My First Quilt - Fabric, Patterns, and Tools!
 

Hello y'all! I am in the process of beginning my first quilt, but I need some suggestions! It has been a long time since I've even used my sewing machine, and I have never done a task this big before. I have a book with patterns and detailed instructions that are really easy to understand. But I am wanting advice on multiple things.
First off, I have some "scrap" fabric that I am going to use to get used to using my machine again, make sure its in perfect working order before I make these quilts. I have read that it is good to pre-wash fabric, especially with cotton. I think it would be a good idea, but I don't want anything to get messed up in the washer/dryer before I even get to use the fabric.
When it comes to making your quilt, what is your process? I would assume getting all of your pieces cut first, "mach" assembly to make sure everything look like it will fit correctly and you have enough pieces, and then you start sewing?
Do I have to have a fancy sewing machine to do the sewing that keeps the batting in place (I forget the technical term for it, sorry!)? I have read mixed opinions on this. I have a basic Singer sewing machine that was a birthday gift from 10 years ago. She sew's well but doesn't do anything super fancy.
I am making these as gifts, and was thinking about doing them either twin or queen size, any opinion on doing a larger size when your just starting? They are going to be Christmas Gifts, so there isn't a huge rush.
I will upload pictures of the fabrics I have selected, as well as 2 of the patterns I am looking at doing from the book I have.

Sounds like you are ready to go. I will look forward to pictures on your progress.

Thank you! I sure will! I am very excited!

Fabrics and Patterns
 

Here are the Fabrics I have selected, and the two patterns that are in the book. The dark grey color in both pictures is what I have for backing and binding.
I did find a pattern on Pinterest that I like but the pattern size is for baby, and I want my quilt larger for sure. Here is the link to that one (https://www.pinterest.com/pin/1055599897542721/)

First, I want to welcome you to the wonderful world of quilting. You don't have to pre-wash your fabrics first, it's a matter of personal preference and the look of the finished quilt. You don't need a fancy pants sewing machine, many of us sew on antique/vintage machines. As for your approximate age Singer, that might be a problem, the modern Singers are not the well made machines the old ones were. The top, batting, backing is known as a sandwich, there are various methods of basting the sandwich, pin, thread, spray, glue, which needs to be done, before quilting, you just need to decide which method. How "easy" the actual quilting will be, depends on how big your quilt is, how much throat space your machine has.

Starching or using something like Best Press is very helpful, make sure though that you use the starch properly or you'll end up with a mess.

Your patterns are very nice but there's no way that I would attempt them as a beginner quilter, but others have started with what I would call "advanced" patterns and done okay.

Thank you Pocoellie! I am curious as to the state of my sewing machine. I recently moved and I haven't gotten it out of the box yet (mostly due to space in our small apartment.) I figured I would spend a day cutting the fabrics and assembling them, and the next day sewing them together, etc etc.
Which method of basting the sandwich lasts the longest? I am thinking thread, since it would seem the most durable option? The machine has the "average" space I would say, I know my mom has used it (more than myself since it was my 12 year old Christmas present) and she made quite a few elaborate costumes for my siblings and I on it and it seemed to work well. I may look as see if they make a "table" for the model I have, that would give me some extra room?!
I do have another bolt of fabric that I have for my personal use, I want to make a babys blanket out of it, maybe I should start with that one? lol! It is super cute as well, and I have a TON of it, I got it on clearance and it was so cheap I bought the whole bolt!

I love your patterns, but I have to agree with Ellie. They are more challenging than I would recommend for a new Quilter. If you have experience in other types of sewing that may make them less of a challenge, but you have to be the judge of that. Making samples out of scraps first is an excellent idea. That should let you know if you want to attempt the whole quilt.

I Love your fabrics. As a matter of fact, we've used two of them for a quilt for our niece: https://www.quiltingboard.com/pictur...t-t285807.html

If you do the quilts you've picked out, I would recommend a lot of starch, and slow, careful sewing. I normally don't cut everything at once. I cut enough for a sample block or two and finish the cutting if I get those assembled correctly. You definitely want sharp blades for your rotary cutter, sharp machine needles, and sharp pins. Please post pictures of your work.

Oh, and welcome to the board!

