Quilting is an art form that is loved by many. It's not just a hobby, it's a way of life for many people, and quilting communities are tight-knit and deeply passionate about their craft. Although it's a blast to transform scraps of fabric into a work of art, quilting can be time consuming! From coming up with the quilt's concept to cutting and sewing one's blocks, it's not uncommon for quilts to take weeks or even months to complete. Although the length of time it takes to finish a quilt depends on its complexity, there are a few ways that quilters can save time while preventing common mistakes. In honour of National Quilting Month, we have compiled a list of six tips that will make your quilting experience faster and more enjoyable!
Photo via Craftsy
- Don't Put A Pin In It
Using pins to put together one's quilt before sewing is a tried and true method, but it's not the easiest way to quilt! Using a water-soluble glue to align seams, binding, piping etc. reduces the possibility of the fabric slipping or puckering while sewing. Glue is also excellent for creating perfectly accurate stripes, plaids and other similar patterns. For perfect points and spectacular seams, put down those pins and get gluing!
2. Wind It Up
Sure, it only takes a minute or so to wind up a bobbin but because quilters use a lot of thread while quilting (especially with bigger quilts), those minutes here and there can seriously add up! Coming prepared with an arsenal of pre-wound bobbins means that you barely have to pause while you stitch up a sweat.
3. Show Your Machine A Little TLC
This may seem like it goes without saying, but a worn-out sewing machine that hasn't been tuned up in years is simply not going to perform as well as one that is lovingly cared for. As the saying goes, 'prevention is better than intervention', and the last thing any quilter needs is for their beloved sewing machine to declare a mutiny on them in the middle of a huge project. Remove any lint, oil your machine and take it to get serviced at least once a year and you'll be amazed at how long it will run like new. If you love your sewing machine, it will love you right back!
Photo via OLFA Creates
4. For Straight Lines, Use A Rotary Cutter, Not Scissors
Traditional fabric scissors are great for creating curved edges or cutting out applique, but when you are trying to create a pin-straight line, nothing compares to the speed and accuracy achieved by using a rotary cutter! Simply, mark your lines, use a ruler and cut your fabric with one easy swoop. Just make sure to use a protective mat while using one so that the super-sharp blade doesn't damage the surface of your work table - you'll be hard pressed to find a quilter that hasn't marked up their table at least once!
Photo via Patchwork Hobby Art
5. Master That 1/4 Inch
Seasoned quilters know the importance of creating a flawless 1/4 inch seam. It's one of the most important aspects of creating a quilt and yet it is also one of the most challenging. For those who aren't naturally blessed with this skill, it is worth it to purchase a 1/4 inch sewing machine foot (if your machine doesn't already have one). For those who don't want to invest in this handy item, it is also very effective to add a little bit of tape to your sewing machine where the 1/4 inch mark should be. Whichever way you do it, ensuring that your 1/4 inch seams are perfect is worth the extra time and money - trust us!
6. Frequent Your Local Quilt Shops
The people who own and run independent quilting shops are almost always quilters themselves and therefore select items that they know their customers will love, because they know what quilters are looking for. Also, because their spaces are usually more intimate with only a couple of other staff members (if any), it's easier to get assistance and advice that is tailored to your needs. There's also the additional perk of knowing that you are supporting a local business and therefore your local economy! When searching for your supplies and fabrics, frequent the shops near you and you'll be amazed at the service and the uniqueness of the items you find.
Were there any tips that we missed that you think we should have included? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Do you have any questions or comments? We would love to hear from you! Chat with us in the comment section or send us a message at sales@njeffersonltd.com.
