Quilting Supplies - Basic Terms and Tools
Quilting is the art of sewing two or more layers of fabric or
batting, together to create a warmer, thicker material. A quilt
typically consists of 3 layers: the top fabric, batting then the
quilt backing. Quilting also incorporates embroidery,
patchwork, appliqué and needlework. Each different kind of quilting
has specific quilting supplies to work with. Some are essential,
some can make your quilt more professional.
Types of Quilting
There are 3 different types of quilting: hand quilting, machine
quilting and tying. Hand quilting is using a needle and thread to
hand stitch and binds the layers together. Machine quilting is when
a sewing machine or longarm machine is used to sew the layers
together. Machine quilting is the most often form of quilting
today. Tying the quilt edges together is also used to finish quilt
edges. Tying is done most often when the quilt needs to be finished
quickly.
Quilting Typically Follows This Six Step
Process:
1) Picking out your quilt pattern, fabric and
batting. Acquire all quilting supplies needed (trimmers, clips,
needles, etc).
2) Measuring and cutting fabric pieces according to
your pattern.
3) Piecing your fabric blocks together, this is
sewing the blocks together from edge to edge.
4) Layering the quilt backing, batting and top
quilted piece.
5) Quilt through all layers.
6) Squaring up and trimming excess fabric and
batting.
Quilting Terms
Piecing: Sewing small pieces of fabric, also known
as quilt blocks together to make the top quilted part of your
quilt.
Sashing: Quilt blocks are separated by strips of
fabric.
Binding: Long strips of fabric cut on the bias used
to bind the edges of the quilt.
Quilting: Sewing through all layers of the quilt.
This is typically a decorative stitch, but holds the layers
together and allows air pockets to make the quilter warmer.
Quilting usually starts in the middle and works out to the
edges.
Quilting Patterns
Quilting Patterns take the guesswork
and measuring out of making your own quilting blocks. They
typically come with diagrams and pattern blocks. You choose the
fabric, follow the instructions, and you have an easier way to make
a quilt block.
Basic Quilting Supplies Checklist
- Stencils - help to create shapes and patterns
for the stitching quilt blocks. They are typically clear with slits
in them to guide your chalk or marker to make clean,
straight lines.
- Tape - temporarilty attaches fabric together to
give you an idea of how the block will look when sewn. Single and
double sided tape is available, and it will not leave residue on
your fabric.
- Pressing Aids - help to make clean,
straight creases when hemming pieces.
- Organizers - give your fabric, tools,
thread, and other supplies special places for easy access.
- Clips - easily create a puff quilt with
special clilps that will keep your fabric in place
- Hand Needles - specialized quilting
needles are shorter and shaper than typical hand sewing
needles.
- Quilting Hoops - quilting hoops are
larger than embroidery hoops, and help to stretch and hold the
fabric tight when hand quilting
- Fusible Web - instead of sewing, use
fusible web to attach your block pieces together
- Cutting Mats - protects surfaces and
keeps your blades sharp when using rotary cutters
- Batting - the material sewn between fabric
pieces to add warmth and thickness to your quilt
- Rulers - special quilting rulers are thicker
and come with grids to make measuring quilt pieces easier
- Tools - dies, crimpers, pressing tools, and
combs can all make quilting easier
- Rotary Cutters - circular blades with
handles that cut through fabric by pressing and pushing
- Thread - durable thread that is strong and does
not have stretch so that your quilt's shape does not warp
- Fabric - stablizers, panels, and even printable
fabric can all help make quilting easier
- Notions - templates, grippers, cutters, and
other unexpected tools
Popular Quilting Supplies Manufacturers
Quilting Information and Inspiration
For tips on choosing the right quilt batting, visit the quilt batting buying
guide.
For more information on quilt stencils, visit the quilt stencils buying
guide.
Looking for project ideas? Check out various quilting projects
at our Think Crafts Blog.
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