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A successful and really enjoyable quilting experience includes having the right
tools of the trade. Firstly, a reliable sewing machine in good working order is a must. It doesn't matter what
make or model of sewing machine you have or even the age of the unit, as long as it has been well taken care of and does the
basic stitches for basic work. Once you master your craft you can always go crazy and purchase a bigger and better machine,
but for the beginners and us old die-hards the older machines have always been a good friend. My Janome is now 20 years
old and still going strong. If I ever purchase a new model I will keep the old girl for back-up.
A serger or four thread overlocker is not an essential tool in quilting, but
it certainly helps if you happen to be dealing with fabrics that fray easily. Overlockers are great when working with
all kinds of fabric from the thin muslin, to cotton lawn up to the heaviest of demins. My overlocker/serger, once again,
is an older model Singer and she works like a charm so she'll be around for many years.
Having the proper tools makes the whole experience of getting your new quilt cut
out and ready for sewing so much easier.
Firstly, a rotary cutting mat that is self-healing is a good idea. There are many
sizes to choose from, from the smallest being approximately 6" x 8" and the largest around two feet by three feet. Both sides
of the mat can be used and most mats have accurate left and right handed grids.
Rotary cutters also come in different sizes, makes and models. Buying one will
be a very personal purchase and it should feel good in the hand that you use for cutting. A medium or large cutter is always
a good choice, being sure that the blade is sharp (having extra blades handy is always a good idea) as you will be slicing
through several layers of fabric.
Acrylic rulers are essential to use along side your rotary cutter. A good size
to start with would be 24" x 3 1/2". Whether you are cutting strips of fabric or trimming blocks, these rulers are great.
Also, always be sure you have a good pair of scissors that are only used for cutting
fabric, a seam ripper, the proper thread and pins for your project.
A good quality iron that will withstand being on for a number of hours
at a time is essential. Backing fabric for your quilt can be any colour as long as it is 100% cotton as this is what
the top of your quilt will be made of. The wadding can be made of 100% cotton or a man made material such as polyester.
There are different thicknesses and makes of wadding and all make great quilts, but there are some waddings that are better
hand quilted while others are recommended for machine stitching. Also good to have on hand are marking pencils, a long
measuring tape, thimbles, safety pins and a needle threader. All of these items will come in handy at one point or another.
Finally and most importantly is the fun part...choosing the materials for your project.
You probably have a pattern in mind, so you will need to work out how much fabric is required to complete the item.
The colour of your project will be a very individual thing and there are hundreds of bolts of fabric just waiting to be of
some assistance.
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