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The Absolute Beginner’s Guide to Quilting Part 1: How do I get started?

DAVID JACKSON | QUILTING | FEBRUARY 22, 2019

The history of quilting dates back to at least 12th century Europe and possibly even earlier. It appears to have been introduced by the Crusaders as a garment worn under their armor, and has evolved through the years into what we know today. Quilts have been created and gifted over centuries for special occasions, ceremonies, decorative hangings and throws, and of course, bed coverings.


Today, quilts are commonly used as bed coverings and are made of at least 3 layers. The top decorative layer of woven cloth which contains the pattern, the interior thicker layer of batting, and the back layer of woven cloth. This is all held together by stitching, which can be the key decorative element if the top layer is comprised of a single piece of fabric, rather than various patches.


Now that you've learned a little bit about the history of quilts and quilting, you've decided you want to make one yourself. So, now what? There are a few initial questions you must answer before beginning your quilting project.


1. What size quilt would you like to make?

2. What type of pattern would you like in your quilt?

3. What fabric would you like to use?

4. Will you be using a machine or hand stitching?


Let's address these questions one at a time before we move on to the fun parts!


1. What size quilt would you like to make?

Here is a formula commonly used to get the ideal quilt size for your project.

Mattress Width + (2x Mattress Depth) = Quilt Width

Mattress Length + Mattress Depth = Quilt Length


If you don't have access to measure the actual mattress yourself, you can use the standard sizes noted in the table below. Keep in mind, the table is based on standard mattress depth, and quilting, if moderate to heavy, may reduce the finished size of your quilt by 1-3 inches or more. This needs to be taken into consideration when planning the finished size of your quilt.



Bed Type Mattress Size Suggested Quilt Size
Crib/Toddler 27" x 52" 36" x 60"
Youth 33" x 66" 54" x 78"
Twin/Single 39" x 75" 70" x 90"
XL Twin 39" x 76" 70" x 90"
Full/Double 54" x 75" 84" x 90"
Queen 60" x 80" 90" x 95"
King 76" x 80" 108" x 95"
California King 72" x 84" 102" x 100"



2. What type of pattern would you like in your quilt?

You can find a pattern online that suits you, come up with your own pattern featuring fabrics you like, use a solid piece of fabric with fancy stitching, or create pictures with blocks of fabric to commemorate a special occasion such as a wedding, the birth of a child, graduation, etc. There are an infinite number of quilting patterns to try, so let your imagination run wild!



3. What fabric would you like to use?

Here's where Marshall Dry Goods comes in. We have over 8000 fabrics to choose from, and a variety of batting choices in an easy to use format. Our website also features a design wall. Browse our huge selection of patterns, save your favorite designs, and add the fabrics to your design wall so you can see how the fabrics will look together. Once you decide what you want, place your order and have them shipped directly to your door. What could be easier?!



4. Will you be using a machine or hand stitching?

This will determine what equipment you need and how long it will take you. Quilting is most definitely not a sprint, but a marathon, no matter which technique you are using. Don't expect to finish a king-size quilt in a weekend. That is part of the allure of quilting, though. It is a handicraft that is created with lots of time and love.



Now that you've answered these initial questions, you can begin planning out your quilt and doing the prep work. There are a few tools you will find helpful to complete your project. We will go over these and what the next steps are in creating your beautiful and functional handicraft in our next post. Be sure to check out our massive selection of fabrics and batting, our clearance fabrics, and special offers to find exactly what you are needing for the best price! We are currently offering FREE shipping (US only) on orders over $50! (See website for details and exclusions.)



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