I love the quilt you made Wesing! Its beautiful! Yes, I think I may find a simple pattern and make a baby quilt first, so I can learn the ropes again, Its been a while since I've used the machine! I will have to post a picture of that fabric so y'all can help me pick a cute pattern! My husband is going to think I am crazy for making/saving another Baby item lol! We've been married 6 months (dating for a year and a half before we got married) and I keep having to fight off baby fever lol ! It will be a while before we have kids, so maybe this will help curb it lol!

Welcome to the board and quilting! Pretty fabric and the selections blend beautifully...so you've got an eye for color. The patterns you've selected look more advanced than a beginner but go for it. I did the same with my first quilt and learned a lot in the process. When you approach the clamshell quilt pattern, you may want to YouTube some tutorials on curved piecing. That can be helpful and maybe provide an alternate technique then the book for you to chose what best works for you. I recommend you attempt to do a block or sample of each quilt pattern using spare fabric just to see if it is what you are able to do easily without getting frustrated. We don't want you to give up and turn away from quilting because you may chose a pattern beyond your ability...you know what I mean?

I do not pre-wash my fabric. It is a personal preference. I do, however, wash the completed quilt once before gifting. When you get ready to do that step, come back to the board for suggestions and recommendations.

good luck and share your results. Have fun and ask for help if needed.... So many talented people here...

Thank you! I love color, and matching color, contrast, and patterns! I am excited to see how I can bring that to Quilts! I know exactly what you mean Teen! I don't want to get frustrated either! I love the quilts I grew up with, but those are my momma's and I cant steal them lol!
I think making a simple pattern baby quilt will be my first move, then I will make the ones for gifts ! I will upload a picture of the fabric so yall can help me find a cute pattern and matching fabric!
Oh, I will be on the forum a LOT! I am not afraid to ask questions/for help!

Oh...and yes, I would start with a baby quilt or lap size before attempting a bedspread size. Geesh, you are daring, girl! I love it!

Here is the fabric that I have for "scrap" and the baby quilt I want to make. My husband is a pilot, and it is so hard to find anything aviation related (that isnt overpriced) and I saw this in the clearance bin at walmart when I was grocery shopping and just bought the whole bundle lol!

I am originally from GA, so I am a little southern lol :) !

Thank you Lyricgirl! I actually just saw one of their patterns online, the Orange Peel Pattern, I am looking it up now to see if it is an easier one. It is super pretty!!!

Welcome! I'm wishing you much luck and joy with your quilting. You have some good advice here. Your progress may go much more slowly than you anticipate, so be prepared for that. You are getting an early start, though!

Thank you DJ! I am getting great advice for sure! I will be going to the fabric store in a few days to get some more fabric for my baby quilt that I will practice with!

Sound decision to make baby quilt first. Buying fabric is addicting...so beware. Buying that bolt of fabric will likely give you plenty of fabric to make things for an aviation nursery; however, when buying "bolts" think about future projects. When I buy "bolts", I always consider its use for the backing of future quilts or donation quilts, too. Many of us love hoarding fabric (lol) and still, some of us buy only what is called for in a pattern. Whichever you are, be prepared to give up space in your home. Lots of space.....lol!

Hi, Welcome to the board!

I am one of the "wash before cutting" people. I have had enough unpleasant surprises with bleeding and/or shrinking to make it worth the effort to me. I also prefer a flatter look.

Washing the fabric and batting (if washable before being quilted) is as important to me as using a seatbelt while riding in a car.

Now I might sound like Patty Party Pooper - but I have made enough "what was I thinkings?" to be aware of some things that you might not have though of -

If you are planning to use clamshells or hexagons, I strongly recommend that you make a practice piece - like a placemat - before you cut up all your fabric.

Do you have any small all-over prints or solids to play/practice with? They read as "color" from a distance and do not require fussy cutting.

The turquoise fabric is pretty - I made a a couple of totes from scraps from that fabric and it's coordinates - but to me it requires fussy cutting and/or awareness of the pattern. I think it is "tricky" to cut randomly.

I love the airplane fabric - but I would try to keep it intact and use it as a backing - and then use the airplane side as the top!

As far as sewing machines - for piecing all one needs is a machine that does a decent straight stitch and feeds the fabric evenly and straight.

