Jumping into something blindly is never easy. Sometimes it just happens that way, but for most of us preparation needs to be involved when trying something new. It gives us a sense of comfort that everything will work out, and helps us feel emotionally ready to take on a challenge. Preparation comes in many different forms like research, practice or talking with others to gain insight. No matter what you are trying, it’s so easy nowadays to make sure you are comfortable.
If you are interested in starting quilting you are not the only one. Recent popularity and trends on TikTok have brought back a resurgence of interest to younger generations. Tackling a craft like these can seem challenging, especially if you do not have any background in sewing or stitching, but that’s okay. Learning a new hobby is all about trial and error, and it’s important to understand the basic steps so you can let your creativity fly.
Here are a few things you need to know as you get started:
#1: You don’t need the most expensive tools
As you begin your quilting journey the best piece of advice is to invest in the basic tools, not the most expensive ones. You need to start out small so that you can master that and then move on to bigger and better things. The essential tools include cotton fabric, a rotary cutter and mat, a clear rule, thread, needles, batting, scissors and seam cutters. All of these will help give you precise cuts, so no matter your skill level your project will look clean.
You might be wondering about a sewing machine, and that could be a good tool to have as well. However starting off, it is not necessary because you can make the perfect project with your own hand stitch. Learning how to stitch on your own will help teach you invaluable skills in the art of quilting. But, if you do decide to invest in a sewing machine, make sure to keep your wallet in mind.
“There’s a huge range of options out there, but focus on what you need. For instance, if you’re mainly piecing projects, a basic straight stitch machine might be all you need. I personally invested a bit more in an industrial straight stitch machine because that’s what I use most, aside from my longarm. Don’t get too caught up in machines that offer a myriad of fancy stitches—you likely won’t use them as much as you think,” says Corey Pearson, Master Quilter and VP of Customer Success at Linda’s.
Another great resource to consider is pre-cut fabric kits or jelly rolls. This will get you on the right foot because you don’t have to spend time making sure your fabric measurements are correct, instead you can begin stitching. This will save you a lot of time, and can be a great stepping stone to get you started.
#2: Ask for help
No matter what project you take on, it’s important to ask for help if you need it. There are so many resources out there, especially with social media that it makes it so easy to get the answers you need right at your fingertips.
On the other side of this, there are so many educated and enthusiastic people that want to help you. Getting to know other peoples experiences or mistakes can help you make different decisions in the future. As a beginner, you are not going to get it perfect right off the bat, so it’s important to reach out and get another perspective. Learning equals listening, so make sure to put yourself out there and get the answers you need. Once you become a professional in the quilting world, other people might come to you for help. What goes around comes around, and asking questions is a normal part of learning something new.
#3: Get out into the community
There is a whole community of quilters on social media for you to get connected with. Not only are they there as a resource to help you expand your skills, they are there to build relationships with like minded people. Having something in common like quilting can help people stay inspired to create and can give people a space to break out of their comfort zone.
“It’s important to surround yourself with a community of fellow quilters, as their stories and experiences are as rich and varied as the quilts we make. Remember, every quilt you make is a reflection of your journey, a piece of art that holds memories, warmth and love. So, take a deep breath, grab your project, and get ready to add beauty to the world, one quilt at a time,” explains Corey.
Quilting can be whatever you want it to be. Having a community to support you when it gets frustrating is a game changer, and makes quilting more than just a hobby. Integrating both quilting and the people who love it into your life can change it in so many ways. You can get to know people on a personal level, and perhaps you will create long-lasting friendships.
The world of quilting is inclusive. You have to have passion and creativity, but no matter your skill level, you are always welcome to join the quilting community. These are just the basic things you need to know as you get started, but as you grow, so will your toolkit.
