I taught my 10 year old granddaughter how to sew on my Pfaff Performance Icon. I demonstrated French seams just for fun. The next day, while I was out on errands, she made her own tote bag with French seams that are better than mine. She now has her own Brother machine and makes all kinds of stuff. It's great having a sewing companion.
Wow! That's fantastic! It's so fun when our children and grandchildren enjoy the same hobbies and activities as us, isn't it? You set your granddaughter up for a lifetime of enjoyment!
I was tidying up an old cupboard recently and came across a patchwork quilt that my mum made on a singer treadle machine back when I was a child and I am 71 and it gave me the buzz to start a quilt of my own. My mum’s quilt was made with bits of material from dresses we wore as children and it brought back so many memories. I haven’t started yet but am in the process of building up my collection of things I need. My fear (or one of them) is the design - I am not a naturally creative person and a bit scared to take that first step. Your video has given me that confidence to take my first step. I will check out your tutorials. I live in Ireland and quilting is not as popular as it is in the US. It’s difficult to get books as a lot of companies don’t send to Ireland so it’s great to have the online guidance and encouragement from the likes of yourself. Thank you.
I've been told I'm too old to learn quilting or machine embroidery, at 72. Well, I ignored the naysayers and bought a Baby Lock Aurora. I love your channel and think I can learn a lot from you. Thank you for being a Teacher instead of a Preacher! Big hugs...Donna
Don't listen to nay-sayers. Quilting is not difficult if you start with basic squares - I did my first one with zero instruction and just knowing how to use my mom's sewing machine (which is now my sewing machine). From there, you just learn to improve and get fancier as you go. Most importantly, have fun! Also, you can start with some smaller items such as placemats, etc for practice vs taking on a huge quilt.
21:58 Yes!!!! I didn't even quilt for a year and barely made about 3 super simple strip piece charity quilts before I took on my most ambitious quilt project... my own pattern! And boy was it a pattern lol. My math wasn't mathing, I messed up several times, some points didn't meet up, and there were sooo... many... pieces.... but it actually turned out beautiful and got the praise of everyone in my quilting group who had quilted for 10+ years. Even with the mistakes, I felt so proud that I took on another self-made pattern. Those ambitious undertakings taught me a lot and really honed in my skills. I'm not afraid to take on "complex" projects and the shortcomings don't stress me out because it's all a learning experience and I'll never get good if I don't try. "Take chances, make mistakes, get messy!"
I am so glad I found you. I am a 69 year old beginning quilter, once was a theater costumer and primarily a lifelong learner. Key, to me was you saying”go ahead and do it”. We learn as we go, right, and we do it for us. Just seeing your daughter so joyous reminds me that that little creative spark is so vulnerable. What a luckily child to have a mom who understands that.
I am an A type personality. I have been the most impatient person I know. I'm now 75 years old and found quilting during the COVID lockdown. Two years on, I'm the most patient person I know, I feel like I'm ten years younger and, I'm learning something new everyday about the world and art of quilting. Other than the odd A-line skirt or box blouse, hemming and the odd rudimentary alteration, I've done little to no sewing in my life. I bought a second hand Janome Quilters Companion, and haven't looked back. The quilting rabbit hole has lured me in and I'm hooked. I laughed when you said you gave all your early quilts away. I'm doing the same thing. My friends and family are getting all the learner's projects. But I'm tickled with every one I've made. I refuse to hear critcism unless it's constructive, I'm gradually gathering proper tools, and gradually learning about fabrics and the world of textiles. I also am a huge KF fan! Oh my gawd. Thank you for these 15 reminder tips. Most I've learned, but I believe that a good student goes into every new project with an open mind, and open heart and a willingness to step into the unknown.
Thank you for these words of encouragement. I am turning 71 in a few days and gifted myself with a long arm machine and frame. Do I ever have so much to learn as I have no one to teach me or turn to for guidance. O. Top of that the arthritis in my hands makes life difficult but I do not give up easily. Wish me luck. Suzy H in Florida.
I am 82 and I finally learned to listen to the advice 'TAKE BREAKS" When I feel the first twinge of arthritis or any pain, I stop and usually take a drink of water. I am not like these younger generations who live with a water bottle attached to their hand. I have to remember to grab that H2O
I like most all of what you say here. I will say though I spent $300 on my sewing machine. I've used it now for years. It's a great machine. I would be cautious telling someone how much to spend on a machine. $500 can be a lot of money for some and we don't want to discourage people from learning to quilt One thing I learned, when it comes to sewing machines, it is almost always the operator that is the problem. Good video.
My nine-year-old granddaughter made her first quilt. it was all wonky and hot mess, but she loved it so much she threw the quilt I made off her bed and she sleeps with her quilt every night. I love it!
Your daughter is so cute and amazing!!! I hope I can be like her, not afraid to make mistakes and excited to show off her work. You're an amazing mom for giving her the keys to your machine.
My mom is a seamstress by trade and owned a fabric store growing up so sewing was always in my blood. I made doll clothes and stuff but never quilted. When I met hubby and he told me his first wife used his old shirts to make a quilt, I thought it was brilliant so I thought I'd give it a try. I always loved being in her store but since I was on a mission, it made it more intoxicating and bought a "Quilting for Dummies" book - 30 years ago, I threw caution to the wind and fell in love. I didn't have the luxury of the internet and videos. I'm self "taught" and was focused on the "hug" than perfection. Today, I decided to actually sit and watch videos since the 2 I'm working on have their own special challenges. I ran across this video and I kept saying "OH! That explains the thread" and "Sewing through all 3 layers for binding" was a quickly learned lesson after the first binding. Some of these things I figured out on my own but this video was PERFECT! I'm so glad I went down the rabbit hole! THANK YOU!
Gurrrllll!!! Sitting here watching this video just nodding my head in agreement with all these pro tips! Even the first part talking about how your were such a busy college student and then you graduated and were like “now what?! I need to fill my time.” Same!!! I started a few years out of grad. school and just took the attitude of “let’s figure it out”! I had people tell me that I should not try a t-shirt quilt because of the difficulties with stitch and I now have a line customers waiting for me to make them custom memory quilts! 🥳 I also won our county fair after only 4 years of quilting! You made such good points that I hope will help take some frustration out for our fellow quilters…quality fabric, a quality machine, willingness and patience. Also, I have never had someone give a quilt back to me because my points didn’t match🤣🤣 thanks for all that you do!!
How true! Having a quality machine you can afford that has a dealer nearby to help when problems arise is priceless and money well invested. Service your machine at least once a year to keep your baby humming along.
When I started out I thought smaller would be easier! 😂 yes I began with mini quilts. When I took my first actual class and the pieces seemed so huge (3” squares were the biggest I’d used up to that point) I was amazed at how easy it was to line things up!!!
I love that I randomly found you! I have made all those mistakes (even the binding) and I am still new to quilting and I am happy to see you are so encouraging and supportive! I am subscribing and will be watching! Thank you for making me want to start quilting again.
My boyfriends grandmother taught me to quilt the first time I ever went to visit her and I fell in love so much that I taught both my sisters how to quilt we all have much to learn. Sadly I don’t get to visit grandma more than once a year due to distance and I’m so happy I get to learn some tricks here thank you for all you do ❤
Thank you and i have done my mistakes too. I started to quilt after COVID-19 and was 70 years old. Before started to quilt the last time I touched a sewing machine i was 18 years old. Watching videos (over and over) in my IPad computer have help me a lot and still have a lot to learn. Know I’m sewing everyday and making things for family and friends. It’s my therapy since COVID-19, I don’t go out as much as i used too. Thank you again.
