THE Basics
Tools Of The Trade
Sewing Machine – Any machine can be used for quiltmaking. It is helpful to have a darning foot as an attachment for the machine for free machine quilting.
Iron and ironing board – Make these readily available near your sewing machine so that all seams can be pressed to assist in accurate piecing.
Needles – Most quilters favour a ‘between’ needle, size 8-12 for both hand-sewing and hand-quilting. Size 12, the smallest size, is usually used by very experienced quilters.
Sewing Thread – Use any cotton or cotton-covered polyester thread. For machine quilting, use cotton, cotton-covered polyester, monofilament or decorative threads.
Scissors – Have one pair with sharp points for cutting fabric and a second pair for paper.
Marking Tools – Quilters use marking tools for varied processes during quiltmaking.
Keep on hand hard and soft lead pencils and fine-tipped permanent marking pens. Many specialist marking tools for quilters are on the market, including chalk pencils and water-erasable markers and it’s best to experiment with several different types to see which suits you best. It’s most important to test every marker before using it.
– These tools quickly and accurately cut strips, squares, triangles and diamonds for patchwork. Always use your rotary cutter with
