What is your "must have" quilting tool?
#1
What is your "must have" quilting tool?
I've always used just the basics; scissors, needle, thread, seem ripper, etc. I make my templates out of poster board most of the time. I did receive a 60 degree ruler from a friend as a gift and I've used it several times. I have a cutting mat and rotary cutter. But, I'm not real happy with it. I'm wanting to branch out a little bit and pick up a few quilting tools. So, what would you suggest I get and what kind?
#2
If all you have is a mat and the cutter, no wonder you are not happy with it. Get a latex ruler, maybe 3 x 18 or 6 x 24 inches, and use that on the mat with your cutter. There are many online videos that demonstrate how to use a rotary cutter and ruler. It's so much faster and more accurate than scissors!
#3
I have a pair of scissors. I trim threads with it. Fabric is always cut on a mat with a 6x24 ruler and a large angled rotary cutter. Saves on the wrist. i have no idea how you would cut straight lines without this set up.
As far as 'must have', groovy boards for my long arm. I now make them myself in my shop. I guess I have turned into a sophisticated quilter. tim in san jose
As far as 'must have', groovy boards for my long arm. I now make them myself in my shop. I guess I have turned into a sophisticated quilter. tim in san jose
#4
Super Member
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: Illinois
Posts: 9,018
I think you are seriously hindering yourself by not buying a "few" templates and expanding your horizons......check MSQC the techniques along with the templates might interest you .....or Eleanor burns/quilt in a day........nothing extreme and "use only once" rulers, but things you will reach for regularly.....
#5
I love my rotary cutter and cutting mat...and I love the creative grid rulers. It did take a while to get till I felt confident in my cutting, but now I don't dread cutting at all. I do prefer Olfa rotary cutters, though I have heard others like other styles but will use the olfa blades in them. I use the big rotary cutter at least 75% of the time. The big blades cost more but they last a lot longer. I have had two different white mats that I do not like...love the green mats by Olfa.
And I love good, thin straight pins.
I LOVE my Juki 98Q for piecing and freemotion quilting...but I think you are meaning the smaller accessories.
And I love good, thin straight pins.
I LOVE my Juki 98Q for piecing and freemotion quilting...but I think you are meaning the smaller accessories.
#6
I love the june tailor shape cut plus for strips. I also like my 5x18 ruler. Creative grids is a good brand similar to the brand I use that has been discontinued. Those are the 2 rulers I use the most and then I have squares of several sizes for squaring up blocks. My fave rotary cutters are olfa. I have the 45mm splash and the 60mm quick change. Also have the 45mm gingher which I also love better than my ergonomic 45mm olfa. I still use june tailor mat but want to invest in a martelli because there mats are the nicest IMHO. Deb tucker makes nice specialty rulers but they are pricey. It really depends on what type of quilts you make. I also like the slidelock, got one for valentines, can't wait for it to come in, been wanting it for so long.
#7
Senior Member
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: Midwest
Posts: 996
I think the gloves I wear when machine quilting really help me grip and move the fabric under the needle. I would recommend them.
http://www.amazon.com/Fons-Porter-Ma.../dp/B000J3TWSY
http://www.amazon.com/Fons-Porter-Ma.../dp/B000J3TWSY
#8
I love the june tailor shape cut plus for strips. I also like my 5x18 ruler. Creative grids is a good brand similar to the brand I use that has been discontinued. Those are the 2 rulers I use the most and then I have squares of several sizes for squaring up blocks. My fave rotary cutters are olfa. I have the 45mm splash and the 60mm quick change. Also have the 45mm gingher which I also love better than my ergonomic 45mm olfa. I still use june tailor mat but want to invest in a martelli because there mats are the nicest IMHO. Deb tucker makes nice specialty rulers but they are pricey. It really depends on what type of quilts you make. I also like the slidelock, got one for valentines, can't wait for it to come in, been wanting it for so long.
#10
Senior Member
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Richmond, VA.
Posts: 348
Tucker Trimmer 2- it's a ruler by Deb Tucker for squaring up blocks. I use it also to do hourglass blocks and half square triangles.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vw7qi3uHUZg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vw7qi3uHUZg
Last edited by berryberry; 02-13-2015 at 05:54 PM.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
bearisgray
General Chit-Chat (non-quilting talk)
65
02-01-2024 09:04 AM
foufymaus
For Vintage & Antique Machine Enthusiasts
133
10-12-2015 06:39 AM