My first quilt made in 1971&72 was a Noah's Ark for my new baby boy. I used scraps from my own sewing for myself and my hsuband. It has double knit, velour, corduroy, and denim among the cottons from my scraps. I quilted it with large stitches and embroidery floss. Eric loved it and slept with it for many years. It is in
I knew how to sew but learned quilting by watching TV shows on PBS and home channel. I entered a quilt contest at our local fair. I won my category, but the one judge gave me some tips which I appreciated. I still like to check out tips like yours.
I've been quilting for about 20 years when my daughter moved to Wisconsin and we had great teachers. Because of corvid, I didn't quilt, I just concentrated on staying alive. But now, I'm 87 and have quilts I want to/ need to finish. For me, your presentation was a refresher course, I sincerely thank you. And I agree with you about the quality of fabric, just touch it or hold it up to the light, you'll know quality when you see. Thanks again
Thank you for all of the information. I'm a very beginner and I'm gathering information before I get all of my materials to make my first quilt. Ohhh my there's a lot that entails on quilt making.
No matter what don't give up. My first quilt was worse than her's. My dad loved it for over 10 years before it started to fall apart. Frayed holes everywhere. I ripped that baby apart and redesigned and made him a new one saving what I could. He LOVES it still. Each quilt brings a new challenge but also something you learned before to help make the next one a little easier.
I started quilting when you marked around cardboard templates and cut with scissors. Rotary cutters and quilting rulers are relatively new tools for me. Thank you
Me, too! The rotary cutter cane out just after I was making my first quilt! The rotary cutter and mat are a miracle! They are largely responsible for the renewed interest in quilting that happened in the 1970’s!
Exactly, as I stated, I was 14 and mom wanted something we could do as mom n daughter, so we joined a quilters circle at our local Long Island Firehouse. We then each had a project to make on our own and had 10 weeks to complete n bring in. All done by hand, cardboard templates we made, scissors, a regular flat school ruler and chalk to mark. My mom's came out flawlessly( she does all crafts) and mine.. let's just say we all laughed, some gave constructive criticism, a few shook their heads and one old quilt police asked me if I liked to bake. It was a glorious lesson to learn to do all that by hand, make projects that took FOREVER and spend precious time with my mom, and the elders of our community. I will never forget that time, lovingly❣️
Ok, this was me. And some of it still is me. Thanks. I am into my third big, Queen or king, quilt. My first one is still in the unfinished pile. In between I spent a lot of time on small projects. I wish I had a quilting guild near me, I am always learning and thank goodness for RUclips.
Thank you for this. I have never quilted. But I received the beautiful gift of what I estimate is hundreds of yards of fabric from a Master Quilter's estate ( a friend of the family with whom I always relished talking with about sewing in general). The thing is, about half of that fabric is already cut for quilting, and organized by color. Half the battle is already won :).....I'm 60 and already possess advanced sewing skills-----except for quilting......I look forward to the quilter's journey. The products I make will be donated to worthy causes.
My mom's first quilt is my baby blanket, and I still love and cherish that thing and me and my mom bond over patching it up throughout the years, it's changed so mutch since then but I love it even more after we patch it up!
You are such a sweet, lovely person. I learn so much from you. My sewing machine that is marketed as a quilting edition did not come with a 1/4 inch foot. 🤷♀️🤦♀️ I'm sure if I had never quilted before that I would have done the same thing you did with the foot that came on the machine.
Thank for this video and all the helpful tips! I got into quilting in 2020 after making a million masks but quickly hit my (entry level) Brother machine’s limit after quilting a few large projects and therefore hit my creative quilting limit in 2021. My machine let me down and I had no confidence. I couldn’t even sew a badge on my daughter’s Girl Scout vest and felt defeated. I got into plants and put away the sewing machine. My mother passed this month and my first completed quilt was returned to me. It has inspired me to quilt again. Just bought a JUKI 2010Q and am so excited to start over again. These tips will come in super handy!! 😊
OMG, I didn't know how bad of an idea it was to take my bias cut HSTs and spray them with waaay too much starch and steam iron then while pulling and tugging them into submission. It was a hot mess! But, I made it work and I'm snuggled up with that quilt right now. :)
just found you. I enjoyed this video. It was like going back in time. I didn't have anyone to help me either. I bought all the tools and books. I had them for at least three months before I actually started quilting. But I finally took the plunge with a Mother's Day magazine with a small "quilt in a weekend" pattern. I did quilt it from start to finish in a weekend. I was so proud and my daughter as well. She was 3 yrs old at the time. She is now 30 yrs old. I still quilt. And she is still my only judge. She was the one who said, "You have quilted forever. More than anything else." I didn't realize it until she said it. I consider myself a knitter and I also crossed stitched and sewed many of her clothes, over the years. But quilting has been something I never let go. I could lie and say I don't know why I never let it go. I wanted to work with color. I still do. It's easy to work with fabric. It allows more freedom and forgives many mistakes, as you stated in your husband's quilt. I never want anything I make to win a prize except from the person I made it for. Because it was made with love.
You will never know how much you encouraged me through all your tutorial series, but none were as encouraging as this one. I know you are going through major changes in your journey that are deeply discouraging, but I will always appreciate you, your team and your love of creating that knows no bounds or limitations. Your next best version is just around the corner. Meanwhile I appreciate all the content you’ve created to help me along my quilting journey. God bless you and yours
What a wonderful video, Stephanie! Every quilter needs to see this. I started quilting in order to use up old fabrics I did not want to toss and many of my 'masterpieces' fell apart in the wash or needed constant repair. Once I began using better fabrics I realized the difference and never looked back. Quilting is definitely a learning experience.
Many years ago, the late 80's, I went to a "Fast Patch" quilting class, essentially strip quilting. I has heard about rotary cutters but thought they were just some expensive toy that would go out of style. When I attended the class the heavens parted, the angels started singing and I was awestruck. It made so much sense and seemed a much more efficient was to make a quilt. I had been interested in quilting but the though of sitting for endless hours cutting out one tiny piece at a time was too daunting. Today I am the proud owner of several rotary cutters, rulers, templates and cutting mats.
Girl! You are so fun and honest… just so precious 😅 I didn’t know anything at all when I agreed to do a BOM from Quilters Newletter Magazine, with alternating star blocks and applique blocks, with 1.5” pieces! Teeeeny tiny HST’s and flying geese😱 but I did it and it’s my treasure!
I now use a couple of my first quilts to try different machine quilting patterns etc. I didn’t have any idea the first time I put a quilt together that the corners were supposed to line up. I was just sewing along as fast as I could 😅. I have learned over time the quality of fabric makes such a difference. I am now (5 yrs later) learning about the difference in thread. I had always just used a multi purpose thread .. whoops! Tools are a big thing too - from rotary cutter to needles .. it’s a learning process and I am so thankful for RUclips and teachers like you!
As I take my passion for sewing into the quilting space I give myself permission to practice at the level I am at right now, with the tools I have on the budget I can afford. It's the pleasure of the journey alongside the increasing knowledge that makes functional things I can celebrate finishing. All you said is true, I just don't yet have access to everything I desire but I've come a long way since I started to seriously apply myself to a more quilting focused practice. More prolific in numbers of projects, more interested in patter and design. You just start where you are at dream, make goals happen and keep moving forward. Yes this last month I've been doing binding. One small thing after another so it becomes like muscle memory and easier each time. Even doing pieced binding. Plus today yes I ironed lots of seams open because it made sense to do ut. Cheers to all the Noobies out there like me 🇦🇺💜🇺🇲💚👍😊🖐
I am so encouraged by what you said, (sentence that starts with "start where you are...) that I intend to make this a sign and hang it in my studio. Thank you so much for your sharing.
