Hand Quilting Product

Chenille is a tufted velvety yarn is known as soft or Imitation chenille. It is not very old textile. Ten odd years ago its existence was not common. It existence is not as famously known as that of silk or cotton.

The corporeal is smooth, mild & synthetic. In semblance also it is soft feathery. At present, chenille has its own brightness with numerous qualities. As chenille quilt is a kind of soft cloth with perfect look that's why is excellent to prepare gift quilt, bedspreads & lap quilts. In 1996 designer Christine Bramhall also designed chenille jacket which later on became the talking point of the fashion industry..

LIST OF MATERIAL AND SUPPLIES NEEDED:

* Iron

* International type sewing machine

* Rotary cutter

* Cutting Board

* Sewing needles - International size 12

* Rotary ruler

* Needles

* Stitching machine

* Chenille - colors of your preference

* Cutting Board

* Fabric to make blocks, silk shall be most attractive.

* Pins - Glass Beheaded or plastic make.

* Batting

* Design for chenille quilt

Please follow these instructions:

1. Pre-wash the textile separately. Ensure colors don't fade and the textile doesn't shorten. Then well dry the textile & Iron it later including the sprinkle starch. Be attentive that the textile be completely dry & dense with out wrinkles. Dry clean would be a better option if you can avoid washing.

2. More the layers and varied designs give chenille quilt a royal appearance. It can be used in different ways such as an appliqué pattern or block pattern. Place the base textile on the bottom & layer textile on top. Flat a textile & pin the layers together.

3. On every side stitch 5 or 6 layers of textile together keep away the pins. Later on the stitches are to be detached therefore stitches should be done loosely.

While using block quilt patterns cut the textile as stated and make simple blocks as directed. Don't let to slip from the mind to use the combination of textile while through it with chenille.

4. As the pieces joinsdo lining, batting and quilting as you would for any other quilt. Better to ensure do not quilt above chenille pieces as it looses it's feather with the stitches on it.

5. Put attaching next to the edges using 2.5 inches attaching folded lengthwise. Be careful that never attach chenille. Always use silk as it is permanent and stronger cloth you can also feather the chenille by moderate wash drying with air blow.

Chenille is extent to use, as appearance can be swollen and warmer than normal quilt. They also require additional care like any of your precious things might require. These quilt do not ask for a wash regularly.

Given a chance anybody and everybody would love the idea of having a nap in a warm quilt so why not try making one yourself. Colors are many and materials are like inviting, and by the time you have made one for yourself you shall be happier in more than one way.

First and foremost, those who are beginners and have little knowledge of the techniques involved it is highly recommend that few basic principles or instructions be taken into account so that the process of making a quilt is an experience worth remembering.

1. MAKE IT SIMPLE:

Simplicity can do wonders with your work. Pick a simple design; take cotton, as fabric, cotton threads and material of primary quilt type would vastly improve the rate at which a beginner could grasp the method of making one.

Starters can choose either a simple block design or a bargello design would be ideal this purpose. A fancy and intricate design such as yoyo quilts is something that you try after gaining acquaintance with quilt making. Start with 3-4-color combination and then color mixture can be infinite.

2. DO PREWASH FABRIC:

Prewashing is like - essential. It just makes sure that you do away with fabrics that can later shrink or fabric color possibly fading off. Prewashing allows you to eliminate fabrics that shrink or fade color on washing.

In that case look for prewashed materials. Another important, you should make sure to let the material be completely dried up and ironed out before you kick start the process of cutting the fabric and giving it shape. Material like linens and cottons should prewashed in particular.

3. THE PATTERN CHOICE:

To get your quilt making process of to a hassle free start use simple patterns coupled with a quilt type that supports your simple idea. Again simplicity will help to complete this process easily, although intricate designs have a more appealing ambiance.

As it stands you shall be better off keeping away from trying to make something and ending up with not finishing it at all, the mantra is keep it simple and let that be beautiful.

4. QUILTING STEPS:

Wanting to start is one thing and knowing how to start is all together different propositions, understanding the steps well is therefore a necessity. There are 4 steps involved in quilting basically - layering, binding, piecing, and quilting.

Did you have an idea that quilts are sewed from the middle to outside? The main step is piecing. This forms the top most layer which is the determining pattern. Various parts of fabrics are first put in place and then carefully stitched cohesively to create a predetermined design.

What is a layer? Well making 3 layers joined together is layering, namely top, the underlining and the batting layer. The whole process of quilting requires the stitching of 3 different layers into one single block/piece.

Different methods of stitching can be applied here. Binding is the final step. By binding we mean giving the concluding touch to the quilt, make a nice border to conceal the ragged fabric edges.

Now that you know the requirements as well as the preliminary procedure to build you lovely own quilt I am sure you would like to buy the material and enjoy the experience.

Several times, technique of quilt was seen in grandmother's. But why? It is because they wish their young dear ones grand children also to enjoy the luxury and affection of the smooth home made quilts.

Hence the lives stock are complete of factory made quilt and they are also providable as there is no substitute of the attachment that is entwine in each and every stitch grandma's acquire.

I heartedly love keeping eyes fixed on sweet young ones in gentle, soft cloth and dashing quilt. Baby quilt are not bounded only to grandmother, mother's, uncles & aunts and but anyone can give quilt to a baby. If you set up your mind and would like to learn baby quilt making these instructions are to be followed -

1. Keep in mind intentionally to use unmixed materials, though synthetic materials are used in pieces, do not neglect lining is to be made of soft cotton, as baby's skin is delicate and synthetic fabric causes reactions.

2. Exclude use textile of twilled cotton and worn off clothes.

3. Use stubborn textile and fast color, it needs quick wash.

4. Take more batting than ordinary. It benefits in keeping the baby cozy.

Now the problem arises how to prepare a baby quilt. All over it is not a troublesome thing. If you have prior experience then it is just a routine project with varieties of measurements. The person who has not done the quilting I'd suggest

REQUIREMENTS:

* Material for piecing and lining
* Spray starch
* Rotary ruler
* Scissors
* Rotary cutter
* Needles
* Sewing needles
* Sewing machine
* Threads
* Cutting Board
* Iron
* Pins could be plastic make or glass beaded.
* Batting
* Pattern for baby quilt

Techniques For Baby Quilt :

1. Buy 3 yards of cotton, select coordinating colors and designs. Mix solid color properties with eachother, this combination can be done in printed as well as on even color. Nursery prints are remarkable to sew baby quilt. Purchase all the other stock you require.

