How to Start Quilting as a Beginner: A Guide Inspired by Thanksgiving Point’s Garden of Quilts Festival 

“Quilting” is the process of sewing together layers of fabric to create a blanket. A quilt typically consists of three layers: the top layer (patchwork), the middle layer (batting), and the bottom layer (backing). Quilts can be used for various purposes, including bedding, decorative wall hangings, and gifts. 

Before you start quilting, you’ll need to gather some essential supplies: 

1. Fabric: Start with 100% cotton fabric, which is easy to work with. Choose a variety of colors and patterns to create interesting designs.
2. Quilting Ruler: A clear, acrylic ruler will help you measure and cut fabric accurately.
3. Rotary Cutter and Cutting Mat: These tools cut fabric pieces precisely.
4. Sewing Machine: While hand quilting is an option, a sewing machine speeds up the process significantly.
5. Quilting Needles: Choose needles specifically designed for quilting.
6. Thread: Use high-quality cotton thread that matches or complements your fabric.
7. Pins and Clips: These will help hold your fabric pieces together while you sew.
8. Iron and Ironing Board: Pressing your fabric and seams is crucial for a neat, professional finish.

1. Cutting Fabric: Accurate cutting is the foundation of quilting. Use your rotary cutter, ruler, and cutting mat to cut fabric pieces into the desired shapes and sizes. Common shapes include squares, rectangles, and triangles. 

2. Piecing: Piecing is the process of sewing fabric pieces together to create the top layer of a quilt – otherwise known as the patchwork. Start by sewing small pieces together to form blocks, and then sew the blocks together to form rows. Finally, sew the rows together to complete the quilt top. 

3. Pressing: Press your seams with an iron as you sew. Pressing ensures your quilt lies flat and looks professional. Press seams to one side or open, depending on your pattern. 

4. Basting: Basting holds the three layers of your quilt together before quilting. You can use safety pins, spray adhesive, or hand baste with large stitches. 

5. Quilting: Quilting is the process of sewing through all three layers to create a quilted design. You can quilt by hand or machine, using straight lines, free-motion designs, or pre-marked patterns. 

6. Binding: Binding finishes the edges of your quilt. Cut strips of fabric, fold them in half, and sew them around the edges of your quilt. This gives it a neat look and protects the edges from fraying. 

1. Start Simple: Choose a beginner-friendly pattern with large pieces and straightforward designs. Quilting is a detailed craft, so be patient and enjoy the process.
2. Take a Class: Try attending a quilting class or workshop to learn tips from professionals. The Garden of Quilts features a week of quilting classes right here in Utah!
3. Join a Quilting Community: Connect with other quilters for advice, inspiration, and support. Online forums, local quilting groups, and quilt shows are great places to start.
4. Learn from Mistakes: Every quilter makes mistakes. Use them as learning opportunities to improve your skills.
5. Practice Regularly: The more you quilt, the better you’ll become. Practice different techniques to build your confidence.

For even more inspiration, visit Thanksgiving Point’s Garden of Quilts Festival. Held annually in the beautiful Ashton Gardens, this festival showcases stunning quilts from around the world. You’ll have the opportunity to attend workshops, meet fellow quilters, and admire the artistry of quilting in a breathtaking outdoor setting. 

The Garden of Quilts Festival is not just a celebration of quilts but also a community event that brings together quilters of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn or an experienced quilter seeking new ideas, this festival offers something for everyone. 

Tickets to Garden of Quilts Festival