By Consollete Mae
Quilts are beautiful handmade works of art. It is a special gift, one of love that can become a family heirloom for generations to cherish. It only takes a matter of skill and talent. If you are good in making quilts, why not start quilting and express yourself through this art?
Homemade quilts are signs of love and care. It is done tediously and carefully, foreseeing an end product to be loved and treasured by the one you intend to give it to. Made with lots of love, skill and extreme care, a homemade quilt becomes part of a legacy, bequeathed from one generation to the other. The choice of the quilt pattern and design becomes an inseparable component of the process.
In choosing designs and patterns, a fabric store is a great place to go to. However, going to a fabric store will cost you time, a lot of effort and take into account the cost of driving. Consider checking through the Internet. A lot of websites offer a wide selection of quilting fabrics online. These sites will help especially if you don't have any ideas about the design. Through searching online, you could spend more time attending to everything at home while waiting for your orders to be delivered at your doorstep. Not to set aside, you saved a lot of effort and cost of driving, plus you secured your safety.
Once you have the fabric and the design you want to use and having learnt the basics of quilting, you will be equipped to complete any quilt pattern. Several women of a family working together on a quilt project are a splendid idea. Make sure to have the copies of the chosen quilt pattern made available so that everyone knows what to do. Let your quilts come along beautifully. Quilts are labor of love, especially when made by hand. It is a great deal of work involved and no wonder the humongous price tags attached to them. One has to undertake making them to know their value.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Consollete_Mae
Learn How to Quilt - A Fast and Fun Approach
By M Carmen Gil
M Carmen Gil Level: Basic M Carmen Gil has received many awards and recognitions for being a exemplary asset in building successful marketing strategies for many businesses. In 2008 she ...
The art of quilting does not include a definite method to follow. The best method for you will be the one that fits with your personality and skills. Some people like using old methods such as manually cutting every patch with scissors and using templates. Others feel more comfortable taking advantage of what technology has to offer. And lastly, some combine methods for certain projects. For me, I just use whatever technique helps me save time.
To begin with, some of the first things that are important to get familiar with are patterns, fabric, color, block construction and layout. If you do individual searches about these it will help you acquire knowledge in the techniques that are currently being used. This way, you will also begin to learn quilting terms. For example, studying a few quilting patterns will help you understand a quilters dialog. Also make an effort to learn quilt block patterns and patterns for complete quits. This will be very helpful in your progress as a quilter.
Once you have a sense of patterns, knowing about quilting fabrics would be the next essential step. Before you attempt to wash or cut any fabric make sure that you are very familiar with the fabric's characteristics. This will help you avoid any undesired results. For example, fabric grain can either enhance or destroy your accuracy. If you prewash quilt that you were not supposed to you might end up with bleeding problems. And lastly, some fabrics can easily be burned. As you can see if you want a successful quilting project make sure you know enough about the fabric being.
The next thing would be to get acquainted with the colors that work best for your project. There is a huge variety of colors and texture. If you do not do research before you attempt to buy fabric you will end up confused at the store. Picking your colors will end up being a headache when it's supposed to be the fun part. To make your color choosing easier make sure you have an understanding of a simple color wheel that can help you in choosing colors and fabric. Another important thing to know before you hit the store is color value. What I mean by that is how dark or light a color is in relation to other colors. This will help you design a beautiful color coordinated quilt.
Now that we have an idea of the fundamental of fabric it is a good idea to learn about patchwork quilt block bone structure. Knowing this will help you fit blocks together when you are designing and sowing your quilt. Remember that every step is important. If you take the time to learn about quilt blocks not only will you save time but also your quilt will come out very beautiful.
Lastly, knowing standard mattress sizes before you begin the design of the quilt and buy fabrics will result very helpful. This will help you decide on what technique to use, what patterns to implement and how much fabric to buy. Remember being prepared and doing your research beforehand will save you a great amount of time and headaches.
Find out what works best for you. Experiment and learn as much as you can. This well help you be creative in your quilt designing. If you like to be up to date with technology use every technological resource you can. But most importantly have fun, lots of fun while quilting.
There are simple instructions for different ways to piece your project together and a good manual when you are stumped. This program "Electric Quilt(R) Quilt Design Wizard" allows you to design from lap quilts to king size, with personal alterations allowed at all levels. And it is so easy to use!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=M_Carmen_Gil
M Carmen Gil Level: Basic M Carmen Gil has received many awards and recognitions for being a exemplary asset in building successful marketing strategies for many businesses. In 2008 she ...
