• Amish quilts are quilts which have been made by members of the Amish community.
• The Amish are a Christian denomination which believes in simplicity, plainness, and adherence to Christian faith.
• Amish quilts are known for their fine details and nowhere is this better seen than in the stitching skills of the Amish quilter.
• Small, fine, evenly spaced stitches are the hallmark of any Amish quilt.
• Amish quilts are reflections of the Amish way of life.
• Because the Amish people believe in not being flashy or worldly in dress and lifestyle, their quilts reflect this religious philosophy.
• Amish quilts are an expression of frugality.
• Amish quilts are works of art.
• Originally seen as items of folk craft, they are now recognized as worthy to hang in the prestigious museums and collections.
• Strong color fields and abstract forms combine to create geometries that radiate the harmony and dignity of Amish life.
• Amish quilts are individually designed, pieced on a treadle sewing machine.
• The hand quilting is done with cotton thread in very fine stitching – eight to ten stitches per inch.
• Amish quilts are pieced from solid colored fabrics rather than patterned fabrics.
• Printed fabrics are rarely used.
• Amish quilts are among the most striking despite their simplicity and famous of all American quilt types.
• They are renowned for their play of color, color combination, eye for detail and strong, large geometric patterns.
• Amish quilts are mainly handmade with the fabric that Amish women use in their own clothing.
• Colors and patterns are restricted to the community they live in.
• Their quilts not only serve a practical, functional purpose, but serve as a form of entertainment as well.
• Amish quilts stand out as a unique combination of art, functionality, tradition and pride.

Styles In Quilting

Quilting, like fashion, evolves with the times. Like any work of art, too, it also has its own traditional classics, innovations, and varied influences.

The inspiration for these styles is as different as the people who made them, their history, and their dependence on the materials and fabrics on hand. The following are some of the major quilting styles that had become staples.

Knowing them is a good step for a beginner. It can eventually help develop your very own style in the end.

Baby quilts

This is one of the all-time favorites. Baby quilts become treasured mementos when their users (who were once babies) become older.

Experienced quilters tell us that babies tend to like the feel of satin and the flannel-like materials. Since this would sound like the finished quilt is going to be used (and washed) a lot, make sure that you use durable materials and threads.

Want to learn more about baby quilts? I have found some useful resources that could help you in your quest for making baby quilts:

Sweet and Simple Baby Quilts
Quilts, Baby!: 20 Cuddly Designs to Piece, Patch & Embroider
Quilts for Baby: Easy As ABC
Quilts, Bibs, Blankies…Oh My!: Create Your Own Cute & Cuddly Nursery
Martingale & Company That Patchwork Place-Even More Quilts For Baby

Rag quilts

Today’s latest in the quilting circles are rag quilts. These are quick to make and fun-looking. They are distinctly refreshing in their conscious break from traditional designs.

They tend to combine lots of medium-sized blocks sewn together, patchwork style. It mixes unusual materials often overlooked in quilting (denims, flannel, polar fleece, etc).

A Year Of Rag Quilts (Leisure Arts #3551)
Raggedy Reverse Applique: 10+ Fast, Fun and Forgiving Quilt Projects
Easy Americana Rag Quilting (Leisure Arts #3386)
Fiskars 12-99367097 Rag Quilt Snip, Softouch
Simple Chenille Quilts: Block by Block
Made from Scratch Biscuit Quilts (Leisure Arts #3750)

Patchwork quilts

This old standard beauty is made by sewing together little patches of fabrics, and in different sizes and shapes. Generally, they are to make a pattern or blocks of pattern.

The quilt blocks are then sewn to become the quilt top. The quilt is then made after this process.

The Patchwork Quilt
Blanket America Patchwork Heritage Quilt, Full/Queen
Patchwork Comforters, Throws & Quilts
Kettle Grove Queen Patchwork Quilt
Alex Toys Patchwork Quilt Lacing Craft Kit
How to Make a Patchwork Quilt
The Practical Guide to Patchwork: New Basics for the Modern Quiltmaker
Vintage Patchwork Reversable Quilt Set King
Flower Show Quilts: Stunning Applique on a Patchwork Canvas (That Patchwork Place)
The Quilter’s Album of Patchwork Patterns: 4050 Pieced Blocks for Quilters

Christmas quilts

Another standard favorite are the Christmas quilts. Traditionally, it is always a good idea to use plain white backgrounds and utilizing blazing red and cool green fabrics.