2. Pre-wash the textile separately. Be convinced that the colors are fast and textile do not shorten. Then well dry the textile & Iron it later including the sprinkle starch. Be attentive that the textile be completely dry & dense with out wrinkles.

3. As the pieces joined do batting, quilting in the common way as you'd desire for other quilts.

4. Join the quilt around to make it attractive; you can also use silk ribbons around the binding.

Baby quilts are important to prepare, as there can be several kinds of quilts for this aspirations. Yoyo's picture quits, appliqués all seems attractive including baby quilt, attempt making a block quilt with a sequence of yoyo's all over the border as before the binding fabric.

Quilting is a hobby enjoyed my many people. It is not a strenuous activity, making it appropriate for those of all ages to enjoy. Many older people like to create quilts for their children and grandchildren. These creations are often seen as keepsakes and can be passed down through the generations. Some families still have quilts that are over 100 years old. Quilt making supplies can be found in abundance at any craft or hobby store.

There are many quilting supplies that you will need to get started on your new hobby. The good thing is, these items tend to be inexpensive, and can be purchased as you go. Many of them can be purchased in bulk as well, so you will get a good deal of value in your purchases. You can then reuse the items each time you make a new quilt, making the interest even more affordable. The most common tools you will need to have in order to begin your masterpiece are thread, needles, and a thimble.

Several colors of thread should be purchased in the beginning. Also, you should always keep an abundance of the more neutral colors such as black and white in your sewing kit. Needles range in sizes and uses. If you plan to sew the quilt by hand, you will need quilting needles. Be sure to have extras on hand. There are also needles made specifically for sewing machines. A few of these should also be kept in the event that a needle breaks while you are quilting. A thimble, the other necessary item, keeps your finger from being pierced by the needles.

Other quilt making supplies can be bought that will make it easier for you to participate in your hobby. Scissors are necessary to cut the required size of fabric for your project. A fabric marker and ruler can also be useful in helping you make precise cuts. If you are making several quilts in a short period of time, a rotary cutter and cutting mat can benefit you. These quilting supplies work in unison to cut several pieces of material at once, saving you time.

As you can see, quilting is a relaxing interest enjoyed by many, young and old. There are many quilt making supplies available. It really just depends on how easy you want the task to be. A needle, some thread, and a thimble are enough to get your started. Consider how serious you are about your new interest before investing too much money into it. If you plan to continue the hobby for a long period of time, it would be ideal to invest in many of the quilting supplies that will make the job simpler for you.

This is the fun part of all quilt-making techniques. You can engrave the entire world on these quilts. Appliqué quilt are the quilts that represent certain time in memory.

These quilts can be easy as well as hard to make, hard because there is no certain pattern that you have to follow so those who are accustomed to copying certain patterns will find it hard to do while those who are creative and let imaginations guide their work will find this pattern fun to do.

Another great advantage of appliqué quilts is that they are inexpensive to make as material required is sourced from scrap like things, and the patterns are not defined or limited any mixture of patterns can result in a appliqué quilt.

Appliqué quilt making in its process teaches you all the other methods of quilt making as well. Be it stuffing batting in for creating 3-D effects , or yoyo quilts, embroidery designs or picture quilts all these methods can be learnt and perfected while learning the art of appliqué quilts. And in all this the fun part will always be there.

These quilts could be used by anyone, for a newborn baby or young kids or something you like to use to comfort your pets. Itching to learn this quilt type, well here is the method.

Normal Stitching Machine

* Sewing needles - Common size 12

* Iron

* Cutting Board

* Rotary ruler

* Spray starch

* Rotary Cutter

* Needles

* fabrics as per preference of color or scraps of fabrics.

* Pattern for appliqué quilt

* Quilt batting

* Pins- beaded head

* Fabric for lining or backpack

* Some decorative material and pictures

Learn The Art Of Applique Quilt Making :

1) Readying the fabric: You must pre-wash the material. This will ensure that color is not lost or material doesn't shrink later on. Let the material get dried up fully and then iron it firmly. The material should be sans any wrinkles.

2) Cutting of fabric: Choice of pattern could be customary or your own unique one. My idea at the first experience was a black color background and with a printed flower fabric that I cut to add to the black fabric.

So it won't be a bad if you would like to replicate my idea to make your appliqué quilt, girls especially would like it. If have some other pattern in mind then start with that pattern.

3) Build a Block: Take all the square you have and stitch them into a large square. If you have a guidebook or whatever ensure the instructions are followed as written. These steps indicated here is a general step-by-step procedure for all.

4) Piecing: Take all blocks and sew them till you have in hand the size of your quilt. Here in you can add a few decorative thing like old ornaments or fancy bookmarks that will enhance the beauty of the quilt.

5) Batting: Put your batting material over the piecing. The upper side of piecing should be one on one with the mat while the side stitched should run besides the batting. Then put selected lining material above it. Batting is available in different types and thinkness, select one that suits your fabric the best.

6) Quilting: Once done you have 3 different layers with you, stitch all these 3 layers with one another using a sewing machine. Like said before a lot can be done with pattern variations but sticking to a basic easy pattern is advisable for starters to begin with.

When you decide to do any hobby or craft you will need to ensure that you purchase the correct equipment. This will not only ensure that you are doing the best job you can but it will also make your job easier to do. When you are quilting you will need to know you're quilting needle sizes so that you can select the correct one for the job. Whether you are quilting by hand or using a machine this knowledge is very important, what quilt needles you will need to purchase and use can save you time and money.

When you are quilting whether it be for your own pleasure or as a business your time is very important to you. By ensuring that you have the correct equipment this will save you time in the long run, you will be able to achieve more and to a higher standard. There are so many different quilting needle sizes that for a beginner it can be very daunting. You will be presented with quilt needles, embroidery, denim, topstitch and metallic needles. All of which are very important when you are quilting and they all have a different purpose.

