Beginner Hand Quilting
 

I'm considering hand quilting a paper pieced top I finished a few weeks ago. What are the basic supplies needed, for someone with limited funds? I've never hand quilted before, but it seems like it would be relaxing. Maybe not. lol

Thanks,
Dorian

The supplies are as basic as they come: needles (quilting betweens, usually a size 9 or 10 for a beginner), a quilt top, backing and batting, thread, and a thimble. Some quilters baste really well and quilt without a hoop, but I started by using a cheap, $4 quilt hoop that was 16" in diameter.

There are lots of videos on YouTube about hand quilting that will show you the technique. When you are starting out, it's more important to make even stitches than small stitches.

I'm sure you'll find lots of help here if you ask. There are a lot of hand quilters on this board. Good luck!

Janet

I hand quilt all my work, mainly because it is what I can afford...I have found that investing in good needles makes it easier, and better stitching..I use the Golden Glide by John James. I had issues using a wood hoop, because it used to loosen. I found a PVC frame in Joannes that works great for me (the larger 14 inch size is online) ..I am actually planning on making a standing one of PVC. I also have beeswax that I use on the thread to help strengthen and keep from tangling..Make sure your thimble fits comfortably, or it will make your life miserable....I know many packages have a hole you can use to try the thimble size...Good luck with your hand quilting..

I also hand quilt. The best size needle is the 9 or 10 betweener. Don't worry about trying to make extra small stitches - just strive for consistent stitches. Smaller stitches come with practice. I have a PVC frame from Joanns. I tried using a hoop and got too frustrated. I use the frame mainly to keep the quilt off the floor. I attach the quilt on 3 sides only, leaving the side next to me in my lap. I work hard to pin, pin, pin when I'm sandwiching the quilt so the back is straight. My sister recently purchased Quilters Dream Cotton batting and she said her needle glides through like it's butter. I'm going to get some for my next quilt. The main thing to remember is to enjoy the process and don't get stressed. This should be a relaxing hobby for you with no deadline to finish. Hand piecing and hand quilting are very relaxing for me because I can pick the work up and do as little or as much as I want to do before putting it down.

Basic supplies. Quilting needles ("Betweens" size 9 or 10 will probably be a good starting size), Hand quilting thread ($1.00 a spool at Joann's), Beeswax (very inexpensive), Small thread snips (any small sharp scissor), Hoop or frame (I personally don't use either. I just baste and quilt without. All a matter of comfort and personal preference), A comfortable thimble (it might take a few tries to find one you like), and LOTS of patience with yourself. Try for consistant stitches rather than small stitiches. The more you handquilt, the smaller your stitches will become. I applaud you for trying handquilting. After a while, you will find it to be very relaxing. Happy Quilting!!

I handquilt sometimes too and all of the above are great suggestions. With time you will find what works best for you. Remember, there are many ways of doing things so don't give up if one hoop or needle doesn't work for you! It took me a long time to even find the right thimble that worked for me.

I also have a little round rubber disk to help grip the needle if I have trouble getting it pulled through the material. Not sure what it is called...sorry

I have used a large embrodery hoop that I already had to hand quilt. Makes the project very portable.

All of the above information is good.
Invest in good quality needles; also beeswax, comfortable thimble and hand quilting thread.
At first, strive for even stitches rather than small stitches.

I use a plastic hoop.
When I first started hand quilting, my biggest mistake was having
the fabric within the hoop TOO TIGHT.