Patchwork quilting is an art and it is more difficult than it sounds! As a beginner, you must have some pro skills to start patchwork quilting.
Now, though the two words are often used and people often misunderstand patchwork and quilting the same thing, there’s some difference between the duo. Of course, both are integral components of each other. But patchwork is the first few steps before you start with the quilting process. Patchwork includes cutting, pressing, piercing, and finally squaring the fabric.
Today we will take a brief look at the tools required for patchwork. So without any delay, let’s dive in.
- Cutting
Before you sew the fabric pieces together make sure to chop them nicely! Most of the patterns will explicitly reveal how many pieces you need to cut and in which size – all you need is to follow the instruction.
Tools you will need:
- Rotary cutter – It makes straight and precise cuts on the fabric
- Cutting mat – Place the fabric on it for a smooth cutting experience
- Quilting rulers – Measure the fabric and cut absolute straight lines.
Place the fabric on the mat, then cut a straight line with the help of the ruler and the cutter.
- Piecing
Once the pieces are cut, start to sew.
Tools you will need:
- Sewing machine – Hand quilting is extremely precise and takes a long time. As a beginner, you should seek assistance from the sewing machine.
- Presser foot – It will help you to sew with greater control.
Depending on the machine alignment, adjust the needle and make sure that the seam is proper. Make sure that the accuracy is maintained as too narrow or too wide a seam can make the quilting real messy.
- Pressing
No matter whether you buy a fabric or use one stored in your mother’s closet, you will find a lot of crease on it. If you don’t press it properly, it will ruin the appearance of the quilt and the entire patchwork experience will be troublesome. So make sure that the fabric is flattened properly.
However, ensure not to use a dry iron as it will affect the crisp and fluffiness of the fabric. Too much ironing takes away the color as well. So you better use steam pressing so as to retain the crispness of the fabric.
Tools you will need:
- Iron – This is an absolute necessity. Hand pressing will take a long time and unprofessional hands cannot produce a good result
- Water spray – This will ensure that the color and crispness of the fabric remains intact.
- Squaring
After sewing the fabric, it’s high time to instantly square it up. Trip the tiny excess strips f the fabric to give the right shape and size to the block. Try to be as precise as you can while cutting the excess strips.
Tools you will need
- A square ruler – It will allow you to measure the strips
- A sharp scissor – It will help you to precisely shape the patchwork.
Have a happy patchwork time! Let us know your thoughts.