Often you will make mistakes because of selecting the wrong quilt needles for the job in hand and these problems could be avoided if you made a better choice. Bad tension, skipped stitches, and thread breaking will all be caused by using the wrong quilting needle sizes. You will have to look at what thread you are using for the job and then decide which needle would be suited to the job. If the thread is too thick then you will need to select a different quilt needle as this will make your life easier. The needle that you choose needs to be suited to the thread and the job you are doing.

If you research well then you will be able to find out all the information you require on the correct sizes and types of quilt needles which are needed. Although you will still make some mistakes if you can avoid too many then this will help, you will produce top quality quilts every time. Although the needle seems like a very simple piece of equipment it is an essential part in ensuring that your quilting is done to its best. They do range from very delicate and small to very heavy duty needles and all of the quilting needle sizes have a different job.

If you are experiencing problems with your quilting then changing the needle is the first thing to do, something so simple may change your whole outlook on your project. If you are finding it easier to quilt then you will be enjoying it more, when you enjoy things then you produce the best work. If you purchase the best quilt needles and use the correct size every time then you will be able to produce excellent quilts for friends and family. When you become more confident then you can begin to sell them and turn your hobby into a business.

Predominantly quilts that fit the size of your lap are termed as lap quilts, lap quilts are comfy, soft and tender felt. Laps quilts are similar to those like a bed quilts just the size is smaller.

If you like yours to be that extra bit cozier you can simply do that by adding more batting but as a precaution prewash the fabric, find the right fabric and do iron it if it is cotton so as to compress the batting.

If the material is a wash & wear type then iron is not a must as the fabric will not get furrowed and craggy on washing. Here below is the list of instructions to be followed while making a lap quilt.

TOOLS AND SUPPLIES THAT ARE REQUIRED:

* Customary sewing machine

* Spray starch

* Rotary cuter

* Embroidery needles - general size 12

* Iron

* Needles

* Cutting mat

* Quilt batting

* Fabric in 4 colors or 4 shades.

* Pins- beaded head

* Design for block quilt

* Rotary ruler

Instructions For Making Lap Quilt

1. Buy 3 yards of blended cotton fabric (Wash and Wear). Harmonize colors and patterns. Play with color combinations as you please, pick your favourite pink color or have blue outlines also make sure your you have all other supplies stored before hand.

2. We recommend Prewash of fabrics as a necessity. As some fast color may go dull or even rub on to your quilt later on so prewash it and let get dried completely, there are chances of the fabric shrinking too.

Dry up the fabric and then proceed to iron the material once you have sprayed starch to it. Take extra care of keeping the fabric absolutely dry and hard sans wrinkles.

3. Thereafter, on a place mat lay the fabrics one over the other like a heap. With the use of a scale slice nearly 150, 3 and half inch by 3 and half inch squares applying a rotary cutter. All the squares you cut should be of similar dimensions and importantly without edging or irregular.

4. Now decide the pattern of the quilt and lay the squares that way. Permit for 10 strings of 15 squares. Arrange the cut material (squares) for each particular string in different plies.

5. First stitch each string of those squares thus making individual rows. 1/4-inch seams are then to be stitched. Iron the joints smoothly. Thereafter stitch the entire individual rows as one and you should have in hand a ten by fifteen square quilt.

6. Take your selected batting material and put it over the piecing. Place the piecing in such a manner that the upper side is facing the mat while the side that has stitches visible should face the batting. Next, put your lining fabric on it.

7. Once that is done, we have three things, the batting, the piecing and the lining fabric. Your task shall be to stitch them all or co join them using a sewing machine. Experimentation with different design patterns should be avoided at a beginner's stage.

8. Spruce surplus batting by cutting the side threads or nets of the quilt. Pin casing to the border of that quilt on all the corners stretching on the outer side. A sewing machine can be used to sew the binding. Extra threading can be cut away.

As the weekend sets in I am sure you'd like to relax in front of the television, enjoying your favourite programming with your cozy lap quilt to warm you.

A patchwork quilt is made by piecing together quilt blocks in order to create a specific design. However because of the advances in the techniques used for producing quilts (quilting) a person can now choose just how they actually put these pieces of material together.

However one thing is certain, which is that in order to produce a good quality patchwork quilt a person needs to be accurate when they are carrying out the work. Unfortunately it only takes one mistake in one of the blocks and this will soon be repeated throughout the rest of them. So it is important that before you start to make your main quilt you make a sample block first and then measure it. If you discover it is not the size you were looking for then you will need to figure out just where exactly the error has occurred. Look and see if the threads are too wide or narrow along the seams. If they are, then you need to clip them and restitch.

There are various ways in which you can piece a patchwork quilt together and we will now take a look at these below. But what is important is that you piece each block together one at a time.

1. Hand Piecing

This method gives your quilt a hand made look which often gets lost when a person is producing a quilt on their machine. So it really is a case of you sitting there and pinning each block together and then sewing them up just one block at a time. It may take longer than other methods but the finished product will be something that you treasure and truly appreciate in the future.

2. Machine Piecing

This method allows you to produce a patchwork quilt much quicker, and it does help to ensure that the quilt you produce stays in one piece once completed no matter how many times you wash it. However in the beginning you may find this method difficult but as time goes by and you become more practiced in the art of machine quilting you will soon find that the quilts you produce look just as good as those made by hand.

Certainly whichever method you choose to use in order to produce your patchwork quilt will depend on the type of person that you are. If you are someone who is dedicated and willing to spend months or even years producing a quilt, then hand piecing is probably the best solution for you. However if you are someone who would like to have the finished article on their bed in a matter of days, then machine piecing is probably the best method to choose.

Selecting fabric for a quilting project can be as much fun as doing the job itself. Even though to quilters select the same quilt pattern, different options of fabric will make each quilt unique. Most quilter's like using fabric that is 100 % cotton because they're easier to sew, mark, press and hand quilt. If you are trying to find fabric in a quilt shop you will seldom find fabric that is not pure cotton. Fabrics will likewise probably be arranged consistent with colors and print types.

With more experienced fabrics apart from cotton might be additional for variety. Not all fabrics are suitable still. If you are using an unique fabric for the initially, or want to make use of various types of fabrics together, try a small test block first. Fabrics of a medium density, with a regular weave work well. Loosely woven fabrics are prone to distortion, as are stretch fabrics. Silk, lightweight wool and some plastics may be employed with seasoned.

