What basics do I need?
 

I'm just getting back into quilting and sewing after several years away from the craft. I never did anything fancy before and I want to spread my wings. My early quilts were usually a 10-12 inch block with an applique in the center and then hand quilted. I want to attempt to make some of the fabulous works of art I have seen around. I'm wanting to start out small with potholders, table runners, wallhangings, etc.
I just bought a new sewing & embroidery machine, I picked up a rotary cutter and mat, a couple of pencils for tracing but that's it.

What all should a newbie get? I'm thinking I want to pick up some templates but I really don't know where to start. Does anyone have a list of supplies for someone just starting out? I would sure appreciate any help :).

Dawn

I usually start with a pattern or idea of what I want to make and the get the supplies need in the pattern. That way you can build slowly rather than going out and bringing home the store.

A lot of books have suggested lists for 'starting up' - you might check your library.

If you already have sewing supplies, you have a good start.

I don't see that you've mentioned rulers - 6 x 12 or 6 x 24 seem to be popular, useful sizes.

it sounds as if you have the basics- straight pins, a 6" x 24" rotory cutting ruler- and a square ruler (the ones i would be lost without are 12 1/2" square & 6 1/2" square- i've been at this for a few years and have picked up many other rulers ect over time- but you do not need them all at once.
choose a beginner friendly pattern you love & want to start with & see what notions/supplies it calls for & jump in- as you (spread your wings) you will accumalate more supplies-
i don't know that you should spend money on any templates unless you are working on a specific project that requires any- there are literally thousands of different ones- and *generally* project dependant. oh- good scissors too- scissors, rotory cutter/mat/ruler, pins, machine, thread, pattern & fabric & you are on your way! :)

Lots of rulers, plenty of blades for your rotary cutter, sewing gloves for FMQ, marking pencils, a nice stash of fabric, a quarter-inch foot is nice, butcher paper if you are going to applique, nice snipping scissors, patience, love, confidence, and time! Here is a nice site for a lot of free and some easy patterns. http://www.quilterscache.com/QuiltBlocksGalore.html

a good SEAM RIPPER (not that we plan to make mistakes).

binding clips are great and safety pins to pin for machine quilting.

you definitely need a ruler, pins,scissors. I would get a nice beginner reference book as well Better Homes and Gardens has an excellent one that I use frequently. Other than that most stuff can be purchased as you go

Here's a site that talks about it. I also agree with the post that said to pick a project & kind of see what you need to make it.

http://www.makeandtakes.com/quilt-al...lting-supplies

Youtube is a brilliant resource. maybe a local group or class to kick-start?
You're on the right site here for feedback and help.
Have fun
Annie