Gold and silver are acceptable as accents. Christmas motifs (bells, holly, flowers, etc) are not encouraged, though.

Quick Country Christmas Quilts
Christmas Quilts (Dover Needlework Series)
Christmas Quilts From Hopscotch: Warm and Cozy, Merry and Bright
Merry Christmas Quilts
Deck the Halls: Quilts to Celebrate Christmas (That Patchwork Place)
Comfort and Joy: 14 Quilts for Christmas (That Patchwork Place)
Christmas with Possibilities: 16 Quilted Holiday Projects
Candy Cane Lane: Quilts and More to Sweeten the Holidays (That Patchwork Place)
Oh Christmas Tree Holiday Christmas Throw Quilt
The Nightmare Before Christmas Comforter Bedding Quilt – Full / Queen – Jack Skellington
P3 Designs Baltimore Christmas BOM Block of Month Patterns Set

Amish quilts

One of the most beautiful and inspiring quilts are those made by the Amish people. Their original patterns (tree of life, star of Bethlehem, double wedding ring, etc) have been replicated and used all over the world.

The quilts are famous for their simple yet striking designs, as well as for their intricate quilting styles. Thick batting are traditional and their finished quilts are very tidy.

The Amish Circle Quilt: 121 Quilt Block Patterns That Tell A Story
Amish Quilts of Lancaster County
Twenty Little Amish Quilts: With Full-Size Templates (Dover Needlework Series)
The Amish Quilt
Small Amish Quilt Patterns
Amish & Mennonite Quilts Across America
An Amish Nativity : Complete Projects and Instructions
Diamonds and Bars: The Art of the Amish People

Memory quilts

Like its name, memory quilts are made for remembrances and celebrations of lives of loved ones, loved events, or some memorable occasions mostly connected with the family.

Birthdays, weddings, births, deaths, anniversaries – all the reasons to commemorate an event is memorialized in a quilt to extend that particular memory.

Memory Quilts in the Making (For the Love of Quilting)
Quilted Memories: Journaling, Scrapbooking & Creating Keepsakes with Fabric
Better Homes and Gardens Memory Quilts (Leisure Arts #4323) (Better Homes and Gardens Creative Collection)
Patch Magic Twin Granma’s Memories Quilt, 65-Inch by 85-Inch
Fast, Fun & Easy Scrapbook Quilts: Create a Keepsake for Every Memory (Fast, Fun & Easy)
This Old Quilt: A Heartwarming Celebration of Quilts And Quilting Memories
Electric Quilt Blending Photos with Fabric 2 Book

Cathedral window quilts

These are the quilts inspired by the beautiful shapes and patterns of stained glass windows in churches all over the world.

Most copied are the window panes. The quilts are made from muslin or cheesecloth. The choice of cloth is to simulate the translucent effect of light generated by a real church window. The window frames are made from heavier cottons or calicos.

Cathedral Window Quilts: The Classic Folded Technique and a Wealth of Variations
Machine-Stitched Cathedral Windows: Updating an Old Favorite
Through the Window & Beyond: New Designs for Cathedral Window
“Breaking Traditions” Cathedral Windows Quick Method Quilt
Machine-Stitched Cathedral Stars (That Patchwork Place)
Simply Amazing Spiral Quilts
Lynne Edwards’ New Sampler Quilt Book: Twenty Techniques for Machine and Hand Patchwork: New Ideas New Methods

Other quilt styles

More and more styles are coming up every so often. The last of the popular ones include the Civil War, Hawaiian, Photo Memory and the Scrap quilts.

Today, there are more quilting styles than can be listed as there are hybrids being produced almost every day.

