To get you started- let’s talk about the tools for quilting or your supplies and notions.  Everyone is going to have a favorite, these are mine.

There are a lot of products out there for quilting and sewing.  The isles at the stores are filled with fun supplies and must have’s.  Over time you will find that there are a few basic quilting tools that you use- all the time.

They are your go-to tool.  You take them with you when you go on sewing dates, retreats or have ready at a moments notice to use.   These are the things that sit by your hand, sewing machine or lounge on your table, ready for some action!

The list also includes links to where you can find them and purchase them if you need.

BASIC QUILTING SUPPLIES

  • Rotary Cutter –  The blades are very sharp and cut fabric quickly and accurately. The blade rolls, just  like a pizza cutter.   There are many different sizes.  I use the small-sized cutter most.  It whips around curves like nobodies business, and is easy for me to grip.  There are a few different kind of handles and blade sizes.  Before purchasing one, I would suggestion giving them a try.
  • A Self-healing Cutting Mat – allows you to use the rotary cutter for cutting fabric.  Mats come in many different sizes, but an 18″ x 24″ mat is a good size to start with.  Need to clean the mat you have? Here is a quick how-to to help you out.
  • Scissors – sharp sewing scissors are a must.  Trying to cut with something that is less than sharp can only make your experience frustrating.  Another thing to look for is the point of the scissor.  When you are snipping corners or curves having this part of the scissor sharp, and pointy will be necessary.
  • Seam Ripper – I have had many, and have used them all.  There is one in my travel kit, one in my sewing machine drawer, and one on the cutting table.  I call them my ‘best friend’ because it helps me fix what is wrong…and really knows best!
  • Fabric – we’ve hit this topic before.  Keep with high quality fabric.  Your projects turn out better, last longer and you won’t have problems with colors bleading or bad fabric weave.
  • Thread – we’ve hit this topic before too.   This is the one thing that is holding all your fabric together.  Don’ skimp here.  Use a few different brands until you find your favorite.
  • Pins – the flower head pins are my favorite.  They lay flat against the fabric and are kind of a heavier pin so they hold their place.  Remove them prior to stitching the spot though to avoid breaking your needle.
  • Pincushions –  these are you pins best friends.  They come in all different shapes and sizes.  Lots of sewers tend to collect pincushions and have them place stratically placed throughout the  house.
  • Wonder Clips – these are right now my favorite thing!  They are great for holding your binding on.  They won’t stick you.
  • Rulers – My favorite size is the 6″ X 12″, but I find that I use other shapes and sizes almost as much.  Depending on the project that is being worked on, the ruler might change.  I suggest trying out a few of your friends to find out which one is your favorite.

Download the Supplies List: [download id=”103246″]

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Quilt Topics

To help you get a handle on some of the quilting processes and basics, we have compiled a Quilting 101 topic lists directing you to more information.

Feel free to hop around when needed, refresh your memory on something you are doing or maybe even learn something new.