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You may remember how, earlier this month, we posted several sewing tips sent in by our readers. They were awesome, and we are still so grateful for how willing you were to share with us. This time, we’ve got a list of quilting tips straight from readers like you. Take a look. We’re sure you’ll find some new ideas, and maybe you’ll even find your OWN tip listed below.
Tip #1
Nothing feeds creative inspiration like travel!
Tip #2
My Grandmother made scrap crazy quilts for the whole family. They were always tied, and she used old blankets for batting. When recreating one of her quilts for my brother I didn’t have a blanket. I roamed the local fabric store knowing regular batting would be too puffy. I hit upon some flannel. Ever since, I have used flannel inside utilitarian tied quilts especially for family members who need all cotton due to allergies.
Tip #3
Instead of throwing your old rotary cutter blades in the trash and risking someone getting cut, store them in a larger size Rx medicine bottle (plastic). The container is safe and childproof. When it is full, it is safe to throw in the trash — or deliver to a collection point.
Tip #4
I took 2 wooden standup TV trays: 1) padded the top of one to make a portable pressing table (several layers of cotton batt, fold pretty fabric over and staple) and 2) glued a cutting mat cut to fit on the other to make a portable cutting table. To use, I can take them to classes with me or set them up in front of the TV with my Featherweight on a 3rd one. I can join my husband watching TV and still work on my quilt blocks.
Tip #5
Instead of the fancy project bags, I use different sizes of ziplock bags to hold my projects in. The variety is large and they are easy to find.
Tip #6
When getting ready to put your backing on, clipping the back batting and top onto the top of a curtain rod uses gravity to keep the layer cake straight and wrinkle free while pinning. I use three self-sticking 3 m hooks and a curtain rod placed on the three clips and use refrigerator clips to hold it in place. When I’m done pinning I hang a piece of flannel king sized and use it as a design wall or project organizer.
Tip #7
Use Clover clips when attaching a binding for hand stitching.
Tip #8
I like to pin things when I work on any quilting projects. I also measure the pattern to see where I need to cut it.
Tip #9
Always use a new needle to prevent problem stitches.
Do you have any additional quilting tips to contribute? If so, post them below!
FaveQuilts
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sew together two small padded Hexagons and use to keep your current sewing needle on ,saves time searching for the right one in you needle case ,make some and give them to you friends .Happy sewing xx
I use a dollar-store lint roller (the kind you peel off a layer when it gets full) for a thread-catcher. I stand it up in a jar and just throw the threads on it, or roll it over finished areas to see which threads are loose and which need clipping.
These binder clips are wonderful to use. I have used them on a big quilt(big table), medium size for a wall hanging etc. and small for table topper, mug rug etc.
Hello, sometimes when we buy sheets, comforters or sheets we throw out the bags. now I’ve discovered we can cut the zippers off. save them for crafts. anything we need a zipper for.on the large bags there are usually 2 zips. one on each end.. wow. I know I must have thrown away dozens. but not anymore unless the zippers are broken. thanks for your space.
I use those bags to store quilt projects i.
Getting ready for machine sewing binding to quilts, I use a large machine stitch to keep that outer edge together. I then trim to the edge of the top piece. I apply my 21/2 inch double fold binding to the back, sewing a 1/4 inch seam. I stitch to 1/4 inch from the corner, then pivot my quilt to stitch off the quilt, right on the corner. Join the ends of binding my favourite way, on the bias. Then I flip the quilt over and stitch down the binding to the front. I can see the line of stitching from the first line on the binding, and make sure the front binding is sure to cover that. With any luck, you can stitch on the binding back, or you have stitched in the ditch. Practice makes perfect.
I wear a finger cot on my index finger of the hand I hold my needle with. It’s thin enough that I can feel what I’m doing but aids my grip so I don’t aggravate my carpal tunnel. They are cheap and plentiful.
We always have hand work at some point. I keep a small “Easter basket” handy for my thread, pin cushion, etc. when I’m ready for hand work I just grab the handle and take it wherever I need it.
Tape the top of a simpe ball point pen to the side of your sewing machine as a receptacle/holder for your seam ripper. Tape another one to hold your small scissors. Such a good time saver!