Things You'll Need:
- Thimble
- Quilting needles "betweens"
- Hand quilting thread
- Quilting hoop or frame (optional)
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Step 1
Choose a thimble with large indentions for the needle to fit in as you push it through the layers of the quilt. There are several to choose from, according to the size of your finger, and you may have to try a few before you choose the one that works best for you.
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Step 2
Select the needles and thread best suited for quilting. The "between" needle is the most preferred, because they are short and very sharp. They come in different sizes, from size seven to 12, and it's probably best to start with the larger size and work your way down as you improve your skills. Choose quilting thread, which is stronger and less likely to break.
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Step 3
Decide whether to use a hoop, frame or nothing at all. If you're quilting a small quilt or wall hanging, freehand quilting will work, but as you get into larger quilts, you may find that you need a hoop or frame. You are less likely to develop irregular puffs of backing if you have the area you are quilting held taut. There is a variety of large hoops and free standing quilting frames to choose from, but the frames can be pricey. If you are handy with a saw, you may want to make your own simple frame.
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Step 4
Assemble the top, batting and backing of your quit, and baste them together. Use long basting stitches to sandwich the pieces together securely so that they don't shift when adjusting them in the frame or hoop. When the quilt is finished, you will remove the basting threads.
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Step 5
Pick your quilting pattern. There are many patterns available, to trace onto your quilt, with special fabric pens. Sometimes it's easier to just quilt around the designs or blocks on your first quilt, rather than try to learn on an intricate quilting design.
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Step 6
Place your quilt in the hoop or frame after you have decided on the quilting design you want to use. Thread your needle with about 18 inches of thread and then make a knot in one strand. Working from the top, slip the needle down through the first layer, through the batting and then back to the surface. As you pull the thread, the knot will bury into the batting.
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Step 7
Begin quilting by using the small running stitch, used most often on handmade quilts. Use the thimble on your middle or forefinger to push the needle through the layers, keeping your other hand below to help guide the needle. This may take some practice to make your stitches even, but once you've mastered this stitch, you should be able to quilt anything.