The Civil War Diary Quilt: 121 Stories and The Quilt Blocks They Inspired
Quilts from the Civil War: Nine Projects, Historic Notes, Diary Entries
Civil War Sewing Circle, The: Quilts and Sewing Accessories Inspired by the Era
The Civil War Love Letter Quilt: 121 Quilt Blocks Inspired by Love and War
Facts and Fabrications: Unraveling the History of Quilts and Slavery: 8 Projects, 20 Blocks, First-Person Accounts
Underground Railroad Sampler
The Farmer’s Wife Sampler Quilt: Letters from 1920s Farm Wives and the 111 Blocks They Inspired
The Hawaiian Quilt
Hawaiian Quilt Masterpieces
The Hawaiian Quilt
King Size Hawaiian Patchwork Quilt Comforter Set with 2 Pillow Shams (Only Olive color available)
Flowers of Hawai’i Hawaiian Quilt Patterns
Hawaiian Quilting Made Easy
The Pillows to Patch Quilt Collection: The Hawaiian Way
Tropical Hawaiian Toddler Bedding – 5pc Girls Surf Bedding Set
Scrap-Basket Surprises: 18 Quilts from 2-1/2 inch Strips (That Patchwork Place)
Lots of Scraps: It’s Time to Quilt
Crazy for Scraps: 19 Favorite Quilts from Sally Schneider (That Patchwork Place)
Crazy for Scraps: 19 Favorite Quilts from Sally Schneider (That Patchwork Place)
Scrap Quilt Sensation!: The Exciting New Look for Traditional Designs
Scrap Quilts – Print on Demand Edition
Successful Scrap Quilts from Simple Rectangles
Spectacular Scraps: A Simple Approach to Stunning Quilts (Milner Craft)
Big Book of Scrap Quilts
Stash Buster Quilts: Time-Saving Designs to Use Up Fabric Scraps
S is for Scraps: 18 Great Quilts
The Electric Quilt Co. Quilt Design Wizard-
Avery Printable Fabric for Inkjet Printers, 8.5 x 11 Inches, Pack of 5 (03384)
Sewing with Nancy: Scrap-happy Patchwork
Electric Quilt 7

Have you ever thought of opening and running your very own successful quilt shop?

Do you know the most common mistakes made by business newbies and how to avoid them?

Do you know the most powerful quilt shop marketing techniques available and how to use them?

Are you just getting started?

Maybe you’ve just started to explore the possibility of opening your own quilt shop to see if you’re ready for the commitment?

Or perhaps you know you’re ready, but want to be completely prepared when you start to look for locations and secure some financing?

Well, you’ve come to the right place because…

Finally, here is  a business guide that shows you how to start, run, and market your own quilt shop!

How to Start Your Own Quilt Shop is the definitive guide to showing you the ropes to starting, running, and marketing your own quilt shop.

I’ve packed as much information as I possibly can about the quilt shop business into a single, 130+ page quilt shop business “bible” that will show you the fastest way to get your quilt shop off the ground.

Look, I know you are passionate about your quilting, and want a way to take your hobby to the next level. You’re sick and tired of understaffed quilt shops where the clerks and owners don’t know squat about what real quilters are looking for in a full-service quilt shop.

That’s why you want to take the leap of faith and open your own quilt shop. A quilt shop for quilters like you – they have a passion for good quality quilting supplies at a fair price (notice I didn’t say the cheapest!). And, a quilt shop that offers great instruction for quilters of all levels.

This is by far, the most comprehensive guide to starting your own quilt shop available on the market today!

Let me give you three good reasons we can back up what we claim:

Reason one: I am the author of the highly-successful book, “How to Start Your Own Machine Quilting Business.” With over 1,000 copies sold over the past twelve months, this is the leading resource for quilters looking to start their own machine quilting business.

Reason two: I have over 15 years of experience in marketing and business management. To me, there is nothing as important as being able to bring customers into your new business in the most effective, least expensive, manner. This book offers my expertise in the top marketing methods for a new quilt shop.

Reason three: I’ve spent close to a $1,000 and 100s of man hours (worth $1,000s more!) pulling together the most exhaustive, thorough guide to opening, running, and marketing a quilt shop available anywhere. You can take advantage of this investment at a fraction of the cost.

Here is a summary of the benefits you receive

1) Comprehensive quilt shop business guide

2) Written with the novice in mind

3) Excellent marketing section

4) Industry statistics and demographics

5) Packed with valuable resources

6) How to get financing and write a business plan

7) Quilting classes primer

8)  Day-to-day business advice

9) What to order

10) Working with distributors and manufacturers

11) Store layout advice

And much, much more…

How to Start Your Own Quilt Shop was written with the business novice in mind. You know quilting and love your hobby. But, you may not know how to start and run a successful business. This book is designed to give you that knowledge and to help you decide if you want to make that leap from quilting hobby to full-service quilt shop owner.

