How to Make a Denim Quilting Frame
When it comes to making your own quilting frame, nothing can be easier or cheaper than constructing it out of PVC pipe. Found at virtually any home improvement store, the supplies for a simple frame cost less than $30. PVC is ideal for this purpose because of its portability and sturdiness. No matter what type of material you are quilting, this classic frame can fit the bill.
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Things You'll Need
- Twelve ¾-inch PVC pipes, 30 inches long
- Eight ¾-inch-wide 90-degree elbows with side-out joints (three openings)
- PVC glue or liquid cement (optional)
- Four preslit polyethylene pipe insulation, 24 inches long
Instructions
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Create the base of the frame by making a square shape on the floor with four of the PVC pipes. At each joint, add an elbow piece with the third opening facing up. The pipe should slide into the joint easily. If you want to keep the unit permanent, apply glue as you add the joints.
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Make the top in the exact same way, also using glue if you want to keep the quilt frame permanent.
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3
Stand the last four PVC pipes up in the remaining openings of the base joints. Lift the top frame and flip over. Then attach the ends of the legs to the top joints.
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4
Add your quilt only after its quilt lines are marked and it is basted with the backing and batting. Lay your quilt across the top and let the sides drape over the edges. Be sure the quilt is flat across the top and on the underside; otherwise you will end up with puckers.
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Clamp the pipe insulation around the quilt and PVC pipe on each side. This should hold the quilt in place for quilting. As you move the quilt, simply remove the insulation and reattach after repositioning the quilt.
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Tips & Warnings
Some crafters glue the two square frames only and leave the rest unglued to keep the frame portable. Quilting through denim, particularly when hand quilting, can be difficult. Be sure to use a needle strong enough to pierce the denim and rock back and forth without bending or breaking.
If you can't find a 90-degree elbow without a reducing side, buy four reducing male adapters for ¾ by ½ inch. Screw the adapters into the ½ inch side.
