THE Basics

Before you embark on any quilting project and especially if this is your first quilt, you’ll need to make sure you have all the equipment and knowledge necessary for a successful project. Many of the items required are normal sewing supplies and any special tools for quilters can be found in your local quilt shop.

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, cottoncovered 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