Quilting is a fun, rewarding, and creative craft that allows you to bring fabric to life, one stitch at a time. If you’re new to it, though, you might be wondering: “What exactly do I need to get started?” There’s a plethora of quilting accessories available for purchase out there, which can make things plenty confusing. To make your first quilt, though, you only need a few basics. This guide will enumerate which ones you should consider buying first:
The Basics: Sewing Machine or Hand Stitching?
Before we get into the accessories, let’s first cover the foundation. Are you planning to quilt by hand or with a sewing machine?
Quilting by hand is traditional, and it can be a very soothing process. However, most modern quilters now prefer to use a sewing machine to save time.
If you’re just starting, a basic sewing machine with a straight stitch will do the job. Once you’re comfortable, you can explore more advanced features.
Must-Have Quilting Accessories
1. Rotary Cutter
A rotary cutter is one of the first quilting tools that you might want to consider investing in. It’s a nifty gadget that works like a pizza cutter for fabric, slicing through it with ease. It features a sharp, circular blade that ensures precise and smooth cuts, especially when paired with a cutting mat (more on this later!).
A 45 mm rotary cutter is the most versatile option for beginners. It can handle a wide variety of fabrics!
2. Cutting Mat
While cutting fabric, you’ll need something to protect your surfaces with. This is where cuttinag mats come into play. A self-healing cutting mat doesn’t just keep your table safe – it also prevents your rotary cutter from becoming dull.
When shopping for a cutting mat, look for one with gridlines. This will help you measure and cut fabric accurately. Cutting mats come in different sizes, but a medium-sized one – around 18 to 24 inches – is perfect for quilters that are just starting out.
3. Quilting Rulers
Quilting rulers are one of the most important tools for ensuring straight lines and accurate measurements when making a quilt. They are typically made from clear acrylic, which allows you to see the fabric underneath. This transparency, along with the rulers’ gridlines and angles, makes cutting fabric into neat shapes a breeze.
If you’re just getting started, a 6” x 24” ruler is an excellent all-purpose tool. It may also be a good idea to purchase smaller square rulers such as a 6.5” x 6.5” for cutting quilt blocks. As you advance, you can move on to specialty rulers such as triangle or hexagon rulers that will help you create more intricate designs.
4. Pins and Clips
You’ll need a way to hold your fabric together while you sew, and that’s where pins and clips come in handy. Standard quilting pins are longer and sturdier than regular sewing pins, which makes them ideal for holding multiple layers of fabric. You can also use quilting clips, especially when working with thick layers like batting. These hold everything securely without leaving holes in your fabric.
Purchase Your Quilting Must-Haves on Premier Stitching!
Premier Stitching is your one-stop online destination for all of your sewing and quilt making needs! They carry a wide selection of all of the items mentioned above from some of the most well-known and reputable manufacturers in the business. Visit the Premier Stitching website now to purchase your quilting essentials!