Thank you! What I would give to have a walking foot and really nice material! But at 70 and just getting started, I love my $200 Brother. I hit estate sales during the summers and have got some beautiful fabric for pennies on the dollar. I'm just so afraid to mess things up..lol. Just got done with my first "semi quilt". Beautiful birds in autumn forest panel turned into dining room drapes. Bordered and lined. My lines on both sides match up perfectly. I am so proud of that 😊. Love all the help from this channel and the commentors. Thank you all so much!
Pls try not to be so afraid of making mistakes, we ALL do it. Pls remember that when babies are learning to walk, they fall down & then learn to get up. It's only frabic after all & can often be redone if the mistakes were really big. Often quilter's mistakes are only obvious to the Quilter & the User or Observier, never knows about it.
My husband and I just listened to your video and chuckled. Thanks for voicing all the "oops" that we have encountered on our journey. Keep up the great work.
THank you!! I love the encouragement for everyone. I have been fighting with my machine for a long time, trying to tell myself if I did, thus and such better, all would be well. I'm going to check out your video about buying a new machine and quit fighting with this dinosaur!
Re the cost of big box store fabric: Recently I bought some batting for my latest quilt at JoAnn's and walked over to check out the fabric out of curiosity. I was shocked! The prices were very close to those of my local high quality quilt shop, only about dollar a yard less. It is so worth it to me, even on a fixed income, to buy the good stuff. My labor is worth it. My skill is worth it. My time is worth it. The love I put into each quilt is worth it!
I agree I'm Canadian we have Fabricland and they actually charge quite a bit more or the same as my local quilt shops these days. I'm a little spoiled there's like 5 quilt shops within a 30 min drive. And each one has it's specialty in what they carry. Like one is obsessed with Disney. Another the Kay Fawcett prints, another more regal. It's pretty awesome.
Your daughter looks so proud of her quilt and she should be - at 60 years of age and a newbie to quilting, I'm not sure that I would attempt that. Super impressive!!!
Just starting Know nothing So thankful you are sharing I’m just starting basic blocks So much to learn when you know nothing about sewing. Yet! 😊 but I’m determined to learn! With God and you all things are possible!😅 Ty for helping me
Thanks for your stories/tips. My background is apparel design. I started quilting when I was pregnant with my first child and no sewing machine. (my husband joined the navy in his 30’s). I only owned an industrial sewing machine at the time and could not move it with us as we went station to station. I am self taught. I just wanted to share my beginner mistakes.. 😅. 1st one was cutting w/o a rotary cutter. yes I cut everything with dress maker scissors. 2nd mistake, I did not know you needed different batting for hand stitched quilts. 35 years later.. I still love quilting. RUclips has made it better. Taking classes has been fantastic. I now own a used longarm which i am so happy to have. I enjoyed you videos and your obvious enjoyment for quilting.
Wonderful video! Totally agree. My suggestion is to buy fabrics for projects and not build a stash. Having a stash is overrated and expensive. Congrats on all of your hard work with your company and tutorials!
Your Hot Mess quilt sure kept your hubby warm, and isn’t that why we make quilts? Love your honesty and what you do. I started sewing on my mother’s old treadle machine…..used to make my kids clothing and finally purchased my first Singer…. My mother-in-law made quilts with hand me down fabric, she was very frugal but when I had my first son she gave me a quilt for him with store bought material….I was in such awe of it that it got lovingly saved and given to the boy it was made for to use for his son…..I am 80 now and my daughter has started quilting….following in her gramma’s footsteps maybe? and has me interested in making a few things, like maybe some placemats, table runners, lap robes but not king size quilts because that is way too much for my experience…..Thank you for this video.
Thanks! I tried quilting 10 years ago and thought I would enjoy it, as I have been sewing garments, curtains, baby and doll clothes since I was 12 years old. Now 69. This quilting place was horrible, they were condescending and negatively critical. I stopped trying. Last year I met up with a. Old friend tha makes beautiful quilts with her mother for the church bazzar every year ro sell. She knew I sewed and asked why I did not quilt and listen ed to my story. I am so glad you said to be encouraging an make it fun as she did for me I have been quilting this past year and now love it. Sometimes the person teaching can make or break your learning ability. That is a great way to learn and should be taken seriously with any instructor. R Thanks for your great tips Jill P
Oh my! I didn’t know about the presser feet size either! Lol. Went to a class and that poor teacher……she had her hands full with me. But it taught me so much. And that’s been so many years ago. Never looked back and just kept learning more about quilting. Thanks for the video. Guaranteed someone out there learned from your mistakes.
Video answered a lot of questions for me...I'm self taught, started making baby quilts in the mid 60s. Would take years off and when I'd return to quilting, made the same old mistakes again! Love your tips andd helps. Just finishing up an embroidered quilt I started 30 yrs. ago!
#10 got me! I didn't know it was supposed to be hard. Did the same with my first quilt. Friend sent scrubs and I was like I'll make each of these squares individually and put them together like so. LOL And I love #14 too! Wasn't sure where you were going then you said, Cut them off!! So true for all things life.
Stumbled upon this and had to watch! I've been quilting for a while now, but it was refreshing to hear about the issues I've had and validate that I'm not crazy! Something that I didn't know way back in my beginner days - how to prepare the quilt top for the quilter. I asked a local quilter to quilt for me (I was fairly new to the area, quilting and needed to send to my daughter ASAP). When she said yes I just handed her the quilt top. She was very kind and didn't say anything but now I know that I should have squared it , trimmed off the unnecessary border edges and made it easier for her to put it on her longarm! I know now! We are now good friends and I still learn so much from her! - Thanks for the info you gave today. It was a good reminder.
Good video. I am a new quilter. Two other things I wish I knew when I started quilting. 1. Pin pieces when you sew. I cut precisely, but without pinning, my stitching for a log cabin square was just a little off. Pinning helped keep everything more accurate. 2. Use a dry iron. Do not use the steam. Steam can stretch the material and alter how the quilt comes out. Enjoy the journey.
Love all 15 tips! As a sewer, I didn’t consider quilting because of all the cutting. After seeing a rotary cutter, my life changed! Then I discovered you tube tutorials and pre-cuts. When encouraging others to try quilting, I lead with these things that maki it easy, and more fun!
Gosh, the whole thing about quilt design being difficult... you aren't kidding. I spend most of my time creating and so I'm used to designing things, using color and contrast and shapes, etc. So imagine my surprise when I was trying to design my purple and pink quilt. I was fumbling around with it, when my mom handed me some graph paper and told me to do some scribbling on it. The design happened under my nose and we were all impressed by the final product. The same with the second quilt, but this one is way better. I'm glad i didn't freak out about whether a design was a bad idea. I just went for it and it turned out alright.
