New to quilting? Let’s get you started! Getting into quilting can seem overwhelming, especially with all the new terms and techniques. But don’t worry, we’re here to help! In this beginner’s guide to quilting, we’ll go through the essential tools, supplies, and tips to kickstart your quilting journey. From selecting the right fabric to mastering basic stitches, we’ll walk you through every step so you can have everything you need to create your first quilt block.

How to Get Started in Quilting

What supplies do you need? A good idea is not to go overboard until you’re sure quilting is something you’ll really enjoy. Another way to look at this is to only buy the supplies and tools you will need for your first quilt. For example, there are so many rulers on the market today. Just buy the ones you need for your first piece so you don’t wind up with a bunch of things you may not need again.

You can also borrow from a quilting friend to get a feel for the different brands before you go buy your own tools. Quilting on a budget can be easy if you take advantage of your resources and creativity.

As a brand new quilter, I recommend getting a few books to have some fundamental information. There are many terrific books and patterns to choose from. I always recommend this fabulous book: Your First Quilt Book: Or It Should Be! by Carol Doak.

You can also head to your local quilt shop for help selecting a beginner-friendly pattern. If your local shop offers classes, sign up! Hands-on learning helps you avoid bad habits, and it’s a great way to connect with fellow beginners. Quilting is all about community and I highly recommend becoming part of that community. Don’t hesitate to join a quilting club at your shop or local guild! Bonus: Guilds often have guest speakers—who doesn’t love free lessons!

When you’re ready to sit down at your sewing machine and start your first quilt block, choose a simple pattern with large pieces. I recommend starting with a four-patch quilt block or nine-patch because they’ll teach you how to strip piece, match seams, and press properly.

Essential Quilting Supply List

The supplies pictured here are from my own personal stash. Don’t feel you have to purchase these particular brands. There are so many wonderful products out there and everyone has their own preferences. Start with these and you’ll soon see how quickly your stash will grow!

Quilt-quality fabric.

Quilt-quality fabric has less stretch than regular fabric and is more tightly woven. I suggest opting for quality quilting fabric if you want your quilt to last for a long time. Fabric from a quilt store will generally be quilt-quality. If purchasing from a fabric store, you should ask for quilt-quality fabric.

Cutting mat

There are many sizes to choose from. I suggest buying a mid-range size mat that is self-healing; the extra few dollars will be worth it. Make sure to care for your cutting mat regularly.

Rotary cutter, replacement blades, pincushion, & marking chalk

When looking for rotary cutters, get one that has a safety clasp or is self-closing. Many quilters leave their rotary cutters open and end up in the emergency room getting stitches! The blades are very sharp, so always be careful when using them.

I made this little turtle pincushion for a friend. Isn’t she cute?

24 x 8½ inch ruler.

This size is more versatile than thinner rulers.

6½ x 6½ or 12½ x 12½ ruler.

These rulers are good sizes for squaring up.

Basic pattern.

Select an easy or beginner quilt pattern for your first go. Check out our library of quilt patterns to get started!

Thread and 80/12 sewing machine needles.

There are many brands of thread, but you want to buy quality. Aurifil, Gutermann, Mettler, Sulky, and Superior Threads are a few great options. Use a medium-weight quilting thread in a neutral color like cream, tan, beige, white, or grey – they tend to blend in best with your fabric. For needles, you can purchase universal ones for when you are piecing, but you will want to use designated quilting needles for when you are quilting (putting all three layers together to finish your quilt.)

Sewing machine & a quarter inch foot and a walking foot.

This one’s a no-brainer unless of course you will be starting with hand quilting. Make sure your machine is maintained and working properly so you don’t get frustrated with machine tension or other stitch issues later on.

You’ll be thrilled with the quarter inch foot because it will keep your seams consistent and precise. The walking foot will help feed your fabric through the machine, working in tandem with the feed dog. It’s particularly important for binding your quilt as well as doing curves and quilting straight lines.

Related video: Quarter Inch Seam Test

Small snipper scissors and a seam ripper.

Snippers are perfect for getting loose threads. With the seam ripper, remember that everyone un-sews. Our favorite phrase is “You will rip what you sew!”

Ironing board or pressing mat.

This is an awesome cutting mat and pressing mat combo from Omnigrid that folds up and has carrying handles.

Iron

No need for steam. Steam can distort your fabric when pressing quilt seams.

Pressing sheets

These are completely optional, but applique pressing sheets can be a fun way to fuse your applique pieces in place.

Once you have all of your supplies you will be all set to enter the wonderful world of quilting. If you have any quilting questions, leave us a comment on this page or reach out to us on Facebook. And be sure to share photos of your progress in our quilting gallery!

Happy quilting!

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