ScubaK

This list is fantastic and as you can read....information from these people is worth more than anything....
I would also add a seam ruler to double check my 1/4 inch seams
Hope to hear from you soon on your quilting adventures.
Kirsten

english rose

You have had some very comprhensive lists - I will just add my bit.
Fabric marking - try several like water soluble markers, chalk pencil (I have one that you can change the colour and comes with thin chalk sticks in about 4 colours). Also try small slivers of toiltet soap (the bit you are left with) - you can shave then to get thin lines.
Good luck - I know you will enjoy your quilting journey and you have come to the best place for loads of help and info.
Jane

mary705

Before going out and purchasing books ( I did, have a lot that I will never use) see if your local library carries them, then if you really like the book, then buy it. And yes, JoAnns coupons if you have one to shop at. And if you do, don't forget to sign up for the emails and the mailer, you get triple coupons that way, and all can be used on the same visit, each is allowed to be used for a cut of fabric because they are each from a different source.

keystone

Depending on the type of quilt you make, template plastic or pre made templates are nice. If you're doing a quilt that has mostly squares or strips, though, I wouldn't consider it an absolute must

blahel

Just a couple of tips when buying rulers make sure they are the same brand as the measurements are not always the same. If you can afford a walking foot for straight sewing it will make it easier when sewing all the layers ie batting, front of work and back together as it helps feed it through more evenly. These are all things that i have found out the hard way...
Dont start with a huge quilt first up, make potholders and wall hangings that way you can practice all the techniques first without spending a lot of money on fabric and then when you feel more confident you can go out and splash out on all the beautiful fabrics there are out there! Also be careful with the rotary cutter as it is extremely sharp..use it as carefully as you would a razor blade and keep your fingers out of the way..always close it when not in use as a lot of people drop it and cut their toes. I think all the ladies have covered just about everything else and remember enjoy your quilting and dont get upset if it takes a while to get it right just go onto something else and then go back to it later. What works for one doesnt always work for another so try different things. Looking forward to see what you create!

Millie

Don't forget the old faithful necessities; the iron and ironing board, without which our work would wind up with all kinds of lumps and bumps. It would also be helpful to have a pressing cloth for fusibles, scorch marks and "iron shine" on dark fabrics and another good product is Iron Off just in case you wind up with gunk on your iron. Quilting is a great adventure but we all make mistakes so just take your time, relax and enjoy it. :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:

Cecelia

Another suggestion...If there is a Quilt Guild in your area pay a visit to the meeting. (Or close by Quilt Show) They are a great source of advise (hands on), inspiration, and acquaints you with the area. Or ask a store where you can buy fabric or supplies

I have lived in 6 or 7 different communities in my travels and find quilters the most helpful of new acquaintances, after all we speak the same language.

I appreciate knowing where the Board Members live, some times can send hints. Cecelia

Quilting Aggi

hee hee how can we possibly forget the chocolate!! I also find a nice glass of wine helps through things too!!! LOL

As to some fabric suggestions... depending on your budget, there are many beautiful online sources to buying fabrics. Here in Newfoundland, I find if I go to the real quilt stores around here, I could be spending anywhere from $9-18 a metre (just a few inches more than a yard). Lately I have been introduced by many people here about some amazing online fabric stores that charge much much less and the quality is amazing!! I now only spend $3-6 a yard for my fabrics and they are the big names like Debbie Mumm, Thimbleberries, Red Rooster, Kona, etc!!!!

Quilting can be a bit pricey when you are just starting up so my advice is to stash a little mad money away each pay cheque and then treat yourself to a new tool or piece of fabric to get you started. There are also alot of beautiful FREE patterns online to choose from to get you started.

Check out the Links and Resources page here in this forum. You will find some great projects there to get you started. The Block of the Month (BOM) page is also great as every 2 weeks you will be given a new block pattern online to make.. It is a good way to learn how to put blocks together and in the end make yourself a really nice sampler quilt.

You will find alot of great tips and suggestions from all these talented guys and gals on this forum. They are full of inspiration and ideas to get you quilting!!! The levels of quilting in this group are from your basic/beginner quilter to the advanced and everyone in between!!! Not to mention a VERY VERY supportive crew!!!

ooh and if you are not a chocolate person (gasp....!!!) then I also find if my supply of chocolate has vanished, I like munching on gummy candy!!! :)

We look forward to hearing how you make out in your new quilting adventures!!!! Don't forget to post photos of your work here.. we Looooooooooove show and tell!! :)

Cheers!!