Hoffman Fabrics
Quilting Is A Hot D.I.Y. Craft!
Choosing Quilt Fabric
More... All About Appliqué Appliqué is a quilting technique which involves applying.. What Are Quilts? Quilts are bed coverings made up of three layers: a quilt top, a layer of.. How To Choose The Right Batting Many crafters do not take the time to learn about the correct batting for.. Choosing And Preparing Fabric Choosing fabric for a quilting project can be as much fun as doing the project.. |
|
|
Related News:
|