THANK YOU! When I decided to make my first quilt, (king) for my only child, I went to a quilt store. The woman ran through all of the reasons I couldn’t do it. She was trying to discourage me from attempting such a difficult quilt as a first timer. Well, challenge accepted! Perfect? No. Made with love? Yes! Please be positive to others, in all aspects of life. I’m so very glad I found your channel I am now a subscriber.🎉
I had no idea on the importance of the right thread, thank you! I've made a few mistakes buying the right self heading cutting mat, too small or too big. I'm currently researching which presser & quilting feet I should buy. I didn't even think about local quilter circles. Much appreciation for this awesome video, your time and encouragement. I loved your "just do it" comment.
I completely agree with not discouraging people from trying something they want to try, and I also think that sometimes they can become so frustrated with trying to do something beyond their skill that they will just quit. So weighing how to say that they might want to try something a little less challenging is also important. I had this happen with a friend, who wanted to make a quilt, she wanted to design it and do some very complicated things with circles and applique. I didn't want to discourage her so I let her go at it and she got so frustrated with how hard it was, that it took another year before she'd try quilting again. I talked her into trying something a lot more simple and now she loves it. She has the skill now, to do what she had wanted to do and this time I'm confident she will do much better.
This was fabulous information. I've been quilting for a few years and I still make lots of mistakes, but when I've given the quilt to someone they love it even though there are mistakes and they don't see them. I still have trouble with points and especially my cutting. I'm going to start using some sort of weights to keep me from shifting the ruler. As I tell everyone, I do a little quilting, but I’m not a “quilter”. I can say if you love to quilt keep at it as you continue to learn from your mistakes. Again thank, for your videos.
Hi Helen, I started using a weight after seeing one being used on yt. As I didn't have a dumbbell I used the base of my pestle/ mortar (never sure what that's called). Worked beautifully. Point being you're bound to find something heavy enough in the kitchen or hubbie's toolshed.
I don't use weights to hold down my rulers. Instead, I pasted on small Sandpaper Dots to underside of my rulers to keep them from slipping while cutting w/ rotary cutter.
@@jacquelenebennett4028 Yes!! I learned from Donna Jordan of Jordan Fabrics on YT! I have a rubber coated 5# weight I use and it solved the problem! Also works well as a door stop in my sewing room! 🤣
I love your videos! Your daughter's reaction to her own accomplishment is incredible...she just jumped in! She didn't know she couldn't! That's perfect!
My 7yo niece was the same way as your daughter. I took her to the quilt store, but it was closed. She didn’t want to wait to start her small quilt, so to WallyWorld for some fabrics we went! She had her own idea of what she liked, but made a pretty cool doll quilt with puppy & kitten fabrics along with a solid or 2. We were proud of her perseverance to do the sandwich & SITD quilting almost completely by herself!
Love your attitude! My very first quilt was a queen sized pattern. I have designed every quilt since then. “Are they going to win any awards? Hell no!“ but I designed them with love and gave them to people I love. I am in the middle of my first collage quilt - a whole new world!
Thank you, I just learned why stuff isn’t lining up, why I should be using the walking foot, who knew about the thread -I didn’t, yep on the pressing. Teaching myself before I retire for an inside hobby, and yes- a huge fear of the quilt police.
First, so glad your hubby still likes your quilt. True love!! So many need these things and this is good stuff for those of us who teach others I’m always doing this with kids and grandkids. For most of us who’ve quilted awhile it’s all ‘auto-pilot’ Thanks
Oh how I wish I had found you a handful of years ago, when I started. Thanks to a couple of ladies, now great friends, who took me under their wing, introduced me to a couple of quilting guilds and addicted me to all things quilty. At least now, when I meet someone just starting out, I can send them to your guiding light so that they can obtain some knowledge & confidence before stepping into the fray. It's always a more comfortable feeling when you are not a complete novice. Thank you
I went to quilting classes many years ago and then I didn't do any quilting for many years. When I decided to try it again, I had no idea what anyone was talking about. I thought I had gone to a baking website instead of quilting. When I took the classes there were no precuts (layer cakes, jelly rolls, honeybuns) and we used scissors only. As you were saying with the strip cutting, I made a full size quilt and cut out every piece from yardage with scissors. Maybe that's why I had quit so many years ago.
I have a feeling I will be watching this video over and over lol. I repair antique and vintage quilts and complete antique/vintage quilt tops. These have been discarded at thrift stores and yard sales and I cannot stand the idea that these beautiful works of art may end up in a landfill if they are not rescued. I don’t machine quilt at all, but I’m still finding these tips helpful (what types of thread to use, etc). Thank you!
I am learning to quilt by watching videos. Would have loved to have a teacher. I loved you sharing all the things you didn’t know. I’m in the same boat as you, just learning as I go, just keep rowing 🚣 and sewing 🪡 🧵 🇨🇦
Oh my gosh, I loved this video. All of the women in my family sewed when I was growing up, so when I started quilting in my 20’s I had my late grandmothers old green singer in a wooden cabinet. (I doubt you had even been born at that point in time;) )Your story is so similar to mine…. I bought a book and fabric at Walmart…. I knew NOTHING bout thread, tension, 1/4 seems…. I think I didn’t even own an iron at that point. I didn’t even know you COULD machine quilt the sandwich, lol. I just remembered my great grandmother, Sara, having that big frame stretched out in her living room…. I forget how far I have come. I love your attitude! Thanks for the memories.
I taught my 10 year old granddaughter how to sew on my Pfaff Performance Icon. I demonstrated French seams just for fun. The next day, while I was out on errands, she made her own tote bag with French seams that are better than mine. She now has her own Brother machine and makes all kinds of stuff. It's great having a sewing companion.
Wow! That's fantastic! It's so fun when our children and grandchildren enjoy the same hobbies and activities as us, isn't it? You set your granddaughter up for a lifetime of enjoyment!
This story reminds me exactly of my ‘sewing relationship’ with my nanna 🥲 it’s so special!
Love pfaff!
This is absolutely wonderful! Congratulations to you both!!🎉
23:48 fantastic video@@Everyoneisanartist776
I was tidying up an old cupboard recently and came across a patchwork quilt that my mum made on a singer treadle machine back when I was a child and I am 71 and it gave me the buzz to start a quilt of my own. My mum’s quilt was made with bits of material from dresses we wore as children and it brought back so many memories. I haven’t started yet but am in the process of building up my collection of things I need. My fear (or one of them) is the design - I am not a naturally creative person and a bit scared to take that first step. Your video has given me that confidence to take my first step. I will check out your tutorials. I live in Ireland and quilting is not as popular as it is in the US. It’s difficult to get books as a lot of companies don’t send to Ireland so it’s great to have the online guidance and encouragement from the likes of yourself. Thank you.
I've been told I'm too old to learn quilting or machine embroidery, at 72. Well, I ignored the naysayers and bought a Baby Lock Aurora. I love your channel and think I can learn a lot from you. Thank you for being a Teacher instead of a Preacher! Big hugs...Donna
I'm 75 and just beginning with a Brother.....hang in there!
Don't listen to nay-sayers. Quilting is not difficult if you start with basic squares - I did my first one with zero instruction and just knowing how to use my mom's sewing machine (which is now my sewing machine). From there, you just learn to improve and get fancier as you go. Most importantly, have fun! Also, you can start with some smaller items such as placemats, etc for practice vs taking on a huge quilt.
I'm 72 and just beginning also. For me, it is harder than I thought it would be, but I plan on sticking with it. I have a Brother Stellaire..
Preachers have a bad rap don't they😂
I am 77 and just getting starting on quilting.
