I want to make a quilt! What do I need?

Some general recommendations and suggestions for essential tools to start quilting. See our list of suppliers  for where to find most of these items locally. Join Chino Valley Quilters, and enjoy special discounts.

Skills

You need only the desire to learn and to create beautiful things. Oh, and you may want to practice sewing a 1/4-in. straight-line stitch. Simple!  

Sewing Machine

You will need a reliable working machine with a few extra stitches. Look for one that allows you to easily determine a 1/4-in. seam (most often used margin) and you probably will want to purchase a 1/4-in.-seam foot and a "walking" foot if your machine does not have one built in. The walking foot is very helpful for feeding the material when you are adding the quilting stitches. 

Later on, you may want to invest (and I do mean invest) in one of the newer machines with lots of extras like a needle threader, start/stop sewing button, a needle up/down button, speed control and more special features.  

Cutting Mat

This should be 18 by 24 in. or larger. Get one with measurements on both sides and that says "healing." The cuts from rotary cutters will not leave a deep cut; they seem to heal somewhat.

Rotary Cutter

Any well-known brand will be fine. Just try out different types of grip and see which one is most comfortable to your hand. You will be pressing down somewhat.  I would start with a 45 or 60 mm.

Scissors

At least two or three sizes:

• One large (8 or 9 in.) for general cutting
• One medium (4 in.)
• One specialty pair for appliqué work and cutting tiny details

Tape Measure

One at least 60 in. and maybe a smaller retractable one to carry with you when shopping or traveling.  

Quilting Rulers

So many choices here but we would suggest a large (23 by 4 in.) with a removable stabilizer edge. You might also consider a medium-to-large, square ruler, which is very handy when you need to square up one of your blocks.

Thread

Generally, you will start with all-cotton thread. Research thread types and their uses. Again, there are so many choices in thread that you may want to ask your quilting friends what they use for various projects and fabric.    

Fabric

Generally, 44- or 45-in.-wide, 100-percent cotton fabrics are used in quilts.  

Seam Ripper

There are lots of them in the marketplace; just get a good one that is comfortable to hold.

Quilter's Book

Find a good basic quilt-making book from a reputable source such as Better Homes & Gardens, McCall's Quilting or Fons & Porters. Check out our list here.    

Quilting Friends

These are a goldmine of information and friendship!  Think about joining a quilt guild or finding a quilter's friendship group in your area.    

Tips & Tricks
for Beginners

You've come to the right place!

Our Tips & Tricks page includes information for all skill levels. But what if you're just beginning, or haven't yet begun? 

Here is a list sorted with you in mind:

• Some basic tools you'll need, from Better Homes & Gadens
• How to Attach a Quilt Sleeve for Hanging
• Six Quilting Videos for Beginners, from FaveQuilts
• Join Chino Valley Quilters and start quilting with experienced members eager to share their skills and knowledge.

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• Video tutorial: Quilting for Absolute Beginners, Adding Borders