How to Get Started with Quilting as a Beginner

Tori McElwain
Jun 3
4 min read

Quilting is more than just a hobby; it’s an artistic expression, a form of therapy, and a way to create cherished gifts and family heirlooms. If you've ever admired the craftsmanship of a quilt or dreamt of making your own, you're in the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started with quilting as a beginner, including finding the right quilting classes.

What are Quilting Classes?

Quilting classes are workshops or courses where beginners learn the basics of quilting from experienced instructors. These classes cover essential techniques, tools, and materials needed to create beautiful quilts. Whether you prefer face-to-face instruction or online lessons, there are many options available to accommodate your learning style and schedule.

Eye-level view of a cozy quilting classroom — A cozy quilting classroom filled with supplies and eager learners.

Many quilting classes focus on different skills, such as choosing fabrics, cutting pieces accurately, and basic sewing techniques. Taking a class can significantly boost your confidence and skill set while allowing you to connect with fellow quilting enthusiasts.

Finding the Right Quilting Classes

When looking for quilting classes, consider the following tips:

Research Local Options: Start by searching for quilting classes near you. Community centers, fabric stores, and sewing shops often offer beginner quilting classes.
Online Platforms: If you prefer to learn from home, consider online resources like Craftsy, Skillshare, or even dedicated quilting websites.
Check Reviews: Look for feedback from previous students. A quick online search can help you find reviews of local quilting classes. This can provide insight into the quality of instruction.
Cost Considerations: Classes vary in price. Determine your budget beforehand and look for classes that offer good value for your money.

High angle view of a vibrant quilted fabric selection — A vibrant selection of quilt fabrics displayed for inspiration.

Explore Workshop Formats: Some classes are one-time workshops while others may span several weeks. Decide which format best suits your schedule.

Once you've found a few potential classes, don’t hesitate to reach out to the instructors to ask questions. They can provide additional information and help you understand what to expect.

Essential Quilting Supplies for Beginners

Before diving into quilting, you'll need some basic supplies. Here’s a list of what you should gather:

Fabric: Choose quilt fabric that inspires you. Cotton is the most common choice for beginners due to its ease of use and availability.
Rotary Cutter and Mat: These tools are essential for accurately cutting fabric pieces. A self-healing cutting mat will protect your surfaces and allow for precision cutting.
Sewing Machine: If you don’t own one yet, consider purchasing or borrowing a sewing machine. Ensure it has a straight stitch function, which is crucial for quilting.
Quilting Ruler: A clear quilting ruler will help you measure and cut accurately.
Thread: Choose a quality cotton thread that matches your fabric colors.
Pins and Needles: Essential for holding fabric pieces together while sewing.
Quilt Batting: This material goes between the quilt top and backing, providing warmth and dimension.

Getting these supplies ready will equip you for the quilting journey ahead.

Learning Basic Quilting Techniques

Once you have your supplies and selected a class, it’s time to learn the fundamental techniques of quilting. Here are a few key areas to focus on:

Piecing

Piecing refers to the process of sewing together small pieces of fabric to create larger quilt blocks. As a beginner, start with simple quilt blocks to become comfortable with your sewing machine and practice accurate cutting.

Quilting

After piecing, it’s time to quilt. This involves sewing through the layers of fabric to secure them together. You can choose hand quilting or machine quilting, with machine quilting being the more common choice for beginners.

Binding

The final step in completing a quilt is binding. This is the fabric that encases the raw edges of the quilt. Learning how to properly apply binding is crucial for a polished finish.

Close-up view of a completed quilt with vibrant colors — A completed quilt showcasing various vibrant colors and stitching patterns.

Joining the Quilting Community

One of the best parts of quilting is being part of a community. Here’s how you can enhance your quilting experience through social interaction:

Join Local Quilting Groups: Many towns have quilting groups that meet regularly. This is a great opportunity to learn from others, share your work, and get advice.
Attend Quilting Events: Look for quilting shows or exhibitions in your area. These events usually feature workshops, guest speakers, and vendor booths.
Online Forums and Social Media: Join online quilting forums or social media groups where you can share projects or seek help from experienced quilters.
Take Advantage of Classes: Consider enrolling in multiple classes to broaden your skills. You could start with basic quilting techniques and then move on to more advanced topics.

By joining a community, you'll have access to a wealth of knowledge and support, making your quilting journey more enjoyable.

Making Your First Quilt

Now that you have the basic skills and supplies, it’s time to make your first quilt. Start small! A lap or baby quilt is an ideal project for beginners. Follow these steps to create your first piece:

Choose a Simple Pattern: Look for beginner-friendly quilt patterns that involve squares or strips.
Prepare Your Fabric: Prewash your fabric to prevent shrinking later on. Iron the fabric to remove any wrinkles.
Cut Your Pieces: Using a rotary cutter and ruler, cut the fabric into the correct sizes as per your pattern.
Piece Together: Start sewing your fabric pieces together as per your chosen pattern.
Layer Your Quilt: Once the top is complete, layer it with batting and backing.
Quilt It: Use a sewing machine or hand-stitch to quilt through the layers.
Apply Binding: Finish by adding the binding to the edges of your quilt.

By starting simple, you’ll boost your confidence and develop skills to tackle more complex projects.

Embracing the Quilting Journey

Quilting is a fulfilling, creative process. Embrace the learning curve that comes with it, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Each quilt you create will enhance your skills and deepen your understanding of the craft.

As you progress, consider exploring different styles and techniques. Keep an eye on new trends and don’t hesitate to experiment with colors, patterns, and shapes.

If you're looking for more support, remember to explore your options for quilting classes near you, such as those offered at Quilting With Darla. Embrace the community and let your creativity shine!