Patchwork and quilting are often considered to be the same but there’s an immense difference between their techniques. Patchwork is basically sewing the fabric pieces together to create a block or pattern. Once a number of blocks are made, they can be again sewn together to create a quilt work.
Quilting, on the other hand, is the method of sewing three layers of the quilt together – the top layer, the back layer, and the central wadding layer. Here the stitches can either be basic stab stitch or utilitarian stitch or stitch with delicate patterns.
Today we will briefly discuss patchwork quilting. If you are a beginner in this and want to master the strategic art soon, this guide will effectively help you. So let’s dive in.
Patchwork
Here the basic kit is a clear acrylic quilt ruler with a measurement of 6.5 x 24 inch, a self-healing mat, and a rotary cutter. You can buy the items from any local or online store selling patchwork items. Also, make sure to buy a mechanical pencil along with the kit as it has a fine lead that can be used to note the seam allowance and the sewing lines precisely.
Fabric
One of the best things about a patchwork is that you can use any odd pieces of fabric and reuse your old outfits to create something stunning and unique throughout the whole process. Cotton is the best fabric for a patchwork quilting as you can wash it easily. For a fancy quilt work, you may also try silk fabric.
Several fabric shops often sell a selection of fabrics portioned into small quarter meters, often termed as the fat quarters. These are ideal for patchworks.
If you are a beginner in patchwork quilting, you may consider buying these for an efficient and precise art of work. As you gain experience and expertise, you will be able to cut the fabric in minute pieces all by yourself to create your quilt work.
Rotary Cutter
Cutting the fabric accordingly is crucial to a successful patchwork. The best way to do this is by using a rotary cutter. All you need is to properly fold the fabric, press it lightly with a steam iron, and then line up the edges on the self-healing mat. Now place the ruler on the fabric and line it along with the mat. Then slowly move the rotary cutter by holding the edges firmly for a smooth and trimmed piece.
Then go on to turn the board and move the fabric all the while cutting your shape. This will reduce wastage. Once you get adequate experience and expertise, you will be able to cut multiple layers of fabric at once. We recommend you to start practicing on calico and make sure to press the fabric first. This will result in a beautiful piece, perfect for the quilt work.
We hope these quick hacks will help you to start with patchwork quilting. Do you have other points to include on the list? Feel free to comment below.
Thanks for explaining the difference between patchwork and quilting. I really want to make a quilt this year. But for some unknown reason I am a bit nervous about how to do it properly. I have enough fabrics to start. I am unsure about the batting. I have a home sewing machine, so I don’t know if it would be okay for quilting. I will figure it out. But again thanks for the explanation.
Hi, Sandra. I didn’t start quilting until I was 59 and I just met a new quilter who is a teenager. So you can start at any time. I’d recommend googling anything you are wondering about and watching YouTube videos; many quilters around the world love to share their knowledge and skills. Also there may be a quilt guild or even a smaller group of quilters who would direct you. But beware! Once you are addicted …. LOL
Marilyn