21:58 Yes!!!! I didn't even quilt for a year and barely made about 3 super simple strip piece charity quilts before I took on my most ambitious quilt project... my own pattern! And boy was it a pattern lol. My math wasn't mathing, I messed up several times, some points didn't meet up, and there were sooo... many... pieces.... but it actually turned out beautiful and got the praise of everyone in my quilting group who had quilted for 10+ years. Even with the mistakes, I felt so proud that I took on another self-made pattern. Those ambitious undertakings taught me a lot and really honed in my skills. I'm not afraid to take on "complex" projects and the shortcomings don't stress me out because it's all a learning experience and I'll never get good if I don't try. "Take chances, make mistakes, get messy!"
I am so glad I found you. I am a 69 year old beginning quilter, once was a theater costumer and primarily a lifelong learner. Key, to me was you saying”go ahead and do it”. We learn as we go, right, and we do it for us. Just seeing your daughter so joyous reminds me that that little creative spark is so vulnerable. What a luckily child to have a mom who understands that.
I am 60
Who cares about age
Mmm I did for awhile
I am an A type personality. I have been the most impatient person I know. I'm now 75 years old and found quilting during the COVID lockdown. Two years on, I'm the most patient person I know, I feel like I'm ten years younger and, I'm learning something new everyday about the world and art of quilting. Other than the odd A-line skirt or box blouse, hemming and the odd rudimentary alteration, I've done little to no sewing in my life. I bought a second hand Janome Quilters Companion, and haven't looked back. The quilting rabbit hole has lured me in and I'm hooked. I laughed when you said you gave all your early quilts away. I'm doing the same thing. My friends and family are getting all the learner's projects. But I'm tickled with every one I've made. I refuse to hear critcism unless it's constructive, I'm gradually gathering proper tools, and gradually learning about fabrics and the world of textiles. I also am a huge KF fan! Oh my gawd. Thank you for these 15 reminder tips. Most I've learned, but I believe that a good student goes into every new project with an open mind, and open heart and a willingness to step into the unknown.
❤
Thank you for these words of encouragement. I am turning 71 in a few days and gifted myself with a long arm machine and frame. Do I ever have so much to learn as I have no one to teach me or turn to for guidance. O. Top of that the arthritis in my hands makes life difficult but I do not give up easily. Wish me luck. Suzy H in Florida.
I am 82 and I finally learned to listen to the advice 'TAKE BREAKS" When I feel the first twinge of arthritis or any pain, I stop and usually take a drink of water. I am not like these younger generations who live with a water bottle attached to their hand. I have to remember to grab that H2O
I like most all of what you say here. I will say though I spent $300 on my sewing machine. I've used it now for years. It's a great machine. I would be cautious telling someone how much to spend on a machine. $500 can be a lot of money for some and we don't want to discourage people from learning to quilt
One thing I learned, when it comes to sewing machines, it is almost always the operator that is the problem. Good video.
I am one of these discouraged people.
My nine-year-old granddaughter made her first quilt. it was all wonky and hot mess, but she loved it so much she threw the quilt I made off her bed and she sleeps with her quilt every night. I love it!
Your daughter is so cute and amazing!!! I hope I can be like her, not afraid to make mistakes and excited to show off her work. You're an amazing mom for giving her the keys to your machine.
My mom is a seamstress by trade and owned a fabric store growing up so sewing was always in my blood. I made doll clothes and stuff but never quilted. When I met hubby and he told me his first wife used his old shirts to make a quilt, I thought it was brilliant so I thought I'd give it a try. I always loved being in her store but since I was on a mission, it made it more intoxicating and bought a "Quilting for Dummies" book - 30 years ago, I threw caution to the wind and fell in love. I didn't have the luxury of the internet and videos. I'm self "taught" and was focused on the "hug" than perfection. Today, I decided to actually sit and watch videos since the 2 I'm working on have their own special challenges. I ran across this video and I kept saying "OH! That explains the thread" and "Sewing through all 3 layers for binding" was a quickly learned lesson after the first binding. Some of these things I figured out on my own but this video was PERFECT! I'm so glad I went down the rabbit hole! THANK YOU!
Gurrrllll!!! Sitting here watching this video just nodding my head in agreement with all these pro tips! Even the first part talking about how your were such a busy college student and then you graduated and were like “now what?! I need to fill my time.” Same!!! I started a few years out of grad. school and just took the attitude of “let’s figure it out”! I had people tell me that I should not try a t-shirt quilt because of the difficulties with stitch and I now have a line customers waiting for me to make them custom memory quilts! 🥳 I also won our county fair after only 4 years of quilting! You made such good points that I hope will help take some frustration out for our fellow quilters…quality fabric, a quality machine, willingness and patience. Also, I have never had someone give a quilt back to me because my points didn’t match🤣🤣 thanks for all that you do!!
How true! Having a quality machine you can afford that has a dealer nearby to help when problems arise is priceless and money well invested. Service your machine at least once a year to keep your baby humming along.
Awesome information. I'm in the process of sewing my first quilt
Great to hear! Let us know how it goes!
When I started out I thought smaller would be easier! 😂 yes I began with mini quilts. When I took my first actual class and the pieces seemed so huge (3” squares were the biggest I’d used up to that point) I was amazed at how easy it was to line things up!!!
I love that I randomly found you! I have made all those mistakes (even the binding) and I am still new to quilting and I am happy to see you are so encouraging and supportive! I am subscribing and will be watching! Thank you for making me want to start quilting again.
This is such an encouraging video and I love that your husband still uses his quilt!
My boyfriends grandmother taught me to quilt the first time I ever went to visit her and I fell in love so much that I taught both my sisters how to quilt we all have much to learn. Sadly I don’t get to visit grandma more than once a year due to distance and I’m so happy I get to learn some tricks here thank you for all you do ❤
Thank you and i have done my mistakes too. I started to quilt after COVID-19 and was 70 years old. Before started to quilt the last time I touched a sewing machine i was 18 years old. Watching videos (over and over) in my IPad computer have help me a lot and still have a lot to learn. Know I’m sewing everyday and making things for family and friends. It’s my therapy since COVID-19, I don’t go out as much as i used too. Thank you again.
I have been quilting for 30 years and never knew about the quilters knot…my life is changed!!!
Thanks for the great tips. I’m a beginner and I’m excited to get started.
You're a breath of fresh air! Awesome piece. 😉
Oh my goodness!!! I needed to hear all of this!! Thank you!!
Im just gaining interest in quilting, purchased some fabric and some beginner items yesterday. I cant wait to start.
My first quilt made in 1971&72 was a Noah's Ark for my new baby boy. I used scraps from my own sewing for myself and my hsuband. It has double knit, velour, corduroy, and denim among the cottons from my scraps. I quilted it with large stitches and embroidery floss. Eric loved it and slept with it for many years. It is in
Loved the story about handing your daughter the long arm -- such an awesome teaching moment!!
I knew how to sew but learned quilting by watching TV shows on PBS and home channel. I entered a quilt contest at our local fair. I won my category, but the one judge gave me some tips which I appreciated. I still like to check out tips like yours.
I've been quilting for about 20 years when my daughter moved to Wisconsin and we had great teachers. Because of corvid, I didn't quilt, I just concentrated on staying alive. But now, I'm 87 and have quilts I want to/ need to finish. For me, your presentation was a refresher course, I sincerely thank you. And I agree with you about the quality of fabric, just touch it or hold it up to the light, you'll know quality when you see. Thanks again
I have watched this video a few times and always good to revisit.
Thank you for all of the information. I'm a very beginner and I'm gathering information before I get all of my materials to make my first quilt. Ohhh my there's a lot that entails on quilt making.
