Tutorials
12.2.2022
For Day 2 of our 7 Types of Quilters Gift Guide, I want to say hello to all the beginner quilters out there! So often, when I talk to people that don’t sew, they think quilting is extremely difficult. However, the truth is that learning to sew is easy, it just requires some time and a solid base of supplies. That’s what this Newbie Gift Guide is all about: making sure that the beginner quilters on your list have a fantastic set of tools to start off their new hobby! Investing in the right items can make sewing a breeze, so here are our absolute favorites:
- The Dritz Magnetic Seam Guide ($5.49)
Learning to sew a straight line with an accurate seam allowance is a skill, but this Magnetic Seam Guide will help you master it in no time! Place this tool right on your magnetic throat plate, the exact distance of your seam allowance from the needle, and you’ll be chain piecing with ease. While not recommended for computerized machines, we know a lot of new sewers are practicing on older, mechanical machines, so it’s a perfect fit!
2. Omnigrip Neon Ruler – 10″ Square ($17.35 – 20% off!)
Once you’ve been sewing for a while, I promise that you’ll be shocked with how many rulers you can collect! However, when you’re just starting out, it’s really important to go with some basic ruler sizes and this is one of the best. Simple, not too big, easy to read and complete with diagonal lines for creative cutting, the 10″ square is meant to be used for a long, long time.
3. Hoop Quilts for Beginners ($17.99)
Sewing a gigantic, queen sized quilt can seem daunting and even scare off new quilters. This lovely book, written by the Ohio-based quilter AnneMarie Chany, is a charming look into learning new skills on a smaller, bite-sized scale. Chany makes basic patchwork feel easy and the end results will amaze all your friends and family! Plus, once you practice some hoop quilts, you’ll be ready for a queen sized masterpiece in no time!
4. Omnigrid Mat – 12″ x 18″ ($20.99)
Another important basic? A great cutting mat! Self-healing with neon yellow lines for easy slicing, Omnigrid produces the best mats at a reasonable price. This size is perfect for beginners, who typically go for a smaller mat that will probably be upgraded in less than 6 months. At only $20.99, this 12″ x 18″ is a total steal and will delight the newbie sewer in your life!
5. Olfa Deluxe Rotary Cutter ($32.39)
The only gift over $20 is this incredible rotary cutter, but it’s 100% worth the price! With an ergonomic handle and a universal 45mm blade size for easy replacements, an Olfa rotary cutter is an essential investment for any sewer. Want to truly complete your gift? Add in a set of Sew Great Rotary Blade Refills so that the quilter on your list doesn’t have to think about replacements for months on end!
To all the beginner quilters looking at this list: we’re so glad you’ve found us! We hope this holiday is filled with love, joy, and the best sewing tools on your list!
