Should quilt bindings always be double? Quilt bindings can be single or double layer, depending on preference, but it’s worth noting that single-layer bindings do not offer as much “protection” to the quilt edge as double-layer ones do. If a quilt is going to be used regularly and/or washed, the added layers of a double […]
Pressing Tools—Clapper and Sleeve Board
It doesn’t matter whether you tailor fine wool jackets or make casual everyday wear, or if you’re a quilter—getting a good press is of the utmost importance for a professional-looking project. There are tools to help with that process. Let’s take a look at two tools that work for all sewers and quilters—a clapper and […]
Matching Points
Nothing causes quilters more angst than getting perfect points on their blocks. With multiple small pieces often combined into a single block, keeping points and seams aligned can be tricky, but there are a few tricks that help with the task. If you’re not a quilter, never fear, these same principles can apply to garment […]
Working with Pre-Cut Fabrics
If you’re a quilter, chances are you’re familiar with pre-cut fabric groupings, but if you’re not a quilter, the term may be new to you. Pre-Cuts Explained Most manufacturers offer their lines in coordinated groupings of various numbers of fabrics—often including prints, solids and perhaps dots or stripes that all go together. For those reticent […]
Fireside Chat: Sisters in Stitches
Join us for a lovely 35 minute chat with Sisters in Stitches Joined by the Cloth. We think you will enjoy hearing them talk about how they journal their stories of grief, ancestral history and all sorts of storytelling through the fiber art of quilting. ~Sheryl Belson
A Sticky Situation: All About Glue Sticks
There are times when it’s hard to keep something in place until you get it sewn. Of course, you can always hand-baste, but that’s tedious and time consuming. But, there’s a more slightly less conventional solution—a glue stick! Now, it you’re a sewing purist, you may be saying to yourself—WHAT? How could someone recommend gluing […]
Quilting Terms: Quilting, Borders and Sashing
This article is part of a two-part Quilting Basics series. Part one is available here. Quilting Quilting is the stitching that holds the quilt top, batting, and backing together. The quilting (stitching) of the three layers of fabric can be done simply by tying the three layers together with yarn or heavy thread. Most quilts […]
Quilting Terms: Backing, Blocks, and Batting
What is a Quilt? This is Part One of a two-part series. Part Two will be published on March 26, 2021. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary: a bed coverlet of two layers of cloth filled with padding (such as down or batting) held in place by ties or stitched designs A quilter’s definition is simply […]
Quilting Quandary
You’ve spent hours, days or weeks (OK, maybe years) tediously piecing your quilt top. It’s layered, basted and ready to go. It doesn’t matter if it’s a traditional look or totally mod, the next step toward the finish line—how to quilt it. You can, of course, hire a longarm quilter to do it for you. […]
A Cut Above: Laser Cut Designs
If you’re a quilter, perhaps cutting out all those tiny precise pieces for your appliqué work might not be one of your favorite tasks—you’d rather get going to complete the design. I sure feel that way, and alas, someone heard my plea. Recent advances in the quilting realm have brought us the advent of laser-cut […]