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
Showing posts with label Quilting. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Quilting. Show all posts
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
Choosing Fabric For a Quilt
By Nancy Bordeaux
For many quilters, the most difficult part of creating a quilt is in choosing the fabric. After you have chosen the pattern for the quilt, the fabric choice must be appropriate for the pattern.
Color and size of design area must be considered. I always choose my outer border and focus fabric first. I consider the block size and the size of the pieces I will be cutting.
The size of the pieces to be cut is important because I want to feature as much of the design in the focus fabric as possible. This will give me the approximate size of the print that I can choose.
For instance, if I have a 9 inch square of the focus fabric to cut, I can choose a larger print. If my square is only 4 inches, I need to find a smaller print for the focus fabric.
Once I have chosen my focus fabric, I will need to find coordinating fabrics to go with it. I need to decide if I want additional small prints or solid fabrics or a combination. It is always a "plus" if your quilt store carries a "group" of fabric.
What this means is that the fabric makers always design several coordinating pieces to go with a focus fabric. It makes your choice much easier because these fabrics are specifically designed to go together.
If you are unable to find a "group" of fabric, always carry a piece of your focus fabric with you to match with coordinating pieces. Remember that you want to "showcase" your focus fabric.
Anything you choose should enhance, not distract, from your focus fabric.
Avoid a lot of "busy" prints together. Look for good contrast. You want to really see the quilt design. Try to pair darks with mediums and lights. Don't stick strictly with the same shade.
When the fabric shades are all the same or very similar, the fabrics tend to blend together and you will lose the pattern design.
Finally, a color wheel can be very helpful in deciding which colors go together. Many quilt and fabric stores carry these and they can show you how to use it.
Happy Quilting! Nancy @ Nana's Pretties
Nancy Bordeaux, author, designer and teacher, has been a passionate quilt lover for over 20 years. Her pattern line, Nana's Pretties, is sold throughout the world. Her patterns are very beginner friendly and have something for everyone. She offers several different projects in each pattern as a value to her customers. http://www.nanaspretties.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nancy_Bordeaux
For many quilters, the most difficult part of creating a quilt is in choosing the fabric. After you have chosen the pattern for the quilt, the fabric choice must be appropriate for the pattern.
Color and size of design area must be considered. I always choose my outer border and focus fabric first. I consider the block size and the size of the pieces I will be cutting.
The size of the pieces to be cut is important because I want to feature as much of the design in the focus fabric as possible. This will give me the approximate size of the print that I can choose.
For instance, if I have a 9 inch square of the focus fabric to cut, I can choose a larger print. If my square is only 4 inches, I need to find a smaller print for the focus fabric.
Once I have chosen my focus fabric, I will need to find coordinating fabrics to go with it. I need to decide if I want additional small prints or solid fabrics or a combination. It is always a "plus" if your quilt store carries a "group" of fabric.
What this means is that the fabric makers always design several coordinating pieces to go with a focus fabric. It makes your choice much easier because these fabrics are specifically designed to go together.
If you are unable to find a "group" of fabric, always carry a piece of your focus fabric with you to match with coordinating pieces. Remember that you want to "showcase" your focus fabric.
Anything you choose should enhance, not distract, from your focus fabric.
Avoid a lot of "busy" prints together. Look for good contrast. You want to really see the quilt design. Try to pair darks with mediums and lights. Don't stick strictly with the same shade.
When the fabric shades are all the same or very similar, the fabrics tend to blend together and you will lose the pattern design.
Finally, a color wheel can be very helpful in deciding which colors go together. Many quilt and fabric stores carry these and they can show you how to use it.
Happy Quilting! Nancy @ Nana's Pretties
Nancy Bordeaux, author, designer and teacher, has been a passionate quilt lover for over 20 years. Her pattern line, Nana's Pretties, is sold throughout the world. Her patterns are very beginner friendly and have something for everyone. She offers several different projects in each pattern as a value to her customers. http://www.nanaspretties.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nancy_Bordeaux
Coordinating Your Quilting Fabric
By Desiree Edwin
Color coordination, color theory, color matching - these terms can frighten an unwary quilter, but they don't have to. Sure, they sound like something you tried to ignore in your Art Theory 101 class, but when it comes to picking out the right quilting fabric, they have a very immediate and useful meaning. It doesn't have to be just theory anymore.
Quilting fabric comes in so many wonderful, brilliant colors and prints that it can almost be overwhelming. That one with green background and golden flowers catches your eye, and then the pink with the dark blue tribal pattern turns out to be irresistible. Would they go together? What's a quilter to do? There's a veritable world of possibilities in front of you, and unfortunately, not all possibilities work and play well with others.
The easiest way to go about it is to make yourself settle on a single print for your main quilting fabric. This print should have a few colors in it so that it will have some texture and visual appeal. Every piece of fabric you choose from here on out needs to be "pulled" from this main swatch. If you've settled on the green and gold, you have to put the pink and blue aside (or at least save it for another project), and buy more fabrics that use green and gold.
Beyond pulling colors you should also try to buy a range of hues. When you use quilting fabric that ranges from light to medium to dark colors you'll be able to add some depth to your quilt. The same goes for other prints. Choose a variety and include patterns that are small, medium, and large. When all these elements come together you can create a quilt that is a joy to behold.
See what happened there? You managed the color coordination required for a classy quilt without having to take a single art class.
Quilting is my passion. If you want to read more tips and insights from me about quilting fabric, you can visit this article.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Desiree_Edwin
Color coordination, color theory, color matching - these terms can frighten an unwary quilter, but they don't have to. Sure, they sound like something you tried to ignore in your Art Theory 101 class, but when it comes to picking out the right quilting fabric, they have a very immediate and useful meaning. It doesn't have to be just theory anymore.
Quilting fabric comes in so many wonderful, brilliant colors and prints that it can almost be overwhelming. That one with green background and golden flowers catches your eye, and then the pink with the dark blue tribal pattern turns out to be irresistible. Would they go together? What's a quilter to do? There's a veritable world of possibilities in front of you, and unfortunately, not all possibilities work and play well with others.
The easiest way to go about it is to make yourself settle on a single print for your main quilting fabric. This print should have a few colors in it so that it will have some texture and visual appeal. Every piece of fabric you choose from here on out needs to be "pulled" from this main swatch. If you've settled on the green and gold, you have to put the pink and blue aside (or at least save it for another project), and buy more fabrics that use green and gold.
Beyond pulling colors you should also try to buy a range of hues. When you use quilting fabric that ranges from light to medium to dark colors you'll be able to add some depth to your quilt. The same goes for other prints. Choose a variety and include patterns that are small, medium, and large. When all these elements come together you can create a quilt that is a joy to behold.
See what happened there? You managed the color coordination required for a classy quilt without having to take a single art class.
Quilting is my passion. If you want to read more tips and insights from me about quilting fabric, you can visit this article.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Desiree_Edwin
Navigating the Quilting Bakery - Fabric Advice For Beginning Quilters
By Annie B
For the person who is just getting into the art and craft of quilting, the first visit to a quilting store can tend to be a bit overwhelming. On the surface, a person might thing that quilting is a simple as finding a pattern, finding the right fabric, having a few quilting specific tools and supplies. While this is true, like most things that are taken seriously by a lot of people, once you start peeling back the layers of the onion, there is a lot to learn. Take fabric for example. Once you start your investigation you will begin to see lots of new and wacky terms. The conversation could go something like this; "Like this pattern? It is very easy, all you need is this quilt kit.
However, is you like a different color, you could also make it with these pretty fat quarters, charm squares, jelly rolls, layer cakes or turnovers." Hold on just a minute! Are we trying to quilt here, or have we accidentally landed in a New Orleans Bakery? "Pass the beignets please!". Here is a quick rundown of the terms that you will need to familiarize yourself with to help you navigate this strange new world of quilting fabric.
Quilting Fabric
The best fabric to use for quilting is 100% cotton. Most quilting fabric is 42" wide although you can find wider yardage that can be found to use for backing. Obviously, quilting fabric comes in and infinite number of colors and patterns. It is usually recommended that the fabric be washed prior to using to minimize shrinkage and/or fading. Keep in mind, though, that fading and shrinkage is not quite as much of a problem with higher quality fabric. If this is a concern you can always wash a small piece of the fabric prior to using.
Quilt Backing
Quilt backing is the fabric panel used as the back piece of a layered quilt. Backing can be made from a single piece of fabric or it can be pieced or assembled in another decorative way. Sometimes it is possible to find specific fabrics that are made in wider yardage that can be used specifically as backing. This may be a good approach for getting started with beginners quilting.
Quilt kits
Quilt kits contain all of the necessary fabric, in the yardage that you need, to complete the specific quilt patterns that you would like to make. Usually the backing fabric, batting, and thread are not included in the kits. For the busy quilter kits eliminate a lot time, effort and initial confusion that it takes to pick out fabrics that will work for a specific pattern. It also minimizes waste. Also, if you see a quilt kit that you like then you can be assured that yours will look the same.
Quilt blocks
Quilt blocks can be a single piece of fabric cut to your specification or pattern specifications or it can be a pieced block (several pieces already sewn together in a particular pattern). A single quilt block can be used for different purposes such as a quilted wall hanging, quilted potholder, quilted table topper, quilted candle mat or several blocks can be sewn together to make a larger quilt. For the beginning quilter or quilters on a budget, you may want to search the internet, or our quilt pattern section for a free quilt block pattern.
Quilting Fat quarters
This is a one fourth yard cut of fabric that usually measures 18" x 22" instead of the typical 9" x 42" quarter-yard cut. The advantage of a fat quarter is that it is a wider cut of fabric and more economical than the 9" wide quarter yard for certain quilting patterns. There are many quilt patterns designed specifically for fat quarters.
Quilting Charm squares
These are also sometimes referred to as charm packs, are 5" squares of fabric from a specific fabric line. These come with forty squares in a pack with at least 1 square of every fabric in the line. These may be used to make quick and easy small quilts by sewing coordinating squares together and bordering with coordinating fabric from that same fabric line or any other coordinating fabric of your choice. There are also new patterns out using charm squares to sew piece blocks.