Both the color and tone of the fabric you opt will influence the overall effect of the pattern that you opt for. Tone may be used to create depth and interest with greater effect than when using color alone. Good planning is essential to reach the sought after look.

Color is greatly suffering from the colors approximately it. Using contrasting colors will make bits of a quilt block place upright out from one another. Combing certain warm colors like reds, yellows and oranges, in a similar quilt block as cool colors like blues, greens or violets, will make them look more vivid.

Combining fabrics with various print scales and types can add visual texture to your quilt. Interesting visual effects might be achieved by using colors of graduated values. Printed cotton fabrics are accessible in lot of designs and types including batiks, homespun plaids and florals, tiny-grained prints that seem as if solids, reproduction prints, and soft flannels. Solid-color fabrics become just about every color, shade and tint that you are able to imagine.

Quilt blocks created from fabrics of the same or various shades of one color, but of contrasting textures can create pleasing results. Fabrics with a nap such as velvet, or fabrics with sheen like taffeta also provide interest.

Whatever fabric you opt for your quilting project, you need to prepare it the right way before you start. Most cotton fabrics shrink when they're washed and dried. If you don't preshrink your fabric before you make your quilt, the fabrics may pucker at the stitching lines and the finished product may shrink in size the initially it is washed.

To avoid this wash all fabrics first in a washing machine on a short gentle cycle. Use cool or warm but never hot water. You may make use of a mild detergent, but it is not necessary unless the fabric is soiled. Wash like colors together just in case they are not colorfast. Machine dry the fabric and press it with an iron. You are now ready to begin your job.

All quilting kits for beginners will have certain tools that are essential and certain tools that might fall into the category of a luxury.

This article will first be concerned with those beginners quilting tools that are absolutely mandatory if you are to grow and thrive as a quilter. In a later article we will discuss the "luxury" tools.

The Necessities: Pins, Needles and Thread

It goes without saying that you will need basic sewing gear to start your quilting. Forget any form of polyester threads. This kind of thread is simply not soft enough for quilting. Stick with cotton thread. Use very thin needles with very large heads. You should also obtain long straight pins to hold your pieces together.

Rotary Cutter

This is an absolute must if you want to finish your quilting pieces before the next ice age sets in. The great advantage of a good rotary cutter is that it allows you to make precision patchwork shaping cuts accurately and fast. Quilting shops will have a wide variety of these essential tools. Get one and learn how to use it.

Rotary Mat

If you are using a rotary cutter, you must have a rotary mat to protect your work surface. These mats are "self healing" in the sense that they won't permanently tear when a rotary cutter is run over them to cut fabric. The material even has properties to help keep your rotary cutter blade sharp. A 24 X 18 inch mat should be good enough to start, but if you are ambitious, you could go for the 24 X 36 inch size.

Rulers

Transparent rulers do more than just measure fabric. They are also designed to grip the material while you cut. You must have a 6 X 24 inch ruler, and a 12 1/2 inch square ruler.

Scissors

The rotary cutter is not appropriate for all quilting tasks. Occasionally you will need scissors to cut fabric. Start with a single pair of scissors and gradually you will learn that different size scissors are best for different jobs. You can accumulate specialized scissors that you are most comfortable with as you gain experience.

Ironing

You will need an iron and ironing board to press your quilting patterns. Nothing special is required here - just a standard iron will be fine.

Design Wall

You should fasten a large piece of quilt batting or a large piece of flannel to the wall. You can use this as your "design wall" to pin your quilting pieces to. You will find this useful as a way to step back from your work and take a good look at it.

Strongly Recommended: A Simple Sewing Machine

If you are a hand quilting purist, you won't need a sewing machine to start, but eventually you will find it mandatory to produce straightforward simple stitching. If you don't already have a sewing machine you can pick up a simple used model practically anywhere. Check out Craigslist for some good deals. Fancy models are not needed as your main requirement will be simple straight stitches.

When you require quilting, there are many notions, or items that will make your project easier and more fun. These specialty items are for sale online, in craft shops, large stores and quilt shops. While not all are necessary, they really do enter handy.

Metal-edged rulers are employed when creating templates and when reducing cardboard and fabric with a rotary cutter or knife.

Metre rules are employed with set squares to cut lengths of fabric.

Set squares are utilized to measure accurate right angles and are utilized with metre rules to cut lengths of fabric.

Tape measures are flexible measuring tools used for measuring lengths of fabric.

Pair of compasses are used for drawing circles.

Vanishing markers crate special marks that will fade on contact with water.

Dressmaker's wheels and chalk are used to directly mark fabric. The chalk will disregard.

Dressmaker's scissors and shears are used for cutting fabric only.

Paper scissors are employed for cutting paper.

Embroidery scissors are small, sharp and often decorative scissors that are used in quilting to cut thread and trim fabric.

Pinking shears have serrated blades. They are used to create decorative edges and stop fraying.

Rotary cutters are utilized with a cutting mat. They are great for cutting multiple pieces that're precisely the same, simultaneously. Rotary cutters are accessible in different sizes. Small cutters work best for cutting curves and a few layers of fabric. Large cutters cut many layers at an occasion and are ideal for cutting long straight furrows.

Cutting mats are made specially for the application with rotary cutters. They protect both the tabletop and the blade. Mats with printed grids are of help for cutting right angles.

Quilter's needles are used for hand sewing applique and patchwork. Betweens are employed for making smaller stitches.

Crewel needles are used for working embroidery stitches.

Quilting pins are longer than dressmaker's pins and pass across several layers of fabric easily.

Security pins are now and again employed in basting quilt blocks together.

Beeswax is applied to quilting thread before stitching so that the thread passes smoothly through the fabric.

Thimbles are essential for hand quilting. They are used to push the needle through several layers of fabric straight away. Many styles are for sale. Some quilters and sewers collect thimbles.

Unpickers-or rippers are utilized to get rid of stitches.

Irons are employed for pressing patchwork seams and to get rid of wrinkles from fabric.