The art of quilting does not include a definite method to follow. The best method for you will be the one that fits with your personality and skills. Some people like using old methods such as manually cutting every patch with scissors and using templates. Others feel more comfortable taking advantage of what technology has to offer. And lastly, some combine methods for certain projects. For me, I just use whatever technique helps me save time.
To begin with, some of the first things that are important to get familiar with are patterns, fabric, color, block construction and layout. If you do individual searches about these it will help you acquire knowledge in the techniques that are currently being used. This way, you will also begin to learn quilting terms. For example, studying a few quilting patterns will help you understand a quilters dialog. Also make an effort to learn quilt block patterns and patterns for complete quits. This will be very helpful in your progress as a quilter.
Once you have a sense of patterns, knowing about quilting fabrics would be the next essential step. Before you attempt to wash or cut any fabric make sure that you are very familiar with the fabric's characteristics. This will help you avoid any undesired results. For example, fabric grain can either enhance or destroy your accuracy. If you prewash quilt that you were not supposed to you might end up with bleeding problems. And lastly, some fabrics can easily be burned. As you can see if you want a successful quilting project make sure you know enough about the fabric being.
The next thing would be to get acquainted with the colors that work best for your project. There is a huge variety of colors and texture. If you do not do research before you attempt to buy fabric you will end up confused at the store. Picking your colors will end up being a headache when it's supposed to be the fun part. To make your color choosing easier make sure you have an understanding of a simple color wheel that can help you in choosing colors and fabric. Another important thing to know before you hit the store is color value. What I mean by that is how dark or light a color is in relation to other colors. This will help you design a beautiful color coordinated quilt.
Now that we have an idea of the fundamental of fabric it is a good idea to learn about patchwork quilt block bone structure. Knowing this will help you fit blocks together when you are designing and sowing your quilt. Remember that every step is important. If you take the time to learn about quilt blocks not only will you save time but also your quilt will come out very beautiful.
Lastly, knowing standard mattress sizes before you begin the design of the quilt and buy fabrics will result very helpful. This will help you decide on what technique to use, what patterns to implement and how much fabric to buy. Remember being prepared and doing your research beforehand will save you a great amount of time and headaches.
Find out what works best for you. Experiment and learn as much as you can. This well help you be creative in your quilt designing. If you like to be up to date with technology use every technological resource you can. But most importantly have fun, lots of fun while quilting.
There are simple instructions for different ways to piece your project together and a good manual when you are stumped. This program "Electric Quilt(R) Quilt Design Wizard" allows you to design from lap quilts to king size, with personal alterations allowed at all levels. And it is so easy to use!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=M_Carmen_Gil
Sewing a Small Drawstring Bag With Fancy Stitching
By Janna Halioris
Use fancy stitches to making a sewing project that is only one of its kind. And nothing is more satisfying than being able to create individual pieces for your home or as gifts for friends and family.
Here are the easy to follow instructions to make a small drawstring bag. Or by using quilting you can make it a beautiful little evening bag. The bag becomes thicker as a thin layer of cotton wadding is used and the stitching gives a decorative effect. Decorate the bag with either a French knot or a nice bead and you have a home sewing project to be proud of.
Although using fancy stitches may be time consuming, but the results can be stunning. Below are a variety of fancy stitches to make this small drawstring bag unique.
The instructions for a small drawstring bag are:
- Cut out piece 12 x 28 inch and lining piece 12 x 26 inch.
- Fold in half crosswise, right sides together, and stitch ½ inch from edge up two long sides on both pieces.
- Turn right side out and put lining in bag, wrong sides together.
- Pin together at side seams and bottom, and baste lining to bag at top to hold in place.
- Turn down 1/2 inch on top, baste, then turn down two inches, baste and stitch.
- Clip one stitch of seam on top hem on both sides and stitch two lines above and below opening 1/2 inch apart.
- Cut two strips of ribbon or tape 30 inches long. Insert one with bodkin or safety pin through one side and draw all the way through, pulling out on same side.
- Do the same with the other on the other side.
- Knot ribbon edges or fasten with decorative stitches, and pull to draw.
Some fancy stitches that make your drawstring bag unique.
Twisted running stitch: Outline the line of design with running stitches, and with contrasting thread go over and under stitches, using a blunt needle, but not through fabric, to get an effect like twisted cord.
