Quilting
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I have always wanted to do this. I have a whole lot of my grandchildrens clothes that are to small but I would love to make a keepsake. Anyone willing to lend me some pointers so I can get started...like materials. I would love to make a throw for the bed.
9 answers
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I'd suggest picking a simple pattern, such as a checkerboard or something with square edges. Anything cut on the bias or curved stretches a lot and not there to show you personally, it's tough. Are you machine piecing? I'd take the clothing apart, using a stich ripper to get as much mileage out of a piece as you can. It doesn't matter if you have stitch marks; they'll wash out. I'd also suggest you go buy a basic quilting pattern book. To just jump in and start sewing things together generally makes one of those things that aren't pleasing to the eye. BTDT. It's also interesting read. In case you don't have a whole lot of fabric, decide what you can use to border your quilt. A pretty fabric, ribbon, etc. Good luck. This isn't hard, but it can be time consuming.
Christine
on Dec 19, 2013
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Whatever the pattern, my biggest friends while quilting are a rotary cutter with a sharp blade, a proper ruler for measuring and cutting, and my iron-press everything!
June Wells
on Dec 19, 2013
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There are a lot of web sites with instructions, patterns, tips etc. I agree with June that a rotary cutter & mat, a good ruler, and iron are essentials for quilting. One item I wouldn't be without is the 1/4 " foot for my sewing machine. The only caution is to be aware that quilting can be addicting!
Lynnelogue
on Dec 19, 2013
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Start small, i started with 6x6 inch squares and added a ribbon tie through each square looked very nice. A simple contrast backing one piece,
Marilyn Sieffert
on Dec 19, 2013
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Classes are also available in most towns through your local fabric store or senior citizen centers and community colleges.
Rosalie M
on Dec 21, 2013
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I personally would not use your grand children's clothes until you have developed some expertise. It is easier to start with quilting fabric which is generally 100% cotton, whereas the clothes may be of different weights and types which might present you with a challenge. I would start by finding out if there is a quilting fabric shop in your area which offers basic classes, and which would be able to set you up with some of the 'quilting essentials' which have already been mentioned - the ruler, rotary cutter, mat, and 1/4" foot for your sewing machine. I would start with small projects such as pot holders, which can be finished easily and will get you a great feeling of accomplishment. It is a wonderful new year's resolution, and I do hope that you will keep us informed of your progress! Know something for certain - once you start, it is difficult to stop!
Valerie
on Dec 21, 2013
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you are focusing on the clothing not a pattern. Wash and dry the clothing at least three times in the hottest water you have. If your washer does not get that hot boil them in a very large pot. After they are dry press open them up to the largest sections and press flat. If there are knits iron on interfacing on the back to stabilize. A rectangle or square is the easiest keeping in mind you need a 1/4 to 1/2 inch sewing edge. Make a template out of heavy cardboard or an old plastic cutting board. You can make a template to trace around or cut it out to view the fabric through a hole. Use the template to select the portions you want to use. Mark the fabric with a heavy pencil, or ball point pen. Mark a bunch. Watch Telly and cut them out. Re iron them and arrange them in a pleasing pattern or just set a stack next to the sewing machine and sew. Sew till you have enough for a square or rectangle. I like to sew in columns then press them them pin those columns together. Then press all. A tied quilt is easiest. Use commercial batting or two old washed and dried wool quilts. Lay the top on top batting in middle and a cozy backing. I like to use a faux fur very thin and super pre washed. with an extra allowance of at least four inches. Pin the whole thing together. Get yarn or embroidery thread to tie it all together at 4-6 inch intervals. When all tied lay it out flat and decide if the backing will roll around to edge the quilt . Roll and pin. I like to sit and sew this by hand using embroidery thread. Buy it at thrift stores it's cheaper. I use a running stitch or French knots.
Carol Ann McDaniel
on Dec 21, 2013
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I have pinned tutorials and all kinds of quilting info (from other folks) on my quilting board - not sure when I'll get one started. Good luck. http://www.pinterest.com/grammiejdm/quilting/
Grammie Linda
on Dec 21, 2013
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A huge help to me, a beginning quilter, but lifetime sewer is to watch the quilting videos by Missouri Star Quilt Company on Youtube. She has over 150 tutorials and they are wonderful. Jeannie is a delightful Host also. You can also search on Youtube and others who have made keepsake quilts from clothes, jeans and t-shirts. Happy Quilting...
Cyndi Moore Tippett
on Dec 21, 2013
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