Jelly Rolls
These are 2 ½ inch wide strips of every fabric from a specific fabric line rolled up jellyroll style. These are nice for sewing the strips together for strip quilts, eliminating the need for you to cut each strip. They can also be used for checkerboard patterns but sewing the long edges of a desired number of strips together lengthwise and cutting across the seams. These can then be arranged in the desired checkerboard pattern. Again, it is easy because there are a lot of patterns calling for 2" strips and this eliminates the cutting time.
Charming Jelly Cakes
These are a charm pack, jelly roll and a layer cake of every fabric in a fabric line. There are patterns written specifically for these.
Layer cakes
Quilting Layer cakes are 10" squares with at least one of every fabric from a fabric line. Usually used in the same way as charm squares but for use in making larger quilts. They can also be cut into half and quarter square diamonds to be used in piece blocks.
Quilting Turnover
These are 6" triangles each fabric in the line with 40 pieces in every pack. This eliminates the need for you to have to cut the charm squares into triangles
Honey Buns
Honey buns (used to be called cinnamon buns) are 1 ½ inch wide strips of each fabric in a fabric line. Used the same way as Jelly Rolls, they honey buns eliminate having to cut the strips.
Quilt Panels
Quilt panels are a panel of fabric with a pre-printed design. The whole panel may be quilted or sections of the panel may be cut out and used in a pieced quilt. These are time savers if you use the whole panel because they can be sandwiched and then hand or machine quilted.
Quilt Batting
Quilt batting is the middle part of the quilt that is sandwiched between quilt top and the back. The batting is what gives the quilt its depth and thickness. There is a large variety of quilt batting to choose from. The batting that you choose for your quilt is basically a personal choice. Specifically, you should think about what the quilt will be used for and also experiment until you develop a personal preference. High loft batting is very puffy. 100% cotton batting is a thinner bat and is used when you want the quilt to have an aged appearance as it shrinks when washed, giving the quilt a slightly wrinkled appearance. Pellon, which comes in several thicknesses, is a batting used for table quilts and wall hangings that you wish to have a flatter appearance.
Quilting Applique
This is the process of sewing one or more smaller pieces of fabric onto a larger background. Applique can be accomplished by hand or by machine. Busy quilters generally use an iron-on applique product. These iron onto the back of the fabric, are cut out into specific designs and are then ironed onto the quilt top. For seldom washed quilts this is all that is required, for quilts with heavier use a button hole or zigzag stitch holds the applique firmly in place.
Annie B
FREE SHIPPING on orders $35+ from Fabric.com
For more tips, hints and advice on quilting and quilting fabrics as well as a calendar of regional quilting shows go to http://www.highplainsquilting.com/.
http://www.highplainsquilting.com/ has been developed as a full service quilting web site that offers fabrics tools advise and a community forum where users can get together talk about upcoming quilt shows, give quilt store reviews and display their best work for others to see in the quilting gallery.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Annie_B
For the person who is just getting into the art and craft of quilting, the first visit to a quilting store can tend to be a bit overwhelming. On the surface, a person might thing that quilting is a simple as finding a pattern, finding the right fabric, having a few quilting specific tools and supplies. While this is true, like most things that are taken seriously by a lot of people, once you start peeling back the layers of the onion, there is a lot to learn. Take fabric for example. Once you start your investigation you will begin to see lots of new and wacky terms. The conversation could go something like this; "Like this pattern? It is very easy, all you need is this quilt kit.
However, is you like a different color, you could also make it with these pretty fat quarters, charm squares, jelly rolls, layer cakes or turnovers." Hold on just a minute! Are we trying to quilt here, or have we accidentally landed in a New Orleans Bakery? "Pass the beignets please!". Here is a quick rundown of the terms that you will need to familiarize yourself with to help you navigate this strange new world of quilting fabric.
Quilting Fabric
The best fabric to use for quilting is 100% cotton. Most quilting fabric is 42" wide although you can find wider yardage that can be found to use for backing. Obviously, quilting fabric comes in and infinite number of colors and patterns. It is usually recommended that the fabric be washed prior to using to minimize shrinkage and/or fading. Keep in mind, though, that fading and shrinkage is not quite as much of a problem with higher quality fabric. If this is a concern you can always wash a small piece of the fabric prior to using.
Quilt Backing
Quilt backing is the fabric panel used as the back piece of a layered quilt. Backing can be made from a single piece of fabric or it can be pieced or assembled in another decorative way. Sometimes it is possible to find specific fabrics that are made in wider yardage that can be used specifically as backing. This may be a good approach for getting started with beginners quilting.
Quilt kits
Quilt kits contain all of the necessary fabric, in the yardage that you need, to complete the specific quilt patterns that you would like to make. Usually the backing fabric, batting, and thread are not included in the kits. For the busy quilter kits eliminate a lot time, effort and initial confusion that it takes to pick out fabrics that will work for a specific pattern. It also minimizes waste. Also, if you see a quilt kit that you like then you can be assured that yours will look the same.
Quilt blocks
Quilt blocks can be a single piece of fabric cut to your specification or pattern specifications or it can be a pieced block (several pieces already sewn together in a particular pattern). A single quilt block can be used for different purposes such as a quilted wall hanging, quilted potholder, quilted table topper, quilted candle mat or several blocks can be sewn together to make a larger quilt. For the beginning quilter or quilters on a budget, you may want to search the internet, or our quilt pattern section for a free quilt block pattern.
Quilting Fat quarters
This is a one fourth yard cut of fabric that usually measures 18" x 22" instead of the typical 9" x 42" quarter-yard cut. The advantage of a fat quarter is that it is a wider cut of fabric and more economical than the 9" wide quarter yard for certain quilting patterns. There are many quilt patterns designed specifically for fat quarters.
Quilting Charm squares
These are also sometimes referred to as charm packs, are 5" squares of fabric from a specific fabric line. These come with forty squares in a pack with at least 1 square of every fabric in the line. These may be used to make quick and easy small quilts by sewing coordinating squares together and bordering with coordinating fabric from that same fabric line or any other coordinating fabric of your choice. There are also new patterns out using charm squares to sew piece blocks.
Jelly Rolls
These are 2 ½ inch wide strips of every fabric from a specific fabric line rolled up jellyroll style. These are nice for sewing the strips together for strip quilts, eliminating the need for you to cut each strip. They can also be used for checkerboard patterns but sewing the long edges of a desired number of strips together lengthwise and cutting across the seams. These can then be arranged in the desired checkerboard pattern. Again, it is easy because there are a lot of patterns calling for 2" strips and this eliminates the cutting time.
Charming Jelly Cakes
These are a charm pack, jelly roll and a layer cake of every fabric in a fabric line. There are patterns written specifically for these.
Layer cakes
Quilting Layer cakes are 10" squares with at least one of every fabric from a fabric line. Usually used in the same way as charm squares but for use in making larger quilts. They can also be cut into half and quarter square diamonds to be used in piece blocks.
Quilting Turnover
These are 6" triangles each fabric in the line with 40 pieces in every pack. This eliminates the need for you to have to cut the charm squares into triangles
Honey Buns
Honey buns (used to be called cinnamon buns) are 1 ½ inch wide strips of each fabric in a fabric line. Used the same way as Jelly Rolls, they honey buns eliminate having to cut the strips.
Quilt Panels
Quilt panels are a panel of fabric with a pre-printed design. The whole panel may be quilted or sections of the panel may be cut out and used in a pieced quilt. These are time savers if you use the whole panel because they can be sandwiched and then hand or machine quilted.
Quilt Batting
Quilt batting is the middle part of the quilt that is sandwiched between quilt top and the back. The batting is what gives the quilt its depth and thickness. There is a large variety of quilt batting to choose from. The batting that you choose for your quilt is basically a personal choice. Specifically, you should think about what the quilt will be used for and also experiment until you develop a personal preference. High loft batting is very puffy. 100% cotton batting is a thinner bat and is used when you want the quilt to have an aged appearance as it shrinks when washed, giving the quilt a slightly wrinkled appearance. Pellon, which comes in several thicknesses, is a batting used for table quilts and wall hangings that you wish to have a flatter appearance.
Quilting Applique
This is the process of sewing one or more smaller pieces of fabric onto a larger background. Applique can be accomplished by hand or by machine. Busy quilters generally use an iron-on applique product. These iron onto the back of the fabric, are cut out into specific designs and are then ironed onto the quilt top. For seldom washed quilts this is all that is required, for quilts with heavier use a button hole or zigzag stitch holds the applique firmly in place.
Annie B
FREE SHIPPING on orders $35+ from Fabric.com
For more tips, hints and advice on quilting and quilting fabrics as well as a calendar of regional quilting shows go to http://www.highplainsquilting.com/.
http://www.highplainsquilting.com/ has been developed as a full service quilting web site that offers fabrics tools advise and a community forum where users can get together talk about upcoming quilt shows, give quilt store reviews and display their best work for others to see in the quilting gallery.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Annie_B
Quilting Stencils - Expressing Love
By Donald Drake
You can create anything from stars to flowers to you actually designing your own creations. Quilting stencils will work to make it easier to demonstrate your expression of love that you have for the person for whom you are creating the beautiful quilt. You can truly be ingenious with the stencils and even create quilts that perfectly match your décor. Stencils are not difficult to use when quilting. It will only take you a few steps to begin to use this easy design tool.
Following an Outline
Quilting stencils are somewhat different than a standard painting stencil would be. Quilting stencils have little holes in them. These holes show where you are to place the stitches. This ensures that your pattern remains consistent each and every time you use it. It would not be a good thing if some of your flowers, or whatever design you are making, were larger than the others. Nobody wants to produce a crooked design.
Once you've placed your quilting stencil on the fabric, next you will need to mark the fabric. Whatever tool used to mark the quilting stencils is up to the individual quilter and probably will depend on the type of fabric being used. Chalk, fabric markers, or even soap work well for marking. Each of these will wash out of the fabric.
