Start a Quilting Business: Fundraising for Charity
Penny Halgren asked:
g business doesn’t have to be a store that sells fabrics, notions, kits, gives lessons, etc. It doesn’t even have to make money for you. Maybe your quilting business could benefit a charity or other organization instead.
To start a quilting business as a nonprofit agency, check into your state’s laws about nonprofits. You don’t have to get into all the business paperwork hoopla if your real goal is just to help people. If, however, you’d like sales exempt status to buy fabrics and supplies for your charitable quilting business, you will need to check into it.
There are many ways to change your love of quilting into money for your favorite cause.
One way is to make a quilt and donate it to your favorite group to use as a prize in a fundraiser.
Quilted postcards could be another fundraiser. You could sell your quilted postcards at holidays and donate the proceeds to your favorite charity.
Another quilting business idea that could benefit charity is to sell subscriptions to a quilting newsletter you publish. A percentage of each subscription could be donated to your favorite cause. Unless you’re wealthy enough, don’t forget to hold out your expenses first, then donate the remainder. You’ll be getting back the money you put into each project and donating the difference.
Your love of quilting could also help an organization in a more hands on method. Get area seniors involved by taking your quilting or quilt piecing to the local senior adult center or nursing home. Spend some much appreciated time with the elderly and lead their quilt crafting time.
On the other end of that spectrum, young children would love to learn to quilt too. Make sure you volunteer to work with children who can safely work with a needle and scissors! You could turn this idea into a money maker by charging a nominal fee for supplies. Parents are always seeking ways to enrich their children’s lives. Many of them would love to see a “quilting day camp” for their kids!
Quilts are often needed at nursing homes, senior centers and at day cares, children’s hospitals and orphanages. Perhaps your project could be to make lap quilts for these people. Check with the marketing coordinator or manager to see if they’d welcome a donation of lap quilts.
You might also check at local food banks and area chapters of the America Red Cross to see if they would like quilted donations.
Team up with a group that provides holiday gifts to the needy. Make quilted throws, toys, kitchen accessories - anything!
Make quilted holiday ornaments for area nursing homes, schools, hospitals to enjoy. You could also make a holiday ornament pack (or several packs) to donate to a group to give away in a drawing.
If you are looking for a way your donations could give you some sort of financial impact, ask your accountant if your quilts can be charitable deductions. If you are thinking of forming a non profit, remember that the term doesn’t mean you are not paid for your time, it simply means your business cannot PROFIT. Any profit must be turned back into the business. Again, check with your accountant and state laws for specific information that may affect you.
Whether you want to start a quilting business to profit for yourself or to make money for your favorite cause, there’s room in the quilting industry for you! Decide who you would like to help and develop a plan for how you will help them. Quilting for charity is a great way to share your love for quilting!
Geraldine
g business doesn’t have to be a store that sells fabrics, notions, kits, gives lessons, etc. It doesn’t even have to make money for you. Maybe your quilting business could benefit a charity or other organization instead.
To start a quilting business as a nonprofit agency, check into your state’s laws about nonprofits. You don’t have to get into all the business paperwork hoopla if your real goal is just to help people. If, however, you’d like sales exempt status to buy fabrics and supplies for your charitable quilting business, you will need to check into it.
There are many ways to change your love of quilting into money for your favorite cause.
One way is to make a quilt and donate it to your favorite group to use as a prize in a fundraiser.
Quilted postcards could be another fundraiser. You could sell your quilted postcards at holidays and donate the proceeds to your favorite charity.
Another quilting business idea that could benefit charity is to sell subscriptions to a quilting newsletter you publish. A percentage of each subscription could be donated to your favorite cause. Unless you’re wealthy enough, don’t forget to hold out your expenses first, then donate the remainder. You’ll be getting back the money you put into each project and donating the difference.
Your love of quilting could also help an organization in a more hands on method. Get area seniors involved by taking your quilting or quilt piecing to the local senior adult center or nursing home. Spend some much appreciated time with the elderly and lead their quilt crafting time.
On the other end of that spectrum, young children would love to learn to quilt too. Make sure you volunteer to work with children who can safely work with a needle and scissors! You could turn this idea into a money maker by charging a nominal fee for supplies. Parents are always seeking ways to enrich their children’s lives. Many of them would love to see a “quilting day camp” for their kids!
Quilts are often needed at nursing homes, senior centers and at day cares, children’s hospitals and orphanages. Perhaps your project could be to make lap quilts for these people. Check with the marketing coordinator or manager to see if they’d welcome a donation of lap quilts.
You might also check at local food banks and area chapters of the America Red Cross to see if they would like quilted donations.
Team up with a group that provides holiday gifts to the needy. Make quilted throws, toys, kitchen accessories - anything!
Make quilted holiday ornaments for area nursing homes, schools, hospitals to enjoy. You could also make a holiday ornament pack (or several packs) to donate to a group to give away in a drawing.
If you are looking for a way your donations could give you some sort of financial impact, ask your accountant if your quilts can be charitable deductions. If you are thinking of forming a non profit, remember that the term doesn’t mean you are not paid for your time, it simply means your business cannot PROFIT. Any profit must be turned back into the business. Again, check with your accountant and state laws for specific information that may affect you.
Whether you want to start a quilting business to profit for yourself or to make money for your favorite cause, there’s room in the quilting industry for you! Decide who you would like to help and develop a plan for how you will help them. Quilting for charity is a great way to share your love for quilting!
Geraldine
Quilting Gadgets Simplify the Process
Penny Halgren asked:
Quilting has changed over the years, thanks mostly to the development of various quilting gadgets. Rotary cutters simplified fabric cutting and make it more accurate than scissors. In addition to ease and accuracy, the rotary cutter eliminated the blisters scissors can create on the thumb and finger! Something so simple has proven to be a revolutionary quilting gadget.
Speaking of revolutionary, today’s quilting has really benefited from computers. Computerized sewing machines are a big change for today’s quilter. The ¼ inch presser foot and a walking foot have become standard quilting gadgets on many sewing machines.
Once upon a time, machine quilting as reserved for use at an industrial level. While it’s a much bigger “quilting gadget,” home quilting machines are another useful and attainable tool for quilters.
The Internet may be the biggest quilting gadget. Today, quilters have a world of threads, fabrics and other supplies at their fingertips. The Internet also is a great search tool, great at helping professionals and hobbyists find unique and helpful quilting gadgets.
Quilters can also find a wide array of free quilting patterns online. The Internet offers quilters the chance to perform a general search for quilt patterns or search for a specific pattern.
