I have bought books on how to quilt...but how do you actually get started quilting??

Answer 1

I agree...the best way to start (anything) is with a fairly easy project-pattern, in a small size.

I wouldn't even suggest starting with a whole "quilt" or set of blocks. Just start by learning how to make individual blocks, then turn each into a pillow, pot holder or tote bag, etc.... or sew each onto a sweatshirt or apron on kids overalls, etc., as an "applique." That way you won't have to worry at first about having all the blocks come out exactly the same size, which can be challenging in the beginning.
Or you could also just keep them as lessons... or to use later in some way.
You could also make each block in a certain set of colors (Christmas, Halloween, or just some favorites) to be put together later as a sampler quilt.

There are definitely "easy" blocks, so you should start with those... maybe just all-squares at first, then graduate to simple right-angle triangles, then to more complicated triangles, etc.

Some whole "quilts" (or lap quilts, or doll quilts, etc.) are easier than others too. It would be fun to start with some kind of scrap "strip" quilt, so the piecing isn't all that important, just so you begin sewing fabrics together.
After you've sewn a bunch of strips together long side to long side, you can then cut that new piece into a square shape, maybe add a border around it, then sew those blocks into a small quilt... or the African style strip quilt is really fun too, where you sew strips together till you make a really long strip (as long as the quilt, or little less if you'll later add a border to the whole quilt), trim that into a long rectangle, then separate seeral of those long rectangles with strips of solid or nearly solid colors.

It also helps a lot to be part of quilting groups when you're starting especially so that you'll have easy access to good info when you have questions, or when something just isn't working out right.
Here is at least one quilt message board I know of (free), but there are probably many others:
http://boards.hgtv.com/eve/forums
...scroll down to the "Quilting and Needlework" board
(you can read through all the posts and look at their photos, but you'll need to "join"--free-- if you want to ask questions or post... can also ask there for some good beginning projects, etc.)

Also, most cities and even towns have some kind of quilt "guild" or just quilting groups... some of them even get together just to make simple quilts for hospitalized newborns, or kids in cop cars who's parents are being arrrested, etc.

Check this page for actual guilds in your area that might be affiliated with the National Quilting Association (don't remember if there are more "national" quilt groups that are larger):
http://www.nqaquilts.org/statechapters.asp

For other local groups, you can look in the newspaper, or ask at a fabric store (quilt store if you have one), or even the Chamber of Commerce or local churches might know of the charity quilt groups.

Have fun!

(former quilter) Diane B.

Answer 2

Well I suggest you start with an easy pattern to make. Pick one, a small one, to start, such as a crib size or even a wall size. I did a bear paw wall hanging, 42 x 42. Even a 4 patch is good. Once it is sewn, you can go from there. Some of Eleanor Burns patterns Quilt in a Day are good too! If you are a perfectionist you will not finish what you started. You have to jump right in and do it. Once you have your top done, you pick out what you want for a batting and backing, layer it, and decide on how you want to quilt it, whether you want to machine quilt or hand quilt.

Answer 3

To steal someone else's slogan, "Just Do It."

If you have access to a beginner quilting class, take it. I started quilting about 3 years ago (after wanting to try it for 20 years). A new quilt shop opened in town and they offered classes, so I signed up on a whim. My class cost about $50 for five classes and it was worth twice that. We used the book "Start Quilting with Alex Anderson" and made each of the six blocks in that book. In class, we made one or two blocks, then made a couple more as homework. Each week we'd do another block. When we were finished, we had enough blocks to make a small wall hanging/lap quilt. I haven't stopped quilting since (and I'm the kind of person who used to jump from one craft project to another, trying to find something I liked).

The advantage to a class is that you have someone showing you exactly what to do. If you don't understand, they show you again. There is nothing like hands on learning, especially for something like quilting. A local quilt shop is the best place to take a class, if possible, because you'll develop a relationship with the people at the store, and they will continue to help you with projects even after the class. A chain fabric/hobby store is the next place to try. They usually aren't as knowledgeable about quilting, but you might get lucky. Local tech school and universities sometimes have adult education programs that include classes on everything from cooking, to woodcarving, to computers, to quilting. These classes tend to be more expensive, but they are usually pretty good.

If you just can't take a class and want to start on your own, be sure to use a book that is geared toward beginners. I really like the Alex Anderson one. It starts with the most basic block, the rail fence (three strips of fabric sewn together), and works through nine patch (like a tic-tac-toe board), log cabin (strips sewn around a central square), into blocks with triangles like friendship star and flying geese.

I didn't have much luck with my quilt guild. I in no way think this will be the case with all guilds, but my local guild is fairly large (several hundred people) and uninterested in change. They were so involved in what they've always done that they didn't want to take time to welcome a newcomer. I didn't renew my membership. Still, I'm sure most guilds will be more welcoming. They're not necessarily going to teach you how to quilt, though. Also, it's difficult to walk into a "club" when you don't already know someone there.

Check out QNN - it's an online "television station" that has shows on 24/7. If you can't have someone right there showing you what to do, watching someone else do it is the next best thing. I would recommend buying a beginner quilting DVD, but there really aren't any out there.

There's a great website called Quilters Cache that has over 1500 blocks (with free cutting and piecing instructions). The site also has links to various lessons. Click the drop down that says "Where do you want to go today?" to see your choices. It isn't the easiest site to navigate - you have to use your back button a lot. Also, the block instructions are for one block, not cutting or chain piecing instructions for an entire quilt. Still, it's great if you want to make a sampler - many different blocks in one quilt.

Finally, join a Yahoo Group. There are hundreds of groups out there for quilting alone. Read through the descriptions to find one that suits you. An online community provides great support.

Good luck - I really think you'll enjoy quilting. It's a lot easier than I thought it would be. Just keep in mind that accuracy is very important. Cut your fabric accurately, sew a scant 1/4" seam accurately, and press the pieces (don't iron - don't rub) so you don't stretch the fabric. If cutting and sewing accurately is difficult for you (like many people), try cutting the pieces slightly larger, then trim to size after each seam. It takes longer, but is more accurate.

Answer 4

Hello, The first step I could take is to discover a neighborhood quilting retailer and discover out in the event that they present newbie categories, in the event that they do signal up they usually must have a record of notions (units used to reduce and degree materials) you could ought to start. You do not regularly want each instrument within the commencing, You might like applique, or potentially rotary slicing quilts. I used to instruct my freshmen with a category on how you can use the equipment first. Then the moment magnificence could be how you can reduce out and comply with (learn) the styles. Then the primary duvet used to be quite often a rail fence. To me that's the simplest duvet to start with. Or even he 9 patch. Another sensible simply be taught to stitch 1 / 4 inch on each rectangular, plenty of quilters have no idea how you can stitch in a instantly line. So simply train, it makes best. I'm definite you're going to love this interest I do, and sooomany others are addicted as good. Alot of the females who've come into my quilting retailer don't seem to be well at opting for out coordinates and matching and combining colours, however that's why we're there to instruct you that as good. There also are a few retail outlets who will present colour categories. Enjoy!

Answer 5

I agree with the other lady's, start with a easy block and go from there. Also if you have time for classes they are a great help, or perhaps you have a friend that quilts and would be glad to help you get started.