One of the nice things about quilting is that the supplies you need can be just the basics; needles, thread and scissors. But there are lots of other tools out there that can make things easier, faster and more accurate. And let's face it; they're fun to have too.
*Scissors. They come in a variety of sizes. I have two: a regular sized one and a smaller embroidery scissors. I tend to use the smaller more often actually. And it's not a bad idea to get a sharpener too.
*Rotary Cutter. I LOVE this one. It makes cutting fabric so much faster and accurate. These also come in a several sizes and with different styles of handles, so look around to see which one suites your needs the best (and which one is most comfortable to hold). Also make sure you get some replacement rotary blades too.
*Cutting Mats. If you get a rotary cutter you will want to get a rotary cutting mat. They come in a number of sizes but I recommend getting a large one (I have a 24x36 inch mat). These mats are important because they protect your table or what ever cutting surface you use. A rotary cutter can and will damage whatever surface is directly under it so this mat is very important.
*Fabric Markers. There are lots of different types of marking tools available. Always test your marker on a scrap of the same fabric you will be using to see how it shows up and how easily it goes away. The last thing you need is for the marker to stain your fabric in some way (it happened to me). Some of the marking tools are:
Special marking pencils that come in different colorsChalk pencilsChalk rotary marker (I love this one and tend to use it the most)Pounce (essentially it's chalk in bag that is used to mark the pattern from a stencil that you will sew over or from a template that you will cut on)A marking pen with disappearing ink. Yes I actually found this in a fabric store and it works very well. But as I said up above, test it first on a scrap of fabric.* Rulers and tape measures. I have an acrylic ruler that I use all the time. Mine is 6"x24" and it has come in so handy, I'm glad I have it. But these also come in other sizes so look to see what will fit your needs best. It's also a good idea to have a tape measure as well. I have one that is made for quilters and is 120" long. Which ever measuring tool you use for a quilting project, use the same one for measuring throughout the project for consistency. It may not sound like a big deal but it can definitely make a difference.
* Templates. Acrylic templates are available in squares, triangles, diamonds, hexagons and more in many different sizes to make it easier to cut fabric for your quilting project. A definite time saver and it makes the cutting much more accurate.
* Needles. There are sewing machine needles and hand sewing needles. Each type comes in a variety of sizes and which ones you use depend on the fabric and thread you are using for your project as well as what you are sewing. What ever type and size needle you use, it is usually advised to use a new needle at the start of a new project
Sewing machine needles.Each size is indicated by two sets of numbers separated by a slash. The first number is the European size and the second number is the American size. Lower sizes indicate a finer needle. Some of the more common sized sewing machine needle are60/8 and 70/10 for lighter weight fabrics75/11, 80/12 and 90/14 for more medium weight fabrics100/16, 110/18, 120/20 for heavy weight fabrics
Hand sewing needles. There are many types of hand sewing needles and each types can come in up to 15 different sizes (the larger the number the finer the needle). Some of the different types areSharps (general sewing, hand piecing, fine thread embroidery) Betweens/Quilting (hand piecing, quilting, appliqué, binding) and Straw/Milliners (basting, gathering, appliqué)Embroidery , Darners, Long Darners and BeadingChenille, Tapestry/Cross Stitch
* Thread. There is more to thread than just sewing pieces of fabric together. Whether you are doing general sewing, quilting or other types of sewing, thread can be used to decorate the fabric adding color, designs and patterns to the fabric. If you've ever been to a fabric store, you know that there are many different types of thread. In addition to all the colors to choose from there are other things to consider
Weight. Depending on what type of sewing you are doing, you may want a finer more light weight thread or maybe a heavier weight will do. The weight is marked on the spool: 50/3 (fifty weight three ply) or 40/3 (forty weight three ply) are two of the different weights available. With the ply being equal, the higher number indicates a finer thread. So 50/3 is finer than 40/3.
Types. What kind of thread do you want? There is 100% cotton (often used in quilting), polyester, metallic, rayon, silk and more.
Color. You wouldn't think that choosing the color of thread you are going to use would be that difficult. But it can be as there are so many colors and shades to choose from. Do you want the thread to match the fabric so it's not very noticeable or do you want a contrasting color so it will stand out?
*Other supplies.
Pins. Straight pins, quilting pins, appliqué pins, safety pins. There are many to choose from
Thimbles. I have several of different types and which one I use often depends on the weight of the fabric
Seam ripper. Now this is one tool that I think is absolutely essential to have. When you need one, you are so glad to have it. It makes things so much easier.
Iron and ironing board. I have a regular full size ironing board but I also have a smaller table top ironing board as well. I also have an ironing pad which I use quite a bit.
These are just some of the tools that are available to use; the more common items like needles, thread and scissors and ones that may not be essential but can be very helpful like rotary cutters and seam rippers. There are lots of quilting tools, notions, supplies and gadgets out there. They make things easier, more accurate and make the process go faster. Ultimately, this makes for a more enjoyable, successful quilting experience.
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