Using stencils for your quilts can save both time and money. Previously, you would have had to create your own stencils and you might not have consistent pieces. Perhaps you even had to redo some of them simply because they were not the same as the rest. Not only did you waste your time, you might have wasted more fabric than was necessary. Even more money can be saved on quilting stencils if you shop online. In fact, you may very well be able to find that just-right design absolutely free. All it takes is paper and the ink to print it out then transfer it to a blank stencil sheet.
Expanding Creativity
If you use quilting stencils it will ensure that your pieces will be equal and consistent. By using the quilting stencils, you can express your creativity easily. These stencils offer you a limitless variety of designs. It is especially helpful if you're not so great at drawing or if you are not so creative. Stencils can save time and money, so you can invest both in doing other things that you would like to do with your quilting piece. Some stencils can even be accessed for free. To find free quilting stencils, you will need to spend a little time in research, but it is worth it!
You can also find more info on home quilting machines. Quilltingbliss.com is a comprehensive resource which provide information about Quilt.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Donald_Drake
You can create anything from stars to flowers to you actually designing your own creations. Quilting stencils will work to make it easier to demonstrate your expression of love that you have for the person for whom you are creating the beautiful quilt. You can truly be ingenious with the stencils and even create quilts that perfectly match your décor. Stencils are not difficult to use when quilting. It will only take you a few steps to begin to use this easy design tool.
Following an Outline
Quilting stencils are somewhat different than a standard painting stencil would be. Quilting stencils have little holes in them. These holes show where you are to place the stitches. This ensures that your pattern remains consistent each and every time you use it. It would not be a good thing if some of your flowers, or whatever design you are making, were larger than the others. Nobody wants to produce a crooked design.
Once you've placed your quilting stencil on the fabric, next you will need to mark the fabric. Whatever tool used to mark the quilting stencils is up to the individual quilter and probably will depend on the type of fabric being used. Chalk, fabric markers, or even soap work well for marking. Each of these will wash out of the fabric.
Using stencils for your quilts can save both time and money. Previously, you would have had to create your own stencils and you might not have consistent pieces. Perhaps you even had to redo some of them simply because they were not the same as the rest. Not only did you waste your time, you might have wasted more fabric than was necessary. Even more money can be saved on quilting stencils if you shop online. In fact, you may very well be able to find that just-right design absolutely free. All it takes is paper and the ink to print it out then transfer it to a blank stencil sheet.
Expanding Creativity
If you use quilting stencils it will ensure that your pieces will be equal and consistent. By using the quilting stencils, you can express your creativity easily. These stencils offer you a limitless variety of designs. It is especially helpful if you're not so great at drawing or if you are not so creative. Stencils can save time and money, so you can invest both in doing other things that you would like to do with your quilting piece. Some stencils can even be accessed for free. To find free quilting stencils, you will need to spend a little time in research, but it is worth it!
You can also find more info on home quilting machines. Quilltingbliss.com is a comprehensive resource which provide information about Quilt.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Donald_Drake
Time Saving Quilting Techniques
By Donald Drake
The first step in the quilting process is to relax. Keep in mind that just like any craft; quilting requires the individual to master the basic techniques first, then gradually work up to more intricate patterns and stitches that more experienced quilters enjoy. It is also advisable to locate a quilting buddy who has been quilting for a while. That person can offer pointers and guide you through some of the more complex instructions, and keep you encouraged.
Foundational Quilting Techniques
Many quilts are created simply using the patchwork process. This involves assembling a number of squares of a certain patchwork pattern, and then stitching them together to create the finished piece. This technique, called patchwork quilting, can be done by hand or by machine. The most important element in making the squares is accuracy, both in the cutting and in the sewing process. Once you have mastered the cutting and the joining of your pieces, you will be ready to explore a few of the other quilting techniques available to you. These include techniques that will help to give your piece a unique, handcrafted appearance, as well as techniques that can help save time in the creation of your quilt.
Some of the time-honored quilting techniques that will give the project your individual touch will be hand piecing and hand appliqué. While both of these quilting techniques take time and effort to accomplish, the end result will be a one-of-a-kind handmade heirloom. On the other hand, quilting techniques like machine piecing and appliqué, chain piecing and strip quilting will also save plenty of time in the creative process, and yet will still leave you with a lovely masterpiece of your own making. These quilting techniques are particularly helpful for beginning quilters who would like to see a finished piece quickly and with more ease in the process. They can also be helpful techniques in the process of creating items in bulk, such as baby blankets to donate to a hospital or quilted pieces to be used in a craft sale.
Quilting is a marvelous hobby, and can be a great way to create unique handmade pieces for gifts as well as additions to your own home. If you are interested in quilting, a class or workshop can teach many of the basic quilting techniques to get you started. You will find classes offered at your local craft or fabric store or possibly at the community center in your neighborhood. By checking the Internet, you may discover a quilting group right in your area that you can join to learn and perfect your craft.
You can also find more info on quilting designs. Quilltingbliss.com is a comprehensive resource which provide information about Quilt.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Donald_Drake
How to Make a Raggedy Quilt, Rag Quilt, and Ragged Quilt
By Judi Harris
Raggedy Quilts are fast, fun, and easy to make. Simply said, you cut, you sew, and you cut again. Here are directions on making a small lap raggedy quilt 49" X 42". Pick your color selection for your raggedy quilt. Cotton, flannel, chenille, and homespun are the best fabrics to make a rag quilt. For the best "country" or "primitive" looking raggedy quilt pick 8-9 different fabric prints.
Cutting your Squares:
Cut (42) 9" squares of the fabric doubled. That would be 84 single squares but we need them cut into doubles. Each double will represent one square. Cut (42) 7" squares of your favorite quilt batting.
Quilting your Squares:
Take your 9" squares and put one layer of batting between 2 layers of matching fabric squares.
Put the pretty sides of the fabric on both outsides. Pin the three layers of squares.
Sew from one corner to the opposite corner on the square to make a "/" across your square. Then sew from the other corner to corner making an " X " on your square. Do this to ALL of your squares.
You should have 42 - 3 layered squares with an "X" in the middle.
Sewing your Squares Together:
Start by pinning 2 squares together and sew down one side. A one inch seam allowance gives a nice raggedy look. The larger your seam allowance is, the more your quilt will "rag ".Your seam allowance can be anywhere from 1/2" to 1 1/2 ". Whatever seam allowance you decide on, you must stay with that size for the rest of your quilt. The actual size of your quilt will be determined by the seam allowance you choose.
Continue to add a square to your set of squares until you have a row of 7 squares across. Make sure that every time you sew a new square onto the row that you have them Pretty Sides Together.
Continue until you have 6 rows of 7 squares sewn together.
Now you are ready to put the rows together. Start off by pinning two rows of seven squares with pretty sides together. Make sure you match the seams of each square. Sew down the long seam.
Continue to sew the long rows together until you have completed your quilt. Sew a seam allowance all the way around the outside edge of your quilt. This is so it won't fray past the seam that you sewed.
Clipping your Quilt Seams:
Clip EVERY SEAM ON YOUR QUILT. The smaller the clipping, the more your quilt will be ragged. Clip about every 1/4". Be careful not to clip into your stitching line.
Washing/Drying your Quilt:
Wash your quilt in COLD/COLD water. Dry your quilt on tumble low.
Notice how awesome your rag quilt looks!!!
If it's not raggedy enough, you can make smaller slits and/or wash and dry it again. Don't forget, cutting the slits small will "rag" the quilt better.
Best Stitches!
Judi Harris
Crafts of Chadds Ford
You can find raggedy quilt directions, more information on sewing and quilting, and free raggedy quilt patterns on http://www.lovetosew.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Judi_Harris
Raggedy Quilts are fast, fun, and easy to make. Simply said, you cut, you sew, and you cut again. Here are directions on making a small lap raggedy quilt 49" X 42". Pick your color selection for your raggedy quilt. Cotton, flannel, chenille, and homespun are the best fabrics to make a rag quilt. For the best "country" or "primitive" looking raggedy quilt pick 8-9 different fabric prints.
Cutting your Squares:
Cut (42) 9" squares of the fabric doubled. That would be 84 single squares but we need them cut into doubles. Each double will represent one square. Cut (42) 7" squares of your favorite quilt batting.
Quilting your Squares:
Take your 9" squares and put one layer of batting between 2 layers of matching fabric squares.
Put the pretty sides of the fabric on both outsides. Pin the three layers of squares.
Sew from one corner to the opposite corner on the square to make a "/" across your square. Then sew from the other corner to corner making an " X " on your square. Do this to ALL of your squares.
You should have 42 - 3 layered squares with an "X" in the middle.
Sewing your Squares Together:
Start by pinning 2 squares together and sew down one side. A one inch seam allowance gives a nice raggedy look. The larger your seam allowance is, the more your quilt will "rag ".Your seam allowance can be anywhere from 1/2" to 1 1/2 ". Whatever seam allowance you decide on, you must stay with that size for the rest of your quilt. The actual size of your quilt will be determined by the seam allowance you choose.
Continue to add a square to your set of squares until you have a row of 7 squares across. Make sure that every time you sew a new square onto the row that you have them Pretty Sides Together.
Continue until you have 6 rows of 7 squares sewn together.
Now you are ready to put the rows together. Start off by pinning two rows of seven squares with pretty sides together. Make sure you match the seams of each square. Sew down the long seam.
Continue to sew the long rows together until you have completed your quilt. Sew a seam allowance all the way around the outside edge of your quilt. This is so it won't fray past the seam that you sewed.
Clipping your Quilt Seams:
Clip EVERY SEAM ON YOUR QUILT. The smaller the clipping, the more your quilt will be ragged. Clip about every 1/4". Be careful not to clip into your stitching line.
Washing/Drying your Quilt:
Wash your quilt in COLD/COLD water. Dry your quilt on tumble low.
Notice how awesome your rag quilt looks!!!
If it's not raggedy enough, you can make smaller slits and/or wash and dry it again. Don't forget, cutting the slits small will "rag" the quilt better.
Best Stitches!
Judi Harris
Crafts of Chadds Ford
You can find raggedy quilt directions, more information on sewing and quilting, and free raggedy quilt patterns on http://www.lovetosew.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Judi_Harris
A Notion About Notions
by Jennifer Walter
When you take up quilting, there are many notions, or items that will make your task easier and more fun. These specialty items are available online, in craft shops, department stores and quilt shops. While not all are necessary, they really do come in handy.
