Beginner’s Guide to Quilting

Quilting is an art form that has been around for centuries. Archaeologists have found evidence of quilting dating back to 3400 BC where it was used to create garments for royalty. Today, quilting is largely associated with colorful patterned blankets and throws. Some people quilt because they enjoy creating a unique piece of art. Others quilt because they enjoy making something from scratch or they find the process of quilting relaxing after a hard day. Whatever your reasons for taking up quilting, becoming a quilter requires having specific tools on hand and knowing how to take scraps of fabric and turn them into beautiful quilts.

A History of Quilting

Many historians use quilts as a way to gain insight into the history and lifestyle of a group of people. While some quilts were created for practical purposes, many were also designed to tell a story. Understanding how quilting has been used throughout history can help new quilters develop an appreciation for the craft.

• Quilt History: Layer by Layer - Explore the history of quilting by viewing quilts from WWI and WWII.
• Listening to Herstory: A Short History of Quilting in the U.S. – Discover how female quilters have shaped U.S. history.
• The Art of the Quilt – Quilters have told stories throughout time and beginning quilters can learn to tell their own stories too.

Patterns and Designs

Part of the fun of quilting is discovering new patterns and designs. Beginning quilters will want to have a basic understanding of the most common quilting patterns. Knowing these patterns will make it easier to decide what type of quilt to make and provide guidelines when it comes to laying out and organizing the fabric for the quilt.

• History of Quilting – Learn how quilting has appeared in history and some of the more popular quilt blocks and patterns used.
• Quilting Patterns Through Time – Multiple quilting patterns are presented in this comprehensive resource.
• Quick & Easy Quilts – Some patterns are easier to create than others.
• Quilt Blocks Galore – Discover a wealth of patterns to use to create unique, beautiful quilts.

Making a Quilt

Quilting is a process. Whether you decide to hand quilt or machine quilt, you must have the right tools on hand and learn techniques to help make a beautiful, durable quilt. Making a quilt also involves knowing a bunch of little tips and tricks for making the process easier, including how to choose the right fabrics and batting for your quilt.

• McCall’s Quilting University – The videos and lessons at MQU cover nearly every aspect of quilting.
• How to: Quilt – Learn to quilt with a step-by-step guide, including pictures to guide you.
• Beginner’s Guide to Quilting – Find a list of basic supplies and required tools to start quilting.
• Basic Supplies: A Visual Guide – It helps to see examples of the tools and other supplies you will need to make sure you have the correct items.
• Quilting Fabric – Discover all you need to know about quilting fabric, including reasons to collect fabrics for later.
• How to Choose Good Quilting Fabric – Choose the wrong fabric and your quilt can be difficult to create or turn out all wrong.
• Choosing the Best Quilt Batting for your Quilts – The batting used in a quilt can help determine its durability.
• Starching: A Good Solution – Learn how starching can help in the quilting process.
• Hand Quilting Tips - Hand quilting is much different from machine quilting and requires specific skills.
• Tips for Easy Machine Quilting – Machine quilting may not look hard, but you still need to know a few things before getting started.
• 17 Quilting Supply Storage Tips – Don’t spend time searching for your supplies. Instead, keep everything organized and ready to go.
• Quilting Tips Archive – Veteran quilters share simple tips and unique tools to make quilting easier.
• Batts in the Attic: Tips and Tricks – Learn tips for making it easier to quilt.

Return to the Resources Page to get more helpful tips and hints.