Embroidery hoops are employed while quilting. Wooden frames are usually used for hand quilting. Plastic frames with metal spring closures are used for machine quilting.

Ribbon may be familiar with embellish applique or crazy patchwork. It will probably be employed to edge a border. Ribbon may well be velvet, satin or manmade material.

I've found a lot of different kinds of batting at the store. How do I know what is the best type for my quilting project?

Batting comes in various materials including 100% cotton, 100% polyester, a combination of the two, wool and silk. Wool and silk are extremely expensive and not usually used in average quilting projects. If you are machine quilting, then 100% cotton is a good choice. For hand quilting, I recommend a mixed of 20% Polyester and 80% cotton with a thin glaze of polyester on each side. This helps prevent batting separation in the wash, and fibers popping up through small holes in the fabric after the quilt is completed.

I'm using a cotton batting, but I'm concerned that it will shrink when I wash the quilt. Can you pre-wash cotton batting?

Yes. Both cotton and wool batting will shrink at least 3 inches so pre-washing is a smart idea. Fill your top loading washing machine with water (no soap), then turn it off, and push the batting down into the water until it's all submerged and let it sit for about 15 minutes. After the time has passed set your machine to spin and drain. DO NOT AGITATE! When the tub is drained, dry the batting in your dryer using the Permanent Press setting.

My neighbor gave me some batting that she's been storing for years, and when I took it out of the bag there were fold lines all across it. How can I remove those?

Simply toss the wrinkled batting in the dryer on air fluff for about ten minutes. This works with any type of batting.

What does it mean to piece a quilt?

A quilt is made up of three basic layers, the backing which is often a solid sheet of fabric, the batting which is placed in the center, and the top which is the front of the finished quilt. The top can be formed in many different ways. It can be as simple as a single sheet of fabric or made up of various shapes of patterns of material sewn together. It can also be a combination of square blocks that have been embroidered or appliquéd individually.

Piecing a quilt is the process where various shapes of fabric are cut and sewn together in a pattern or design. All the seams are on the back side and the finished top is approximately the size of the finished quilt.

I'm making a king size quilt but I can't find a piece of fabric wide enough for the backing, and I don't want a seam running down the middle. What can I do?

You can purchase Wide Quilt Backing fabric, 108" - 118", large enough to back a king size quilt without piecing. Check with your local fabric store or search 'Wide Quilt Backing Fabric' online.

I'm not sure how big my quilt needs to be to fit my Queen-size bed. Any ideas?

If you have access to the bed your quilt will be used for, measure the length and width, and don't forget the depth. New mattresses, many with pillow toppers, are much thicker than mattresses use to be. The following is a list of standard sizes to get you going.

Congratulations! You finished your baby quilt top. The fabric and colors are superb and match perfectly with the baby's new room. Now it is time to do the hand quilting. But the dilemma is in choosing the perfect design. After the hours and time spent on the baby quilt top, the design of the hand quilting must be just right. But where to start?

The quilting design should follow the style and pattern of the new quilt top:

1. Place your baby quilt top on the design wall and study or analyze it for the elements of design.

2. Decide the amount of usage the baby quilt will receive and how often it will be cleaned or laundered. If the project will be a wall hanging, more intricate patterns could be considered as opposed to a child's personal blanket that will be well-loved.

3. Considered your time. The more intricate the pattern, the more time will be needed to complete your baby quilt and the more visually exciting the designs will become. If time is a factor, cross-hatch grids, quilting in the ditch, or outlining stitch are effective for holding the layers together.

4. The type of fabric in your baby quilt top will also determine the type of quilting design you should choose. Large or busy prints require a simpler design quilt top. On the solid colors or tone-on-tones, a decorative featured wreath or floral motif is perfect to show off that baby quilt.

5. The quilter's expertise in hand quilting must be considered. Stick to the simple patterns of outline quilting, straight lines or grids.

6. As a hand quilter, stencil and patterns will allow you to bring a design onto your baby quilt. These can be purchased commercially or traced from any pattern around the house. Freezer paper also makers wonderful and inexpensive templates. Cut out and press the freezer paper on to your fabric. Trace and stitch around the shape. Peel off and reuse.

Every inch of your quilt top does not have to be stitched. Strive to keep a balance in the quilting throughout.

Find a theme in the fabric design and repeat this in your quilting pattern of your baby quilt top. This creates a feeling of unity and can be used to enhance the applique or patchwork of your quilt top.

Quilting has been a time honored and centuries-old tradition in many countries spanning the globe. There is no surprise it is still popular today and as each generation takes up quilting, more variations emerge and are passed on to enjoy.

Though quilting was initially carried out to provide warmth and protection, today's quilts have become pieces of art as well as treasured heirlooms. Some have been passed down throughout family and other collected at auctions and flea markets. The have a timeless beauty of their own.

Aside from serving its purpose as a blanket, a quilt can be a perfect gift for a new bride or a new mother. Many cultures today provide hand crafted quilt's as gifts to new brides on their wedding day as a rite of passage. Many quits are displayed on racks or walls and used as art. They can provide a sense of comfort to just about any space.

The Typical Quilting Process

During a standard quilting process, three layers are used. These include the top fabric or quilt top, the insulating material called the batting, and the backing material. It can be done by hand or by machine. The top normally consists of a pattern that has been carefully pieced together usually in block form. When the block is completed, all pieces are sewn together and the middle and backing are them attached to form the blanket.

A hand quilter will use a frame or a hoop to keep all pieces together while using a variety of basic running stitches in and out of each piece while stretched taut. It's at this point where details are sewn with as little or as much as the quilter prefers. From the outlining of patterns to hand stitching every petal of every flower in each block. This is time consuming but often the most rewarding part of quilting.

Machine quilting on the other hand, involves a sewing machine to sew the pieces together. In very much the same way, layers of fabric are stacked together, laid-out, batted and backed on a flat surface. They are pinned and the pieces are then moved through a sewing machine. This can be done in block form as in hand quilting or as a large piece. Again, the details are determined on the style preferred and the quilter's experience. This is a much faster process than the hand quilting and often a good place for a beginner to learn with quick results.

Quilting Today

Today, quilters use several designs and styles in their own pieces. Some are imitation from ancient designs. Some have an ethnic effect. Some are either modern or post-modern-inspired styles. There are many to choose from and in all degrees of complexity.