Metal-edged rulers are used when creating templates and when cutting cardboard and fabric with a rotary cutter or knife.Metre rules are used with set squares to cut lengths of fabric.Set squares are used to measure accurate right angles and are used 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 n contact with water.Dressmaker's wheels and chalk are used to directly mark fabric. The chalk will brush off.
Dressmaker's scissors and shears are used for cutting fabric only.Paper scissors are used 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 prevent fraying.Rotary cutters are used with a cutting mat. They are great for cutting multiple pieces that are exactly the same, at the same time. Rotary cutters are available in different sizes. Small cutters work best for cutting curves and a few layers of fabric. Large cutters cut many layers at a time and are ideal for cutting long straight lines.Cutting mats are made especially for use with rotary cutters. They protect both the tabletop and the blade. Mats with printed grids are useful for cutting right angles.
Quilter's needles are used for hand sewing appliqué and patchwork. Betweens are used for making smaller stitches.Crewel needles are used for working embroidery stitches.
Quilting pins are longer than dressmaker's pins and pass through several layers of fabric easily.
Safety pins are sometimes used 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 at once. Many styles are available. Some quilters and sewers collect thimbles.Unpickers-or rippers are used to remove stitches.Irons are used for pressing patchwork seams and to remove wrinkles from fabric.
Embroidery hoops are used while quilting. Wooden frames are usually used for hand quilting. Plastic frames with metal spring closures are used for machine quilting.Ribbon may be used to embellish appliqué or crazy patchwork. It may also be used to edge a border. Ribbon may be velvet, satin or manmade material.Trimmings such as fringing, pompon tape; tassels and flat ribbon tape may be used to make unusual edgings or to embellish a patchwork piece.Lace can be used to embellish appliqués.
Quilters' gloves offer protection when using rotary cutters and needles.Needle threaders make threading needles a breeze.Any of the notions listed above would make a great gift for your favorite quilter.
Quilting 101
by Jennifer Walter
There are many decisions to be made before a quilting project begins. The first is choosing what design you will use. This choice may vary from project to project.Traditional quilting involves following the outline of the block's design. You would stitch 1/4 inch from each seam line on your pieced or appliquéd patch. This would be just outside the pressed seam allowances.Stitching in the ditch is another quilting process. In this method you stitch right into the seam. The shape of the design becomes distinct and the stitches are almost invisible as the fabric on each side of the seam puffs up around them.
In Design quilting, you embellish your quilt block with a set design. You simply purchase a quilt stencil and trace onto your patch in any open spaces.Echo design quilting is when lines of stitching follow the outline of the block, then are repeated every 1/4 inch. This repetition makes sections of very heavy quilting and is not practiced by beginners.
Overall design quilting ignores the block's pattern and uses an overall design. Three overall designs often used are grids of squares, diamonds and clamshells.What quilting design you choose will also affect what pattern and fabrics you choose and vise versa. What you need to learn to do is visualize the completed project before you even begin. Obviously, if you want to use stencils and the design quilting method, you must choose fabric that has room for you to stencil on it.
Now that you have chosen you pattern, fabric and design you may begin piecing you quilt top. This involves creating a template, cutting all the pieces and sewing the blocks together. Once the blocks are completed they too must be connected to form the quilt top. You should first lay out all your blocks to make sure they are uniform in size, as well as in the correct position. Try not to place blocks that are too similar in design or color next to each other. Once you are satisfied with the design just divide the quilt into rows, either horizontal or vertical and begin sewing.
Once your quilt top is finished you are ready to layer it together with the batting in the middle and the backing fabric on the back. Polyester batting is the most popular and easy to use filling available today. All you have to do is open the bag and unroll it. This type of batting comes in different lofts or thicknesses, the thicker the loft, the warmer the quilt.
Backing fabric should have a low thread count and be loosely oven. The backing and the batting should be just slightly larger than the finished quilt top. Backing fabric usually needs to be seamed together. The traditional way is to seam three lengths of fabric, of equal widths, vertically down the backing. Cut off the selvage first, than shrink the fabric before you use it. Sew together the seams and press.Place the backing on the floor, wrong side up. It should be about 2 inches larger than the quilt top. Roll out the batting. It should be cut about 1 inch smaller than the backing and one inch larger than the quilt top. Center the quilt top on top of the batting face-up. Pin all three layers together. Baste the layers together, beginning in the center of the quilt. You may use running stitches or Z stitches for basting.
If you are hand quilting your project you will require either a quilt frame, or a large hoop. Hoops are more portable, but require more basting. Once your project is secure you begin stitching the three layers together in very small uniform stitches, using the design you chose earlier. Start With about 18 inches of thread and begin working in the centre of your project, quilting toward the outside edge.
What Are Quilts?
by Jennifer Walter
Quilts are bed coverings made up of three layers: a quilt top, a layer of batting, and a layer of material for backing. The layers are usually combined using the technique of quilting. Quilting is the process of using a needle and thread to combine two or more layers of cloth. This step may be only functional, or if more elaborate, for decoration and design.Tying is another method of connecting the layers in quilts together. This method is usually chosen when a quilt is needed quickly for functional purposes. The three layers still need to be prepared and basted. Thread or yarn is used for the process. Square knots are used to finish off the ties, which are placed 3-5" apart all over the quilt. A quilt that is tied is sometimes called a comforter.
Once upon a time quilts were created for necessity. Today creating quilts has become an art form. Gifted quilter's are called fabric artists instead of the outdated seamstress or quilter. Not only are bed quilts popular, but quilted clothing and wall hangings as well. Handmade quilts may sell for hundreds of dollars and hang on museum walls, not just bed frames. Amish quilts from Pennsylvania and Ohio are especially sought after, as are vintage and antique quilts.If you are lucky enough to have inherited or purchased such an heirloom, taking proper care of it will maintain and perhaps increase its value. Quilts should never be stored in plastic bags, cardboard boxes or wooden trunks. Quilts should be aired at least twice a year, but not in direct sunlight. Very old quilts should be aired flat to avoid stressing the stitches. There is always a risk in washing antique fabric. Spot test it first. If you are using a machine, wash in cold water with a mild detergent and a gentle cycle. Dry your quilt on a flat surface. Using a fan and rotating it will speed up the drying process.Quilts throughout history tell the stories of their times and makers. This is especially true during the depression when fabric was scarce. Some historians even believe secret messages and codes were hidden in handmade quilts at different times throughout history. One such story relates to the Underground Railroad. A certain quilt pattern would mean it was safe for escaping slaves to continue on their journey. Not all historians believe this theory, however it is true that signature quilts were a popular method of raising funds both before and after the Civil War. Signatures were added after a donation was made. These quilts were also known as friendship quilts.While not all historians agree on this usage in the past, it is becoming increasingly popular today. Memory quilts and t-shirt quilts are popular and treasured gifts. Technology has even made it possible to add photos to fabric. Quilts are still used to raise money at raffles and charity events. Quilt guilds are being created and growing at a rapid rate, preserving and passing on treasured patterns and techniques.
Quilts are bed coverings made up of three layers: a quilt top, a layer of batting, and a layer of material for backing. The layers are usually combined using the technique of quilting. Quilting is the process of using a needle and thread to combine two or more layers of cloth. This step may be only functional, or if more elaborate, for decoration and design.Tying is another method of connecting the layers in quilts together. This method is usually chosen when a quilt is needed quickly for functional purposes. The three layers still need to be prepared and basted. Thread or yarn is used for the process. Square knots are used to finish off the ties, which are placed 3-5" apart all over the quilt. A quilt that is tied is sometimes called a comforter.
Once upon a time quilts were created for necessity. Today creating quilts has become an art form. Gifted quilter's are called fabric artists instead of the outdated seamstress or quilter. Not only are bed quilts popular, but quilted clothing and wall hangings as well. Handmade quilts may sell for hundreds of dollars and hang on museum walls, not just bed frames. Amish quilts from Pennsylvania and Ohio are especially sought after, as are vintage and antique quilts.If you are lucky enough to have inherited or purchased such an heirloom, taking proper care of it will maintain and perhaps increase its value. Quilts should never be stored in plastic bags, cardboard boxes or wooden trunks. Quilts should be aired at least twice a year, but not in direct sunlight. Very old quilts should be aired flat to avoid stressing the stitches. There is always a risk in washing antique fabric. Spot test it first. If you are using a machine, wash in cold water with a mild detergent and a gentle cycle. Dry your quilt on a flat surface. Using a fan and rotating it will speed up the drying process.Quilts throughout history tell the stories of their times and makers. This is especially true during the depression when fabric was scarce. Some historians even believe secret messages and codes were hidden in handmade quilts at different times throughout history. One such story relates to the Underground Railroad. A certain quilt pattern would mean it was safe for escaping slaves to continue on their journey. Not all historians believe this theory, however it is true that signature quilts were a popular method of raising funds both before and after the Civil War. Signatures were added after a donation was made. These quilts were also known as friendship quilts.While not all historians agree on this usage in the past, it is becoming increasingly popular today. Memory quilts and t-shirt quilts are popular and treasured gifts. Technology has even made it possible to add photos to fabric. Quilts are still used to raise money at raffles and charity events. Quilt guilds are being created and growing at a rapid rate, preserving and passing on treasured patterns and techniques.
Beginner Quilting - Learn To Design A Yoyo Quilt
By Jennifer B. Walter
All of us have our preferred choices. Of these, Yoyo quilt is my obvious choice. Yes admittedly people would differ as yoyo quilts are the most intricate to make of all the varieties.
But then Yoyo quilts are the most intricate for that very reason. Let's be all clear that Yoyo quilts take impervious time to make and thus are meant for impatient and beginners. During the 1930's & 40's these quilts were at the prime in recognition and their time seems to be here again now.
These quilts are basically small rosettes containing cotton. The technique involves assembling and sewing material into a circle. The rosettes are then stitched into a predetermined pattern. Printed materials are commonly used for making yoyos.
