Quiltingboard Forums - What's your best advice for a new Quilter?

Quiltingboard Forums (https://www.quiltingboard.com/)

- Main (https://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1/)

- - What's your best advice for a new Quilter? (https://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1/whats-your-best-advice-new-quilter-t62835.html)

Quote:

Originally Posted by Andii

I'm fairly new to quilting-haven't completed a quilt yet-and I have learned so much...the first thing that comes to mind is always pre-wash your fabric. I know there are different views on this but I have been handwashing fabric before use and I cannot believe all of the die that comes out! I thought reds were the worst but I am finding blues and greens keep bleeding.

Don't be afraid of the fabric. When I first started I didn't want to cut into new fabric and ruin it but the more I work with it the easier it becomes.

Although I'm listing it last it really is the most important thing to measure and cut accurately.

Good luck and enjoy it. :thumbup:

Are you people who are pre-washing your fabric actually using soap? I never do. I rinse any fabric (sometimes several times) that will be used in a quilt that will be washed to see if it bleeds dye and then put it in the dryer to shrink it however much it wants to shrink.

If it is to be used in a wallhanging, I don't pre-rinse and dry.

I always use a detergent (fragrance free) that has no fabric softener in it. I have a lot of allergies and find this works best for me.

This board, they teach you everything hear. God bless.

also remove all cats from cutting mat, preferably the room itself.

I found the neatest tip in one of my quilting magazines. I have always been afraid to wash my fat quarters for fear of ending up with a bunch of threads - but get this one.

"To wash small pieces of fabric without fraying the edges, put them in a salad spinner, rather than a washing machine. Spin with hot water and soap. Rinse in cool water, drain and spin. Press the pieces dry."

Move over lettuce. I have a new quilting tool!!!! Edie

This is a great idea, and I will try it in the future, thanks, Sharay

Hi, I think I would suggest measuring and cutting is the main thing when first starting out. I have trouble picking out the material, the color set up is very hard for me. Good Luck and have fun, Sharay

Do not be afraid of the process. Do a lot of research on the computer and in books. I have learned a lot this way. U-tube is a great thing. I still use my books for reference from time to time. Do not compare your work to someone elses. We all have different taste. Do what you like. Always try something new. Most of all have FUN!!!!

Quote:

Originally Posted by purplefiend

also remove all cats from cutting mat, preferably the room itself.

True. Cats aren't as much help as they think they are!