By Copy Editor: Caitlin Daugherty
Photo Credit: Caitlin Daugherty
Quilting can be a very fun way to create something long-lasting that can be used and passed down through generations. However, many people can be turned off by having to buy an expensive sewing machine, but you can absolutely create a beautiful and meaningful quilt just by hand!
The first step is to gather all of your materials for your quilt. You will need to pick two different sets of fabric for your quilt. The main designs for your quilt which will go on the top, and the plainer fabric that you will use for your backing. The top layer will be arranged of quilt squares. Arrange them in the way that you desire and secure them together with safety pins or needles.
You also will need to pick good stuffing to add warmth to the quilt. I suggest using a cheap cotton filler from Walmart as it provides a serviceable layer of warmth without being too expensive. Then gather a needle, thread, and scissors.
Next you will want to create a “quilt sandwich” which is the bottom layer of plain fabric, the stuffing and then the top fabric layer which will be the design. Use more safety pins to attach all of the layers together and then prepare to stitch the pieces of fabric. A straight quilting pattern is best for beginners. I would only recommend more complicated stitching patterns for sewing machines.
Finally, you can sew all of the parts together and create your quilt! Make sure to have a good basic understanding of hand-sewing before attempting something as big as a quilt. However, if you have a grasp on hand-sewing, quilting will be a breeze. Now you can create a wonderful quilt for the winter season!