Hi and Welcome!

I don't pre-wash fabrics.

You might try a sample block first before cutting all of your fabrics. That way you can see the color placement in the block. It can help you determine if there are any issues in the pattern directions too. There is time and fabric to make adjustments.

For a first quilt look at the double slice layer cake. You don't need a layer cake though since you can cut your fabrics to size. The piecing is straight seam piecing. Plus there are only a few intersections to match.

Master the 1/4 inch seam and the cutting processes first. Then proceed to "Y" seams and curves.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTOGt4cRdJE

Good luck!

Yes, it will help my gauge how much time it will take for the larger ones. Plus, I love baby stuff lol, great excuse to look at baby things! I plain to have a crib blanket with the pattern as well, and then a quilt will be perfect to drape over the edge or have in another room in the house to keep baby warm! If I remember correctly, I have 7 yards, but I could be wrong.

Oh no, dont tell that to my husband lol! I already "hang on to things" longer then he thinks I should lol!

Thank you so much for all the information! I have a LOT of the airplane fabric, and plan to do one quilt solid of just that fabric, and do just the stitching (no other fabric patches for the front) when I get good at the sandwiching and can do a pretty pattern.

I have some darker colors, so I am thinking I will want to wash the dark grey color at least since it is the most likely to bleed.

Thank you! I spent almost 2 hours going through all the fabrics the day I picked these out! It was so fun!

Thank you for the Link Rhonda! I will make sure to master my 1/4" seam before I go to the fancy stuff! I feel like I have pretty good hand/eye coordination and sense of design to make it look good but i want to practice lol! Thank you!

I starch everything I'm going to work with. I thread baste my sandwiches, I absolutely HATE pin basting, I like spray basting, but don't like the cost, fumes and the mess with the overspray. A table for the machine won't really help with the extra room you need, sewing clothing and such isn't the same as wrestling with a quilt in the same space.

Pocoellie- From the videos I watched yesterday (while stitching up a pair of my husbands pants) I saw the lady starch as she ironed, correct?
I'll be working off my dining room able (not very big, but the perfect square lol) since we have a tiny apartment, were limited on space and furniture. Oh, that is true, you're right, I was thinking about the wrong side of the machine haha!

Welcome to the QB. You are jumping into the quilting world, no doubt about that! Lots of questions in your post and that's a good thing.

- Washing fabric - is both a preference, and for some of us, a necessity. Some of us wash fabrics to get the sizing and chemicals out of it as they can cause allergies. Reds and other highly saturated fabrics tend to bleed the dye into other fabrics in a quilt, so always test for color fastness. Just cut a small piece of the fabric and put it in a glass of cold water. For example, with red, if the water turns from clear to red or pink, the fabric bleeds. Wash the fabric in cold water/detergent and use a color catcher to absorb the dye that washes out of the fabric.

When you use flannel fabrics the recommendation is to wash and dry flannel two times. It has a looser weave, so shrinks more than 'regular' cotton, and it is full of lint. You will understand the lint thing when you look at the dryer filter after drying the flannel.

Starching fabric - some people swear by it, some people sneeze by it. I am a "sneezer", so can't use it.

- Patterns: Perhaps you could look into making a sampler quilt, where you make different blocks of the same size with the same fabrics, then put them all together in one quilt. That way you can try the blocks you're looking at, and then decide whether you want to make an entire quilt using the block. Also, if your Mom lives close enough to you, she might be able to provide you with tips on technique.

- Size of quilt: I agree with the recommendation to start with a baby quilt. Learn the basics, get some mastery of them, and then up the degree of challenge and size. And Christmas will be here before you know it, quilts take longer than you think, so don't promise them to anyone for Christmas.

- Quilting the quilt sandwich - backing, batting and top - is a challenge all it's own. It can be done on a domestic sewing machine (DSM). It is, in my opinion, hard work. However, if you can do it, it's also a great accomplishment. This is another good reason to start with a baby quilt.

An alternative to quilting the sandwich is to tie it. This method has been around forever and works well. It is not unusual to see an old, tied quilt in good shape and still in use. If you decide to tie a quilt, follow the instructions for the batting to determine how far about the ties should be. Some batts say 4", some 8" and so on. That applies to quilting on your DSM as well.