Chain stitch: Bring thread out from wrong side, insert needle at same point and take a stitch, holding loop of thread with left thumb. For a different effect, whip over chains in a contrasting color. Used for stitching in a line especially on peasant type clothes.
Couching: this is actually sewing on a thread or cord for decoration. Fasten a heavy thread on wrong side, leave loose on right side. With a second thread, usually finer, tack it in place at regular intervals with small stitches. Used often to outline an edge.
Magic or checkered chain is made like chain with two contrasting threads in needle. Keep one color to left holding thread under thumb, make stitch with other color. Bring second color to the left for the next stitch and hold under thumb. Continue. Stitches of chain are in alternating colors.
Quilting: Baste fabric to cheesecloth or muslin with thin layer of cotton wadding between. Draw design on wrong side and stitch on wrong side. Do all the lines in one direction first, then the cross lines. Use long stitches and heavy, slightly loose bobbin thread for puffy effect. Machine quilter attachment may be used. Do not press.
French knot: Bring needle up from wrong side, wrap thread around needle one or more times, and insert needle close to point where it came out, keeping thread taut to prevent looping. Used to fill in spaces and to make centers of flowers. Or in case of quilting in the cross stitching.
These are only a few ideas of how fancy stitching can make your sewing projects only one of its kind. For more information about home sewing projects visit to buy this book. I can't recommend it enough.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Janna_Halioris
Use fancy stitches to making a sewing project that is only one of its kind. And nothing is more satisfying than being able to create individual pieces for your home or as gifts for friends and family.
Here are the easy to follow instructions to make a small drawstring bag. Or by using quilting you can make it a beautiful little evening bag. The bag becomes thicker as a thin layer of cotton wadding is used and the stitching gives a decorative effect. Decorate the bag with either a French knot or a nice bead and you have a home sewing project to be proud of.
Although using fancy stitches may be time consuming, but the results can be stunning. Below are a variety of fancy stitches to make this small drawstring bag unique.
The instructions for a small drawstring bag are:
- Cut out piece 12 x 28 inch and lining piece 12 x 26 inch.
- Fold in half crosswise, right sides together, and stitch ½ inch from edge up two long sides on both pieces.
- Turn right side out and put lining in bag, wrong sides together.
- Pin together at side seams and bottom, and baste lining to bag at top to hold in place.
- Turn down 1/2 inch on top, baste, then turn down two inches, baste and stitch.
- Clip one stitch of seam on top hem on both sides and stitch two lines above and below opening 1/2 inch apart.
- Cut two strips of ribbon or tape 30 inches long. Insert one with bodkin or safety pin through one side and draw all the way through, pulling out on same side.
- Do the same with the other on the other side.
- Knot ribbon edges or fasten with decorative stitches, and pull to draw.
Some fancy stitches that make your drawstring bag unique.
Twisted running stitch: Outline the line of design with running stitches, and with contrasting thread go over and under stitches, using a blunt needle, but not through fabric, to get an effect like twisted cord.
Chain stitch: Bring thread out from wrong side, insert needle at same point and take a stitch, holding loop of thread with left thumb. For a different effect, whip over chains in a contrasting color. Used for stitching in a line especially on peasant type clothes.
Couching: this is actually sewing on a thread or cord for decoration. Fasten a heavy thread on wrong side, leave loose on right side. With a second thread, usually finer, tack it in place at regular intervals with small stitches. Used often to outline an edge.
Magic or checkered chain is made like chain with two contrasting threads in needle. Keep one color to left holding thread under thumb, make stitch with other color. Bring second color to the left for the next stitch and hold under thumb. Continue. Stitches of chain are in alternating colors.
Quilting: Baste fabric to cheesecloth or muslin with thin layer of cotton wadding between. Draw design on wrong side and stitch on wrong side. Do all the lines in one direction first, then the cross lines. Use long stitches and heavy, slightly loose bobbin thread for puffy effect. Machine quilter attachment may be used. Do not press.
French knot: Bring needle up from wrong side, wrap thread around needle one or more times, and insert needle close to point where it came out, keeping thread taut to prevent looping. Used to fill in spaces and to make centers of flowers. Or in case of quilting in the cross stitching.
These are only a few ideas of how fancy stitching can make your sewing projects only one of its kind. For more information about home sewing projects visit to buy this book. I can't recommend it enough.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Janna_Halioris
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