The Internet is also helpful because it affords quilters the opportunity to join quilting forums, subscribe to quilting newsletters, and to learn from frequently asked question pages. Quilters may use the Internet to join online chats with other quilters. Quilters may utilize other websites, like YouTube, to view instructional videos about quilting and special problems quilters may encounter.
The Internet is also a great place to shop for fabrics. Many quilters do not live near traditional brick and mortar fabric shops and some larger retail chains are discontinuing their fabric departments. The Internet fills that gap for quilters.
Fabric has come a long way over the years, too. With improvements in fabric manufacturing, today’s cloth could conceivably last hundreds of years. Fabric manufacturers, in addition to giving quilters better quality, are also delivering more variety. Available styles and colors have diversified. If you like Japanese fabric and your local shop doesn’t carry any, look online for sources. You will see how different, yet how similar, fabrics from another culture are to your own.
The Internet is a useful quilting gadget for quilters who want to sell their works. Many quilters sell their quilts or quilting services online through Internet auctions such as eBay or through their own websites and advertising on other quilting websites.
With your favorite quilting gadgets, fabric and a design in mind, you are ready to begin your quilting project. But, if you want to truly customize your design, there are several quilting gadgets that will help. Custom cut acrylic templates can help cut even the most challenging patches. Fabric pencils and colored chalks provide quilters the supplies needed to temporarily mark fabrics.
The ultimate quilting gadget is computer software that helps you custom design your own quilt and quilt blocks. A little computer literacy is all that’s required. Such software will let you take a traditional quilt pattern that is pre-loaded into the program, and alter lines to create your very own creation.
Each quilter has his or her own favorite quilting gadget. Maybe your favorite is a light weight quilt frame, your old rotary cutter, or something as simple and standard as a seam ripper. No matter what your choice, there’s no denying that the world is full of useful and affordable quilting gadgets that make quilting more enjoyable.
Leslie
Quilting has changed over the years, thanks mostly to the development of various quilting gadgets. Rotary cutters simplified fabric cutting and make it more accurate than scissors. In addition to ease and accuracy, the rotary cutter eliminated the blisters scissors can create on the thumb and finger! Something so simple has proven to be a revolutionary quilting gadget.
Speaking of revolutionary, today’s quilting has really benefited from computers. Computerized sewing machines are a big change for today’s quilter. The ¼ inch presser foot and a walking foot have become standard quilting gadgets on many sewing machines.
Once upon a time, machine quilting as reserved for use at an industrial level. While it’s a much bigger “quilting gadget,” home quilting machines are another useful and attainable tool for quilters.
The Internet may be the biggest quilting gadget. Today, quilters have a world of threads, fabrics and other supplies at their fingertips. The Internet also is a great search tool, great at helping professionals and hobbyists find unique and helpful quilting gadgets.
Quilters can also find a wide array of free quilting patterns online. The Internet offers quilters the chance to perform a general search for quilt patterns or search for a specific pattern.
The Internet is also helpful because it affords quilters the opportunity to join quilting forums, subscribe to quilting newsletters, and to learn from frequently asked question pages. Quilters may use the Internet to join online chats with other quilters. Quilters may utilize other websites, like YouTube, to view instructional videos about quilting and special problems quilters may encounter.
The Internet is also a great place to shop for fabrics. Many quilters do not live near traditional brick and mortar fabric shops and some larger retail chains are discontinuing their fabric departments. The Internet fills that gap for quilters.
Fabric has come a long way over the years, too. With improvements in fabric manufacturing, today’s cloth could conceivably last hundreds of years. Fabric manufacturers, in addition to giving quilters better quality, are also delivering more variety. Available styles and colors have diversified. If you like Japanese fabric and your local shop doesn’t carry any, look online for sources. You will see how different, yet how similar, fabrics from another culture are to your own.
The Internet is a useful quilting gadget for quilters who want to sell their works. Many quilters sell their quilts or quilting services online through Internet auctions such as eBay or through their own websites and advertising on other quilting websites.
With your favorite quilting gadgets, fabric and a design in mind, you are ready to begin your quilting project. But, if you want to truly customize your design, there are several quilting gadgets that will help. Custom cut acrylic templates can help cut even the most challenging patches. Fabric pencils and colored chalks provide quilters the supplies needed to temporarily mark fabrics.
The ultimate quilting gadget is computer software that helps you custom design your own quilt and quilt blocks. A little computer literacy is all that’s required. Such software will let you take a traditional quilt pattern that is pre-loaded into the program, and alter lines to create your very own creation.
Each quilter has his or her own favorite quilting gadget. Maybe your favorite is a light weight quilt frame, your old rotary cutter, or something as simple and standard as a seam ripper. No matter what your choice, there’s no denying that the world is full of useful and affordable quilting gadgets that make quilting more enjoyable.
Leslie
Heraldic Hand Stitched Embroidery work by needle
joginder asked:
Embroidery stitches are the smallest units in embroidery. Embroidery patterns are formed by doing many embroidery stitches, either all the same or different ones, either following a counting chart on paper, following a design painted on the fabric or even working freehand. Heraldic Hand Stitched Embroidery uses various combinations of stitches. In Heraldic Hand Stitched Embroidery you find a special name to help identify it. These names vary from country to country and region to region. Some embroidery books will include name variations. Taken by themselves the stitches are mostly simple to execute, however when you put them together the results can be extremely complex.
Heraldic Hand Stitched Embroidery work by needle. The needle is brought to the upside of the fabric. For doing the stitch properly, it is inserted into the fabric and brought back to the surface in one movement. Then the thread is pulled through. The same method is used for plain hand sewing.
A thimble is usually used on the middle finger to avoid minor injury. Once the needle is inserted into the fabric, the hooded middle finger is used to push it through; the thumb and index finger grab the needle at the front as soon as possible and pull at the same time. This can speed up working when the embroiderer is used to it.
This method can be done using an embroidery frame or free-hand, but usually an embroidery frame or hoop is used to make work easier. The technique uses frames that allow for adjustment of fabric tension, as the fabric can’t be too strongly stretched.
Philip
Embroidery stitches are the smallest units in embroidery. Embroidery patterns are formed by doing many embroidery stitches, either all the same or different ones, either following a counting chart on paper, following a design painted on the fabric or even working freehand. Heraldic Hand Stitched Embroidery uses various combinations of stitches. In Heraldic Hand Stitched Embroidery you find a special name to help identify it. These names vary from country to country and region to region. Some embroidery books will include name variations. Taken by themselves the stitches are mostly simple to execute, however when you put them together the results can be extremely complex.
Heraldic Hand Stitched Embroidery work by needle. The needle is brought to the upside of the fabric. For doing the stitch properly, it is inserted into the fabric and brought back to the surface in one movement. Then the thread is pulled through. The same method is used for plain hand sewing.