Don’t take my word for it. Listen to what our customers say:

“I am considering opening a quilt shop your book answered all my questions. It covers everything from financing to inventory to location. Its a great resourse. Thanks for helping me make my decision.“
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“I have ordered “How to Start Your Own Quilt Shop” and have been very pleased with the information. My sister and I would like to open a Quilt Shop and have just started looking into details and information. In this book we have found very helpful information and it has given us a great starting point from basics on up. We are so excited to start this venture and this book has given us information that would have otherwise taken us a lot of time finding in various other places. With this book it is right there at our finger tips! Thanks so much Chuck.“
Pamela Andrews, Phoenix, AZ

“This is a great book. I wanted an on line quilt shop and this book came along at the right time for me. Very informative, lots of ideas. Anyone interested in their own quilt shop shhould purchase this book, it has helped me alot. Thank you !”
Josie Spradlin, Hawthorne, FL

Act immediately and receive the following bonuses:

Bonus 1: Quilt Shop Resource Directory
This is a comprehensive listing of resources you will need to open, stock, and run your quilt shop. There are listings for fabric manufacturers, fabric and notions distributors, wholesale patterns, quilt magazines and books, and useful software. (Value: $67)

Bonus 2: Quilting Business Primer
I’ve collected 15 of the best articles from the article archive at QuiltingBusiness.com, the only web site dedicated to helping you make money with your quilting, no matter if you own a quilt shop, a machine quilting business, or just want to sell your quilts. (Value: $17)

Bonus 3: Course on Making Money with Quilting
This email mini-course, “7 Unique Ways to Make Money with Your Quilting” is offered at QuiltingBusiness.com via email. I’ve compiled the course and am giving it to you all in one convenient document. (Value: $9)

Bonus 4: Quilt Shop Forms
You will get all of the forms in How to Start Your Own Quilt Shop in Word for Windows format (the most popular word processing program) so you can edit and use the forms for your own quilt shop. (Value: $17)

Bonus 5: Start-Up and Recurring Cost Calculator
I’ve included simple Microsoft Excel (the most popular spreadsheet program) spreadsheets that allow you to quickly and easily calculate your start-up and recurring costs to include in your quilt shop business plan. (Value: $9)

Bonus 6: Machine Quilting Report
Ever thought about starting your own machine quilting business? This special report gives you some of the basics of starting and running a machine quilting business. (Value: $9)

TOTAL VALUE = $128.00

Click here now to discover the secrets on how to start, run and market your very own quilt shop.

Have you been searching for how-to-quilt books or ebooks or any resource on quilting that you can find?

A book or ebook specifically for beginner quilters like you, that makes learning how to make a quilt really easy?

A book that explains everything using words that you can understand, and not some special quilting jargon where you need to look up every single term?

How would you like to discover quilting tips and techniques that experienced and professional quilters use?

Methods that save time and make your quilt a true heirloom, not just another blanket?

Do you have a collection of quilting books that were advertised as beginner books……and when you got them home, you discovered that they just added to your confusion?

Are you ready right now to learn how to:

• Create a masterpiece that will amaze your family and friends?
• Choose the perfect fabric for just the right effect?
• Cut your fabric without making wasteful mistakes?
• Sew perfect seams so that every corner is square and every triangle tip is pointy?
• Attach borders that make your quilt square up?
• Make binding that adds the perfect finishing touch to your quilt?

Well, I just found the perfect guide for beginning quilting! This guide is written by a self-taught quilter who has been doing this craft for 26 years. She is an author of 9 quilting books who can teach you how to make a quilt using a simple 9-step process.

This step-by-step Beginner’s Guide to Quilting reveals all the secrets experienced quilters forget to tell beginners.

In A Beginner’s Guide to Quilting, you will learn:

…exactly what tools you need to make your quilt. Don’t waste your money on gadgets you don’t need! When you go to the quilt or fabric shop, you will know exactly what to get, and feel confident that you know the right questions, and are able to evaluate the many products available in order to make a wise purchase.

…how to sew a quilt with accurate seam allowances. If you are the type of quilter who wants to have all seams match and all blocks be the same size, you will want to know how to sew an accurate 1/4” seam every time you sew. A Beginner’s Guide to Quilting shows 3 different methods to ensure the accuracy that make your quilts look like they were sewn by an experienced quilter.

…a very simple method for making your own binding and finishing your quilt beautifully. A Beginner’s Guide to Quilting walks you through the process step-by-step, teaching you how to make binding and how to bind your quilt just like the pros.

…how to add borders to your quilt, turning it into a work of art. Borders act like a picture frame for your quilt. Using the techniques in this book, your family and friends will be able to see your creative talents, and your borders will be flat; not all puckered and wavy.