Yet another alternative is to use one of the "quilt as you go' techniques for your quilt. I've never done it, so have no opinion on whether is it better or worse than the previously mentioned techniques.

- Your sewing machine - Sounds like it is just fine for you to use on a first quilt, second quilt, maybe on all the quilts you ever make. When you know that you like quilting as a long term hobby, then invest in a better sewing machine when you can afford it.

Enough from me. Enjoy your quilting.

Thank you for all the time you invested in this post! I appreciate all the advice!!!! Unfortunately my mom doesn't make quilts, they have all been passed down from family or given to us as gifts. But I know she would love one made by me, so I am looking forward to making her one!

Thank you for all the tips! They are very helpful, I didn't think about doing a small piece of the fabric in the water, I will do that for sure!!! I will be sure too keep you all updated (which means I will be asking more questions!) on my progress and when I break out my machine for my first stitches!

gacountrygurl, I'm another country girl from Arkansas, currently (since 1967) living in Florida. I'm also a rank amateur when it comes to quilting. It can be so much fun, but other than the very good advice you've already received, I have just a couple of things. Whenever you get frustrated (and you will -- it's normal) you need to walk away from your project for an hour or two, maybe longer -- that's your decision. If you continue to work when something isn't going right, you become totally frustrated and sometimes folks just walk away from the project permanently. You sound like a very energetic young lady. It helps a lot that you have done some sewing in the past, even if it wasn't quilt-making. The last thing I'm going to suggest is don't be too hard on yourself -- allow yourself to be human. None of us are perfect so we can't create "perfect" things. The best we can do is strive for excellence. I think you're going to do well -- just give yourself time! Welcome to the board from another newbie. Good luck, and remember we're as close as your computer!

Another new quilter...how exciting. Your fabrics look great and it seems you have been given a lot of good advice already. I just want to say Welcome to the QB...remember to have fun!

Welcome, I agree with the others, I think starting with a baby quilt first would be your best bet. In my opinion those patterns you showed are a bit more complicated than a beginner might want to try. I would suggest that you go to Missouri Star Quilts tutorials on You Tube and watch some of Jenny Doan's tutorials. She has a lot of tutorials and shows some easy ways of making various quilts. There are so many tutorials that are really good on You Tube, but I really enjoy Jenny's. Try something easy first and as someone else posted don't promise something for Christmas. Quilts do take time and as stated before Christmas will be here before you know it. Take your time and ENJOY your journey. The machine doesn't make the quilt, you do, but machines are a necessity today, your machine doesn't have to be fancy to do a good job. I do the majority of my piecing on my 1935 Feather Weight at 83 years old it sews great - sews straight and reverses, nothing fancy, but I love it. Just have fun and ask questions when you need to, be sure to share with us through your journey. I might add, before you begin sewing, get out the manual for your machine if you have one, or download one and see how to clean and oil your machine, if it has not been used for some time it does need some tender loving care. I oil my machines and clean them after about 8 hours of sewing or every project if it isn't a large one. DON'T use canned air on your machine. If you need help locating a manual just ask there are SO MANY - knowledgeable people on this board and they are all so helpful.

I don't use the canned starch, it's expensive and doesn't go far, I use Sta-Flo concentrated and dilute 50/50. A lot of people spray the starch, then iron, but complain because the gunk gets all over their iron and flakes on the fabric, this is because they're ironing the starch and not the fabric. After spraying, the fabric needs to have a minimum of 2 hours to absorb the starch, so after starching, put the fabric in a large ziplock bag or the like for a couple hours, take it out, shake and either air dry or put in the dryer for a few minutes, then iron, I will usually spray with water while ironing, but I've never had any gunk or flakes from doing it this way.

There are some things that you will almost get conflicting advice/suggestions for and/or multiple ways for "how to do"

Some of the topics are:

to wash or not wash fabrics before cutting them
to use or not use starch/sizing
how to make half square triangles
what kind batting to use
the list goes on

If you can sign up for a "beginner" quilting class, that might be helpful. I think one of the big hurdles for someone that has been sewing clothing (using woven fabrics) is going from a 5/8 inch seam allowance to using 1/4 inch seams allowances - even though we've been trimming down inside collars, etc.