Hi from Guernsey, Channel Islands, UK
Hello!
I have relatives on Jersey
I had no idea how much I didn't know! Thanks for your information 😊
Thank you for your video, I have never made a quilt but I’m cutting pieces to try making my first quilt.
You can do it! We have an entire series for beginners if you find you need help!
No matter what don't give up. My first quilt was worse than her's. My dad loved it for over 10 years before it started to fall apart. Frayed holes everywhere. I ripped that baby apart and redesigned and made him a new one saving what I could. He LOVES it still. Each quilt brings a new challenge but also something you learned before to help make the next one a little easier.
I started quilting when you marked around cardboard templates and cut with scissors. Rotary cutters and quilting rulers are relatively new tools for me. Thank you
I learned like that too. The rotary cutter is AMAZING!
Me, too! The rotary cutter cane out just after I was making my first quilt! The rotary cutter and mat are a miracle! They are largely responsible for the renewed interest in quilting that happened in the 1970’s!
Exactly, as I stated, I was 14 and mom wanted something we could do as mom n daughter, so we joined a quilters circle at our local Long Island Firehouse. We then each had a project to make on our own and had 10 weeks to complete n bring in. All done by hand, cardboard templates we made, scissors, a regular flat school ruler and chalk to mark. My mom's came out flawlessly( she does all crafts) and mine.. let's just say we all laughed, some gave constructive criticism, a few shook their heads and one old quilt police asked me if I liked to bake.
It was a glorious lesson to learn to do all that by hand, make projects that took FOREVER and spend precious time with my mom, and the elders of our community. I will never forget that time, lovingly❣️
My brother was a quilter and I can remember using cardboard and scissors to cut squares for him. Hours and hours of work.
Me too!
Hi, i'm Esther from milwaukee WI. I loved this video. i'm about to start my first quilt and this video is going to save my life.
I hope it all went well! Were you able to finish your quilt?🎉
Eye opener for so many things. Thanks.
Ok, this was me. And some of it still is me. Thanks. I am into my third big, Queen or king, quilt. My first one is still in the unfinished pile. In between I spent a lot of time on small projects. I wish I had a quilting guild near me, I am always learning and thank goodness for RUclips.
We agree, RUclips is a saviour at times!
Thank you for this. I have never quilted. But I received the beautiful gift of what I estimate is hundreds of yards of fabric from a Master Quilter's estate ( a friend of the family with whom I always relished talking with about sewing in general). The thing is, about half of that fabric is already cut for quilting, and organized by color. Half the battle is already won :).....I'm 60 and already possess advanced sewing skills-----except for quilting......I look forward to the quilter's journey. The products I make will be donated to worthy causes.
ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL! MANY THANKS FOR ALL THE INFORMATION. IT IS A PITY THAT THE USA HAS SUCH FANTASTIC SHOPS. I LIVE IN THE UK.😊
Love your positive attitude and encouragement!
Thank you for the positive spirit you share!
My mom's first quilt is my baby blanket, and I still love and cherish that thing and me and my mom bond over patching it up throughout the years, it's changed so mutch since then but I love it even more after we patch it up!
You are such a sweet, lovely person. I learn so much from you. My sewing machine that is marketed as a quilting edition did not come with a 1/4 inch foot. 🤷♀️🤦♀️ I'm sure if I had never quilted before that I would have done the same thing you did with the foot that came on the machine.
Thank for this video and all the helpful tips! I got into quilting in 2020 after making a million masks but quickly hit my (entry level) Brother machine’s limit after quilting a few large projects and therefore hit my creative quilting limit in 2021. My machine let me down and I had no confidence. I couldn’t even sew a badge on my daughter’s Girl Scout vest and felt defeated. I got into plants and put away the sewing machine. My mother passed this month and my first completed quilt was returned to me. It has inspired me to quilt again. Just bought a JUKI 2010Q and am so excited to start over again. These tips will come in super handy!! 😊
OMG, I didn't know how bad of an idea it was to take my bias cut HSTs and spray them with waaay too much starch and steam iron then while pulling and tugging them into submission. It was a hot mess! But, I made it work and I'm snuggled up with that quilt right now. :)
just found you. I enjoyed this video. It was like going back in time. I didn't have anyone to help me either. I bought all the tools and books. I had them for at least three months before I actually started quilting. But I finally took the plunge with a Mother's Day magazine with a small "quilt in a weekend" pattern. I did quilt it from start to finish in a weekend. I was so proud and my daughter as well. She was 3 yrs old at the time. She is now 30 yrs old. I still quilt. And she is still my only judge. She was the one who said, "You have quilted forever. More than anything else." I didn't realize it until she said it. I consider myself a knitter and I also crossed stitched and sewed many of her clothes, over the years. But quilting has been something I never let go. I could lie and say I don't know why I never let it go. I wanted to work with color. I still do. It's easy to work with fabric. It allows more freedom and forgives many mistakes, as you stated in your husband's quilt. I never want anything I make to win a prize except from the person I made it for. Because it was made with love.
Thank you, for sharing your story! Yes making a quilt with love is what makes it so special! Keep quilting!
You will never know how much you encouraged me through all your tutorial series, but none were as encouraging as this one. I know you are going through major changes in your journey that are deeply discouraging, but I will always appreciate you, your team and your love of creating that knows no bounds or limitations. Your next best version is just around the corner. Meanwhile I appreciate all the content you’ve created to help me along my quilting journey. God bless you and yours
What a wonderful video, Stephanie! Every quilter needs to see this. I started quilting in order to use up old fabrics I did not want to toss and many of my 'masterpieces' fell apart in the wash or needed constant repair. Once I began using better fabrics I realized the difference and never looked back. Quilting is definitely a learning experience.
Many years ago, the late 80's, I went to a "Fast Patch" quilting class, essentially strip quilting. I has heard about rotary cutters but thought they were just some expensive toy that would go out of style. When I attended the class the heavens parted, the angels started singing and I was awestruck. It made so much sense and seemed a much more efficient was to make a quilt. I had been interested in quilting but the though of sitting for endless hours cutting out one tiny piece at a time was too daunting. Today I am the proud owner of several rotary cutters, rulers, templates and cutting mats.
Girl! You are so fun and honest… just so precious 😅 I didn’t know anything at all when I agreed to do a BOM from Quilters Newletter Magazine, with alternating star blocks and applique blocks, with 1.5” pieces! Teeeeny tiny HST’s and flying geese😱 but I did it and it’s my treasure!
I now use a couple of my first quilts to try different machine quilting patterns etc. I didn’t have any idea the first time I put a quilt together that the corners were supposed to line up. I was just sewing along as fast as I could 😅. I have learned over time the quality of fabric makes such a difference. I am now (5 yrs later) learning about the difference in thread. I had always just used a multi purpose thread .. whoops! Tools are a big thing too - from rotary cutter to needles .. it’s a learning process and I am so thankful for RUclips and teachers like you!
As I take my passion for sewing into the quilting space I give myself permission to practice at the level I am at right now, with the tools I have on the budget I can afford. It's the pleasure of the journey alongside the increasing knowledge that makes functional things I can celebrate finishing.
All you said is true, I just don't yet have access to everything I desire but I've come a long way since I started to seriously apply myself to a more quilting focused practice. More prolific in numbers of projects, more interested in patter and design.
You just start where you are at dream, make goals happen and keep moving forward.