The choice of fabric is not limited as ironing is not required for these quilts and therefore batting type can also vary. Many a times a large fabric is used as a cover for yoyos, some do it as they do not like their special yoyo to get spoilt while using it while others just like to preserve the quilt for longer use.
Yoyo quilts like other quilts are the result of our imagination of colors and patterns, they can be made as per your preference. If you like your yoyo to serve as mini cushion on your sofa or like a bed cover then slight adjustments of not adding batting and backpack shall do it.
Be clear that initially the art of making a yoyo quilt can be difficult to learn but gradually once you have got accustomed to the steps it shall not take much time.
It's always important that the supplies are ready before hand. Beautiful designs added with color variations give the yoyo quilt an elegant look. Here are the steps to craft a yoyo quilt.
1. Before you do anything have the size of the quilt in you mind and thereafter make a spherical cut-out pattern twice that dimension and an extra 1/2". A cardboard cutout will act as a guide.
2. Place the cut-out pattern to your right or left hand side of the fabric depending on your writing hand and then using a pencil create a highlighted area around it. Allow space of 1/2" between circles.
3. Create circles of size ¼ inch after the line.
4. It is recommended that a quilting thread be used or else if you use a regular thread then sew with 2 strands. Tie a knot at the last tip of the thread and take it upside from behind while folding underneath the ring on the line.
5. Keep stitching on the line of the circle, folding underneath the seam allowance further.
6. As you keep stitching you shall reach the start point again, there pull the thread so that it all collects within a rosette. the yoyo should have an opening in the center
7. Few backstitches will help secure the thread, tie a knot so that the thread is not lost.
8. All the excess thread should be cut off then re-knot & start another yoyo.
9. Place the yoyo in front of you in rows in a manner that reflects the kind of design/pattern you want to make.
10. Now sew two yoyos. Stitching can be done either from the middle or any side. Do this again until all rows are done. Now sew all the rows to form one piece.
11. What you can also do is sew the yoyo with a larger material, then adding batting to it & adding finishing touch to the edges.
Discover free beginner hand quilting instructions and expert quilting lesson by Jennifer Walter, the owner of successful quilting site at http://www.quilthowto.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_B._Walter
All of us have our preferred choices. Of these, Yoyo quilt is my obvious choice. Yes admittedly people would differ as yoyo quilts are the most intricate to make of all the varieties.
But then Yoyo quilts are the most intricate for that very reason. Let's be all clear that Yoyo quilts take impervious time to make and thus are meant for impatient and beginners. During the 1930's & 40's these quilts were at the prime in recognition and their time seems to be here again now.
These quilts are basically small rosettes containing cotton. The technique involves assembling and sewing material into a circle. The rosettes are then stitched into a predetermined pattern. Printed materials are commonly used for making yoyos.
The choice of fabric is not limited as ironing is not required for these quilts and therefore batting type can also vary. Many a times a large fabric is used as a cover for yoyos, some do it as they do not like their special yoyo to get spoilt while using it while others just like to preserve the quilt for longer use.
Yoyo quilts like other quilts are the result of our imagination of colors and patterns, they can be made as per your preference. If you like your yoyo to serve as mini cushion on your sofa or like a bed cover then slight adjustments of not adding batting and backpack shall do it.
Be clear that initially the art of making a yoyo quilt can be difficult to learn but gradually once you have got accustomed to the steps it shall not take much time.
It's always important that the supplies are ready before hand. Beautiful designs added with color variations give the yoyo quilt an elegant look. Here are the steps to craft a yoyo quilt.
1. Before you do anything have the size of the quilt in you mind and thereafter make a spherical cut-out pattern twice that dimension and an extra 1/2". A cardboard cutout will act as a guide.
2. Place the cut-out pattern to your right or left hand side of the fabric depending on your writing hand and then using a pencil create a highlighted area around it. Allow space of 1/2" between circles.
3. Create circles of size ¼ inch after the line.
4. It is recommended that a quilting thread be used or else if you use a regular thread then sew with 2 strands. Tie a knot at the last tip of the thread and take it upside from behind while folding underneath the ring on the line.
5. Keep stitching on the line of the circle, folding underneath the seam allowance further.
6. As you keep stitching you shall reach the start point again, there pull the thread so that it all collects within a rosette. the yoyo should have an opening in the center
7. Few backstitches will help secure the thread, tie a knot so that the thread is not lost.
8. All the excess thread should be cut off then re-knot & start another yoyo.
9. Place the yoyo in front of you in rows in a manner that reflects the kind of design/pattern you want to make.
10. Now sew two yoyos. Stitching can be done either from the middle or any side. Do this again until all rows are done. Now sew all the rows to form one piece.
11. What you can also do is sew the yoyo with a larger material, then adding batting to it & adding finishing touch to the edges.
Discover free beginner hand quilting instructions and expert quilting lesson by Jennifer Walter, the owner of successful quilting site at http://www.quilthowto.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_B._Walter
Creating Masterpieces With Quilting Patterns
By Michelle Bery
There are few among us who do not own a quilt; beautifully constructed, deliciously warm, and often chock-full of memories. The art of quilting has been in existence for generations; women spent hours making quilts to keep their families warm. Decades later the same quilts would be hung on walls as sentimental decoration; and even those quilts that are made today are used to add decorative warmth to homes. Quilting patterns have made the art of quilting possible for everyone – providing a host of beautiful designs from which to work.
Today’s quilt makers often use events as inspiration, making a quilt for a new baby, a housewarming gift, or a special birthday celebration. The creation of these quilts, like that of their historic counterparts, requires patience, focus, and creativity. But when it comes to design, quilting patterns can offer suggestions – and step-by-step instruction – on making beautiful and inspiration quilts.
Quilt makers choose from literally thousands of quilting patterns available in fabric stores and online – where quilting patterns are even available for free download – based on their personal ideas for the overall look of the quilt. Or they can turn to quilting patterns for inspiration if they are not quite sure in what direction they want to go. Patterns range from holiday themes and baby themes to bold designs and flowery art. The choices are endless. Once the quilters choose their quilting patterns, they use it to walk them through each element of the design. In some cases appliqués can be sewn directly onto the quilt. Some quilters even choose to transfer favorite photos are artwork right onto the surface of their quilt.
Quilting patterns are available for any theme you could ever consider and some you wouldn’t have thought existed. Begin by choosing quilting patterns based on what you want to accomplish and then choose fabric and thread accordingly. The use of quilting patterns will save you quite a bit of time and allow you to systematically and efficiently produce a beautiful quilt you can admire for a lifetime.
For easy to understand, in depth information about quilting visit our ezGuide 2 Quilting.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michelle_Bery
There are few among us who do not own a quilt; beautifully constructed, deliciously warm, and often chock-full of memories. The art of quilting has been in existence for generations; women spent hours making quilts to keep their families warm. Decades later the same quilts would be hung on walls as sentimental decoration; and even those quilts that are made today are used to add decorative warmth to homes. Quilting patterns have made the art of quilting possible for everyone – providing a host of beautiful designs from which to work.
Today’s quilt makers often use events as inspiration, making a quilt for a new baby, a housewarming gift, or a special birthday celebration. The creation of these quilts, like that of their historic counterparts, requires patience, focus, and creativity. But when it comes to design, quilting patterns can offer suggestions – and step-by-step instruction – on making beautiful and inspiration quilts.
Quilt makers choose from literally thousands of quilting patterns available in fabric stores and online – where quilting patterns are even available for free download – based on their personal ideas for the overall look of the quilt. Or they can turn to quilting patterns for inspiration if they are not quite sure in what direction they want to go. Patterns range from holiday themes and baby themes to bold designs and flowery art. The choices are endless. Once the quilters choose their quilting patterns, they use it to walk them through each element of the design. In some cases appliqués can be sewn directly onto the quilt. Some quilters even choose to transfer favorite photos are artwork right onto the surface of their quilt.
Quilting patterns are available for any theme you could ever consider and some you wouldn’t have thought existed. Begin by choosing quilting patterns based on what you want to accomplish and then choose fabric and thread accordingly. The use of quilting patterns will save you quite a bit of time and allow you to systematically and efficiently produce a beautiful quilt you can admire for a lifetime.
For easy to understand, in depth information about quilting visit our ezGuide 2 Quilting.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michelle_Bery
Create An Interesting Design For Your Quilt with Simple Shapes
By Penny Halgren
Quilts and quilt designs are created when the quilt maker combines blocks.
A block is the basic unit of a quilt top. Typically blocks are square. They can be made any size, and frequently a quilt is made using many blocks with the same design. They can be pieced together from smaller pieces (called patches) or could be appliqué. It is also possible that a block could be a solid piece of fabric.
The smaller components of a block are called patches. They can be many different shapes - triangles, rectangles, squares, diamonds, or curves - but the idea is to sew patches together so you end up with a square.
By changing the shapes of the patches within a block (i.e., substituting triangles for squares) and/or changing the placement of the colors of the pieces (i.e., you can create a new design for your quilt, yet the sewing won't change.
Simple is the name of the game for many quilters. Using one or two shapes for all of the pieces in your quilt makes it easy to sew; and easy-to-sew squares and triangles offer many advantages in terms of simplicity. As a beginner quilter, making the sewing simple gives you the opportunity to focus on learning and practicing basic quilt making techniques that you will use as you develop your craft.
Interesting variations in quilt blocks can be achieved through placement of the fabrics in addition to how each patch is divided.
A simple nine patch quilt block can be used as an example of how different a block can look just by changing the placement of colors within the nine patches of one block.
Using only two colors of fabric in alternating squares creates a design like a checkerboard. With the same nine patch of two colors of fabric, using only square patches in each block, you can create a pattern that looks like a big X in your quilt simply by placing the colors in a particular position in each block. Thus, the Irish Chain, and variations of it.
Getting a little more complex, you can take some of the square patches in the blocks and divide them in half from corner to corner (commonly called half-square triangles in the quilting world), and create a star design.
Using only half-square triangles and square patches, by simply re-arranging the fabrics, your checkerboard or square turns into a basket, or leaf shape, a bow tie shape, or even a series of diamonds.
