candi

A 12.5'' square up ruler is something I just got for myself recently and wondered why I waited so long, it makes squaring up your blocks as you go so much easier and more accurate, I used to keep measuring with my long ruler and move it here and there, enough of that!!I believe with this purchase I can cross the beginner bridge to confident beginner, :mrgreen: LOL.

phatquilts

Ditto on the above.
If others did not mention them: Omnigrid [a plastic film that prevents rulers from sliding]and Thread Heaven [comes in a tiny box, a silicone that makes the thread 'slick'] for hand sewing the binding.

Have fun quilting.

dkabasketlady

Start building a fabric "stash" and begin quilting!! Have fun and enjoy it!

fabricmaniac

Scissors are next. I suggest Ginghers in large (the black lightweight ones are terrific and less money). I can't live without the 5" "craft" scissors... they never get dull! And then you'll want some small snips. They are expensive but will last you a long time. Either use JoAnn's coupons or go to Hancocks of Paducah! www.hancocksofpaducah.com. If I were to count ALL my scissors in every size, I bet I have 25 pairs! And yes! I use them all! AND.... I ONLY allow Ginghers to sharpen my Gingher shears. There's always a little pamphlet in the box as to where to send them. They're like new when they come back and they come back fast!

fabricmaniac

I'm so happy you've realized this! It's just like... it's necessary to have 125 extra golf balls! I won't deny myself a single thing, except for the new Bernina #830!! I did an introduction class using it all day, and I cried all the way home! It is incredible. I already have 2 Berninas and they will have to do!!

Holice

My personal rule is to buy notions when you need them not in anticipation of using them. I have a box full of never used stuff. That is after you get the basic as you have mentioned.
Such as: Somthing to measure with, cut with and sew with and of course to iron with.

featherweight

LOL, that sounds like me, If it has to do with quilting, I have to have it!!!

brushandthimble

my 2 cents

flannel backed table cloth to lay out your squares

1/4 inch foot if not mentioned already.

quiltsRfun

Same here. Sometimes I find myself just looking for another gadget. There's got to be something new out there that will make my quilting more interesting.

featherweight

Or add to my "Had to have, Never use " drawer..