My First Quilt

A few weeks ago I decided to learn how to quilt, so my first project was a quilted playmat for Jayden. Fortunately Chantelle had some scrap fabric for me to practice on. I made A LOT of mistakes the first time around but I must say that it was quite an interesting and, surprisingly, relaxing process turning scraps of fabric into a beautiful work of art (well, maybe my next one will be.) Baby steps!

The first step is to cut your fabric into pieces and sew them together from the centre outward, forming a consistent repetitive pattern that's pleasing to the eye. I had to teach myself how to use a sewing machine at the same time so needless to say it took a while to get things flowing.

Next you press the seams open with an iron and stack the layers together (backing, batting and quilt top). Pin all three layers together to avoid too much movement when quilting and baste the layers together. Basting is essentially hand sewing temporary long stitches from the centre outwards through all three layers of your quilt.

The next step is to choose the quilting pantograph you would like to use. I made my own templates but there are many intricate patterns to choose from. Many quilts are hand sewn but I chose to give machine quilting a try.

I chalked a diamond pattern onto the quilt top because I figured it would be easier than trying a

curvy pattern for my first try. Most quilts are sewn with invisible thread but for this project I chose gold because I thought it would look cool.

The last step is to bind the layers by completing the border or edging of the quilt. I chose a "butted" edge because it's the most economical and doesn't require extra fabric.

I'm really happy with the way things turned out so I have plans for three more. One in blue and yellow, one in turquoise, cream and brown and another in pink, white

and purple. I can't wait to make my next trip to Fabricland!