lundi 2 juin 2014

A Guide For Purchasing Quilting Supplies In Port Arthur TX

By Nora Jennings


The ancient Egyptians were among the first quilters on the planet. Quilting involves sewing multiple layers of fabric together to create a colorful blanket. Wealthy Americans during the Colonial era often participated in this leisure activity as a way to pass time. The craft has survived the test of time and today quilters create a variety of items, including clothing, bed coverings, and wall hangings with quilting supplies in Port Arthur TX.

Beginners may be overwhelmed with the various supplies and notions available. Many items are optional and can help experienced quilters improve their skills. Beginners should start with a basic kit and add other items as they learn more about the craft.

Cutting patterns, trim, and fabrics requires a minimum of two pairs of scissors. One pair of scissors should be dedicated to cutting fabric only so the blades are always sharp. Keep a second pair of scissors handy for cutting paper patterns and other types of material.

Most beginning quilters will find that a seam ripper is extremely handy. This convenient little tool features a forked head with a razor sharp blade that slices through thread quickly and easily. The initial learning process will often require the quilter to removed stitched seams to start over again.

Quilters will use lots of pins to hold pieces of fabric in place while sewing stitches. A pin cushion not only organizes pins by keeping them all in one place but the wool roving inside the cushion prevents pins from rusting. Abrasive material inside the small ball hanging off the top keeps pins sharp and clean. Quilters should avoid using dull pins, which can leave big holes in the fabric and ruin the aesthetics of the finished piece.

Basting pins are similar to safety pins but are curved. This shape is effective for penetrating multiple fabric layers without shifting. These pins are helpful whether pin or spray basting.

Various marking tools are available to guide quilters when putting pieces together. These tools make temporary marks that are removed easily after serving their purpose. Some markers use air soluble ink that becomes invisible over time while others have water soluble ink that rinses out with water. Chalk is often preferable when the markings are only needed for a short period. For tracing intricate designs, quilters can use a blunt pencil or ballpoint pen and chalk transfer paper.

An iron with a minimum of 1500 watts is necessary for pressing fabrics to remove wrinkles. Quilters should choose an appliance with a steam function and consider purchasing one with an automatic shut off function for safety reasons. Spraying the fabric with starch makes it easier for most quilters to cut and piece together fabric swatches.

Quilters should also purchase a tabletop or freestanding ironing board. These items provide a flat surface for pressing the wrinkles out of fabric. With these basic sewing notions, anyone can start learning how to create colorful quilts.




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