Originally Posted by
betsyjohnson
Hi everyone- I just started quilting recently. I used to sew with my mom when I was a kid, but only clothing. I have a quilt picked out as my first quilt that I'm going to make, and I already have all the fabric for it... But I'm already stuck. I know this seems like a very elementary question, but I just need some good tips. I need to cut out 112 pieces of my white fabric for the background, but I can't figure out the best way to cut my fabric! I mean, I can cut 112 pieces individually, but that sounds awful! I can't figure out the best way to fold my fabric to minimize cutting time. I just feel like every time I fold my fabric I'm going to cut it wrong!
Any advice would be very much appreciated! Thanks in advance!
OK, my elementary advice is to stop! Go to YouTube and find beginning quilting and watch everyone you can. Especially if it teaches you how to use the rulers and rotary cutters. Quilting is different from other sewing. Your quilt pattern you chose is adoreable and will be simple to make and teach you a lot in the process. You will be cutting 6.5 strips and 3.5" strips, but you have to learn how to hold the ruler and cutter to get correct widths. Also you must practice the 1/4" seam - seems simple yes? Not so simple, it is the one thing that is the hardest to master - believe it or not. You need to learn to crawl before you walk. Also, quilting books - go to the library. I needed a beginner quilt class, for some reason I need to see it. Using the rulers is also different and you need to learn to do it right or you pick up bad habits - ask me how I know that? I was also a clothing sewer when I started. Anyway, enjoy, and take your time.