Quilting Cutters

How Do You Start With Hand Quilting?

Starting with quilting is easier than you might think. While everything may look a little complicated at the moment, Spotlight is here to guide you through the process. If you are curious about quilting and need some information before you can get started, be sure to check out Spotlight's beginners guide below.

What Are The Basic Hand Quilting Supplies I Need To Get Started?

For hand quilting, you need only a limited amount of supplies. So, if you want to get started with quilting and don't want to spend too much, then hand quilting will be the starting point for you. Below, we have listed an overview of the basic supplies you need for hand quilting.

Quilting needles: You may think you need a large selection of quilting needles to get started, but this is not the case. In fact, there is a specific kind of needle that is best for quilting, more specifically the size 10 quilting needles. While you can obtain some variations in different sizes, you will find that the size 10 is suitable for most projects.

Quilting thread: There are various types of thread that can be used in quilting. However, there in particular thing to remember for manual quilting and even machine quilting, more specifically to always use the same fabric fibre as your quilting fabric. So, if you are working with a cotton fabric for your quilting, then you need to use a matching quilting thread.

Since you will be working with a variety of different fabrics as time goes on, don't forget to get the right type of thread as you go along. Over time, you will build quite the collection, but at least you will always have the best tools for the job.

Quilting hoop: A good quilting hoop is necessary for your manual quilting projects. It enables you to pull the quilting fabric over the hoop, but not as tightly as you would do for embroidery. By doing so, you have more control over your fabric and your project overall.

Thimble: We admit that not everyone uses a thimble. However, those who quilt on a regular basis will not be able to go without one of these. Repetitive movements can easily cause callouses on the hands, so using a thimble can prevent this painful little problem. Of course, it also enables you to keep quilting a lot longer if you use one.

What Basic Tips Should I Know For Hand Quilting?

There is a specific way to do hand quilting, although there are variations where methods are concerned. Nevertheless, you always start with the same basics, so let's have a look at those.

Thread cutting: When you cut the thread, you need to make sure it is not too long. If you cut the thread too long, it will get tangled and make the sewing process a whole lot harder. If you cut it too short, then you will have to interrupt your sewing flow more. So, it is all about finding the length that works for you and the specific thread you are working with - this since certain threads are more prone to tangling than others.

Hand placement: Those who quilt by hand need to make sure that their hands are placed on the project properly as they go along. You should always have one hand above your quilt and one hand underneath - this gives you more stability and prevents the fabric from moving when you put the needle through it.

Seamless borders: Some beginners may struggle getting a seamless border on their project. To help you get this seamless border, cut your quilting fabric for the back a little larger than the one you will use on the top. Then, for that longer backing forwards as you hand stitch it.

Getting Your Quilting Supplies At Spotlight

When you need quilting supplies, Spotlight is the place to be. As we are New Zealand's leading supplier of crafting supplies, you can find all the tools you need for your hand quilting projects and much more.

Check out our range of quilting supplies to uncover manual quilting needles, quilting hoops, thread, fabrics, and all other supplies at amazingly sharp prices. Be sure to check out our other crafting sections too! You might pick up another craft that tickles your fancy and keeps you busy for years to come!