1. Everything You Need to Start Quilting

Well, that’s the first episode of the Stop Scrolling, Start Sewing podcast in the books. We discussed everything you need to start quilting. Many people believe that it will take a huge investment to get started. But that’s just not true. By making strategic investments at the right time, you’ll save yourself from dropping huge chunks of cash on things that you may not even need yet. For an easy shopping list, fill out the form below. It will make your next shopping trip a breeze!

If you’re anything like me and like to mark and highlight, click here to download the transcript for this episode.

I have so many favorites that I just have to share with you. Please find listed below links to what I’m currently using and budget friendly options. Please note that some of these links may be affiliates, which means that at no cost to you I earn a small commission if you purchase anything through my links.

Sewing Machines

This Singer Heavy Duty sewing machine is an excellent option for an inexpensive workhorse. There are several machines in the line that range from $150 to $400, But this one is the best value. Please note how few stitches are available and that selection is through a knob and not computerized. At this price point, the chances of getting a high quality computerized machine with 100s of stitches are pretty much nil. A sewing machine is definitely something that you get what you pay for. You’ll see many Singer and Brother machines at this price point with many bells and whistles. They are NOT quality machines!

If you are looking to get a machine that is capable of a bit more, I suggest this Brother Quilting machine. It’s moderately priced for a specialized machine. What I love most about it is the creative space it provides. Creative space is the area between the needle and motor. You’ll notice that with specialized quilting machines and higher end machines in general there is more room because the arm of the machine is longer. This is crucial for those looking to machine quilt.

If you’re interested in learning more about how to choose a sewing machine head on over to my buyers guide all about shopping for your first sewing machine.

Cutting Tools

These are the rotary cutters I currently use. To be honest, I’ve used them since I began and don’t see any reason to upgrade to more expensive models. I use this 45mm Fiskars ergo cutter and this Fiskars 60mm Classic Stick Rotary Cutter.

There are more self-healing mats on the market than I can count. I’ve used Olfa, Omnigrid, Sew-ology, and Fiskars and have never had an issue. I tend to lean towards Sew-ology and Fiskars because of their price and the fact that they come in beautiful colors. Olfa and Omnigrid are very brand conscious in their production, so they are usually all green and yellow. You can grab this Fiskars mat on Amazon for under $30.

The three main brands of fabric shears that you’ll run into are Fiskars, Singer, and Gingher. While I will say I love Gingher, there is no reason to spend that match on a pair of scissors. They were purchased in a fit of bougie passion. My orange Fiskars were working just fine!

An acrylic ruler will be your best friend when you get the hang of rotary cutting. A clearly marked 6″ by 24″ will be your go to for much of your quilting. If you only invest in this one ruler you’ll be set for much of your future quilting. I personally use this Omnigrid ruler with bright yellow markings. It’s kind of love. But I just recently stumbled across this Fiskars ruler and for only $9.99 you can’t possibly go wrong!

Notions

I have slowly fallen in love with basting spray. This 505 spray is excellent. While you can use whatever type of quilt marking pens you’d like, I’m particularly obsessed with Frixion pens by Pilot. They’re seriously like magic.