Yes this last month I've been doing binding. One small thing after another so it becomes like muscle memory and easier each time. Even doing pieced binding. Plus today yes I ironed lots of seams open because it made sense to do ut.
Cheers to all the Noobies out there like me 🇦🇺💜🇺🇲💚👍😊🖐
* I give myself permission to practice at the level I am at right now, with the tools I have on the budget I can afford* beautifully stated
I am so encouraged by what you said, (sentence that starts with "start where you are...) that I intend to make this a sign and hang it in my studio. Thank you so much for your sharing.
Thank you! What I would give to have a walking foot and really nice material! But at 70 and just getting started, I love my $200 Brother. I hit estate sales during the summers and have got some beautiful fabric for pennies on the dollar. I'm just so afraid to mess things up..lol. Just got done with my first "semi quilt". Beautiful birds in autumn forest panel turned into dining room drapes. Bordered and lined. My lines on both sides match up perfectly. I am so proud of that 😊. Love all the help from this channel and the commentors. Thank you all so much!
Pls try not to be so afraid of making mistakes, we ALL do it. Pls remember that when babies are learning to walk, they fall down & then learn to get up. It's only frabic after all & can often be redone if the mistakes were really big. Often quilter's mistakes are only obvious to the Quilter & the User or Observier, never knows about it.
My husband and I just listened to your video and chuckled. Thanks for voicing all the "oops" that we have encountered on our journey. Keep up the great work.
THank you!! I love the encouragement for everyone. I have been fighting with my machine for a long time, trying to tell myself if I did, thus and such better, all would be well. I'm going to check out your video about buying a new machine and quit fighting with this dinosaur!
Re the cost of big box store fabric: Recently I bought some batting for my latest quilt at JoAnn's and walked over to check out the fabric out of curiosity. I was shocked! The prices were very close to those of my local high quality quilt shop, only about dollar a yard less. It is so worth it to me, even on a fixed income, to buy the good stuff. My labor is worth it. My skill is worth it. My time is worth it. The love I put into each quilt is worth it!
I agree I'm Canadian we have Fabricland and they actually charge quite a bit more or the same as my local quilt shops these days. I'm a little spoiled there's like 5 quilt shops within a 30 min drive. And each one has it's specialty in what they carry. Like one is obsessed with Disney. Another the Kay Fawcett prints, another more regal. It's pretty awesome.
Your daughter looks so proud of her quilt and she should be - at 60 years of age and a newbie to quilting, I'm not sure that I would attempt that. Super impressive!!!
Just starting
Know nothing
So thankful you are sharing
I’m just starting basic blocks
So much to learn when you know nothing about sewing.
Yet! 😊 but I’m determined to learn! With God and you all things are possible!😅
Ty for helping me
Thank you for watching! The best way to learn is through doing, so you're on the right track. Happy Quilting!
Never heard of a quilters knot. Thank you!
super glad I found your video. Going to try my travelling foot on the next sandwich I have ready. Thank you
Thanks for your stories/tips. My background is apparel design. I started quilting when I was pregnant with my first child and no sewing machine. (my husband joined the navy in his 30’s). I only owned an industrial sewing machine at the time and could not move it with us as we went station to station. I am self taught. I just wanted to share my beginner mistakes.. 😅. 1st one was cutting w/o a rotary cutter. yes I cut everything with dress maker scissors. 2nd mistake, I did not know you needed different batting for hand stitched quilts. 35 years later.. I still love quilting. RUclips has made it better. Taking classes has been fantastic. I now own a used longarm which i am so happy to have. I enjoyed you videos and your obvious enjoyment for quilting.
Stephanie B also started off in apparel sewing and can relate to everything you said!
Wonderful video! Totally agree. My suggestion is to buy fabrics for projects and not build a stash. Having a stash is overrated and expensive. Congrats on all of your hard work with your company and tutorials!
I agree about the stash thing. When I look at mine, all I see is a huge waste of money. Feels burdensome also.
Your Hot Mess quilt sure kept your hubby warm, and isn’t that why we make quilts? Love your honesty and what you do. I started sewing on my mother’s old treadle machine…..used to make my kids clothing and finally purchased my first Singer…. My mother-in-law made quilts with hand me down fabric, she was very frugal but when I had my first son she gave me a quilt for him with store bought material….I was in such awe of it that it got lovingly saved and given to the boy it was made for to use for his son…..I am 80 now and my daughter has started quilting….following in her gramma’s footsteps maybe? and has me interested in making a few things, like maybe some placemats, table runners, lap robes but not king size quilts because that is way too much for my experience…..Thank you for this video.
I love your daughters quilt.
Thanks! I tried quilting 10 years ago and thought I would enjoy it, as I have been sewing garments, curtains, baby and doll clothes since I was 12 years old. Now 69. This quilting place was horrible, they were condescending and negatively critical. I stopped trying. Last year I met up with a. Old friend tha makes beautiful quilts with her mother for the church bazzar every year ro sell. She knew I sewed and asked why I did not quilt and listen ed to my story. I am so glad you said to be encouraging an make it fun as she did for me I have been quilting this past year and now love it. Sometimes the person teaching can make or break your learning ability. That is a great way to learn and should be taken seriously with any instructor. R
Thanks for your great tips Jill P
You're very welcome and thank you!!
LOL. I love the binding story. It reminds me of a test I took . . .
Beautiful Quilt!! Your daughter did a Beautiful job!!
Don’t beat yourself up! We all started somewhere! 😊
Oh my! I didn’t know about the presser feet size either! Lol. Went to a class and that poor teacher……she had her hands full with me. But it taught me so much. And that’s been so many years ago. Never looked back and just kept learning more about quilting. Thanks for the video. Guaranteed someone out there learned from your mistakes.
Video answered a lot of questions for me...I'm self taught, started making baby quilts in the mid 60s. Would take years off and when I'd return to quilting, made the same old mistakes again! Love your tips andd helps. Just finishing up an embroidered quilt I started 30 yrs. ago!
Wonderful! Thanks for sharing!
#10 got me! I didn't know it was supposed to be hard. Did the same with my first quilt. Friend sent scrubs and I was like I'll make each of these squares individually and put them together like so. LOL And I love #14 too! Wasn't sure where you were going then you said, Cut them off!! So true for all things life.
Stumbled upon this and had to watch! I've been quilting for a while now, but it was refreshing to hear about the issues I've had and validate that I'm not crazy! Something that I didn't know way back in my beginner days - how to prepare the quilt top for the quilter. I asked a local quilter to quilt for me (I was fairly new to the area, quilting and needed to send to my daughter ASAP). When she said yes I just handed her the quilt top. She was very kind and didn't say anything but now I know that I should have squared it , trimmed off the unnecessary border edges and made it easier for her to put it on her longarm! I know now! We are now good friends and I still learn so much from her! - Thanks for the info you gave today. It was a good reminder.
Great info! And I've been quilting for 30 years.
I loved this video. I needed to hear some of these things, especially about going to the encouraging people. Thank you!
I'm so glad you found it helpful!
Good video. I am a new quilter. Two other things I wish I knew when I started quilting. 1. Pin pieces when you sew. I cut precisely, but without pinning, my stitching for a log cabin square was just a little off. Pinning helped keep everything more accurate. 2. Use a dry iron. Do not use the steam. Steam can stretch the material and alter how the quilt comes out. Enjoy the journey.