You might also consider asking for suggestions for a a "how to quilt" reference book. There are many out there - maybe check at your library to see which one(s) you like better. I consider myself to be an "advanced beginner" - and some of the books are easier to follow than others.

Welcome to the board! I love the fabrics you chose. You have a good eye.
You've received lots of help so far. The only thing I can add is Jenny Doan (Missouri Star Quilt Company)
She has wonderful tutorials and is my favorite quilter out there.
There are others too though. Youtube is a wealth of quilty videos!
Can't wait to see what you make :)

Re: prewashing fabric-If you are just worried about certain colors bleeding, just cut a small piece off, put in a container of hot water and see if it bleeds color, then put on a piece of paper towel to dry ans see if it leaves any color on paper....... I am not a prewashed, but do "Test" any questionable fab this way.....btw, if it bleeds, I don't use it! Just me. But if you plan on prewashing, I think all to be used should be washed, this way shrinkage is balanced....that's what I gave read anyway, since I don't.......
you mentioned your mom has Quilts, has she made them? If, so, she will be a great mentor for you.......

Good luck on your new venture. I am a self-taught quilter and it has been a wonderful adventure.

Welcome to the art of quilting. I am a fairly new at this; however, I finished 2 crib quilts for twin great-nephews and have cut out 3 more quilts. The pattern you have shown would have been too much for me as a beginner, but go for it if you feel confident. I did the Yellow Brick Road pattern for my first quilts. It was all squares and triangles. You Tube is a "God-send" for learning quilting (really anything for that matter). I also LOVE the Missouri Star Quilt (go to Community and then click on tutorials) and the Craftsy tutorials. The Quilting Board is GREAT for getting help, advise and recommendations. Check them all out. I do not pre-wash my fabric - this is based on many comments on the Quilting Board. ENJOY the process!!!! WELCOME!

Welcome! First, foremost and so very important - take a day and play with your machine. You can either play or practice making a 'throwaway' block. The important thing is to get the feel of it. You don't need fancy, some of the best quilters use some really, really old machines. If you make some sample blocks, store then and later put them on the front of tote bags as gifts. Second, think of your quilt in stages so as not to be overwhelmed by the whole project. Each time you finish a section (cutting, finishing a block, sashing a row, etc) congratulate yourself. We thrive on a little back patting! Third - AND VERY IMPORTANT - if you get to a part that just doesn't want to work - STOP. Go away, have a glass of wine or a cup of tea, stop thinking about it. Once you return, you will probably get right through the problem. If you try to push through it, you will not finish the top. All of us have that one (or more) UFOs in our closet that we will never finish because they stopped being fun and became work. And, the reason we quilt is to have fun, to use that creative part of our brains and to feel good. There is no better feeling in the world than to see that smile on the face of someone you have given a quilt to.

I agree that you have chosen difficult patterns to learn on. If an early project does not go well, would it discourage you from going on and trying something else? If you feel that it might, I encourage you to pick something more along the lines of patchwork to begin on. In fact, I think a sampler quilt, with narrow sashing, is a very good way to experiment with technique and color. Good luck, whatever you decide!

Welcome... you will learn more by just jumping in and 'doing', than any other way. Just remember it's not rocket science. There are many ways to do everything and you will find the way that works for you.

By the way, you are not allowed to post pictures of copyrighted material here. You can post your fabric, your work, just not the actual copyrighted pages of a book or pattern. Just telling you so you won't be surprised when quiltnnan comes along and deletes your pictures. :D

Welcome. When you begin sewing, put in a new needle. Then, every 8 hrs or so of sewing, change it. Needles are not a huge expense but make a huge difference. Also, if using a rotary cutter, change your blade if it seems dull. It will help your cutting mat last longer & easier on your wrist/cutting arm. Rotary blades are expensive but so are cutting mats & carpal tunnel surgery.

I found a fabric store about an hour away that offered a wonderful beginner quilting class. I learned so much and met some wonderful people in the class. It also helped me finish the quilt quicker than I would have on my own. They may
even offer a class that you like the quilt they picked for your lovely material! Good luck and please post when you get your quilts done!

You don't need to wash fabric unless it's your preference. For keeping layers together all you need is a walking foot. All you need is a basic machine that can straight stitch.