AnnR

Hi 6sWolcott, I think the best advice is to grow your equipment by purchasing items as you find a need for them. It will spread the costs out over time, and you won't spend your money on equipment you don't need. You have already purchased your rotary cutter, mat, scissors, etc, all very necessary. I would also add an iron and ironing board unless you already have those items. Your dining table should make a fine work table. And, of course, your sewing machine. You will need some sort of storage...rolling drawers, or the buffet in your diningroom, an old dresser from your childrens' rooms, etc are all good ones to get started. When you've been quilting for a while, you will know better what you want and need that will suit your style and your available space. If your husband is handy with tools, he will be your greatest asset...He'll be your greatest asset even if he isn't handy with tools! My husband has built shelves, installed a design wall, built a motorized work table that raises and lowers with the touch of a button, etc...as my wants and needs and our houses have changed over the years. You have the wonderful adventure of quilting to enrich your life for many years. Enjoy! We're glad to have you here with us.

Pieces2

Don't overwhelm yourself with buying a lot of 'stuff'. It looks like you have purchased the basics, you will need a couple rulers for when you cut your fabric. A 6 X 22, and a 12 1/2 X 12 1/2 square up ruler.
You will need some storage for your fabric stash. Have fun buying fabric for your stash, welcome to quilting!

gardnergal970

I've been seriously quilting for a little over a year. I think the best "tool" I've invested in has been a couple of classes. I not only could learn from the instructor but from others I sewed beside. You'll meet people that will become dear friends and be a special part of your life. The added bonus is that you will have completed projects to encourage you to step ahead into something harder. Enjoy the journey.

coldquilter

hope you enjoy it as much as we all do -- welcome!!

maryp

i started out on my kitchen couters and table rotary cutter pins and regular ruler iron .just decided i was gonna quilt so i went for it.

carolynjo

As you have the financial means, invest in fleece or fleece-backed table cloths to hang on one wall to put your quilt blocks to try out designs, etc. I bought 2 pieces of thin lathing and nailed them with tiny nails just at the ceiling. The holes, should I take down my fleece wall, won't show. The other piece of lathing I used to stretch my design wall and nailed it parallel with the baseboard. I can work on a queen-sized quilt that way. You are going to have so much fun! Show your work when you can (pictures).

lizzieann

Do as I say not as I do. LOL (Finish one project before you start another one).

ShirlinAZ

I've been sewing for nearly 60 years, and a dedicated quilter for about 15 years. I find that my "room", be it in the dining room, living room, or a dedicated sewing room, is constantly evolving. I have graduated from keeping my stash in cardboard boxes, to keeping it in a dresser (the best for me). I also have quite a few plastic containers that keep getting rearranged. Some days I just need to change things. Some days I just need to fondle fabric, so I fold and reorganize. It's all part of the joy of fabric. You do what you can each day, and grow with the art. Just be happy in whatever space is yours, and don't diminish the joy by buying too much to soon.

sblancarte

Look at Sewing Room redo's thread--I have also purchased precut countertops and put them on file cabinets to give me lots of countertops space. Look at past organization threads and pictures of studios. I'm always looking for new ideas.

butterflies5518

Mine is in constant motion - felt cluttered yesterday and moved several containers - some days "stuff" feels better over here and others over there, whatever works best for you! Have fun!