Another type of triangle that is easy to make is a quarter-square triangle. That triangle is made by cutting a square patch into half-square triangles, and then cutting the half-square triangles in half once more, thus creating four small isosceles triangles.
You can add complexity to your design by increasing the number of colors in your quilt, and your design changes once again. What once was a black and white checkerboard can transform into a block that looks like the letter H.
Your block can look like it is 3-dimensional by using specific colors in designated places.
And all of those design changes can be created by using only three basic shapes - squares, half-square triangles and quarter-square triangles - plus a little imagination in the placement of your colors.
As you sew your blocks together, they can look completely different. For example, you could take blocks of two simple half-square triangles, place them in columns, alternate the direction of the cut of the triangle, and create a quilt that looks like columns of zigzags. Using the same blocks, placing them so all of the diagonals are facing the same direction, your quilt could look like an old-fashioned scrap quilt.
Penny Halgren http://www.How-to-Quilt.com Penny is a quilter of more than 26 years who seeks to interest new quilters and provide them with the resources necessary to create beautiful family heirloom quilts.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Penny_Halgren
Quilts and quilt designs are created when the quilt maker combines blocks.
A block is the basic unit of a quilt top. Typically blocks are square. They can be made any size, and frequently a quilt is made using many blocks with the same design. They can be pieced together from smaller pieces (called patches) or could be appliqué. It is also possible that a block could be a solid piece of fabric.
The smaller components of a block are called patches. They can be many different shapes - triangles, rectangles, squares, diamonds, or curves - but the idea is to sew patches together so you end up with a square.
By changing the shapes of the patches within a block (i.e., substituting triangles for squares) and/or changing the placement of the colors of the pieces (i.e., you can create a new design for your quilt, yet the sewing won't change.
Simple is the name of the game for many quilters. Using one or two shapes for all of the pieces in your quilt makes it easy to sew; and easy-to-sew squares and triangles offer many advantages in terms of simplicity. As a beginner quilter, making the sewing simple gives you the opportunity to focus on learning and practicing basic quilt making techniques that you will use as you develop your craft.
Interesting variations in quilt blocks can be achieved through placement of the fabrics in addition to how each patch is divided.
A simple nine patch quilt block can be used as an example of how different a block can look just by changing the placement of colors within the nine patches of one block.
Using only two colors of fabric in alternating squares creates a design like a checkerboard. With the same nine patch of two colors of fabric, using only square patches in each block, you can create a pattern that looks like a big X in your quilt simply by placing the colors in a particular position in each block. Thus, the Irish Chain, and variations of it.
Getting a little more complex, you can take some of the square patches in the blocks and divide them in half from corner to corner (commonly called half-square triangles in the quilting world), and create a star design.
Using only half-square triangles and square patches, by simply re-arranging the fabrics, your checkerboard or square turns into a basket, or leaf shape, a bow tie shape, or even a series of diamonds.
Another type of triangle that is easy to make is a quarter-square triangle. That triangle is made by cutting a square patch into half-square triangles, and then cutting the half-square triangles in half once more, thus creating four small isosceles triangles.
You can add complexity to your design by increasing the number of colors in your quilt, and your design changes once again. What once was a black and white checkerboard can transform into a block that looks like the letter H.
Your block can look like it is 3-dimensional by using specific colors in designated places.
And all of those design changes can be created by using only three basic shapes - squares, half-square triangles and quarter-square triangles - plus a little imagination in the placement of your colors.
As you sew your blocks together, they can look completely different. For example, you could take blocks of two simple half-square triangles, place them in columns, alternate the direction of the cut of the triangle, and create a quilt that looks like columns of zigzags. Using the same blocks, placing them so all of the diagonals are facing the same direction, your quilt could look like an old-fashioned scrap quilt.
Penny Halgren http://www.How-to-Quilt.com Penny is a quilter of more than 26 years who seeks to interest new quilters and provide them with the resources necessary to create beautiful family heirloom quilts.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Penny_Halgren
Senior Care - It's Never Too Late to Quilt
By Raymond Degg
Quilting is for all times and all ages. In our retirement years, the craft seems to grow in its appeal and meaning. With innovative new tools, the hobby is even more accessible to seniors. It's the perfect way to relax, keep yourself occupied, and utilize your imagination in a meaningful way.
For ages, quilting has been a rich chapter in women's history. The quilt is like a canvas to paint our stories and memories. Our needles are our brushes. Quilting groups are quite popular and often meet once a week to socialize, snack, and create rich works of textile art. The popular film, How To Make An American Quilt (1995), is a great example of this.
Although it seems like quilting would be nearly impossible for elders with certain difficulties like low vision, arthritis, or back problems to enjoy, in reality there are some simple tricks that can help a lot.
Try raising your work surface to relieve minor back and neck aches. Table-leg raisers are shaped similarly to plastic cones and go right under the legs of your table. This handy device will keep you from bending uncomfortably over your work space, keeping you relaxed and efficient for a longer period of time.
If you have trouble with your eyesight, quilting can seem like an impossible task. However, you can find at your local craft store a needle- threader with a magnifying lens built right in. Also look out for sewing machines that have an automatic threader to relieve you of this task altogether. There are magnifying lenses available that are mounted on the neckline and angled so that when you lean forward you look straight through the lens and onto your work. Again, ask your local hobby store to assist you.
If you have difficulty using your hands for finely detailed stitching, use the more traditional method of "tying" on your quilt-top. With this method, use widely-spaced yarn ties to join the quilt, instead of countless smaller stitches. You can also use a larger needle for this method, which is very helpful.
You may choose to machine-quilt your quilt-tops. Using an electric sewing machine will speed up the process, and makes it easier for arthritic hands. You might think about having an affordable machine-owner do the quilt top for you after you do the piecing. At-home entrepreneurs will run a quilt through a long-art quilting machine and charge only a modest fee. They might also provide binding materials and backing as well.
With these simple tools and techniques, seniors can continue to quilt well into their retirement years with ease and enjoyment.
http://www.TheSeniorView.com
Welcome to the largest source of information and resources for seniors. We are dedicated to providing everything you need to live an enjoyable and healthy lifestyle. Here you will find news relevant to your life and articles focused on your lifestyle. We provide you with all the resources necessary to live a safe and happy life.
Services - Find the services you need to live a safe and active lifestyle. http://www.theseniorview.com/Main/Services.html
Articles - Find information about to make informed decisions. http://www.theseniorview.com/Main/Articles.html
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Raymond_Degg
Quilting is for all times and all ages. In our retirement years, the craft seems to grow in its appeal and meaning. With innovative new tools, the hobby is even more accessible to seniors. It's the perfect way to relax, keep yourself occupied, and utilize your imagination in a meaningful way.
For ages, quilting has been a rich chapter in women's history. The quilt is like a canvas to paint our stories and memories. Our needles are our brushes. Quilting groups are quite popular and often meet once a week to socialize, snack, and create rich works of textile art. The popular film, How To Make An American Quilt (1995), is a great example of this.
Although it seems like quilting would be nearly impossible for elders with certain difficulties like low vision, arthritis, or back problems to enjoy, in reality there are some simple tricks that can help a lot.
Try raising your work surface to relieve minor back and neck aches. Table-leg raisers are shaped similarly to plastic cones and go right under the legs of your table. This handy device will keep you from bending uncomfortably over your work space, keeping you relaxed and efficient for a longer period of time.
If you have trouble with your eyesight, quilting can seem like an impossible task. However, you can find at your local craft store a needle- threader with a magnifying lens built right in. Also look out for sewing machines that have an automatic threader to relieve you of this task altogether. There are magnifying lenses available that are mounted on the neckline and angled so that when you lean forward you look straight through the lens and onto your work. Again, ask your local hobby store to assist you.
If you have difficulty using your hands for finely detailed stitching, use the more traditional method of "tying" on your quilt-top. With this method, use widely-spaced yarn ties to join the quilt, instead of countless smaller stitches. You can also use a larger needle for this method, which is very helpful.
You may choose to machine-quilt your quilt-tops. Using an electric sewing machine will speed up the process, and makes it easier for arthritic hands. You might think about having an affordable machine-owner do the quilt top for you after you do the piecing. At-home entrepreneurs will run a quilt through a long-art quilting machine and charge only a modest fee. They might also provide binding materials and backing as well.
With these simple tools and techniques, seniors can continue to quilt well into their retirement years with ease and enjoyment.
http://www.TheSeniorView.com
Welcome to the largest source of information and resources for seniors. We are dedicated to providing everything you need to live an enjoyable and healthy lifestyle. Here you will find news relevant to your life and articles focused on your lifestyle. We provide you with all the resources necessary to live a safe and happy life.
Services - Find the services you need to live a safe and active lifestyle. http://www.theseniorview.com/Main/Services.html
Articles - Find information about to make informed decisions. http://www.theseniorview.com/Main/Articles.html
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Raymond_Degg
Rag Quilt Patterns
By Steve Knowles
Quilting has long been an art with the earliest American women creating beautiful quilts to adorn their homes. For hundreds of years, women all over this planet have been sewing quilts to keep their family members warm. In fact a lot of women would hand down their quilts from one generation to another or make some memory blocks to stitch lovingly all the wonderful milestones in their lives.
Many families use quilts also to celebrate different events of our life like weddings, birth of a baby, Christmas and other festivals and events. When it comes to warmth, there is little that can outmatch a quilt, and when you want something that is aesthetically pleasing, quilts deliver in spades. There is no particular technique for making quilts nor are there rigid rules barring safety and hygiene. People are attracted to quilts by the variety of designs and the many different colors. Quilts can be seen as a reflection of people, places, life and times. One of the joys of quilting is being able to spend your craft time doing various styles or types of quilts. Quilts, what a wonderful way to add that country touch to your décor.
Easy Quilt Patterns
If you are into quilting, then you must have realized that one of the most critical and important parts is actually in choosing quilting patterns to work on. You also need to consider your ability and skill in choosing quilting patterns. One critical thing to remember in choosing quilting patterns is that you have to make sure that the design will complement your home décor.