A thimble is usually used on the middle finger to avoid minor injury. Once the needle is inserted into the fabric, the hooded middle finger is used to push it through; the thumb and index finger grab the needle at the front as soon as possible and pull at the same time. This can speed up working when the embroiderer is used to it.
This method can be done using an embroidery frame or free-hand, but usually an embroidery frame or hoop is used to make work easier. The technique uses frames that allow for adjustment of fabric tension, as the fabric can’t be too strongly stretched.
Philip
Beginner Quilting - Learn the of Applique Quilt Making
Jennifer Walter asked:
This is the fun part of all quilt-making techniques. You can engrave the entire world on these quilts. Appliqué quilt are the quilts that represent certain time in memory.
These quilts can be easy as well as hard to make, hard because there is no certain pattern that you have to follow so those who are accustomed to copying certain patterns will find it hard to do while those who are creative and let imaginations guide their work will find this pattern fun to do.
Another great advantage of appliqué quilts is that they are inexpensive to make as material required is sourced from scrap like things, and the patterns are not defined or limited any mixture of patterns can result in a appliqué quilt.
Appliqué quilt making in its process teaches you all the other methods of quilt making as well. Be it stuffing batting in for creating 3-D effects , or yoyo quilts, embroidery designs or picture quilts all these methods can be learnt and perfected while learning the art of appliqué quilts. And in all this the fun part will always be there.
These quilts could be used by anyone, for a newborn baby or young kids or something you like to use to comfort your pets. Itching to learn this quilt type, well here is the method.
Normal Stitching Machine
* Sewing needles - Common size 12
* Iron
* Cutting Board
* Rotary ruler
* Spray starch
* Rotary Cutter
* Needles
* fabrics as per preference of color orscraps of fabrics.
* Pattern for appliqué quilt
* Quilt batting
* Pins- beaded head
* Fabric for lining or backpack
* Some decorative material and pictures
Learn The Art Of Applique Quilt Making :
1) Readying the fabric: You must prewash the material. This will ensure that color is not lost or material doesn’t shrink later on. Let the material get dried up fully and then iron it firmly. The material should be sans any wrinkles.
2) Cutting of fabric: Choice of pattern could be customary or your own unique one. My idea at the first experience was a black color background and with a printed flower fabric that I cut to add to the black fabric.
So it won’t be a bad if you would like to replicate my idea to make your appliqué quilt, girls especially would like it. If have some other pattern in mind then start with that pattern.
3) Build a Block: Take all the square you have and stitch them into a large square. If you have a guidebook or whatever ensure the instructions are followed as written. These steps indicated here is a general step-by-step procedure for all.
4) Piecing: Take all blocks and sew them till you have in hand the size of your quilt. Here in you can add a few decorative thing like old ornaments or fancy bookmarks that will enhance the beauty of the quilt.
5) Batting: Put your batting material over the piecing. The upper side of piecing should be one on one with the mat while the side stitched should run besides the batting. Then put selected lining material above it. Batting is available in different types and thinkness, select one that suits your fabric the best.
6) Quilting: Once done you have 3 different layers with you, stitch all these 3 layers with one another using a sewing machine. Like said before a lot can be done with pattern variations but sticking to a basic easy pattern is advisable for starters to begin with.
7) Binding: Binding is the last step where in all sides are stitched with material like piping.
Here you have your appliqué quilt ready for use.
Colleen
This is the fun part of all quilt-making techniques. You can engrave the entire world on these quilts. Appliqué quilt are the quilts that represent certain time in memory.
These quilts can be easy as well as hard to make, hard because there is no certain pattern that you have to follow so those who are accustomed to copying certain patterns will find it hard to do while those who are creative and let imaginations guide their work will find this pattern fun to do.
Another great advantage of appliqué quilts is that they are inexpensive to make as material required is sourced from scrap like things, and the patterns are not defined or limited any mixture of patterns can result in a appliqué quilt.
Appliqué quilt making in its process teaches you all the other methods of quilt making as well. Be it stuffing batting in for creating 3-D effects , or yoyo quilts, embroidery designs or picture quilts all these methods can be learnt and perfected while learning the art of appliqué quilts. And in all this the fun part will always be there.
These quilts could be used by anyone, for a newborn baby or young kids or something you like to use to comfort your pets. Itching to learn this quilt type, well here is the method.
Normal Stitching Machine
* Sewing needles - Common size 12
* Iron
* Cutting Board
* Rotary ruler
* Spray starch
* Rotary Cutter
* Needles
* fabrics as per preference of color orscraps of fabrics.
* Pattern for appliqué quilt
* Quilt batting
* Pins- beaded head
* Fabric for lining or backpack
* Some decorative material and pictures
Learn The Art Of Applique Quilt Making :
1) Readying the fabric: You must prewash the material. This will ensure that color is not lost or material doesn’t shrink later on. Let the material get dried up fully and then iron it firmly. The material should be sans any wrinkles.
2) Cutting of fabric: Choice of pattern could be customary or your own unique one. My idea at the first experience was a black color background and with a printed flower fabric that I cut to add to the black fabric.
So it won’t be a bad if you would like to replicate my idea to make your appliqué quilt, girls especially would like it. If have some other pattern in mind then start with that pattern.
3) Build a Block: Take all the square you have and stitch them into a large square. If you have a guidebook or whatever ensure the instructions are followed as written. These steps indicated here is a general step-by-step procedure for all.
4) Piecing: Take all blocks and sew them till you have in hand the size of your quilt. Here in you can add a few decorative thing like old ornaments or fancy bookmarks that will enhance the beauty of the quilt.
5) Batting: Put your batting material over the piecing. The upper side of piecing should be one on one with the mat while the side stitched should run besides the batting. Then put selected lining material above it. Batting is available in different types and thinkness, select one that suits your fabric the best.
6) Quilting: Once done you have 3 different layers with you, stitch all these 3 layers with one another using a sewing machine. Like said before a lot can be done with pattern variations but sticking to a basic easy pattern is advisable for starters to begin with.
7) Binding: Binding is the last step where in all sides are stitched with material like piping.
Here you have your appliqué quilt ready for use.
Colleen
Proper Seam Pressing in Quilts
Jan Myers asked:
Pressing the seams in your quilt is one of the most important tasks for the completed work. A good press will mean that the quilt is assured a smooth flow from piece to piece both visually and to the touch. Most quilters will find that they have a style of pressing that suits them best, but before you find that style it is important to realize what pressing is not.
