When I began running beginner quilt making classes I asked my Twitter friends what advice they would give beginners. I got great responses and I thought I'd publish them on my blog. I'm pretty sure I never got around to it. And even if I did, I think they bear repeating from time to time.
And seeing as I'm running another set of classes at the moment, now is as good a time as any! Thanks guys, and even if you're not a beginner, take the time to read the list. Sometimes we need to remind ourselves of the basics. And that it's okay to use pretty fabric!
Scooquilt
The importance of the 1/4" seam. Being as accurate as possible in every step makes a better end product. But have fun!
Tubaville
Always square up your blocks when you're done piecing them.
ddrquilter
Wash and dry fabrics first!
pukeko160703
Measure twice and cut once - saves on fabric AND frustration!!
quiltcabana
Regarding mistakes -If you can't see it from a galloping horse, don't worry about it. Advice that set me free.
WeezyWorks
And practice makes perfect. We all start out crawling before we can walk.
sandyquiltz
“Don’t worry, it’s just fabric!” Spent too long hanging onto pretty fabric I was afraid to cut into.
sandyquiltz
And the corollary, “There will always be another pretty fabric!”
SewExcitedQuilt
Make friends with your seam ripper.
NONNIE_P
Learn as many techniques as you can and try them out on small projects build arsenal of skills
SewExcitedQuilt
Play and have fun. enjoy the process.
jimtami
Measure with lines on ruler, not cutting mat.
jimtami
When a seam doesn't come out right, set it aside, try again on the next one. Rip out later.
artquiltmaker
Sew slowly, even FMQ. Better to be comfortable & in control
mafiretones
Done is better than perfect.
QuiltinJenny
you will learn and enjoy more if you join and engage with the quilting community.
artquiltmaker
Life is short. Use pretty fabric. JMO.
ddrquilter
Start with a small project, wall hanging, pillow cover, bag.
I'd love to hear your best piece of advice for the beginner quilt maker, leave me a comment and I'll be sure to pass them on to my class.
All good advice! Using the pretty fabric seems to be a theme. Let the fabric do all the work, I say. A simple easy design can be a WOW! Quilt if you use fabrics you love.
ReplyDeleteTry different techniques. Read books/websites. Go to quilt shows and above all relax and enjoy the process.
ReplyDeletePlease can we come up with a nicer saying, but :"there is more than one way to skin a cat"..........give different techniques and tools a try, what works for you might not work so well for others. Clean and Oil and maintain your machine, it's amazing how much better your machine preforms with a new needle too! But most of all enjoy!
ReplyDeleteTake a class! Not only will you learn the techniques, you'll meet some fun people too.
ReplyDeleteYOu don't need every ruler on the market. I've been quilting for 20 years and only use a 6.5", 12.5" and a 24 x 5" ruler. Don't skimp on rotary cutter blades. Change them often xx
ReplyDeleteWhen you get tired, stop, take a break and come back later fresh and ready to go again.... this works for me.
ReplyDelete