There are even specialty shops where classes can be held for the novice to the old hand. Where you can use existing patterns or have one created especially for you. You can learn to use strips of fabric from special garments from the past and embellish with new pieces from today for a one of a kind quilt.

Quilting can be done by oneself or enjoyed in a group setting. However you choose, you will find it immensely rewarding. Where your creativity can be expressed in designs and patterns.

Hand Tying A Quilt

The first method of quilting to consider is hand tying a quilt. This is often considered the easy option but it can actually become a design feature of the quilt.

This is naturally a hand quilting option so the first thing is to thread your needle with suitable thread. Ordinary sewing thread would not be strong enough. Many embroidery threads would be too thick and would risk putting holes in your quilt (quite apart from being very difficult to pull through) so you need to use something in the medium range of threads. Personally I use about 3 or 4 strand embroidery thread. Deciding on the colour is a matter of choosing whether you want the knots to blend in with your quilt top or stand out from it.

Having threaded your needle, then, pull the thread so that the ends are level with each other and you will be sewing with double thread. Push your needle through from the top of the quilt and bring it up again about 1/4 inch from where the needle went down. Push the needle down again through the first point and bring it up again through the second point. This extra step to create an anchoring stitch is not essential but I find that it helps to strengthen the knot.

Pull through to leave about 2 inches of thread at the end. Cut the thread 2 inches from the quilt top and tie a double knot with the ends. Trim the threads if wished, but no closer than 1/2 inch from the quilt top or you will weaken the knot. That is honestly all there is to it, but now you have to think about where to put the next knot.

Some types of batting only require quilting every 8", but I feel safer with about 4" gaps between quilting. You could tie the knots near the corners of your patchwork quilt blocks or use them to make a design within your quilt blocks.

As you become more experienced at hand tying a quilt, you will find that it is possible not to cut the thread after each knot but keep making knots leaving loops of thread between each knot. Then when you have come to the end of the thread you can go back and snip between the stitches and tie the knots.

Ribbon Quilting

The second method of quilting is ribbon quilting which is a personal favourite of mine. Choose a ribbon that is only about 1/4" wide and one that does not have a texture that would be ruined by sewing on it, such as velvet, or one that has a design of pictures or something that would not be helped by having stitches running along the length of it. I usually choose a simple satin ribbon and let the colour provide the interest factor.

This method of quilting can best be used on smaller items such as bags and baby or lap quilts. Cream coloured satin ribbon on a brown bag or pink satin ribbon on a white baby quilt can look absolutely stunning.

Having layered and basted your three layers of quilt top, batting and backing fabric, use a fabric marker to mark straight lines on the quilt top. These might be in the form of cross hatching, chevrons, or even just diagonal lines on one diagonal only. Experiment.

Begin sewing in a corner or on the edge of a central line. Place the ribbon on top of the quilt top with the edge of the ribbon extending out a little beyond the edge of the quilt. Set your machine to zig zag with maximum stitch width and length and sew the ribbon to the quilt following the marked line carefully. At the end of the line, cut the ribbon a little past the end of the quilt and begin the next line of ribbon quilting. Always sew the lines in the same direction as each other or you may end up with some puckering of the quilt top or backing.

When you have finished sewing ribbon along all the marked quilting lines, sew a line of zigzag all round the edge of the quilt top to secure the ends of the ribbon to prevent fraying. Then continue with either binding if it's a quilt or sewing the seams if it's a bag that you are making.

Quilting Techniques

These are just two of an almost infinite number of ways of quilting your quilt. One of them is hand quilting and the other is machine quilting, but both provide a really interesting finish to your quilt without taking up an inordinate amount of time.

The exact origins of quilting are unknown, though it is believed that it may be traced to the Middle East as early as the Egyptian First Dynasty. Surviving examples of quilting are seen in tomb statues and manuscript illuminations of quilted armor. Scrapbooking and quilting are each two-billion-dollar industries, and patchwork and quilting are both enjoying a huge resurgence in popularity around the world, particularly in the United States and Japan. Sewing and quilting are hobbies that never go out of style.

Sewing Machines, Sergers, Quilting Machines, And Embroidery Machines

Today's sewing machines give us the ability to work on larger quilts with more intricate custom designs. Their bobbins have more than double the capacity of older sewing machines, which helps in not changing bobbins as often with other home quilting machines. Prewound bobbins are compatible with most home and industrial machines and longarm quilting machines.

There are many beginner patterns to get you started quilting, and gives you thousands of free quilt patterns to choose from. All over the internet are a few basic, popular patterns which beginners can easily master and become more comfortable with quilting. With a little searching, you will find several types of patterns that you can use to enhance your machine quilting at home.

Quilter's Curved Needles

What machine needles are you looking for, and how many? The most likely needles to come in a box of 100 are quilting needles. 'Betweens' are shorter needles, good for detailed handwork, such as fine stitching on heavy fabric, as in tailoring. John James Needles are a favorite because of their high quality. Embroidery and metallic needles are each designed for use with specific thread - embroidery floss and metallic thread respectively. You are going to want to take stock and organize your needles and put them all in one place.

Many people have lost interest in knitting because the patterns and possibilities of quilting are much more appealing. The assembling of the fabric pieces into an artistic design, the coordination of colors, and the workmanship of the construction and quilting are just part of the fun. Many have forgotten that patchwork and quilting are two different and distinct crafts and only over the last hundred or so years have merged together. New quilters, quilters with years of experience, hand quilters and or machine quilters, all produce beautiful works through this enjoyable, relaxing, and highly artistic hobby.

So, having decided to hand quilt your project, how do you find the right quilting design?

Your own quilt design: This is undoubtedly the first place to look for inspiration. If your quilt contains some heart piecing, then consider quilting hearts into the background filler. For a Christmas project, try using holly leaves or Christmas trees in your designs. If you are not happy with your own drawing, children's colouring books can often provide the template for your design.