Start Quilting Business
Sewing has a proven track record as a home-based business in dozens of niches, including upholstery, bridal wear, crafts and quilts. You can often make at least a fifty percent profit on your completed quilts. Whether you want to make a business of quilting, or you just want it as a serious hobby, investing in a quilting machine is a wise decision. Quilting machines allow you to not only create quilts faster but, you can even make a profitable business out of selling them. With a quality quilting machine you can easily make two or three quilts per day.
Quilting Sewing Machines
Good sewing machines for quilting can really help you to enjoy your hobby rather than hindering it. A poor machine will leave you frustrated so it is well worth taking the time to research and choose from one of several good sewing machines for quilting. The needles that fit in the good sewing machine for quilting will also be an extremely important point for consideration. Number 14 needles are the best option for quilting, but not all sewing machines will hold them.
So if you are searching for inexpensive quilting patterns with great designs, using easy to follow quilting techniges then here is your answer.
You can find the best easy quilt patterns review here and the best expert advice available for quilting techniges (techniques).
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Knowles
Quilting has long been an art with the earliest American women creating beautiful quilts to adorn their homes. For hundreds of years, women all over this planet have been sewing quilts to keep their family members warm. In fact a lot of women would hand down their quilts from one generation to another or make some memory blocks to stitch lovingly all the wonderful milestones in their lives.
Many families use quilts also to celebrate different events of our life like weddings, birth of a baby, Christmas and other festivals and events. When it comes to warmth, there is little that can outmatch a quilt, and when you want something that is aesthetically pleasing, quilts deliver in spades. There is no particular technique for making quilts nor are there rigid rules barring safety and hygiene. People are attracted to quilts by the variety of designs and the many different colors. Quilts can be seen as a reflection of people, places, life and times. One of the joys of quilting is being able to spend your craft time doing various styles or types of quilts. Quilts, what a wonderful way to add that country touch to your décor.
Easy Quilt Patterns
If you are into quilting, then you must have realized that one of the most critical and important parts is actually in choosing quilting patterns to work on. You also need to consider your ability and skill in choosing quilting patterns. One critical thing to remember in choosing quilting patterns is that you have to make sure that the design will complement your home décor.
Start Quilting Business
Sewing has a proven track record as a home-based business in dozens of niches, including upholstery, bridal wear, crafts and quilts. You can often make at least a fifty percent profit on your completed quilts. Whether you want to make a business of quilting, or you just want it as a serious hobby, investing in a quilting machine is a wise decision. Quilting machines allow you to not only create quilts faster but, you can even make a profitable business out of selling them. With a quality quilting machine you can easily make two or three quilts per day.
Quilting Sewing Machines
Good sewing machines for quilting can really help you to enjoy your hobby rather than hindering it. A poor machine will leave you frustrated so it is well worth taking the time to research and choose from one of several good sewing machines for quilting. The needles that fit in the good sewing machine for quilting will also be an extremely important point for consideration. Number 14 needles are the best option for quilting, but not all sewing machines will hold them.
So if you are searching for inexpensive quilting patterns with great designs, using easy to follow quilting techniges then here is your answer.
You can find the best easy quilt patterns review here and the best expert advice available for quilting techniges (techniques).
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_Knowles
Amazing New Quilt Design for You to See
By Jimmy Wilson
Quilt-Kits-Quilting-Patterns.com has discovered a totally new and unique quilting pattern from down under. An Australian by the name of Chris Timmons has copyrighted a quilt pattern that is re-kindling an art form of quilting unlike any other in decades.
Seldom does something this spectacular become available to re-create and possess!
Quilting Patterns come in a variety of designs and patterns but there are those that really stand out and catch your eyes, the Twisted Bargello is one such quilt pattern you simply MUST SEE!
Twisted Bargello quilt pattern has an optical illusion or three-dimensional effect if you will, that causes you to take a second look once your eyes first catch a glimpse of it. There are numerous quilt kits and quilting patterns available and many of us have always had a tendency to favor the traditional quilting patterns like the Wedding Ring quilt pattern, Log Cabin quilt pattern, or the Lone Star, but occasionally, a new and pleasingly different quilting pattern emerges and can become a new standard from which we choose to mimic.
Chris Timmons is an Australian native that has shared this remarkable quilting pattern for all of us to make and enjoy. As time goes on, the ever-popular Nine-Patch-Criss-Cross Quilt, Lone Star or Pineapple piece of Cake quilting patterns may just share equal billing with the Twisted Bargello.
Quilt Kits allow anyone with a sewing knack to take quilting patterns and put their sewing abilities to work and create personal masterpiece quilts to share with friends and family for years to come. Passing on a quilt to future generations is a legacy that has blessed many families literally around the world.
Quilting Patterns and designs date back to the settlers that found our great nation and we commemorate them in their accomplishments by keeping their patterns alive today. Whenever you have a quilt that you’ve started and haven’t found time to finish, think of how many people, family or otherwise, that will treasure your quilting handiwork for years beyond your lifespan. I know some of the greatest gifts my grandmothers gave me, are the quilts, pillows, and other hand sewn articles that I won’t part with until it’s time to pass on to my grandchildren.
To learn more about the Twisted Bargello and the Lightning Strike quilt designs please stop by our site: http://quilt-kits-quilting-patterns.com/
To learn more about quilting, quilt kits and the Twisted Bargello and the Lightning Strike quilt designs please stop by our site: http://quilt-kits-quilting-patterns.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jimmy_Wilson
Quilt-Kits-Quilting-Patterns.com has discovered a totally new and unique quilting pattern from down under. An Australian by the name of Chris Timmons has copyrighted a quilt pattern that is re-kindling an art form of quilting unlike any other in decades.
Seldom does something this spectacular become available to re-create and possess!
Quilting Patterns come in a variety of designs and patterns but there are those that really stand out and catch your eyes, the Twisted Bargello is one such quilt pattern you simply MUST SEE!
Twisted Bargello quilt pattern has an optical illusion or three-dimensional effect if you will, that causes you to take a second look once your eyes first catch a glimpse of it. There are numerous quilt kits and quilting patterns available and many of us have always had a tendency to favor the traditional quilting patterns like the Wedding Ring quilt pattern, Log Cabin quilt pattern, or the Lone Star, but occasionally, a new and pleasingly different quilting pattern emerges and can become a new standard from which we choose to mimic.
Chris Timmons is an Australian native that has shared this remarkable quilting pattern for all of us to make and enjoy. As time goes on, the ever-popular Nine-Patch-Criss-Cross Quilt, Lone Star or Pineapple piece of Cake quilting patterns may just share equal billing with the Twisted Bargello.
Quilt Kits allow anyone with a sewing knack to take quilting patterns and put their sewing abilities to work and create personal masterpiece quilts to share with friends and family for years to come. Passing on a quilt to future generations is a legacy that has blessed many families literally around the world.
Quilting Patterns and designs date back to the settlers that found our great nation and we commemorate them in their accomplishments by keeping their patterns alive today. Whenever you have a quilt that you’ve started and haven’t found time to finish, think of how many people, family or otherwise, that will treasure your quilting handiwork for years beyond your lifespan. I know some of the greatest gifts my grandmothers gave me, are the quilts, pillows, and other hand sewn articles that I won’t part with until it’s time to pass on to my grandchildren.
To learn more about the Twisted Bargello and the Lightning Strike quilt designs please stop by our site: http://quilt-kits-quilting-patterns.com/
To learn more about quilting, quilt kits and the Twisted Bargello and the Lightning Strike quilt designs please stop by our site: http://quilt-kits-quilting-patterns.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jimmy_Wilson
Silk Quilting Fabric
By Penny Halgren
Silk quilts are relatively unusual although not totally unheard of. Silk tie quilts have been popular for many years, and silk quilts made from kimonos are also relatively popular.
Working with silk sounds very elegant – the fabric drapes really well, and it feels wonderful – yet it presents its challenges.
Silk fibers are very strong. There are some real benefits to its strength – the quilts are durable and the threads will not break easily.
Because of the strength of the fibers, silk fabric does not finger press well. To ensure flat seams, you need to press frequently while you are piecing, or pin the seam allowances in place prior to sewing.
Silk fabric may retain pinholes. Using regular size pins and needles to sew silk may result in pinholes you can’t get rid of. There are special silk pins to use for pinning. And for machine stitching, use a thinner sewing machine needle.
Silk fabric is slippery and doesn’t retain its shape. One of the things that makes silk so nice is that you can drape it, gather it, fluff it, and many other things. The problem is that when you try to sew it, the fabric slides around. Without tons of pins, the resulting piecing can be completely misshapen.
One solution is to iron a lightweight interfacing on each individual piece. One option is to iron the interfacing onto the entire piece of fabric and then cut the individual pieces from that. The interfacing adds some bulk to the seams and makes it a little more difficult to press the seam allowances to one side.
Another option is to cut the interfacing into individual shapes, without the seam allowances. Then iron the interfacing pieces onto the wrong side of the silk fabric, remembering to leave at least ½ “ between the pieces of interfacing to allow for the ¼” seam allowances. This takes extra time, and may be worth it. Your project will be less frustrating to sew and will probably be the shape you want it to be.
Silk fabric is higher priced and not as easy to find as other fabrics. Because of the cost, many fabric stores do not carry silk at all, or may have a limited selection of solid colors. Using kimonos or ties, available at some second-hand clothing stores, is an option.
Using these types of clothing for fabric presents its challenges. In addition to working around the seams and finding expanses of fabric that are large enough for your pieces, it helps to pay attention to the straight grain and cross grain of the fabric. Without selvedges, this is a little more difficult.
Final thoughts. With all of its challenges, silk makes a fabulous quilt or wall hanging. Silk quilts are unusual and highly prized. The colors of silk fabric tend to be more vibrant than cotton or wool. In addition, you can use silk batting in your quilt, and make it 100% silk.
Happy Quilting!
Penny Halgren
Penny Halgren is a quilter of more than 24 years who seeks to interest new quilters and provide them with the resources necessary to create beautiful quilts.
This article courtesy of http://www.how-to-quilt.com/. You may freely reprint this article on your website or in your newsletter provided this courtesy notice and the author name and URL remain intact.