What Pressing is Not
Pressing the seams in your quilt is not the same as ironing. Although you will be using an iron and an ironing board, it is absolutely critical to remember that you are not ironing (that is, running the appliance over the seam with gentle pressure) but just coaxing the seam down in order to seal it and make it less visible.
Pressing the seam is often thought of as a way of strengthening the seam, but this is not really the case. No strength is added to the seam itself by having it seam pressed down; instead, pressing the seam will mean that should any stitch come undone, the cotton batting in the quilt will not push up through the seam. This can be said to strengthen the integrity of the quilt somewhat, but it does not make the seam itself any stronger.
What Pressing Is
Pressing uses the weight of the iron itself to create seam allowances that might otherwise result in lost fabric. In a work such as a quilt, which requires many pieces put together, lost millimeters on each piece can mean a big difference in the end product. Pressing quilt blocks as they are made eliminates this problem.
Pressing will also create a good loft which will come in handy when it comes time to attach the pieces. Finally, pressing will help give the quilt a uniform appearance and feel. The fabric should never cover the seam on a properly pressed quilt.
Types of Pressing
There are two types of pressing; side pressing and open pressing. Side pressing is simply pressing the seams to one side, and is generally advocated by most quilting instructors.
Open pressing involves application of the iron both to the back and the front of the blocks. This can take twice as long as side pressing, but those who use it say that it greatly helps in the appearance of the quilt. This style is most appropriate when using machine stitched pieces, which are stronger than those done by hand; the stitch is less likely to come undone, and therefore hiding a hole will not be necessary.
Pressing Technique
When you are pressing blocks in the full quilt, the seams should be pressed towards the dark patches. If your quilt involves a more intricate pattern, with spirals and compass shapes, then try pressing in a clockwise pattern; at the very least, make sure that your presses are all uniform in direction. This will lessen the bulk in the middle of the pattern when all the seams are pressed.
Pressing seams is probably one of the dullest aspects of quilting, but it is important to make sure that you do it accurately. It will help to maintain the integrity of the quilt and can also make piecing that much easier.
One last hint, don’t use steam! The heat from the iron will be sufficient for pressing. Moisture may cause colors to run, and will make the blocks more susceptible to distortion.
Claudia
Pressing the seams in your quilt is one of the most important tasks for the completed work. A good press will mean that the quilt is assured a smooth flow from piece to piece both visually and to the touch. Most quilters will find that they have a style of pressing that suits them best, but before you find that style it is important to realize what pressing is not.
What Pressing is Not
Pressing the seams in your quilt is not the same as ironing. Although you will be using an iron and an ironing board, it is absolutely critical to remember that you are not ironing (that is, running the appliance over the seam with gentle pressure) but just coaxing the seam down in order to seal it and make it less visible.
Pressing the seam is often thought of as a way of strengthening the seam, but this is not really the case. No strength is added to the seam itself by having it seam pressed down; instead, pressing the seam will mean that should any stitch come undone, the cotton batting in the quilt will not push up through the seam. This can be said to strengthen the integrity of the quilt somewhat, but it does not make the seam itself any stronger.
What Pressing Is
Pressing uses the weight of the iron itself to create seam allowances that might otherwise result in lost fabric. In a work such as a quilt, which requires many pieces put together, lost millimeters on each piece can mean a big difference in the end product. Pressing quilt blocks as they are made eliminates this problem.
Pressing will also create a good loft which will come in handy when it comes time to attach the pieces. Finally, pressing will help give the quilt a uniform appearance and feel. The fabric should never cover the seam on a properly pressed quilt.
Types of Pressing
There are two types of pressing; side pressing and open pressing. Side pressing is simply pressing the seams to one side, and is generally advocated by most quilting instructors.
Open pressing involves application of the iron both to the back and the front of the blocks. This can take twice as long as side pressing, but those who use it say that it greatly helps in the appearance of the quilt. This style is most appropriate when using machine stitched pieces, which are stronger than those done by hand; the stitch is less likely to come undone, and therefore hiding a hole will not be necessary.
Pressing Technique
When you are pressing blocks in the full quilt, the seams should be pressed towards the dark patches. If your quilt involves a more intricate pattern, with spirals and compass shapes, then try pressing in a clockwise pattern; at the very least, make sure that your presses are all uniform in direction. This will lessen the bulk in the middle of the pattern when all the seams are pressed.
Pressing seams is probably one of the dullest aspects of quilting, but it is important to make sure that you do it accurately. It will help to maintain the integrity of the quilt and can also make piecing that much easier.
One last hint, don’t use steam! The heat from the iron will be sufficient for pressing. Moisture may cause colors to run, and will make the blocks more susceptible to distortion.
Claudia
Adding Embroidery - Great Way To Make Your Quilting Beautiful
Abhishek Agarwal asked:
Along with knitting and quilting, embroidery too is experiencing a new resurgence in its popularity. Crafters who like quilting, more often than not, enjoy embroidery too and often are torn between the two crafts, as they are both equally engrossing. Fortunately, embroidery and quilting go hand in hand. Crafters who enjoy quilting but also want to pursue the craft of embroidery can follow them both in a combined craft.
Embroidered quilts are perhaps the most beautiful crafted creations that man has hand made. An example of this the crazy quilts of the Victorian era. These quilts are mostly made from silk, usually leftovers from men’s ties or other pieces of fabric, and are pieced together randomly and then embellished with heavy embroidery. Even if you are more attracted to the traditional quilts, you must not fail to have a look at the crazy quilts to have an idea about what kind of embroidery you can use for embellishing your quilt. The embroidery in crazy quilts is extensive and very often it covers nearly the entire area of the surface of the quilt. But in case you don’t have time for that, you cal always use embroidery in touches here and there to give your quilted clothing or quilt some texture and depth.
It is really easy to learn embroidery stitches and it is likely that you already know some. You can go through some websites on the internet to find pictures or photographs of embroidery stitches. Chain and blanket stitches for outlining, and decorative stitches alike herringbone, feather, lazy daisy, cross and straight stitches are some embroidery stitches you can use on your quilt.
Embroidery and appliqu
Maximilian
Along with knitting and quilting, embroidery too is experiencing a new resurgence in its popularity. Crafters who like quilting, more often than not, enjoy embroidery too and often are torn between the two crafts, as they are both equally engrossing. Fortunately, embroidery and quilting go hand in hand. Crafters who enjoy quilting but also want to pursue the craft of embroidery can follow them both in a combined craft.