…and much, much more! A Beginner’s Guide to Quilting is jam-packed with useful information, presented in an easy-to-understand format, to get you started on creating your first quilt project.

Here’s What People are Saying about A Beginner’s Guide to Quilting:

“Thank you Penny, for responding back to me!

I was able to download the file and open it late yesterday.

I printed off the book and have all ready read through most of it. I’m looking forward to starting my quilt.I have hand quilted before with some little projects such as pillows and wall hangings but my ultimate goal is to complete a full size quilt!!!

And I think with your book that goal will be met! Thank you again!”

Paula Randall, St. Augustine, Illinois

“I read the whole book in one sitting because I was so excited to get started. Plus, it was easy to read and was very informative. I have already put together a small quilt for practice, and working on my second one. It takes me a little longer mainly because not only am I a beginner quilter but also a beginner sewer!! Thanks for all the extra reports too, they were very helpful to me.”

Stephanie Kelly, Loveland, Colorado

“I really found your book to be easy to follow and it made my first 3 quilts (which were table runners) a snap to make. The binding instructions were especially helpful. I’ve attached a picture of one of the runners I made. I ended up giving all three away for Christmas presents, so I only get to enjoy them when I go visiting, but it was fun anyway!! Thanks for all the help.”

Juli Farley, Waco, Nebraska

Download this book now and you will get 10 special gifts designed specifically to help you begin your quilting journey:

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Click here now to unlock the Secrets of Making a Treasured Family Heirloom Quilt using

A Beginner’s Guide to Quilting.

Finding the best quilts for your bed leaves you with a lot of choices. A lot of the quilt that are available for you to choose from come in any size that you are looking for to fit your bed, and some are one size that fits most beds.

You can also look at coverlets, which are similar to that and can be used for the same purpose. You can find this in a number of different styles, patterns and colors so you are sure to find one that fit’s the look that you want to create for your room.

Some people prefer the look of Hawaiian quilts which are generally more festive and bright, and made with colors that are found on the islands of Hawaii. These can be floral patterned with bright colors and patterns.

Others prefer the look of old fashioned like Amish quilts that are patterned and are made in a variety of colors. When you are shopping around for a quilts, you want to get the right size that is going to fit your bed properly, and you are also going to want to pick that is made out of the materials that you are looking for.

Some quilts that you can find are able to be washed in the machine, while others are not, so you want to determine what kind of quilt you want to buy on the use that it is going to be getting in your home.

You can also find that are specialty themes for special times like weddings. These can be given as wedding gifts and are made with a design that is special to the bride and groom like wedding ring or double wedding ring quilts.

You can also look for quilts and coverlets that are made for king size beds. These works nicely if you have a king size bed or if you want this to be larger than your smaller size bed.

You can find any kind of quilts online to choose from. You can search for the type of quilt that you are looking for, the pattern, size or color. You can also choose from different materials that these are made with so that you find the one that best suits your needs.

There are a lot of different patterns available, and you can also choose from different colors and styles. The price of this depends on the way that they were made and the type of quilt that you are buying.

So, you are ready to quilt. You have set your eyes on what pattern to use, but do you have all the essential tools needed to start quilting? Well, the first thing a beginning quilter should do is to prepare and gather all the quilting tools.

To help you with that, I prepared a list of the most basic quilting tools that you need. You may need to buy some of the stuff, but others can be found right in your sewing box.

Quilting Fabric

If you are just starting out,choose cotton quilting fabric. High quality tightly woven cotton fabrics make your quilt last longer. If you are experienced enough, go for the other fancy fabrics.

Pins

To keep fabrics together while quilting, you need pins. Pins come in different shapes and kinds. Some have glass heads, while others are ball-headed. The latter are more preferred by most quilters because they are more visible and are easier to hold. Pins that are sharp, fine, and long are recommended for quilting purposes.

Pin Cushion

If you have amassed a handful of pins, then you need a pin cushion. It is used to hold and keep pins when not in use. Other quilters also use magnetic pin strips to pick up stray pins and collect pins that have been left lying on top of the quilt.

Needles

There are two types of quilting needles: hand quilting and machine quilting needles. Both kinds are stronger and sharper than the ordinary sewing needles since they need to pass through multiple layers of fabrics without the tendency of bending and breaking. Hand quilting needles, also called betweens, come in four sizes: 9, 10, 11, 12, with 9 as the biggest and 12 as the smallest. They also have smaller eyes and are thicker than other needles. Machine needles, meanwhile, need to be replaced every so often to keep making fine stitches and to prevent the needles from breaking.

