Wanted to know suggestions of what to do for my first quilt? I have been reading up for days now, and want to begin maybe this weekend, but not sure what is the best one to start with. I know you guys will help me out, since you have already been so welcoming!

Thanks!

Samantha,
When you see a quilt, what is the first thing that draws your eye? Do you like when it is all one kind of block, just repeated over and over, do you like when it is all different fabrics repeated in the same block, do you like colors that are close and it is just the color that attracts you, do you like applique where there are shapes added on top the blocks?

If you want a simple quilt, that is scrappy - you can buy a jelly roll (comes in a coordinating bundle of all fabrics in a line, the size is width of fabric - about 40-44" by 2 1/2" wide) or a honey bun roll (same as jelly roll, but 3 1/2" wide), and just sew them together, and have a quilt that is just big stripes of fabric. Using these bundles, you could make a log cabin or rail fence easily.

Or, buy charm packs (5" squares in a bundle of each fabric in a line) or layer cakes (like charms, but 10" squares) and make simple squares. These also can be cut diagonally from one corner to another to make simple triangles. That would enable you to make stars, hourglass, and many other patterns.

If you like all one pattern for each block, and just repeat it over and over, goto http://www.quilterscache.com/QuiltBlocksGalore.html. When reviewing a block to see if it is good for a beginner, see each square and what happens to it. They are coded with pin icons - one pin would be a good option for a first quilt. The 2 pin blocks are harder. I also would suggest doing a large block (they have up to 16").

If you like applique, a site with some great simple patterns is http://www.fatcatpatterns.com/ - her stuff is really adorable.


Go to your local library and flip through some quilt books for ideas, or visit some quilt magazines online, often there are free patterns to download. Check out www.quickquilts.com - if it is listed as quick, they have enlarged it, simplified it, or use some special technique to make it quick - that means that it is also easy. Notice this link also connects to other quilt magazines in the same business family.

Also there is http://www.allpeoplequilt.com/magazines/index.html - which has many free patterns - click on Projects.

I think either upsize the block so you have only 16 large blocks to do, rather than 50 small blocks, or do a wall hanging or lap throw for your first project or two. You don't want to discourage yourself before you have a chance to fall in love!

Maybe see if your LQS (local quilt shop) has classes, or ask about a guild near you.

And the best piece of advice, is flip through a few of the chats here - we have some very talented members. If you see something you like, even if it appears way too hard, write the maker, and ask what the basic blocks are or how hard the pattern was. Often gorgeous quilts are made using very simple techniques.

Good luck. Show us what you do.

If you like something with applique

good ideas gramma!!

I did a simple nine block for my first...turned out pretty good.
Classes are always a good idea too :)

Hi Sam.. my suggestion would be to either make a 9 patch, or perhaps a rail fence. they're both very simple, but can be very pretty and will let you concentrate on the very basics. Are you going to hand or machine stitch, etc.
either way, it's a great place to start, and you'll have a finished project before you know it, and with a first quilt, that is VERY encouraging.

Warm wishes is a easy one . and looks classy when you have a pretty focus fabric.

Thanks for all of the help! I think I may had quilt to begin with but not sure I am getting a sewing machine from my mom that was my aunts, I am going to practice a bit with it and see how it goes. But I think I might like to do it by hand to start.

I started with a small quilt...Mine was a baby quilt but could do a lap throw? I think it helped me...I haven't braved a large on yet...

I am planning on doing one for my son who just turned 2 today! I think I have found one that will be simple and work for it. Thanks so much for everyones help!

With smaller quilts I prefer to sew by hand. It's more rewarding to me. Have Fun