Embroidered quilts are perhaps the most beautiful crafted creations that man has hand made. An example of this the crazy quilts of the Victorian era. These quilts are mostly made from silk, usually leftovers from men’s ties or other pieces of fabric, and are pieced together randomly and then embellished with heavy embroidery. Even if you are more attracted to the traditional quilts, you must not fail to have a look at the crazy quilts to have an idea about what kind of embroidery you can use for embellishing your quilt. The embroidery in crazy quilts is extensive and very often it covers nearly the entire area of the surface of the quilt. But in case you don’t have time for that, you cal always use embroidery in touches here and there to give your quilted clothing or quilt some texture and depth.
It is really easy to learn embroidery stitches and it is likely that you already know some. You can go through some websites on the internet to find pictures or photographs of embroidery stitches. Chain and blanket stitches for outlining, and decorative stitches alike herringbone, feather, lazy daisy, cross and straight stitches are some embroidery stitches you can use on your quilt.
Embroidery and appliqu
Maximilian
The Two Classifications of Embroidery
Anna Poelo asked:
The art of embroidery has two classifications in itself. They are classified according to which is being stitched on top of the fabric and which is stitched through the fabric. On one hand, we have free embroidery. On the other, we have counted-thread embroidery.
Free embroidery involve designs that are applied with no concern to the weave of the fabric used. The best example as a form of free embroidery is crewel embroidery, which is popularly used for embroidery work on cushions, pillows, and curtains. Crewel embroidery uses a variety of stitchings and techniques and with this creates designs that have a raised and dimensional look to them. Other examples of free embroidery are traditional Chinese and Japanese embroidery.
The other type of embroidery is counted-thread embroidery. Counted-thread embroidery is the more contemporary of the two forms of the craft of embroidery. The patterns here are created as such that the stitches are made over a predetermined number of threads in the fabric. Tis form of embroidery is easier done on even-weaved fabrics such as embroidery canvas and aida cloth. Specially woven cotton and linen cloth are also fine for counted-thread embroidery.
There are many well-known examples of counted-thread embroidery. Canvas work is one of them. Canvas work is a form of embroidery where the yarn is stitched through a canvas or fabric. The yarns use can either be knitting yarns, tapestry wools, silk, synthetic, or metallic threads. Fine ribbons, plastic thread, raffia and string is also used for canvas work embroidery. Under canvas work, we have more specific forms of embroidery that includes needlepoint, petit point, and bargello. Canvas work embroidery can be done for pillows, purses, rugs, and upholstery.
Another example of counted-thread embroidery is blackwork embroidery. In blackwork embroidery, any black thread is stitched in even-weave fabrics. Traditionally, silk thread on white or off-white linen or cotton is what characterizes blackwork. In recent times, firmly twisted threads are preferred to give off a better look to the design.
Consequently, there is also what we call scarletwork, where the thread used is red and not black. There is also whitework embroidery wherein the stitching is done with the same color as the fabric (usually white). Whitework is usually done on blouses and christening gowns.
Perhaps a more popular example of counted-thread embroidery is cross-stitch. X-shaped stitches are sewn through the fabric to create a design or picture. The fabric used is even-weave and countable, and the stitches are made in the same size and appearance.
Drawn thread work is a form of counted-thread embroidery that is described as removing threads from the warp or weft of a fabric. The threads left on the fabric are then grouped together, forming them into various patterns. Going over into more elaborate styles of this form of embroidery, though, dawn thread work also uses other stitches and techniques.
All these forms of embroidery are still popular today. Whether it is free embroidery or counted-thread embroidery, the craft has given creative and colorful designs for our clothing, upholstery, carpets, and other fabrics.
Matthew
The art of embroidery has two classifications in itself. They are classified according to which is being stitched on top of the fabric and which is stitched through the fabric. On one hand, we have free embroidery. On the other, we have counted-thread embroidery.
Free embroidery involve designs that are applied with no concern to the weave of the fabric used. The best example as a form of free embroidery is crewel embroidery, which is popularly used for embroidery work on cushions, pillows, and curtains. Crewel embroidery uses a variety of stitchings and techniques and with this creates designs that have a raised and dimensional look to them. Other examples of free embroidery are traditional Chinese and Japanese embroidery.
The other type of embroidery is counted-thread embroidery. Counted-thread embroidery is the more contemporary of the two forms of the craft of embroidery. The patterns here are created as such that the stitches are made over a predetermined number of threads in the fabric. Tis form of embroidery is easier done on even-weaved fabrics such as embroidery canvas and aida cloth. Specially woven cotton and linen cloth are also fine for counted-thread embroidery.
There are many well-known examples of counted-thread embroidery. Canvas work is one of them. Canvas work is a form of embroidery where the yarn is stitched through a canvas or fabric. The yarns use can either be knitting yarns, tapestry wools, silk, synthetic, or metallic threads. Fine ribbons, plastic thread, raffia and string is also used for canvas work embroidery. Under canvas work, we have more specific forms of embroidery that includes needlepoint, petit point, and bargello. Canvas work embroidery can be done for pillows, purses, rugs, and upholstery.
Another example of counted-thread embroidery is blackwork embroidery. In blackwork embroidery, any black thread is stitched in even-weave fabrics. Traditionally, silk thread on white or off-white linen or cotton is what characterizes blackwork. In recent times, firmly twisted threads are preferred to give off a better look to the design.
Consequently, there is also what we call scarletwork, where the thread used is red and not black. There is also whitework embroidery wherein the stitching is done with the same color as the fabric (usually white). Whitework is usually done on blouses and christening gowns.
Perhaps a more popular example of counted-thread embroidery is cross-stitch. X-shaped stitches are sewn through the fabric to create a design or picture. The fabric used is even-weave and countable, and the stitches are made in the same size and appearance.
Drawn thread work is a form of counted-thread embroidery that is described as removing threads from the warp or weft of a fabric. The threads left on the fabric are then grouped together, forming them into various patterns. Going over into more elaborate styles of this form of embroidery, though, dawn thread work also uses other stitches and techniques.
All these forms of embroidery are still popular today. Whether it is free embroidery or counted-thread embroidery, the craft has given creative and colorful designs for our clothing, upholstery, carpets, and other fabrics.
Matthew
History of Chinese Embroidery
Himfr Ivy asked:
Chinese embroidery boasts a very long history. As the “Longevity embroidery” and “Token embroidery” unearthed from the Mawangdui Han Tomb in Changsha, Hunan Province, indicate, it reached a rather high level of development some 2000-3000 years ago. Wang Jia of the Jin Dynasty wrote in Making Good Omissions: “In the period of Three Kingdoms, Madame Zhao, wife of His Lord the chief of Wu, could embroider the map of all kingdoms on a piece of silk fabric, with the mountain ranges, rivers and sees all clearly shown. People of that time described it as superb needle-work.” The said map was perhaps the earliest recorded embroidery in China.