Antique quilts: A wonderful source of inspiration. Visit museums, look on the internet, look in books based on antique quilts. Several designs stand out as being common to lots of these quilts:

* Clamshell: the quarter circle interlocking design can be used as background filler quilting

* Feathers: more often small, rounded feathers used in clusters

* Cross hatch: lines running both diagonal directions either as squares or as diamonds to

* Single, double or triple lines: these are often used around the outside of the pattern of the patchwork accentuate the pattern, or they could be in diminishing sizes inside the pattern

* Ropes and chevrons: used in the borders or sashing

* Fans: depending on the size, anywhere in the main body of the quilt design

Contemporary quilts: Much of the above still applies, but often with more complex designs. When I go to a quilt exhibition I am usually totally enthralled by the quilting on the exhibited quilts and find I get lots of ideas from these.

Nature: Leaves, flowers, spider webs, the bark of trees, the fossil markings on a stone: all of these can be used as inspiration for repetitive quilting designs, but in addition the overall picture of nature can throw up lots of ideas. Look at how the leaves on that branch form a pattern, or those water lilies spread across the pond. Perhaps it's the flowers all down a stem that catch your attention. All of these can be incorporated into your hand quilting design.

Observe the world around you: Here in the UK we are spoiled for choice with all the wonderful old buildings with their amazing stone work, statues, gargoyles and the like. If you can't take photos (often not allowed in churches) you can always draw the designs you like or even take a brass rubbing. Look at the stained glass windows, the wrought iron fencing and gates around you. Some brickwork in an unusual design? Draw it. These patterns can often be used as inspiration for both the piecing of a quilt and the quilting itself.

Which hand quilted patterns were stitched into American quilts made in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries? Nine common patterns seen by this quilt historian are described here.

1. Clamshell is one of the earliest patterns. They were stitched allover the top on whole cloth and patchwork quilts or as the background between other quilting patterns.
2. Feathers were most common on pre-Civil War fancy and elaborate quilts which were used on special occasions, or given as a gift. The feather was not shaped like a bird's long pointed feathers; they were short like a flower petal, and rounded at the end. Feathered designs were stitched in a variety of motifs such as a garland, wreath, pineapple, and heart. Feathered designs were commonly used on red and green appliqué quilts made in the middle years of the 19th century and on Colonial Revival style appliqué quilts made in the 20th Century before the second World War.

3. Hanging diamonds were squares on point, often used in conjunction with feathered patterns. They could be large or small in size. They were stitched around appliquéd pieces to hold the batting on place and fill in the background areas of the quilt. After the Civil War the size of the handing diamond increased and it became the sole quilting pattern on some patchwork quilts. Larger size diamonds are found on vintage quilts.

4. Another common choice for an all over pattern patchwork and utilitarian quilts is
a square grid. As the allover pattern, the squares were large to larger in size. As the background pattern, they were smaller depending on the patchwork or appliquéd pattern. Here again, a special quilt received smaller grids, which filled the empty areas to hold the batting and layers together well.

5&6. Cables and chevrons were stitched into borders and sashing strips. Cables were connected curved "S" shapes running vertically down a border or sashing. Chevron's were straight lines forming "V's" filling the width of the border in a zigzag shape. One, two, and three lines decreasing in size formed the cables and chevrons. Both century's quilt makers used these two patterns.

7. Single and Double parallel lines were usually quilted on the diagonal across the entire quilt or just in the borders. Pre-Civil War quilts could have triple parallel lines, stitched close together in the background areas around appliqués and in the borders. In the late nineteenth century, women also quilted lines across the appliquéd pieces. Single and double lines, spaced further apart than earlier quilts, were stitched in vintage era quilts.

8. Fan quilting is also called elbow quilting because the quilter used the reach from her elbow to her fingers to make the arch or fan shape. Methodist Fan and Baptist Fan have been popular names for the fan too, because it was fast and easy pattern for a group of church women to stitch around a large quilting frame. In England the fan is called waves. The pattern was common later in the last quarter of the 19th and first half of 20th century quilts, and especially popular in the Southern and southern Midwestern states. The fan was mostly used on everyday quilts.

9. The one-quarter inch inside the seam stitching was sometimes referred to as "quilting by the piece" or "in the piece" reflecting exactly how it appeared. This pattern was used occasionally from the mid-nineteenth century on, never being a common pattern until the late 20th century.

The history of hand quilting was written by all women who have dedicated their time, passion and skills in creating true masterpieces from simple pieces of fabric and thread. Those women were building something marvelous and timeless every time they stitched one piece of textile to another, one memory along all the others. This is the true meaning of hand quilting: the more work you put in it, the more valuable your quilt will be.

If we make a short trip back in time, in the 18th or 19th century, we will find out how different the women of those times were living. Practically, a woman had to know how to make herself lots of necessary things for daily house activities, such as clothes, bed linens, cooked food, quilts and even soap. They did not have the facilities that modern women have today, like linen stores, restaurants and supermarkets. The modern technology made possible for today's women to spare their already busy schedule for things like hand quilting.

Hand quilting was a tradition in the 18th and 19th century, not just a hobby as many of you might think. All mothers were teaching their daughters the secrets and the complicated techniques of hand quilting. Generation after generation, this passion was transmitted and taught, keeping it alive and improving with time. The material proof of hand quilting were the quilts, every one unique in its own way, and truly representing the spirit of one's family for generations, passed from grandmothers to mothers, and from mothers to daughters, in a strong and continuous line of dedicated women.

Quilts represented a great way to imprint and keep alive the ancient traditions, the family's spiritual heritage. Every quilt had a story; it was not made just to keep warm in cold winter nights. The hard work of hand quilting had a higher purpose: to enchant the eye with exquisite patterns, to be functional for the entire family and to say the story to the following generations.
If you decide though to follow the original technique of hand quilting instead of using the modern technology, you will need a lot of practice. You will see that in time, your technique will gradually improve and you can obtain a unique hand made quilt.

Usually, the quilts are made from cotton, but you can use any kind of fabric you have or any combinations. Cotton is recommended because it does not stretch and can be easily ironed. After you decide what kind of textures you will use, you must prepare them. Wash them in luke warm water with a light detergent to remove the color excess and to avoid the shrinking.
If the colors bleed, use for the quilt only fabrics with similar colors. You can combine successfully the colors in a quilt if you use fabrics with different nuances, dark colors and accents of another color used in the quilt.

