Learn How to Quilt for Absolute Beginners (Even if you don’t know how to sew)

You can learn how to quilt even if you don’t know how to sew. It’s always best to test drive before buying a sewing machine. Start with inexpensive fabric that you can practice sewing with. Your work at the beginning is really to practice and not to hang in a quilt show or museum. Read the tutorials below and I’ll be here to support you and cheer you on! Read more about my story here.

Supplies, Fabric and Sewing Basics

Before you start stitching, you need the right tools! This section covers all the must-have quilting supplies, from fabric choices to cutting tools, thread, batting, and more. Whether you’re figuring out which fabrics work best for quilting, what kind of rotary cutter to get, or which batting will give your quilt the perfect amount of coziness, I’ve got you covered. Having the right supplies makes quilting easier and way more fun, let’s set you up for success!

Squares and half-square triangles (HSTs) are the backbone of so many quilt patterns! In this section, I’ll show you how to sew squares together with perfect seams and how to make crisp, accurate half-square triangles using simple techniques. Whether you’re working on a beginner-friendly patchwork quilt or diving into more intricate designs, mastering these basics will open up a world of quilting possibilities. Let’s stitch up some beautiful blocks!

Best Fabric For Quilting – How to Shop Like a Pro!

As a beginner, stepping into the world of quilting is both exciting and overwhelming, especially when it comes to buying fabric. With so many options available, it’s essential to know how to shop for the best fabric for quilting. In this guide, I’ll break down 4 shopping options and the best quilting fabric to get…

How to Cut Fabric for Quilting (Easy and Accurate)

How to Cut Fabric For Quilting (Easy and Accurate). Instructions for new quilters on straight line and square block fabric cutting with rotary cutter, cutting mat and quilting ruler.  Today is all about quilting fabric and how to cut fabric for quilting your first quilt. Let’s be honest, if you are new to sewing like…
How to sew quilt square together - pinning a pair of squares in place before sewing by Sew Nikki.

How to Sew Quilt Squares Together | Quilting Tutorial

In today’s beginner quilting tutorial, I’ll show you how to get started on your quilt top and teach you how to sew quilt squares together. Not just simple squares but quilt blocks, borders, sashing and rows. Giving you all the info you need to be successful and finally get sewing. Quilt tops are made by…

How To Make Half Square Triangles – Easy Formula Chart

Today we’re diving into the fascinating world of half square triangles (HSTs) – a fundamental building block in quilting. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced quilter, mastering HSTs opens up a world of creative possibilities. In this post, we’ll explore different methods, all simple and foolproof to create perfect half square triangles. Plus there’s…
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Quilt Planning Journal

a planner for quilting projects

When inspiration strikes, you need a place to jot it down. This journal is designed to help you organize your ideas, plan out your quilt design, and keep track of all the details along the way. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced quilter, it’s a handy tool to keep your project on track from start to finish. Download it today and start planning your next quilt with ease!

Best Beginner Quilt Patterns and Tutorials

It starts with the basics, don’t get ahead of yourself. Charm square quilts are the best and then you can move onto half square triangle quilts. Change the size of the pattern for your first quilt to two charm packs. Just get used to sewing and putting everything together. You can be an over achiever on your second project, promise.

Quilt Making Process – From Quilt Top to Finished Quilt

After finishing your quilt top, it’s time to bring it all together. Quilt tops come to life when you add batting and a quilt design. Basting secures the quilt top, batting, and backing so nothing shifts while quilting. Then, quilting stitches everything together, adding texture and durability. Once quilted, you’ll trim the edges to square it up before adding the final touch—binding. Binding seals the raw edges and gives your quilt a polished, finished look. With that last stitch, your quilt is ready to be loved!

Quilt backing chart - piecing a large print backing fabric on the Big Stars Quilt by Sew Nikki

Calculating Backing Yardage – Quilt Backing Chart

If you’ve ever stalled on finishing a quilt because you weren’t sure how much fabric to buy for the backing, you’re not alone. Calculating backing yardage can feel like a puzzle, especially if you’re working with different quilt sizes. That’s why I’ve put together this straightforward guide, complete with a quilt backing chart to make…
How to quilt on a regular sewing machine - Use straight lines and plan out your stitch lines before you begin by Sew Nikki.

How to Quilt on a Regular Sewing Machine

How to quilt on a regular sewing machine tutorial. Beginner friendly guide to turn your quilt top into a finished quilt on your own domestic sewing machine. Quilting large quilts can be a daunting task, especially when you’re working with a regular sewing machine. However, with the right techniques and a systematic approach, you can achieve…
How to Sew Binding on a Quilt by Sew Nikki - begin sewing with the binding strip about half way down one side of quilt, leaving a 10" tail before you begin.

How To Sew Binding on a Quilt

How to sew binding on a quilt, machine binding tutorial. Sharing my tried and true quilt binding process on a sewing machine with you, demonstrating on my Log Cabin On-Point Quilt Pattern. If you are slightly afraid of machine binding, don’t be!  With a few tips and your home sewing machine, you’ll be on your…
Sewing sunshine raw applique with recycled jeans onto my free sewing machine cover pattern by Sew Nikki.

Life is better with a handmade quilt. Made to be used and loved by all, even your dog. Want to learn? Let me help you.

pinning sashing to quilt rows on table with sewing pins