Embroidery, a folk art with a long tradition, has an important position in the history of Chinese arts and crafts. In its long development embroidery has been inseparable from silkworm raising and silk reeling and weaving.
China was the first country in the world to weave silk. Silkworms were domesticated as early as some 5,000 years ago. The production of silk threads and fabrics gave rise to the art of embroidery. In 1958, a piece of silk embroidered with a dragon and phoenix was discovered in a state of Chu tomb of the Warring Sates Period (475-221BC). More than 2,000 years old, it is the earliest piece of Chinese embroidery ever unearthed. Embroidery became widespread during the Han Dynasty (206BC-AD220) and many embroidered pieces discovered date back to that period.
Today, silk embroidery is practiced nearly all over China. The Four Famous Embroideries of China refer to the Xiang embroidery in central China’s Hunan Province, Shu embroidery in western China’s Sichuan Province, Yue embroidery in southern China’s Guangdong Province and Su embroidery in eastern China’s Jiangsu Province.
Xiang Embroidery
Xiang embroidery is well known for its time-honored history, excellent craftsmanship and unique style. The earliest piece of Xiang embroidery was unearthed at the No 1 Tomb of Mawangdui, Changsha City of the Han Dynasty (206BC-AD220). The weaving technique was almost the same as the one used in modern times, which demonstrated that embroidery had already existed in the Han Dynasty. In its later development, Xiang Embroidery absorbed the characteristics of traditional Chinese paintings and formed its own unique characteristics. Xiang embroidery experienced its heyday at the end of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) and in the early Republic of China (early 20th century), even surpassing Su embroidery. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Xiang embroidery was further improved and developed to a new level.
Xiang embroidery uses pure silk, hard satin, soft satin and nylon as its material, which is connected with colorful silk threads. Absorbing the spirit of Chinese paintings, the embroidery reaches a high artistic level. Xiang embroidery crafts include valuable works of art, as well as materials for daily use.
Shu Embroidery
Also called Chuan embroidery, Shu embroidery is the general name for embroidery products in areas around Chengdu, Sichuan Province. Shu embroidery enjoys a long history. As early as the Han Dynasty, Shu embroidery was already famous. The central government even designated an office in this area for its administration. During the Five Dynasties and Ten States periods (907-960), a peaceful society and large demand provided advanced conditions for the rapid development of the Shu Embroidery industry. Shu embroidery experienced its peak development in the Song Dynasty (960-1279), ranking first in both production and excellence. In the mid-Qing Dynasty, the Shu embroidery industry was formed. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Shu embroidery factories were set up and the craft entered a new phase of d
development, using innovative techniques and a larger variety of forms.
Originating among the folk people in the west of Sichuan Province, Shu embroidery formed its own unique characteristics: smooth, bright, neat and influenced by the geographical environment, customs and cultures. The works incorporated flowers, leaves, animals, mountains, rivers and human figures as their themes. Altogether, there are 122 approaches in 12 categories for weaving. The craftsmanship of Shu embroidery involves a combination of fine arts, aesthetics and practical uses, such as the facings of quits, pillowcases, coats, shoots and screen covers.
Yue Embroidery
Also called Guang embroidery, Yue embroidery is a general name for embroidery products of the regions of Guangzhou, Shantou, Zhongshan, Fanyu and Shunde in Guangdong Province. According to historical records, in the first year of Yongyuan’s reign (805) during the Tang Dynasty (618-907), a girl named Lu Meiniang embroidered the seventh volume of the Fahua Buddhist Scripture on a piece of thin silk 30 cm long. And so, Yue embroidery became famous around the country. The prosperous Guangzhou Port of the Song Dynasty promoted the development of Yue embroidery, which began to be exported at that time. During the Qing Dynasty, people animal hair as the raw material for Yue embroidery, which made the works more vivid. During Qianlong’s reign (1736-1796) of the Qing, an industrial organization was established in Guangzhou. At that time, a large number of craftsmen devoted themselves to the craft, inciting further improvements to the weaving technique. Since 1915, the work of Yue embroidery garnered several awards at the Panama Expo.
Influenced by national folk art, Yue embroidery formed its own unique characteristics. The embroidered pictures are mainly of dragons and phoenixes, and flowers and birds, with neat designs and strong, contrasting colors. Floss, thread and gold-and-silk thread embroidery are used to produce costumes, decorations for halls and crafts for daily use.
Su Embroidery
With a history of more than 3,000 years, Su embroidery is the general name for embroidery products in areas around Suzhou, Jiangsu Province. The craft, which dates back to the Three Kingdoms Period (220-280), became a sideline of people in the Suzhou area during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Well known for its smoothness and delicateness, Su embroidery won Suzhou the title City of Embroidery in the Qing Dynasty. In the mid and late Qing, Su embroidery experienced further developments involving works of double-sided embroidering. There were 65 embroidery stores in Suzhou City. During the Republic of China period (1912-1949), the Su embroidery industry was in decline due to frequent wars and it was restored and regenerated after the founding of new China. In 1950, the central government set up research centers for Su embroidery and launched training courses for the study of embroidery. Weaving methods have climbed from 18 to the present 40.
Su embroidery features a strong, folk flavor and its weaving techniques are characterized by the following: the product surface must be flat, the rim must be neat, the needle must be thin, the lines must be dense, the color must be harmonious and bright and the picture must be even. Su embroidery products fall into three major categories: costumes, decorations for halls and crafts for daily use, which integrate decorative and practical values. Double-sided embroidery is an excellent representative of Su embroidery.
In addition to the four major embroidery styles there are Ou embroidery of Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province; Bian embroidery of Kaifeng, Henan Province and Han embroidery of Wuhan, Hubei Province.
Teresa
Chinese embroidery boasts a very long history. As the “Longevity embroidery” and “Token embroidery” unearthed from the Mawangdui Han Tomb in Changsha, Hunan Province, indicate, it reached a rather high level of development some 2000-3000 years ago. Wang Jia of the Jin Dynasty wrote in Making Good Omissions: “In the period of Three Kingdoms, Madame Zhao, wife of His Lord the chief of Wu, could embroider the map of all kingdoms on a piece of silk fabric, with the mountain ranges, rivers and sees all clearly shown. People of that time described it as superb needle-work.” The said map was perhaps the earliest recorded embroidery in China.
Embroidery, a folk art with a long tradition, has an important position in the history of Chinese arts and crafts. In its long development embroidery has been inseparable from silkworm raising and silk reeling and weaving.
