Variations:  Hand quilting vs. machine quilting; different fabric patterns, colors, and shapes used in patchwork or appliqué quilt tops; different stitch patterns used in decorative designs

A quilt, by definition, is three fabric layers sewn together, including: a quilt top, backing material, and batting/stuffing sewn in between.  These 3 layers are often described as a “Fabric Sandwich”.  “Quilting” is the actual sewing of the three parts of the sandwich together.   The two most important elements of a quilt are the fabrics and shapes assembled for the quilt top and the decorative stitch patterns used to quilt the pieces together.  Patterns typically specify designs for the quilt top and the decorative quilting stitches used. 

Quilt tops are made in two ways.  First, smaller pieces of fabric with varying designs and shapes are created and “pieced” together to form a repeating design pattern.  This method is called “Patchwork”.   A patchwork quilt may include hundreds of smaller pieces that are pieced to become individual blocks; then the blocks are pieced to become a quilt top.  A second method called “Appliqué” is used where shapes are cut out and stitched to a base fabric.  These two methods may also be combined.  The number of pieces in the patchwork or appliqué design drives complexity of a quilt.  The amount of total work on a quilting project is driven by the complexity and the project size.

Sewing of the decorative quilting stitches can be completed on a sewing machine or by hand.  This decision is typically made based on the amount of time and patience a person has, as well as the type of piece that you are making.  Hand stitching may be easier for beginners, but very slow.  Hand stitching also results in a more unique and heirloom quality look.  Some people prefer to machine stitch the patchwork and hand stitch the pieces together.  Once the pieces are quilted together, an edge piece called a binding is added to make a smooth and strong edge. 

Choices exist for fabric types, colors, and patterns.  Different types of batting also exist.  Each fabric and batting has its own physical and design characteristics.  The fabric, batting, and threads selected should be matched to the type and size project being worked.  Cotton is by far the most popular fabric to work with and should always be washed prior to use to avoid shrinkage later.  A high thread count cotton (over 90 threads/inch) is highly recommended

• Sewing machine (if machine quilting)
• Sewing needles and thimble (if hand quilting - size 8 or 9 work well)
• Quilting hoop
• Pins and pincushion
• Scissors (one set for fabric and one for paper) 
• Rotary cutter (optional, but helpful)
• Seam ripper
• Tailor’s chalk
• Measuring tape/stick
• Steam Iron and ironing board
• Beeswax
• Thread
• Fabrics
• Plastic shape templates
• Graph paper if designing your own

Before you begin, you need to make some decisions about whether you want to hand sew or machine sew your quilt.   If you want to machine quilt and need a machine, we recommend AllBrands.com. They have a an amazing selection and even better prices: 

AllBrands.com Sewing Machines

In addition to the sewing machine, you will need most of the other supplies listed above.   Most people already have some or all of these in their sewing kit.  If not, JoAnn.com has all of the equipment and supplies you will need for quilting: 

The easiest way to begin is to start with a smaller project with a simple quilting pattern such as a pillow  or placemat.   Definitely use cotton fabrics, as they are easier for beginners to work with.  Try one or two simple projects that includes a patchwork option and an appliqué option to see which type you like better.  As your skills grow, move on to larger projects with more detailed patchwork and/or more  intricate stitch patterns.   

Be sure to review many of the beautiful patchwork, appliqué, and quilting patterns that have been created over the years and are part of quilting lore.  This is a fun thing to do and it will allow you to understand quilting’s place in Americana history.    Have fun!

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