As I was quilting the other day, I realized that I've learned so much on this board, and I've changed or improved how I do things. I'm curious to know what others have changed. Here's what I have, based on posts here on QB:

1. Double-layer binding for a stronger edge. I particularly liked this tutorial which also introduced me to an easy approach to mitred corners:
Sharon Schambers:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PE0Yq9iGlc

2. Using starch to reshape pieces. (I never used starch before!) In particular, Sharon Schamber's great set of tutorials here really helped me turn a monster of a problem quilt into something at least acceptable when I ran into problems. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sQkF02vpVuw

3. Hand-basting of quilts (including the starching of backing). This has totally changed the quality of my finished quilts, reducing puckers. (I used to do minimal basting on the floor.) Using Sharon's boards method has made basting quick, enjoyable and I know that I'll end up with a better product.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhwNylePFAA

4. Free Motion Quilting. I didn't even know about this before, much less that I could do this on a plain ol' sewing machine. I particularly enjoyed Leah Day's "Free Motion Quilting Project" at http://freemotionquilting.blogspot.c...tart-here.html
She has great tutorials for a slew of different FMQ patterns, but it is her energy and straightforwardness and simplicity that drew me in, and made it seem like even I could try it.

I still have a lot more to learn, but these four have really changed how I do things. What about you? What have you changed or strengthened as a result of using this board?

-- Jillaine

OMG I have learned SO much here.
I've learned about glue basting.
I've learned about putting mole skin on the machine bed for a more-accurate scant 1/4" seam.
I've learned to make HSTs bigger and trim them down.
In fact, I've learned how to square up and trim at all points in the process so my quilts are more "technically correct."
Most important is that I've overcome my fear of FMQ. It's a whole new world and I'm getting better each time with the knowledge and encouragement from all board members.
There are so many other things I've learned that I can't even remember!
Enough for now.

Everything CompulsiveQuilter said and more. I just can't name them all right now. ;)

The blocks of the month really helped me improve my piecing skills.

Glue binding. Great method that I use all the time. Thanks Sharon Schamber'

Just being on this board has changed my life for the better,as for quilting well thats got a whole lot better,when I can get to it and am not in here that is. ;) :D

On FMQ, I would also add the videos of "patsern" such as:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVQC4YzhJYU

She's a great teacher as well. Great advice. Calm voice.

I didn't have anyone to teach me anything about quilting so this board has been my teacher for everything that comes to quilting. My list would start from how to pick fabric to finishing a quilt and everything in between. I knew absolutely nothing about making a quilt but now there is no stopping me. :-)

cjomomma, how did you stumble upon QB?

We are never too old to learn new things and I have learned alot just listening to the comments of others on the board. Met a new friend or two and can share skills I have learned over the years.
Information such as we have been exchanging cannot be bought and paid for; friends helping friends, that is life at its best.

Carol J.