Thimble

Worn when hand quilting, thimble cushions the finger that pushes the needle and works to prevent finger sore and needle pricks. It can be a little uncomfortable when first worn, but proves to be helpful in protecting the finger and controlling the needle. Thimbles are usually made of metal, although leather thimbles have become more popular nowadays. In fact, leather thimbles are recommended for novice quilters because they have a better grip on the needle.

Rotary Cutter

You will need a rotary cutter. It is a handy tool for any quilting enthusiast. A rotary cutter makes easy work of cutting through heavy stock or multiple layers of fabric or cloth.  A rotary cutter is used to cut and trim fabrics with precision and accuracy, which makes it very useful in cutting identical strips.

Because of its strength and sharpness, it can work with fabrics of different texture and thickness and can glide through fabrics in multiple layers. A rotary cutter is often used with other quilting tools such as rotary board or mat and transparent plastic ruler. For other cutting purposes, scissors are used in place of rotary cutter.

Fabric Marker

An essential quilting tool, fabric marker is used to line out the fabric. Depending on the fabric, you can use any of these three markers: pencil, chalk, or fabric marker pen. Soft lead pencil is the most commonly used fabric marker as it is easily washed off and fades over time. Chalk is also a good alternative and is fairly easy to remove. However, it does not work well when making detailed markings and drawings.

For this purpose, a fabric marker pen is best used. Like the other two, it can be easily washed out and fades after some time. Before using a fabric marker, it is best to first test it on a sample fabric. Mark a small piece from the fabric you are using and wash. See how the fabric reacts to the marker.

Fabric Scissors and Paper Scissors

You need to have 2 pairs of scissors, one for cutting fabric and the other for paper and other crafting materials you might use along the way.

Cotton Thread

Use cotton thread for your cotton quilts. Other threads, like polyester, might be too harsh for the cotton fabric. For colors, pick out something that can blend with most fabrics.

How to Care for Your Amish Quilt

by Michael Bell
Amish Quilt Shop

Amish Quilt Care

Knowing how to properly care for your quilt will ensure its longevity. Amish quilts generally take approximately 400 hours for an Amish quilter to complete. Considering how much time it took to make your quilt, we know you will want to handle it with care. Here are some helpful hints that we received directly from Barbara, an Amish quilt designer from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.

To clean your quilt, we recommend two solutions:

Traditional Amish Quilt Care

Barbara said this is what she does to clean her quilts. Soak your quilt in cold water in either a bathtub or washer machine. Add 2 quarts of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of mild soap (like MelaPower), and a 1/2 cup of table salt. Do not use bleach. If you use your bathtub, let your quilt soak for 1 hour. If you use your washing machine, put your quilt on your Gentle cycle. After your quilt has been soaked or washed, hang dry it. Do not machine dry your quilt or use fabric softeners.

Dry Cleaning

Amish quilts can be dry cleaned. Ask your dry cleaner if they have cleaned quilts or bed coverings in the past. Dry cleaning is recommended if your quilt has loose lace or puffy applique work because this material can be damaged in a machine wash. Dry cleaning is also recommended for fabrics that may run in water, such as fully saturated dark colored and hand-dyed fabrics. To determine if your fabric will run, rub it with a piece of cotton that has been moistened with very hot water. If color bleeds onto the cotton, do not wash your quilt – even in cold water. Instead, have your quilt professionally dry cleaned. After your quilt is dry cleaned, hang it outside to air it out.

For quilts that are used daily, we recommend that you clean them once a year.

Quilt Markings

Amish quilters use markings to guide them as they hand stitch a quilt. Often these lines are still noticeable when the quilt is complete. Amish quilters typically use either pencil or chalk. If the quilt markings are made in pencil, you can purchase an eraser from a fabric store. Do not use a regular pencil eraser; they have oil in them that will permanently mark your quilt. You can also use a clean toothbrush. Dip it in a mixture of warm water and mild liquid laundry soap (we recommend Woolite). Use the toothbrush to gently rub out the quilt markings. If the marking line is white, it is probably chalk and can be brushed off or easily removed with a damp cloth.