©2006, Penny Halgren
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Penny_Halgren
Silk quilts are relatively unusual although not totally unheard of. Silk tie quilts have been popular for many years, and silk quilts made from kimonos are also relatively popular.
Working with silk sounds very elegant – the fabric drapes really well, and it feels wonderful – yet it presents its challenges.
Silk fibers are very strong. There are some real benefits to its strength – the quilts are durable and the threads will not break easily.
Because of the strength of the fibers, silk fabric does not finger press well. To ensure flat seams, you need to press frequently while you are piecing, or pin the seam allowances in place prior to sewing.
Silk fabric may retain pinholes. Using regular size pins and needles to sew silk may result in pinholes you can’t get rid of. There are special silk pins to use for pinning. And for machine stitching, use a thinner sewing machine needle.
Silk fabric is slippery and doesn’t retain its shape. One of the things that makes silk so nice is that you can drape it, gather it, fluff it, and many other things. The problem is that when you try to sew it, the fabric slides around. Without tons of pins, the resulting piecing can be completely misshapen.
One solution is to iron a lightweight interfacing on each individual piece. One option is to iron the interfacing onto the entire piece of fabric and then cut the individual pieces from that. The interfacing adds some bulk to the seams and makes it a little more difficult to press the seam allowances to one side.
Another option is to cut the interfacing into individual shapes, without the seam allowances. Then iron the interfacing pieces onto the wrong side of the silk fabric, remembering to leave at least ½ “ between the pieces of interfacing to allow for the ¼” seam allowances. This takes extra time, and may be worth it. Your project will be less frustrating to sew and will probably be the shape you want it to be.
Silk fabric is higher priced and not as easy to find as other fabrics. Because of the cost, many fabric stores do not carry silk at all, or may have a limited selection of solid colors. Using kimonos or ties, available at some second-hand clothing stores, is an option.
Using these types of clothing for fabric presents its challenges. In addition to working around the seams and finding expanses of fabric that are large enough for your pieces, it helps to pay attention to the straight grain and cross grain of the fabric. Without selvedges, this is a little more difficult.
Final thoughts. With all of its challenges, silk makes a fabulous quilt or wall hanging. Silk quilts are unusual and highly prized. The colors of silk fabric tend to be more vibrant than cotton or wool. In addition, you can use silk batting in your quilt, and make it 100% silk.
Happy Quilting!
Penny Halgren
Penny Halgren is a quilter of more than 24 years who seeks to interest new quilters and provide them with the resources necessary to create beautiful quilts.
This article courtesy of http://www.how-to-quilt.com/. You may freely reprint this article on your website or in your newsletter provided this courtesy notice and the author name and URL remain intact.
©2006, Penny Halgren
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Penny_Halgren
Wool Quilting Fabric
By Penny Halgren
It is relatively common to use wool in quilts. These quilts are outstanding for cold weather.
Wool retains heat extremely well. Wool probably retains heat better than cotton, and has the same wicking properties (they draw moisture away from your body and allows it to evaporate.) Wool quilts were very common during the Civil War, and were credited with saving many lives during the harsh winters.
Wool is a little more difficult to work with than cotton. Because it is generally thicker (each thread of wool is thicker than each thread of cotton), the seam allowances don’t finger press well, and will require pins to keep them in place.
Because of the thickness, the quilt will be bulkier, and it may require a stronger sewing machine needle to sew through all of the layers.
Hand quilting is different because of the thickness of the fabric and also the weave. Some wools have fewer threads per inch than cotton, so your quilting stitches should be longer, and you may want to use a thicker thread.
Until recently, wool was mostly “Dry Clean Only.” Each strand of wool has little barbs on it. When they become wet and agitated (as in a washing machine), the barbs join together, never to be separated. This is called “felting,” and creates a piece of fabric or quilt that is about 1/3 its original size. very disappointing if you have spent hours on the project and were hoping to would remain the same size.
New wool is on the market that they say is washable and will not shrink. Using a new biotech process, wool can be treated so it is washable in your home washing machine and will not shrink. This is a great benefit, and will require quilters to know the difference and which wool they have, so a tragic mistake is not made.
Wools tend to be more expensive than cotton, and the variety of colors and patterns available is somewhat limited. As quilters venture into other types of fabric, the selection is increasing, so look for a wider variety of wool in the future – including hand-dyed wools.
Final thoughts. With all of its challenges, wool makes great quilts. They are cuddly and warm, and drape very nicely. Try wool batting in the quilt for a 100% wool quilt.
Happy Quilting!
Penny Halgren
Penny Halgren is a quilter of more than 24 years who seeks to interest new quilters and provide them with the resources necessary to create beautiful quilts.
This article courtesy of http://www.how-to-quilt.com/. You may freely reprint this article on your website or in your newsletter provided this courtesy notice and the author name and URL remain intact.
©2006, Penny Halgren
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Penny_Halgren
It is relatively common to use wool in quilts. These quilts are outstanding for cold weather.
Wool retains heat extremely well. Wool probably retains heat better than cotton, and has the same wicking properties (they draw moisture away from your body and allows it to evaporate.) Wool quilts were very common during the Civil War, and were credited with saving many lives during the harsh winters.
Wool is a little more difficult to work with than cotton. Because it is generally thicker (each thread of wool is thicker than each thread of cotton), the seam allowances don’t finger press well, and will require pins to keep them in place.
Because of the thickness, the quilt will be bulkier, and it may require a stronger sewing machine needle to sew through all of the layers.
Hand quilting is different because of the thickness of the fabric and also the weave. Some wools have fewer threads per inch than cotton, so your quilting stitches should be longer, and you may want to use a thicker thread.
Until recently, wool was mostly “Dry Clean Only.” Each strand of wool has little barbs on it. When they become wet and agitated (as in a washing machine), the barbs join together, never to be separated. This is called “felting,” and creates a piece of fabric or quilt that is about 1/3 its original size. very disappointing if you have spent hours on the project and were hoping to would remain the same size.
New wool is on the market that they say is washable and will not shrink. Using a new biotech process, wool can be treated so it is washable in your home washing machine and will not shrink. This is a great benefit, and will require quilters to know the difference and which wool they have, so a tragic mistake is not made.
Wools tend to be more expensive than cotton, and the variety of colors and patterns available is somewhat limited. As quilters venture into other types of fabric, the selection is increasing, so look for a wider variety of wool in the future – including hand-dyed wools.
Final thoughts. With all of its challenges, wool makes great quilts. They are cuddly and warm, and drape very nicely. Try wool batting in the quilt for a 100% wool quilt.
Happy Quilting!
Penny Halgren
Penny Halgren is a quilter of more than 24 years who seeks to interest new quilters and provide them with the resources necessary to create beautiful quilts.
This article courtesy of http://www.how-to-quilt.com/. You may freely reprint this article on your website or in your newsletter provided this courtesy notice and the author name and URL remain intact.
©2006, Penny Halgren
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Penny_Halgren
Complete Guide to Quilting
By Jenny Grant
If you've never quilted before, you might be overwhelmed with all of the information available to quilters. One way to get started is to read a complete guide to quilting. This will be able to help you get started, and go from complete beginner, to an accomplished quilter.
What will a complete guide to quilting contain? First off, most of them will give you a little history of quilting. It will then go over the different types of fabrics you should use, and how to choose ones that go together well. Then the guide will go over what supplies you will need to buy, and what they are used for. After that, most likely the complete guide to quilting will go step-by-step showing you how to make your first quilt. Since it will be your first quilt, it will probably be a simple one so that you can get the idea of how it works. Then, they might also include some other blocks or patterns you can try next. You might even find other interesting projects you can make that will be fun and interesting.
There are many ways you can get a complete guide to quilting. You can go to your local bookstore or library, and you will find many books on quilting. While some are more for advanced quilters, there are many out there that are complete guides to quilting, and will help even the person who knows nothing about quilting but wants to make their first quilt.
Another way you can get a complete guide to quilting is online. There are many websites that have complete guides to quilting, and they will also show you step-by-step how to make a quilt for beginners. Online, you are also more likely to find specific types of guides, such as making quilts for profit, making quilts faster and easier, making quilts cheaper, and so on.
Even if you have never touched a quilt before, but want to become a quilter, many of these complete guides to quilting will be perfect to show you how to get started, and before you know it, you will be a quilting pro!
Jenny Grant enjoys quilting and loves to help others learn how to quilt. She wants to help you make quilts faster so you can make more quilts for friends and family and even earn money from selling them! If you want free tips on quilting, visit the Quilting Advisor
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jenny_Grant
If you've never quilted before, you might be overwhelmed with all of the information available to quilters. One way to get started is to read a complete guide to quilting. This will be able to help you get started, and go from complete beginner, to an accomplished quilter.
What will a complete guide to quilting contain? First off, most of them will give you a little history of quilting. It will then go over the different types of fabrics you should use, and how to choose ones that go together well. Then the guide will go over what supplies you will need to buy, and what they are used for. After that, most likely the complete guide to quilting will go step-by-step showing you how to make your first quilt. Since it will be your first quilt, it will probably be a simple one so that you can get the idea of how it works. Then, they might also include some other blocks or patterns you can try next. You might even find other interesting projects you can make that will be fun and interesting.
There are many ways you can get a complete guide to quilting. You can go to your local bookstore or library, and you will find many books on quilting. While some are more for advanced quilters, there are many out there that are complete guides to quilting, and will help even the person who knows nothing about quilting but wants to make their first quilt.
Another way you can get a complete guide to quilting is online. There are many websites that have complete guides to quilting, and they will also show you step-by-step how to make a quilt for beginners. Online, you are also more likely to find specific types of guides, such as making quilts for profit, making quilts faster and easier, making quilts cheaper, and so on.
Even if you have never touched a quilt before, but want to become a quilter, many of these complete guides to quilting will be perfect to show you how to get started, and before you know it, you will be a quilting pro!
Jenny Grant enjoys quilting and loves to help others learn how to quilt. She wants to help you make quilts faster so you can make more quilts for friends and family and even earn money from selling them! If you want free tips on quilting, visit the Quilting Advisor
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jenny_Grant
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