For many people, quilting is a boring hobby. But, these people aren’t aware of the fact that quilting can prove beneficial for many people associated with it. For instance, as a quilter, you get the benefit of showcasing your artistic side. Similarly, gifting a quilt to a friend or family will make them know how appreciated they are in your life. Plus, there are health benefits too.
So, if you are looking forward to getting started with quilting, then you are in for special lists of benefits. But, before you start searching for “Quilt classes in my area,” it is better that you know everything about quilting. After all, having the right knowledge on a particular topic will help in the long run.
Quilting fabric online offers a wide selection of high-quality materials, patterns, and designs, catering to quilting enthusiasts seeking convenience and a diverse range of options for their creative projects.
So, without further ado, let’s begin!
1. Learn To Select Fabrics:
Well, it goes without saying, as a quilter, your main focus will be on working with fabrics. So, as a basic introduction, get started with learning how to select the fabrics. If possible, get started with 100% cotton fabric for beginners. And if you are thinking of mixing colors, see to it that all the colors you choose belong to the same color family.
Likewise, if you wish to mix patterns, it is wise to go for mixed variety. Or else, the same size fabrics will make the quilt look very busy.
2. Purchase Beginner-Friendly Tools:
You may typically use a medium-sized rotary cutter during the process. And since the rotary cutter will be the only required device for cutting the fabrics, it isn’t necessary to go for the most expensive and top-of-the-line scissors.
Likewise, when you purchase your first mat, go for 24″ x 36″ size because you require folding only once, making it easy to cut the fabric strips.
Besides, you might want to invest money in items like seam rippers and rulers. Templates can be made out of cardboard, so you can avoid buying high-end templates.
3. Take Inspirations:
You will soon run out of ideas once you get acclimated with quilting. So, it is wise to gather mood boards and inspiration journals for your quilting sessions.
Your magazine clipping, fabric and color swatches, doodles, or even inspirational quotes can prove useful once you start hitting the creative rut.
No matter what things inspire you, it is always better to bookmark them on your phone or click pictures and gather them in your creative space to take inspiration.
4. Start Simple:
Well, we suggest you go slow at the beginning. This is because the complexity of the process sometimes overwhelms people. Get started with something that inspired you to get started with quilting in the first place.
Even if your first inspiration is a bit complex, don’t worry. Quilting is all about patience and showcasing creativity. So, take your time.
If you have nothing to get started, then check online. There are many patterns designed specifically for a beginner. Once you gain experience with simple designs, you can move to intermediate and advanced quilt patterns down the line.
5. Join Quilt Guild:
Well, one of the best ways to share opinions and inspirations is by joining a quilting guild. These guilds can offer insights into the quilting world and open friendship doors too. And since you will find all like-minded people, you gain the benefit of sharing your passion and listening to others too.
Besides, guilds offer educational opportunities to beginners as there are many experienced quilters at the guilds too. Likewise, the guilds are famous for their multiple workshops and demonstrations throughout the year, making it the best place for you to gain valuable knowledge.
But, if you don’t have a guild nearby, opt for quilting classes.
6. Become Friends with Your Local Quilting Shop:
Now that you have started your journey as a quilter, you will require making a stop at a quilting shop more often. And if you are lucky enough to have a shop nearby, you gain the upper hand. This is because quilting shops are a great source of inspiration, education, and, of course, savings.
If possible, purchase huge tools like the machine from your local shop. This is because, as a beginner, you may have many questions on how to get acquainted with the machine. And the local shops take efforts in making the buyers understand, especially more if the buyer is a local.
Besides, many shops offer free classes and advice when purchased from them. The shop owner may also help you choose fabrics and other quilting-specific equipment.
Over to You
So, there you go. These are some important things to take care of before you begin your journey in quilting.
And now, avoid searching “Quilt classes in my area” on Google, instead connect with MJ Kinman, and get started with your dream hobby.