hi i would like to learn how to quilt so i am beginning my search for tips
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The best thing I did to get started was to take classes--try the closest quilt store or community college extension. I read a number of books, but my quilt teachers were far more helpful in understanding the rules for achieving a good result. Thanks, Marty, Monica, and Kathy!
I agree, classes can make the "hands-on" experience more enjoyable. But I also learned an awful lot reading the major quilt magazines, like the Quilters Newsletter Magazine, American Quilter, and many others. They always have so many good ideas, good instructions and lots of diagrams and pictures.
Several years ago while I was in college I was fortunate enough to have a girlfriend whose grandmother showed us both the basics. After that I just sort of ran with it. Well, walked. If you lack patience, forget it. Especially if you hand stitch everything like I generally do ( I don't own a sewing machine, but am seriously considering it). For me, quilting is a hobby that I tend to shelve for a while until I have an idea. Once I get past the rusty stage it's suprising how quickly the ball gets rolling. Oddly enough, quilting is really a bit like one of my other passtimes, blacksmithing. The material is really quite cheap, all you need is the proper set up and the time. Once you have that, go to it and don't sweat mistakes. You'd be surprised how much cloth (and metal) that was a "mistake" ended up in later projects.
You are going to love it! I grew up with quilts and quilters all around but never did any on my own until just this year. I do think it is best if you are able to take a class -- often offered by nearby quilt stores. The best book I have found for explaining the art is "Quilts! Quilts!! Quilts!!! by Diana McClun and Laura Nownes. I don't know where you live but you will also find classes at Adult Education and some colleges. You can also look up the website for the New England Quilt Museum in Lowell, Massachusetts. The major quilting magazines are also an excellent resource. However, nothing beats having someone actually show you how to work with the fabric and the little tricks that will make your quilt even more beautiful. Good Luck!
Great ideas so far. Also, pull out some of your fabrics and see if you get any color or design inspiration. You may see some natural geometry.
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