Crafty Threads 'n' Yarns

CJ · Posted: Wed Nov 08, 2006 10:28 am Post subject: Quilting - how to get started?

Well, there's no threads in here, so I thought I'd put one up. Laughing

How did all you quilters get started? Would I definately need a sewing machine, or can it be done by hand? My mum has her old machine I may be able to get my hands on it, if it's not already gone to the local charity shop.

GrannySmith · Posted: Wed Nov 08, 2006 10:50 am Post subject:

You have a great shop near you (ish) Melanie something in an old chapel, I will find the proper name, she runs all all sorts of course, evening / day / weekend and has lots of fabric in the shop with starter kits etc.

The courses are very reasonable - not been on one - bit to far for me and haven't seen a week end one I like or that I can go to.

GrannySmith · Posted: Wed Nov 08, 2006 10:53 am Post subject:

Defnydd Melanie Fabrics, ABERYSTWYTH, it's just outside, so a little bit of a drive for you Smile

GrannySmith · Posted: Wed Nov 08, 2006 10:56 am Post subject:

You do not need a sewing machine - hand quilting can be done, machine quilting much faster.

I started by having a go at home and then I did my C&G.

Being neat it the biggest part of patchwork - correct seams (1/4") to that all you shapes make blocks and the blocks match up.

What are you thinking of making - because we can all help and it is lovely to do.

CJ · Posted: Wed Nov 08, 2006 10:56 am Post subject:

thanks, Grannysmith. Very Happy

yes, i think that's about a 2 hour drive from me, but no further than going to colinette, just in a different direction. will have a look in yellow pages.

GrannySmith · Posted: Wed Nov 08, 2006 10:59 am Post subject:

CJ - I was thinking that - a quick trip through Snowdonia to Aberystwyth, in a straight line to Colinette yarns and a trip back up north to home. Very Happy

CJ · Posted: Wed Nov 08, 2006 11:03 am Post subject:

that would be a grand day out - you might need to make it 2 days though, cos I know from experience that colinette is 5o minutes from Dolgellau, and Aberysthwyth is maybe half an hour south of there. Confused

Never driven down there, DH has, I've just made a beeline for colinette. Twisted Evil

GrannySmith · Posted: Wed Nov 08, 2006 11:08 am Post subject:

I found this shop on a trip to Colinette yarns - now thinking that Aberwysthwyth is west of Welshpool and I live in the east - a great day out!!!

carolinne · Posted: Wed Nov 08, 2006 6:34 pm Post subject:

hi there i love quilting, all aspects from design choosing fabrics, researching techniques, putting it together quilting and finishing it. i started when i was young,sewing hexagons together but i really started when i lived in america for two years and fell in love with the tv programme simply quilts and all the wonderful fabric and notions available. i do all hand sewing but have recently started to actually quilt the piece on my machine

it is true that for many patchwork patterns accuracy is very important but i think that when you are starting out just having a go at something you really like the look of is a good way to start. i spend ages looking on the internet, reading books getting inspiration from nature for colours and shapes even when i am walking around my eye is always looking out for things that grab my attention. i keep a little note book and write down all my ideas so i dont forget anything.... some i use and some come to nothing. most of all talking and sharing with like minded people is the best source for ideas and encouragement

CJ · Posted: Wed Nov 08, 2006 7:24 pm Post subject:

thanks. I hope some people put up pictures of their quilts soon, so I can be inspired. I'll take a photo of the two my dad's cousin made as they are sooo nice. Very Happy