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The Sew What’s New Archive

This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and quilting message board “Sew What’s New,” which was retired in August 2007. It is being provided by “Sew What’s Up,” which serves as the new home for many members of “Sew What’s New.”
From: sheilao323
Date: 08-16-2006, 01:13 PM (1 of 8)
Hey Everyone

I've been thinking about taking up quilting, and I was wondering if anyone could suggest any books, sites, ect. that would be helpful for starters. I came across this really interesting craft site for young adults (like myself) that got my creative wheels turning: http://www.makeitu.com/ . If anyone can suggest any sources like this site---that's geared towards a younger audience--- I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks much!
User: sheilao323
Member since: 08-14-2006
Total posts: 1
From: lvquilts
Date: 08-17-2006, 07:16 AM (2 of 8)
I've read about Makeitu. It's designed to attract a younger demographic to sewing/quilting...glad it's working!

I don't know about websites to suggest, but there are a lot of books. One that comes to mind is Harriet Hargrave's "Heirloom Machine Quilting". That takes you step through step through the process if you're interested in machine quilting. If you live near enough to a fabric store, I strongly recommend signing up for beginner's classes. If nothing else, you'll have a deadline to finish a block before the next class!

Since I'm a stay-at-home-mom (read: I have time to sew but limited income!) I use my library a lot. I would check out your county's library catalogue online to see what books it has. My library only charges 50 cents to place a book on hold from another library branch and they'll ship it to my branch for pick up. If you love them after you borrow them...buy them used through Amazon.

I really can't say enough good things about classes. I hand quilted for over twenty years with a sloooow stab stitch method. Finally took a hand quilting class and with practice, have mastered the rocking stitch. I enjoy quilting more than ever and it's certainly faster!
User: lvquilts
Member since: 07-16-2006
Total posts: 29
From: DawnP
Date: 08-18-2006, 09:41 PM (3 of 8)
There are so many books on beginning quilting and your local library would be a great place to start. That way, you won't be out $20-$25 it costs for a book if you decide quilting is not for you.
Try contacting one of your local school districts for their schedule of adult education classes. Taking a class is the best way to learn. Also, there's got to be a quilt shop in your area offering beginner classes. It's not always best to teach yourself, having help is the way to go!
Joining a quilt guild would be fun, too! Quilters (and other crafters) are always happy to start new quilters on the path!

Just a warning, once you start quilting, you won't want to stop!

DawnP
User: DawnP
Member since: 08-15-2002
Total posts: 39
From: CinneBunz
Date: 08-23-2006, 09:49 AM (4 of 8)
I read on one of the machine sites they are having a 2 day Creative Quilting Retreat ....

Can someone explain what this is? ....
What do you do?
What do you need?

Any and all info will be greatly appreciated ....
Thanx....
User: CinneBunz
Member since: 11-05-2005
Total posts: 3
From: MaryW
Date: 08-23-2006, 10:41 AM (5 of 8)
A quilting retreat is when you go to a designated place to meet other quilters and spend two days learning. Details should be on the site where you saw the retreat mentioned.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005
Total posts: 2542
From: Patty22
Date: 08-23-2006, 11:07 AM (6 of 8)
If you saw the information about the quilting retreat at a sewing machine site, they possibly may be giving machine quilting or related quilting techniques related to the machine they sell.

Quilting retreats are fun. I went to one in Cooperstown, NY (baseball hall of fame town) in 1985. It was in September and we stayed at a campsite and made the flying geese quilt using the revolutionary Mary Ellen Hopkins method of cutting. (This was before rotary cutters and mats - yep, the dark ages.) The autumn air was crisp, it was quiet in the countryside, and the camp cook made the best soup and bread I've ever tasted. We had more fun sleeping in the bunk houses and I will never forget that wonderful weekend with my friends.

So to answer your question, a retreat is more than just sewing or learning new techniques, it is a great way to spend time with people you enjoy.
Patty
User: Patty22
Member since: 03-29-2006
Total posts: 1194
From: CinneBunz
Date: 08-23-2006, 01:33 PM (7 of 8)
Thanks for the info on the retreat .... maybe I'll get a chance to go ...
User: CinneBunz
Member since: 11-05-2005
Total posts: 3
From: sewcatcrazy
Date: 09-04-2006, 09:00 PM (8 of 8)
Hi,
You should watch QNN, its a 24/7 quilt site on the computer :pc: http://www.quiltersnewsnetwork.com/. You will get loads of information there. I watch it all the time, some of the best quilt teachers are here and you learn about all the new tools and tricks for quilters. My favorites are Fons and Porter and Eleanor Burns.

sewcatcrazy
User: sewcatcrazy
Member since: 09-03-2006
Total posts: 2
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