Ok, I think I now have enough books and fabric to make a simple lap quilt. But I don't know where to start and what pattern to begin with. I think I need to use pre-cuts because with my new meds my hands tremble when I start to cut the fabric and I drop things for no reason (that I know of anyway!).

I also want it to be a fast project so I can see some accomplishment quickly. I'll share with my dear Board friends that I'm in the midst of a family issue with sisters and dealing with a family estate. It seems I'm staying depressed. :( So I'm hoping this will take my mind of what is going on and I won't get frustrated with the project!! :(

I also have an embroidery machine I can use...maybe In The Hoop Quilting.

Any suggestions would be so welcomed!!

If you want to start with something easy, how about using charm squares and just randomly mixing them up? Add a border and it would be really cute!

There are many free patterns and ideas for projects using precut fabric on the Moda Bake Shop site. Here's a link:

http://www.modabakeshop.com/

My Avatar quilt was made with Moda Turnovers and muslin. I got this pattern off the Moda Bake Shop site.

Quilting can be a great stress releaver. You mentioned using pre-cuts and I think that would be a great idea. I would suggest visiting your LQS and if you can afford to buy the pre-cuts they may have several simple and quick quilt ideas. With the new pre-cuts of charms, layers, jelly rolls, and turnovers there's sure to be quilt idea to find.

Many times LQS have quilt kits already put together. These sometime require extra cutting of the fabric. You might ask though if they would be willing to complete all of the cutting requirements for you. You may an additional charge for this.
If you have a quilting buddy you might be able to enlist their help for cutting while you're on the meds. If you're in a guilt group there may be someone who would be willing to do all of your cutting. You could reward them with fabric.

These types of needs are the reasons that quilting bees and our current clubs were formed. If you're in guilting group this should be a topic for discussion. If you're having sewing issues there may be others as well. Maybe you could have some group sew-ins to help each.

Good luck with your quilt project.

Pam M

You've had all good suggestions.I's also say to check out kits on Connecting Threads.....or just buy a couple pks of the charm squares.Maybe look type charm squares in search & look thru patterns for them.No cutting & doesn't have to have a border unless you want.

There are lots of patterns out there for simple table toppers/runners & totes using charms. Good luck with the family siuation,so many of us have been thru it.

I use the June Taylor Cutting board to cut with. It has slots to follow so u can cut strips and squares ect. Youmight want to check it out. I got the new biggest one and the cutting Matt online at Amazon .comi cant cut to saVe my life.
Good luck!

I use the June Taylor Cutting board to cut with. It has slots to follow so u can cut strips and squares ect. Youmight want to check it out. I got the new biggest one and the cutting Matt online at Amazon .comi cant cut to saVe my life.
Good luck!

I too have some stress going on in the family; quilting helps me take my mind off it. And each stitch is like poking the offending stress maker (feels good). I would start with precuts, either charm squares or layer cakes. They are easy and fast and just a lot of fun. And I love quilting with the embroidery machine. Just remember to HAVE FUN!

How about a four patch pattern?

If you are a bit "wobbly", maybe a good start would be a simple rag quilt....they are most forgiving of beginners and my first one still gets accolades from my non-quilting family members and kids. It's the whole touchy-feely thing of the front!

Oh my bad I thought you said star quilt :oops: