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First Quilt

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If you are new to quilting, the idea of beginning your first solo quilt can be both exciting and intimidating. However, everyone needs to start somewhere. Quilting is one of the most relaxing, easy, and fun ways to create something you can treasure for years to come. Not sure where to start? Begin your quilting journey by reading these fun and easy tips.

Invest some time into your first quilt by planning ahead. Before you start your first stitch, you should have a basic idea of what you want your first quilt to look like. Buying a couple of quilting books with pre-planned quilting patterns is the easiest way to make a great quilt with a beginner's skillset. Many free quilt patterns are also available online, if you're on a budget. …show more content…
Some cotton fabrics, especially in bright red and purple, might bleed. When in doubt, do the bleed test - soak a small fabric cutout in warm soapy water for 30 minutes. When prewashing your quilting fabrics, fill the washing machine with cool water and mild laundry detergent; let the fabrics soak for about 20 minutes before rinsing. Quilting fabrics need special care when they are in the laundry. You want your quilt to look fresh, right?

Consider buying a quilt kit, or joining a quilting bee. Both can be sources of a lot of knowledge and experience in the realm of quilting. They also can offer a lot of advice, tips, and tricks that you otherwise wouldn't know. If you are looking for a local quilting bee, consider searching the web for similarly enthusiastic quilters in your area. The more, the merrier!

Ask your shopkeeper what quilting batting is best for your first quilt. More often than not, people who work in craft and fabric stores will know a lot more about their products than you'd expect. And, the right quilting batting can make a huge difference in how a quilt feels.

If you aren't too handy with sewing, consider tying your quilt together instead. Tying a quilt is an easy stitch-free way to keep your quilt sandwiched safely together. Best of all, it takes almost no effort. It's a great way to make a beginner's quilt look like a

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