Originally Posted by dasmith2

Hope you all dont mind- I just had a few questions. Im sure you all remember how overwhelming it can be when you first start out and dont know a thing :-)


1. Why do you make your own binding? Is it just more customized? Cant you just buy the stuff that I see in the store?

It is only a single thickness of fabric, making your own you are using a double thickness and you can choose a wider variety of fabrics, too


2. What are blender fabrics?

Fabrics that are usually one color with different shades to them, they "blend in" because they don't have other distracting colors

3. What ruler/cutting mat size do you all recommend(real limited budget,so I know the big sizes are out of the question ).

Minimum would be a 12" X 24" but you will find squaring up 12 1/2" blocks a challenge, I would go up atleast one size if possible

4. Does it matter what size your rotary cutter is? I have one, but have no idea what size it is- i forgot LOL

a 45mm is good for most cutting, I only found it helpful to use a 60mm when cutting through 6+ thickness of fabric. The smaller 30mm (?) are needed to cut around curved templates

5. Any helpful beginner tips or timesavers? Anything you found out the hard way?

Read the directions atleast 3 times before starting a pattern. Measure 2+ times before starting to cut.

6.With all the fabrics,batting,threads, tools etc... seems like its not a inexpensive hobby to start. Any tips to share on how you keep the cost down to a reasonable amount? (if I start shopping for fabric like I do scrapbook paper~I KNOW i'm in trouble :mrgreen:

Joanns coupons :D for supplies, watch here for super sales at different shops/stores. You will find many tips here on the board for saving money. Used clothing for fabric is one :wink:



Thanks everyone for your help!