China was the first country in the world to weave silk. Silkworms were domesticated as early as some 5,000 years ago. The production of silk threads and fabrics gave rise to the art of embroidery. In 1958, a piece of silk embroidered with a dragon and phoenix was discovered in a state of Chu tomb of the Warring Sates Period (475-221BC). More than 2,000 years old, it is the earliest piece of Chinese embroidery ever unearthed. Embroidery became widespread during the Han Dynasty (206BC-AD220) and many embroidered pieces discovered date back to that period.
Today, silk embroidery is practiced nearly all over China. The Four Famous Embroideries of China refer to the Xiang embroidery in central China’s Hunan Province, Shu embroidery in western China’s Sichuan Province, Yue embroidery in southern China’s Guangdong Province and Su embroidery in eastern China’s Jiangsu Province.
Xiang Embroidery
Xiang embroidery is well known for its time-honored history, excellent craftsmanship and unique style. The earliest piece of Xiang embroidery was unearthed at the No 1 Tomb of Mawangdui, Changsha City of the Han Dynasty (206BC-AD220). The weaving technique was almost the same as the one used in modern times, which demonstrated that embroidery had already existed in the Han Dynasty. In its later development, Xiang Embroidery absorbed the characteristics of traditional Chinese paintings and formed its own unique characteristics. Xiang embroidery experienced its heyday at the end of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) and in the early Republic of China (early 20th century), even surpassing Su embroidery. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Xiang embroidery was further improved and developed to a new level.
Xiang embroidery uses pure silk, hard satin, soft satin and nylon as its material, which is connected with colorful silk threads. Absorbing the spirit of Chinese paintings, the embroidery reaches a high artistic level. Xiang embroidery crafts include valuable works of art, as well as materials for daily use.
Shu Embroidery
Also called Chuan embroidery, Shu embroidery is the general name for embroidery products in areas around Chengdu, Sichuan Province. Shu embroidery enjoys a long history. As early as the Han Dynasty, Shu embroidery was already famous. The central government even designated an office in this area for its administration. During the Five Dynasties and Ten States periods (907-960), a peaceful society and large demand provided advanced conditions for the rapid development of the Shu Embroidery industry. Shu embroidery experienced its peak development in the Song Dynasty (960-1279), ranking first in both production and excellence. In the mid-Qing Dynasty, the Shu embroidery industry was formed. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, Shu embroidery factories were set up and the craft entered a new phase of d
development, using innovative techniques and a larger variety of forms.
Originating among the folk people in the west of Sichuan Province, Shu embroidery formed its own unique characteristics: smooth, bright, neat and influenced by the geographical environment, customs and cultures. The works incorporated flowers, leaves, animals, mountains, rivers and human figures as their themes. Altogether, there are 122 approaches in 12 categories for weaving. The craftsmanship of Shu embroidery involves a combination of fine arts, aesthetics and practical uses, such as the facings of quits, pillowcases, coats, shoots and screen covers.
Yue Embroidery
Also called Guang embroidery, Yue embroidery is a general name for embroidery products of the regions of Guangzhou, Shantou, Zhongshan, Fanyu and Shunde in Guangdong Province. According to historical records, in the first year of Yongyuan’s reign (805) during the Tang Dynasty (618-907), a girl named Lu Meiniang embroidered the seventh volume of the Fahua Buddhist Scripture on a piece of thin silk 30 cm long. And so, Yue embroidery became famous around the country. The prosperous Guangzhou Port of the Song Dynasty promoted the development of Yue embroidery, which began to be exported at that time. During the Qing Dynasty, people animal hair as the raw material for Yue embroidery, which made the works more vivid. During Qianlong’s reign (1736-1796) of the Qing, an industrial organization was established in Guangzhou. At that time, a large number of craftsmen devoted themselves to the craft, inciting further improvements to the weaving technique. Since 1915, the work of Yue embroidery garnered several awards at the Panama Expo.
Influenced by national folk art, Yue embroidery formed its own unique characteristics. The embroidered pictures are mainly of dragons and phoenixes, and flowers and birds, with neat designs and strong, contrasting colors. Floss, thread and gold-and-silk thread embroidery are used to produce costumes, decorations for halls and crafts for daily use.
Su Embroidery
With a history of more than 3,000 years, Su embroidery is the general name for embroidery products in areas around Suzhou, Jiangsu Province. The craft, which dates back to the Three Kingdoms Period (220-280), became a sideline of people in the Suzhou area during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Well known for its smoothness and delicateness, Su embroidery won Suzhou the title City of Embroidery in the Qing Dynasty. In the mid and late Qing, Su embroidery experienced further developments involving works of double-sided embroidering. There were 65 embroidery stores in Suzhou City. During the Republic of China period (1912-1949), the Su embroidery industry was in decline due to frequent wars and it was restored and regenerated after the founding of new China. In 1950, the central government set up research centers for Su embroidery and launched training courses for the study of embroidery. Weaving methods have climbed from 18 to the present 40.
Su embroidery features a strong, folk flavor and its weaving techniques are characterized by the following: the product surface must be flat, the rim must be neat, the needle must be thin, the lines must be dense, the color must be harmonious and bright and the picture must be even. Su embroidery products fall into three major categories: costumes, decorations for halls and crafts for daily use, which integrate decorative and practical values. Double-sided embroidery is an excellent representative of Su embroidery.
In addition to the four major embroidery styles there are Ou embroidery of Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province; Bian embroidery of Kaifeng, Henan Province and Han embroidery of Wuhan, Hubei Province.
Teresa
Get Quilting and Make Money
Diane Palmer asked:
If you love to sew, and quilt, then why not incorporate them into a business?
I find a great angle for a business like this, is to offer to finish other peoples quilts. I know you may prefer to make them from scratch and show them off at craft shows, but what happens is, many people will walk by your quilt, admire it, then say “Oh I have one I am trying to finish at home”
They feel too guilty to buy your quilt, because they have one they started years ago, and due to time, kids, stress and life, they just have not got it done, and it sits in a corner somewhere collecting dust.
Since quilting is your passion, then why not offer to finish off these quilts for a price?
Or, offer to start one from scratch with their fabrics and colors.
Another great quilt people like, since they are fairly quick, are the rag quilts. You could offer to create a rag quilt for your customer, using their fabrics, or fabric squares you have, and make a rag quilt in a weekend.
A rag quilt is much faster to make, there is not the fancy stitching afterwards, and these rag quilts actually get better the more times they are washed, so they make for a very useful quilt.
If you just want to make your own rag quilt, then there are many books on the subject, and you can purchase many fat quarters, or quilt squares online now. This is a great way to get some unique fabrics, as you are looking worldwide while on the internet.
Get quilting, and make some money.
how to make a rag quilt
Coleman
If you love to sew, and quilt, then why not incorporate them into a business?
