Patchwork Quilted Gifts For Yourself and Others + Sewing Machines Los Angeles

One hundred percent cotton fabric is best. Always wash your fabrics first as cotton will shrink. It is worthwhile to launder fabrics before sewing to not only shrink but to also remove fabric dyes. If you have sensitive skin or allergies this is good practice.

Ironing the fabric is next on the list. Yes, cotton wrinkles. After ironing your fabrics make any necessary corrections to square your fabric then cut squares, rectangles and triangles. If you wish a triangle is nothing more than a square cut diagonally in half and you may wish to cut these as needed.

If you are collecting fabrics make your own fat quarters, charm packs, jelly rolls,etc. Store cut fabrics in closed containers away from dust and direct sun. Keep in mind that a finished quilt is never stored in plastic. You may wish to do likewise if you think you may be storing the fabric for awhile.

Most of us purchase fabrics when they are on sale or we are gathering certain colors which only appear at special times of the year. We know what we would like to make and so we cut until we have the correct quantity of squares, rectangles, or circles to complete our quilting project. Then we are guilty of collecting for the next project.

If you have never done patchwork quilting you will find it quite simple and addictive. There are many projects and gifts that you can sew. Your creativity will fly. First of all, work with some scrap fabrics that you have from previous projects just to be able to understand the basic principles. And when you see how simple it is making patchwork quilted gifts for self and others will be exciting, easy, quick, and affordable.

Cut squares, rectangles, and strips. Connect right sides together. Pin in order that the squares are perfectly matched after being stitched. Sew two pieces at a time, and then connect the twos together making fours. Continue until desired widths and lengths are completed.

Do not look for perfection at this time. This is just to help you see how the pattern you created will look after assembling and pressing. Make the project a size that gives you practice and a visual aid for understanding the process.

The sample you stitched can be made into a pocket for a personal dress, skirt, or blouse you wish to decorate. Or a trim can be sewn to an apron edge or a set of curtains or a toaster cover. Okay, you get the picture and your imagination is flying.

As soon as your put your imagination into kick start you will be making patchwork quilted gifts for self and others of purses, handbags, lap quilts, aprons, cosmetic bags, and tote bags.

You will want to make place settings, napkins, and table runners for the different holidays of the year. As you look about your home you may start designing and making patchwork quilted gifts for self and others making toaster covers, book covers, curtains, pillow, throws, trimming blankets and other linen, or accenting ay store bought ready made household item or garment to make it look more attractive, unusual, or home crafted.

In your sewing room you may want to make a sewing machine cover, covered sewing box, pin cushion, chair cover, and computer dust cover.

Patch quilting pieces will start to lead you towards appliqueing. There is never a dull moment.

Do visit the hobby page of Tricia Deed at http://www.Infotrish.vpweb.com/ and review Quilting Gems. Do not forget to get your free quilting patterns.