Storage

Direct sunlight is not good for your quilt. It will naturally cause your colors to fade and the fabric to weaken. To store your Amish quilt, we recommend that you use a pillowcase or sheet. Do not use a plastic bag. Keep your quilt somewhere dark and dry.

Michael Bell is an expert on Amish quilts and has provided commentary in publications such as National Geographic Traveler. To see a full selection of authentic Amish quilts from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, please visit AmishQuiltShop.netOriginally published on SearchWarp.com for Michael Bell Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Article Source: How to Care for Your Amish Quilt

Quilts! Quilts!! Quilts!!! : The Complete Guide to Quiltmaking [Paperback]
Diana McClun (Author)
Laura Nownes (Author)

Product Description

Based on the principle that a solid foundation turns beginners into lifelong quiltmakers, this book covers every tool, every technique, every stitch, every tip and every shortcut in machine and hand quilting–no matter how basic. The all-time classic on quilting, it is an essential handbook for beginners and a constant companion for the experienced quilter. 250 diagrams. 65 color photos.

What readers say about this book:

“classroom in a book”
Portion of actual user comment on amazon.com

“Simply One of The Best !”
Portion of actual user comment on amazon.com

“Quilts! Quilts! Quilts! is a must have!”
Portion of actual user comment on amazon.com

Quilting With Machines

In the good old days, quilting sometimes takes months and months. Sometimes, several quilters work together to finish a quilt faster. Those were the days when quilters (mostly women) have all the time in the world.

Today, it is already common for most quilters (including the traditionalists) to sometimes use the machines in quilting. Admittedly, the primary consideration of today’s quilting machines is for faster and easier work.

Moreover, many quilters also agree that there are certain quilting chores that are simply too much for the hands. Related to this, it was found out that the machines could also trigger quilters’ creativity.

From simple walking foot to free range embroidery, a quilter now can sometimes come up with works of art using the machine’s capacity for intricate quilting.

Machines
An ordinary sewing machine can double up as a quilting machine. However, some machines need adaptations. For the quilter, a little practice is all there is to do to master machine quilting.

A big consideration is the width of the opening between the needle and the motor where larger openings are needed to maneuver large quilts. (In small machines, large quilts need to be quilted in sections and then joined.)

There are two categories in machine quilting: machine guided (where the feed dogs are up) and used for straight and slightly curved lines. Free motion quilting (where the feed dogs are covered or dropped) is for all the other patterns like feathered stars and stippling.

But these are not written in stone.

Some quilters use free motion quilting for all their patterns, even those made with straight lines. Other quilters prefer to use even stitches of machine-guided quilts in making feathered quilts (or some such patterns). For more info, please click here.
Needles

The most important part of a sewing machine is the needle, even if it is the least expensive of all the parts. Ideally, quilters should begin new projects with new needles.

Needles need to be replaced if they start to show signs of dulling, make popping noise (threads caught and broken by dull needle points) and produce poorly-formed stitches.
Large projects need several needles.

Sharp needles are needed to penetrate thick layers of fabric and batting. There are specialty needles too for rayon embroidery or metallic threads. There are very good popular brands of these needles available.

Threads

First, threads designed for hand quilting are never used in machine quilting. Threads for hand quilting have wax coatings (for strength and ease) which can possibly damage the tension discs of sewing machines.

There is also need to match your thread and the project correctly. Rayon and metallic threads are best for wall hangings while baby quilts (which are washed every so often) would need pure cotton thread.

Another tip is a thread that might be too heavy for the machine’s needle might be used in the bobbin and sewing the quilt from the wrong side.

Finally, if you are looking for best results while using machines to do your quilting, use high-quality cotton threads with long staples (fiber).

There is no conflict in using either your hands or a machine to do your quilting. If you have the eye and the heart for your work, beauty will always come out.

Here is a helpful guide that will show you how to start a quilting machine business from start-up to running and marketing your new business that will allow you to earn a healthy part-time or full time income.

Practical Tips For Machine Quilting

Machine quilting doesn’t enjoy the same stitch-quality reputation hand quilting has. In fact, when machine quilting was first introduced, it wasn’t received well and was thought inferior to hand quilting. But now that quilting is given modernity touches, machine quilting is widely recognized and appreciated because of its several benefits. It is, for one, way faster to do. It can complete work for a fraction of time required in hand quilting. Aside from that, machine quilting can accommodate heavy-duty embellishment threads that would otherwise not be possible with hand quilting. This benefit, in effect, opens up more artistic possibilities.

