New to quilting!

[QuiltGram8]

Hi Jessica
If you have landed with all of us on this forum, then you have already explored the QIAD website. When I first learned to quilt. Everyone was cutting squares and triangles with templates and scissors.

Then I got introduced to Eleanor's Quilt in a Day by seeing her on TV.
Wow! Short cuts! Rotary cutting! Oh, yes, Fast results is satisfying.

Advice to a beginner: I would for sure, pick a table runner for a first project. That would get you to see results quickly and it will let you see how much you like the hobby. I predict you will be hooked for life! LOL.

Welcome to our group. We are happy to have you here.

Velda

[grammiequilts]

Tina I love my nickname too <3

[cindyg]

Jessica - most quilt shop have owners and helpers that will guide you through so it really is OK to be an amateur and admit it. Some people are more comfortable starting with something small. Not me. I jumped in with both feet and didn't even hold my nose. I made a Rail Fence or Fence Rail quilt, king size and I even quilted it on my domestic machine. That quilt is still used on our bed. From then on I sent out my large quilts to be quilted on a long arm until I got a mid-arm quilting machine. Eleanor's patterns and videos are the best especially for beginners. So go for it and make those quilts right off the bat. We are always here to help if you get stuck on something. Most importantly - have fun with it and don't stress.

[cindyg]

I meant to tell you that the patterns will give you how much yardage to buy. I always buy a little extra because most patterns all for fabric that is 44" - 45" but these days the manufacturers are cutting back and fabric is now as narrow as 41". Anyway, I buy extra and if I don't need it it just goes into my stash.

[Quiltmom]

Jessica I agree with the comments already given you. The best idea is to start with something small so you don't get discouraged if you have a problem. We have all been there. Get some fabric at JoAnn Fabrics where you won't spend a lot to get started. They will be happy to help you decide how much fabric you need. You definitely need a rotary cutter, mat and good rulers for cutting your pieces. As you get more experience you will visit LQS and get better quality fabric for your projects. The ladies in the LQSs are so knowledgeable and willing to help you too. Your stash of fabric and pattern books will grow and grow, until it is almost an obsession like most of us.

El's patterns are so easy to follow. Her videos are what got a lot of us hooked on quilting. Don't worry that it has to be perfect. It doesn't and only you will know. Just enjoy your sewing. We are all still learning all the time.

[FarmChick]

Hi Jessica. I would like to add that if your local quilt shop offers a beginner's quilting class--enroll in it. You will never regret doing so. My friend and I took one when we first started quilting, and it was worth whatever it cost way back when.