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I took a course a few years ago on machine quilting. My first quilt was very expensive to
make by the time I purchased the material, the batting, and the backing - it ended up costing well over $100.
While I really enjoyed quilting, I thought there must be a less expensive way. Well, I have found ways to make quilting a lot
cheaper.
Here is my list on less expensive ways to make quilts:
- I obtain curtain samples that companies are no longer using. I cut them into blocks and they are great! I can usually get the samples for
$1.
- Second hand stores often have material that you can buy for less than $2. I cut it up into blocks, which gives me a wide assortment of colors and textures to choose from.
- Old clothes that no longer fit or that are worn in the knees or elbows. Cut out the seams, and cut the material into blocks or strips - it works great!!
- You can bid on eBay auctions for material that is already cut into blocks. You can get some good buys!
- I use fleece throws for the backing. You can usually obtain these from Wal-Mart or the Dollar Store for under $10.00. I fit my blocks to cover the fleece throw, and then machine quilt the two together.
So now rather than spending $100. for the materials, I rarely spend over $15.00, and I end up with some beautiful quilts!
Here are a few starter tips for machine quilting:
- Start with a simple 6x6 block pattern. Don't try and attempt complicated patterns for your first quilts, it will just frustrate you. Start simple, and then let your creativity soar!
- Don't go out and buy an expensive machine. We use a very simple, inexpensive machine to quilt with - you really don't need all the fancy gadgets.
- When machine quilting, always use 100% cotton thread. Most stores have thread identified as "machine quilting thread".
About the Author:
Catherine Pulsifer is one of the authors of A Simple Life: A journey to a simple life, and, a frugal lifestyle.
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