The quilt is like a sandwich formed by three lairs: the front lair, the middle lair and the back lair. The front lair is the decorative one and it is realized from pieces of fabric sawed in an artistic and creative manner in blocks, than the blocks are assembled together. The middle lair gives the warmth and the thickness of the quilt and can be made from cotton, polyester or wool. The backside of the quilt is usually made from a single textile piece or it can be assembled from many decorative blocks, such as the front.

Hand quilting requires some additional tools: a pair of scissors, number 8 or 9 needles, thimble and dark colored thread that can help you see the stitches better. (Cotton or poly-covered cotton).
When you begin to work, find a comfortable place to sit, with a good light, because you will need plenty of it if you want to do the stitches right. You can practice your stitches slower in the beginning and increase the speed when you will feel surer of your hand.

If you enjoy hand quilting, you will find it easy and fascinating and you will have the satisfaction of something you have done yourself, even if it doesn't come perfect from the first time.

In our grandmother's day, most quilts were made completely by hand. A group of ladies would sometimes get together for a "quilting bee." Today's quilter does not always have the advantage of having that extra help in finishing her project. Most sewing machines today come with a special pressure foot to make machine quilting easier, and in most cases, using your sewing machine is faster than by hand. There are advantages and disadvantages to both methods. Here are some things you may want to consider when deciding which method is right for you.

The time required for hand quilting will be one of your main considerations. Hand quilting will take much more time than doing your project on your sewing machine. If you have a deadline to complete your project, hand quilting will not be the best choice.

Space is another factor to consider. If you chose to hand quilt, you will certainly not be able to complete the process in one day. You will need space to set up your frames and leave them until you have finished putting in the last stitch. Whereas, if you are using your sewing machine, and need to put it aside for a while, you can fold the quilt up without taking much storage space.

If your pieces have curves to follow, you may want to consider doing those by hand. Following any curves of the pieces with hand stitches gives a beautiful look to your quilt.

It is important to actually enjoy what you are doing if you decide to quilt by hand. If you don't, you will probably not be motivated to work on your beautiful project as often, which means it will take a lot longer to complete.

The amount of use the quilt will get is important to consider. Many quilts today are made for decoration and don't get a lot of use. Even though a hand quilting can be very durable, for a lot of use, machine quilting may be more practical.

If you want a traditional quilt that can be considered an heirloom, you will probably want to make it entirely by hand.

Your beautiful stitches will show up better on solid colors. If most of your quilt top is solid colors, hand stitching will stand out much nicer.

If you feel experienced in both methods, you can chose to use a combination of hand and machine quilting. This, of course, will depend on the pattern of the quilt top. Some patterns may be enhanced by a little of both.

Since this will be your own unique creation, it is your choice to decide if you would like to hand quilt or quilt it on your sewing machine. Of course, to own a quilt that is made completely by hand is special. However, there are times when we want to create a beautiful handmade quilt, but the process of hand quilting is too time consuming. Above all, you should personally be happy with the final project. Whether you chose to hand quilt or do your quilting on a sewing machine, your finished product will be something you are proud to own or give as a gift to a special.

You have pieced together your quilt top and now it's time to decide how you are going to stitch your quilt. There are several methods of quilting that you can choose from. This article will explore the various methods that you can choose when quilting your three sandwich layers together. Whatever method you choose, you will end up with a quilt that will have your unique signature.

I'll start off by giving the definition of a quilt. A quilt is a fabric sandwich. This sandwich is made up of three layers. The top, the filling (also called the batting or wadding) and the backing. There needs to be a method of securing these layers together. The three most common methods are machine stitching, hand tying or hand stitching. Let us explore the method of machine stitching first.

If you decide to machine stitch your sandwich, the easiest technique to use is straight line quilting. Straight line quilting involves stitching your quilt pattern in straight lines. The most popular straight line technique is a stitching technique called "stitch in the ditch". Stitch in the ditch involves stitching right along the seams of your patchwork top which in turn hides the stitches in the seam line. It is quick and easy to do and you can easily finish a crib sized quilt in less than 2 hours using this technique. Another variation of straight line stitching is a technique called cross-hatch quilting. Cross hatch quilting is straight stitching evenly spaced apart in a diagonal pattern over the whole quilt sandwich. When the stitching is completed, the stitching design on the fabric sandwich will look like many little identical diamonds evenly distributed throughout the quilt.

The other machine stitching technique is called free motion machine stitching. Free motion stitching creates graceful curved designs in a variety of styles. These styles may include stippling, echo designs, clamshell designs or you can stitch decorative quilting styles traced from quilting stencils.

If you want to quickly finish your quilt, you could try hand tying your fabric sandwich. Hand tying is often done to fabric sandwiches that have high loft batting but this technique is not just limited to high loft batting quilts. I have seen a few hand tied quilts that have low loft batting and the quilting style of tying complements the piecing on the top. Quilt tying involved hand stitching one stitch through three layers of a fabric sandwich using either thick thread or strong wool. The ends of the thread or wool are then tied securely in a knot on the top layer of the sandwich and the two tails of the thread or wool are trimmed to approximately one inch in length. Tying a quilt is much faster than hand quilting or machine quilting. Fabric sandwiches that are tied are often utility or every day quilts rather than fancy decorative quilts.

Hand stitching a fabric sandwich is the traditional way of quilting. To hand stitch a fabric sandwich, a hoop or frame is needed to keep the pieces of the fabric sandwich taut as you stitch the layers of the fabric sandwich together. It is recommended that a thicker hand quilting thread be used to reduce the chance of the thread breaking while the sandwich is being stitched. Hand stitching is the slowest method of quilting but hand stitched quilts gives a wonderful textured look when finished. Many hand stitched quilts are highly sought after.

Whatever method you use when you are quilting your fabric sandwich together, you know that your quilt is almost finished. Your investment of time and energy is about to pay off with a beautiful quilt you will be proud to call your own. May you enjoy the quilt you have created for many years to come.

Ramona Dunn is a sewer and quilter with over 35 years of experience behind the sewing machine. She has a diploma with honors in sewing and dressmaking from the Stratford Career Institute and she is the proud owner of her own online quilting web site called Those Cotton Pickin' Fabrics.