The problem, however, is that some people are easily intimidated by just the sight of a machine and view machine quilting as too complicated. The truth is, machine quilting is easy to learn and with some practical tips, it is manageable. Following are some tips that can make machine quilting more fun and less laborious.

1. Run a test. If you are yet unsure of how machine quilting goes, get a piece of fabric and practice machine quilting. Don’t be disheartened if the stitches are unsightly. You can adjust the tension setting, improve your rhythm, or reposition your hand. When you get the hang of it, the stitches will be more even and consistent.

2. Plan how your stitches would go. Planning ahead can keep you from making too many stops and starts. Visualizing the overall appearance of your quilt can also help you decide as you move along the project.

3. Guide your quilt through the machine with a gentle and smooth sliding motion. Too much pressure in your hands will yield erratic movements and consequently irregular stitches.

4. Use an even-feed walking foot when making straight lines. To use this, roll the quilt into a tube, use bicycle clips or safety pins to secure the quilt, and stitch the center and work your way out to the edges. Alternatively, use a darning foot when making freehand quilting to do curved and other decorative stitches. Keep in mind, though, that doing freehand quilting is never perfect at first attempt and takes a lot of practice to come up with the desired stitches.

5.  Relax. Take your mind off the other parts of the quilt; instead, focus on the part under the needle and that which is next to come. It would also help you relax if you have a good working space, one that can provide you and the quilt enough room. Also, have a comfortable chair to rest your back well. When your back, neck, and arms are relaxed and your mind free of distractions, you can work longer and produce a better quilt.

6. Rest for a while. If your hand feels stiff, your back slightly aches, or your eyes seem to blur when machine quilting, the body calls for a rest. Take a break and move around. Don’t forget to shake your hands and shoulders, close your eyes, or look up from your work once in a while.  Remember, fatigue is likely to show in your quilt.

Here is a helpful guide that will show you how to start, run, and market a successful machine quilting business that will allow you to earn a healthy part-time or full-time income…

Knowing Quilting Fabrics and Fabric Grains

Quilting is not just the simple pushing of needles and threads in and out of fabrics and come up with a beautiful craft appreciated for years. Like in any other art form, there are pieces of information a quilter has to master to be able to improve his craft.

In quilting, knowing and understand fabric grains is a plus for quilt-makers who want to excel.

Straight grain

Simply put, this is the way threads are woven in place in the fabric. This is important when quilters want to cut their quilting blocks accurately and with precision.
Ignorance in fabric grains can result in great waste of time, effort and materials.

Long threads are called warps. These are the ones that are stretched and secured on the loom. In effect, these become the fabric’s lengthwise grain, the continuous fabric yardage as it comes off the bolt.

The weft is the thread that is woven into the warps, perpendicular to the whole length.
This is the crosswise grain of the fabric.

The lengthwise grain and the crosswise grain are both called straight grain, or straight-of-grain. The selvage is the bound edge in the outermost lengthwise grain, formed when the weft thread change direction in the weaving process.

Fabric pieces cut along straight grain (with edges parallel to either warp or weft) are less likely to stretch out of shape. The interwoven threads give it extra support.

However, cuts along the lengthwise grain stretches less than their crosswise counterparts. This is because warp threads were firmly attached to the loom enhancing their strength.

Fabric Bias

A bias is a 45-degree angle cut in the fabric. (In quilting, any cut that is not parallel to the straight grain is called a bias cut.)

Bias cuts are stretchy and this can work for or against you. There are no threads to stabilize the fabric in a bias.

However, bias cuts have several uses. One, they are easy to apply as binding to a quilt with curved edges. Tubes can be made from them for shapes in appliqués, for instance.
They are also easier to be turned under for other curved shapes.

Bias edges can stretch out of shape and makes it difficult to sew accurately. Triangles have one bias edge and there is need to determine the best place for it because it is not stable. (Best is sewing them in the interior parts and with a straight grain piece for stability.)

Using straight grain cuts

Squares and rectangles are cut along straight grains to minimize stretching during handling. They are good in making borders and sashes. Moreover, they stabilize the outer edges of blocks and quilt tops.

Knowing and being accustomed to these different fabric grains would give you quite an idea on where and when to use any on your project. It can even make you quite an expert in identifying fabrics without the usual selvages or other marks.

At a certain stage in your quilting life, you can do your own fabric grain experiments. It does not take so much to know the best possible ways to achieve what you want in your quilt masterpiece.