bearisgray

How does a newbie sort through all the conflicting advice on 'how to' make a quilt?

"It depends" - while true - isn't very helpful when one is just learning.

My suggestions are:

If taking a class, do it the way the teacher/instructor suggests (that time, anyway). It's usually less confusing to try to learn/do only one method/technique at a time.

If learning from a book or video - do it the way it's shown (that time, also)

I think doing several smallish projects (lap/crib size and smaller) will give one more chances to experiment with different methods and techniques than doing one or two huge projects.

Even very experienced quilters disagree on the best/better way of how to create - starting with what/where to buy the fabrics and equipment - to the very last steps of how/where to put on a label and should a completed quilt be washed or not.

We are fortunate to be able to become aware of different ways of doing things now - but sometimes more choices just make deciding more difficult!

Experience is such a great teacher -

Would a short cut to 'just knowing' spoil the fun of learning?

BellaBoo

The one thing that is a must for quilting for a beginner is precision cutting, piecing and pressing. Once you get that mastered the rest is gravy no matter what pattern you make.

Quiltngolfer

Part of the fun of quilting is learning new techniques. Small projects are great for learning, then if you like it, you can make a big project. I have my own favorite ways of doing things, but when I take a class, I do just as the teacher instructs. It's less confusing that way.

Pinkiris

I don't think that we intentionally try to confuse new quilters, but I can see how it can happen! We each have our own machines, rulers, cutting mats, thread, needles, etc. They can all differ. Then add in the "eyes of the beholder" and let the confusion begin! As you gain more experience, you will trust your own instincts more. In the meantime, ask questions and try suggestions. If that doesn't work, ask again!

Dolphyngyrl

For classes I would follow the instructor, you are there to learn new techniques whether you will keep doing that way after the class is up to you. For books and patterns, I would just adapt it to whatever method suits you that you like. I always like learning new techniques so I would try not to stress over what some say are right or wrong ways of doing things as long as it works for you what is anyone to say about it. The reason I like to follow instructors in classes is that they are experienced in the area that they are teaching, and when I take a class I usually like to take something new that I haven't done so I am a newbie in that area.

jemma

start with a basic class--that covers cutting safely+accurately---seaming accurately--learn the rules then you can choose to break them[not the safety one]

Traditional Quilter

As others have said, getting the basics -- straightening the fabric, cutting accurately, accurate seams, proper pressing -- is the first order of business and a Beginner Quilting Class is where you learn this. For reference at home when the teacher isn't around to answer your questions, I highly recommend Harriet Hargrave's "Quilters Academy (all four volumes), Sally Collins "Art of Machine Piecing" and "Mastering Precision Piecing," and if you piece by hand, Jinny Beyer's "Quiltmaking by Hand." Since I have had Harriet's "Quilters Academy" books, my piecing accuracy has improved tremendously. I have taken Harriet's machine quilting class, but I'm afraid that I haven't put the practice into that to consider myself accomplished plus I still prefer hand quilting. Her book "Heirloom Machine Quilting" is an excellent resource for that. After you have taken a class or classes and read all these references, you will probably find your own technique. I remember what a seasoned quilter told me when I started -- The only hard and fast rule for quilting is that the thread goes through the eye of the needle."

batikmystique

I agree with everyone who suggested getting the basics down, ie cutting, piecing, pressing. As far as the technique, it seems that the more I talk with other quilters, each has her own way. I would suggest taking beginning quilting classes from more than one teacher. A student will ultimately glean the methods that work the best from various teachers and end up with a customized compilation of techniques.

iwillquilt

Sometimes you just have to go with the flow. If you make a mistake, relax, think it over then change it to make your mistake work. Or rip it and start again. I usually choose to make it work. It makes any pattern "my own". Quilting is for fun and relaxation. So don't stress it. Keep asking questions till an answer makes sense to you. I am still a newbie myself. Learning and making mistakes...eh..making new patterns... all the time.

Just Me...

I used to offer classes that would show various ways to get to the same end goal. i.e. Flying geese I showed 6 or 7 different ways (some using different rulers), had the students try them all....then pick which technique was easiest for them. Did the same thing with applique, etc. What works for me, may not work for you.....great topic!