Love all 15 tips! As a sewer, I didn’t consider quilting because of all the cutting. After seeing a rotary cutter, my life changed! Then I discovered you tube tutorials and pre-cuts. When encouraging others to try quilting, I lead with these things that maki it easy, and more fun!
I learned that there were things I didn't know that I didn't know about. There's so much lol thank you for your kind approach
Gosh, the whole thing about quilt design being difficult... you aren't kidding. I spend most of my time creating and so I'm used to designing things, using color and contrast and shapes, etc. So imagine my surprise when I was trying to design my purple and pink quilt. I was fumbling around with it, when my mom handed me some graph paper and told me to do some scribbling on it. The design happened under my nose and we were all impressed by the final product. The same with the second quilt, but this one is way better. I'm glad i didn't freak out about whether a design was a bad idea. I just went for it and it turned out alright.
This was very helpful information, and I love how you said to run away from the negative Nellies
THANK YOU!
When I decided to make my first quilt, (king) for my only child, I went to a quilt store. The woman ran through all of the reasons I couldn’t do it. She was trying to discourage me from attempting such a difficult quilt as a first timer. Well, challenge accepted! Perfect? No. Made with love? Yes! Please be positive to others, in all aspects of life. I’m so very glad I found your channel I am now a subscriber.🎉
I'm so glad you didn't listen to her and did it anyway! Great job!
Shame on them for being discouraging. There is ALWAYS a way to be otherwise!
I had no idea on the importance of the right thread, thank you! I've made a few mistakes buying the right self heading cutting mat, too small or too big. I'm currently researching which presser & quilting feet I should buy. I didn't even think about local quilter circles. Much appreciation for this awesome video, your time and encouragement. I loved your "just do it" comment.
I completely agree with not discouraging people from trying something they want to try, and I also think that sometimes they can become so frustrated with trying to do something beyond their skill that they will just quit. So weighing how to say that they might want to try something a little less challenging is also important. I had this happen with a friend, who wanted to make a quilt, she wanted to design it and do some very complicated things with circles and applique. I didn't want to discourage her so I let her go at it and she got so frustrated with how hard it was, that it took another year before she'd try quilting again. I talked her into trying something a lot more simple and now she loves it. She has the skill now, to do what she had wanted to do and this time I'm confident she will do much better.
Thanks! You have just inspired me to seriously consider starting to learn to quilt...love the craft!
Go for it!
This was really run to watch! I love your upbeat vibes and your ‘Go For It’ philosophy!!
This was fabulous information. I've been quilting for a few years and I still make lots of mistakes, but when I've given the quilt to someone they love it even though there are mistakes and they don't see them. I still have trouble with points and especially my cutting. I'm going to start using some sort of weights to keep me from shifting the ruler. As I tell everyone, I do a little quilting, but I’m not a “quilter”. I can say if you love to quilt keep at it as you continue to learn from your mistakes. Again thank, for your videos.
Hi Helen, I started using a weight after seeing one being used on yt. As I didn't have a dumbbell I used the base of my pestle/ mortar (never sure what that's called). Worked beautifully. Point being you're bound to find something heavy enough in the kitchen or hubbie's toolshed.
@@jacquelenebennett4028 Thank you for your comment. I have the tendency to move my ruler and try to do better.
I don't use weights to hold down my rulers. Instead, I pasted on small Sandpaper Dots to underside of my rulers to keep them from slipping while cutting w/ rotary cutter.
@@jacquelenebennett4028 Yes!! I learned from Donna Jordan of Jordan Fabrics on YT! I have a rubber coated 5# weight I use and it solved the problem! Also works well as a door stop in my sewing room! 🤣
"Just do it!": the mantra that makes it possible to improve :) Great video!
I love your videos! Your daughter's reaction to her own accomplishment is incredible...she just jumped in! She didn't know she couldn't! That's perfect!
My 7yo niece was the same way as your daughter. I took her to the quilt store, but it was closed. She didn’t want to wait to start her small quilt, so to WallyWorld for some fabrics we went! She had her own idea of what she liked, but made a pretty cool doll quilt with puppy & kitten fabrics along with a solid or 2. We were proud of her perseverance to do the sandwich & SITD quilting almost completely by herself!
I’ve been trying pressing my seams open recently and am getting much better results. Thanks for the info.
Love your attitude! My very first quilt was a queen sized pattern. I have designed every quilt since then. “Are they going to win any awards? Hell no!“ but I designed them with love and gave them to people I love. I am in the middle of my first collage quilt - a whole new world!
That is awesome! I love YOUR attitude!
Wow. U made me cry. Now I am on a mission to quilt everything.
Thank you, I just learned why stuff isn’t lining up, why I should be using the walking foot, who knew about the thread -I didn’t, yep on the pressing. Teaching myself before I retire for an inside hobby, and yes- a huge fear of the quilt police.
First, so glad your hubby still likes your quilt. True love!!
So many need these things and this is good stuff for those of us who teach others I’m always doing this with kids and grandkids. For most of us who’ve quilted awhile it’s all ‘auto-pilot’
Thanks
Oh how I wish I had found you a handful of years ago, when I started. Thanks to a couple of ladies, now great friends, who took me under their wing, introduced me to a couple of quilting guilds and addicted me to all things quilty. At least now, when I meet someone just starting out, I can send them to your guiding light so that they can obtain some knowledge & confidence before stepping into the fray. It's always a more comfortable feeling when you are not a complete novice. Thank you
Omg seeing your daughter with that quilt was so sweet!!!! Thank you for letting her be creative!
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I went to quilting classes many years ago and then I didn't do any quilting for many years. When I decided to try it again, I had no idea what anyone was talking about. I thought I had gone to a baking website instead of quilting. When I took the classes there were no precuts (layer cakes, jelly rolls, honeybuns) and we used scissors only. As you were saying with the strip cutting, I made a full size quilt and cut out every piece from yardage with scissors. Maybe that's why I had quit so many years ago.
I luv how you cheered your daughter on. Blessings to you and your family!!!
I have a feeling I will be watching this video over and over lol. I repair antique and vintage quilts and complete antique/vintage quilt tops. These have been discarded at thrift stores and yard sales and I cannot stand the idea that these beautiful works of art may end up in a landfill if they are not rescued. I don’t machine quilt at all, but I’m still finding these tips helpful (what types of thread to use, etc). Thank you!
Wow!! That's amazing and very special. Thank you for sharing!
Thanks for sharing - can resonate with many of these tips , always learning 💞
I am learning to quilt by watching videos. Would have loved to have a teacher. I loved you sharing all the things you didn’t know. I’m in the same boat as you, just learning as I go, just keep rowing 🚣 and sewing 🪡 🧵
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So nice to have someone go over these kinds of problems. It helps you to not feel stupid!! I enjoyed the video very much...
Oh my gosh, I loved this video. All of the women in my family sewed when I was growing up, so when I started quilting in my 20’s I had my late grandmothers old green singer in a wooden cabinet. (I doubt you had even been born at that point in time;) )Your story is so similar to mine…. I bought a book and fabric at Walmart…. I knew NOTHING bout thread, tension, 1/4 seems…. I think I didn’t even own an iron at that point. I didn’t even know you COULD machine quilt the sandwich, lol. I just remembered my great grandmother, Sara, having that big frame stretched out in her living room…. I forget how far I have come. I love your attitude! Thanks for the memories.
Thank you for sharing! It's so fun to hear about everyone's quilting journey.
Ty for sharing your knowledge I appreciate it I’m a bit older and just starting out so any tips are a blessing. Ty ty ty