I find a great angle for a business like this, is to offer to finish other peoples quilts. I know you may prefer to make them from scratch and show them off at craft shows, but what happens is, many people will walk by your quilt, admire it, then say “Oh I have one I am trying to finish at home”
They feel too guilty to buy your quilt, because they have one they started years ago, and due to time, kids, stress and life, they just have not got it done, and it sits in a corner somewhere collecting dust.
Since quilting is your passion, then why not offer to finish off these quilts for a price?
Or, offer to start one from scratch with their fabrics and colors.
Another great quilt people like, since they are fairly quick, are the rag quilts. You could offer to create a rag quilt for your customer, using their fabrics, or fabric squares you have, and make a rag quilt in a weekend.
A rag quilt is much faster to make, there is not the fancy stitching afterwards, and these rag quilts actually get better the more times they are washed, so they make for a very useful quilt.
If you just want to make your own rag quilt, then there are many books on the subject, and you can purchase many fat quarters, or quilt squares online now. This is a great way to get some unique fabrics, as you are looking worldwide while on the internet.
Get quilting, and make some money.
how to make a rag quilt
Coleman
Make Money by Making Quilting Kits
Penny Halgren asked:
have to quilt to start a quilting business. There are plenty of ideas to find your niche in the world of quilting businesses.
Making and selling quilting kits is one niche market. Beginner quilters would purchase quilting kits. They are your target market. As you plan your quilting kits, keep in mind some of the obstacles a beginning quilter would face and strive to overcome them.
For instance, a beginning quilter might be daunted by all the patterns out there from which to choose. If a beginner selects a difficult pattern, chances are that the project will never be finished and the beginner might never try quilting again! To avoid that, select simple quilt patterns for your quilting kits.
Another obstacle beginning quilters face is fabric selection. Your quilting kit will have the fabric pieces with it, taking the guess work out of color coordinating and fabric selection.
Go ahead and cut the pattern pieces for your quilting kits, too. Beginners will especially love this! You could offer intermediate level quilters with another option. For the slightly more advanced quilter, you could print (or trace) the patterns onto fabric and allow the quilter to cut them out. Take into consideration how much time this might take, however.
Don’t forget to include threads and even a needle for hand stitching!
There are many different levels at which you could offer quilting kits. You could make kits for quilt block pillows, wall hangings, lap quilts or full size quilts. You could also compile kits for quilted toys and dolls.
Another niche market for quilting kits could revolve around holiday themes. Offer kits that will make ornaments and other decorations.
How will you sell your quilting kits? Many have dreams of mass market production, but you can sell your quilting kits without a contract from a large chain store! Consider selling the kits from your own website or Internet store. You could even sell them from an online auction site/store.
Small, classified line ads are an inexpensive way to advertise if you choose to advertise in craft magazines. Don’t overlook all the free publications in your particular area, either. A lot of newspapers or local tabloid sized magazines offer free classifieds.
Writing an effective classified line ad is not hard. Keep the information short and sweet, and don’t forget to include your contact information. A good classified ad might read: “Quilting kits. Perfect for beginners! See designs online at www.mywebsitename.com.”
You will also need to consider how to package your kits. The first way that comes to mind (and probably the easiest) is to include the fabric pieces, threads, needle and good instructions in a resealable plastic bag. The idea is to keep the kit simple for your buyer but to make money for your business. So, the less paper you include for directions, the more profitable your kit. But, make sure you include all necessary directions!
For instance, your detailed directions could fit on one side of paper or card stock. On the other side, take a photo of a completed quilt block from your kit. Make sure to include your business name and contact information on that side as well.
Home computers and inexpensive color laser printers make professional printing very affordable. Consider investing in a laser printer if you will be printing your own directions. Copy printed by inkjet method smears and runs if it gets wet.
When you assemble your kit, make sure the sheet or cardstock is inserted in the bag so that the photo of the completed quilt or block faces outside. This gives your customer a chance to see what they are purchasing and an example of how it should look upon completion.
Jessica
have to quilt to start a quilting business. There are plenty of ideas to find your niche in the world of quilting businesses.
Making and selling quilting kits is one niche market. Beginner quilters would purchase quilting kits. They are your target market. As you plan your quilting kits, keep in mind some of the obstacles a beginning quilter would face and strive to overcome them.
For instance, a beginning quilter might be daunted by all the patterns out there from which to choose. If a beginner selects a difficult pattern, chances are that the project will never be finished and the beginner might never try quilting again! To avoid that, select simple quilt patterns for your quilting kits.
Another obstacle beginning quilters face is fabric selection. Your quilting kit will have the fabric pieces with it, taking the guess work out of color coordinating and fabric selection.
Go ahead and cut the pattern pieces for your quilting kits, too. Beginners will especially love this! You could offer intermediate level quilters with another option. For the slightly more advanced quilter, you could print (or trace) the patterns onto fabric and allow the quilter to cut them out. Take into consideration how much time this might take, however.
Don’t forget to include threads and even a needle for hand stitching!
There are many different levels at which you could offer quilting kits. You could make kits for quilt block pillows, wall hangings, lap quilts or full size quilts. You could also compile kits for quilted toys and dolls.
Another niche market for quilting kits could revolve around holiday themes. Offer kits that will make ornaments and other decorations.
How will you sell your quilting kits? Many have dreams of mass market production, but you can sell your quilting kits without a contract from a large chain store! Consider selling the kits from your own website or Internet store. You could even sell them from an online auction site/store.
Small, classified line ads are an inexpensive way to advertise if you choose to advertise in craft magazines. Don’t overlook all the free publications in your particular area, either. A lot of newspapers or local tabloid sized magazines offer free classifieds.
Writing an effective classified line ad is not hard. Keep the information short and sweet, and don’t forget to include your contact information. A good classified ad might read: “Quilting kits. Perfect for beginners! See designs online at www.mywebsitename.com.”
You will also need to consider how to package your kits. The first way that comes to mind (and probably the easiest) is to include the fabric pieces, threads, needle and good instructions in a resealable plastic bag. The idea is to keep the kit simple for your buyer but to make money for your business. So, the less paper you include for directions, the more profitable your kit. But, make sure you include all necessary directions!
For instance, your detailed directions could fit on one side of paper or card stock. On the other side, take a photo of a completed quilt block from your kit. Make sure to include your business name and contact information on that side as well.
Home computers and inexpensive color laser printers make professional printing very affordable. Consider investing in a laser printer if you will be printing your own directions. Copy printed by inkjet method smears and runs if it gets wet.
When you assemble your kit, make sure the sheet or cardstock is inserted in the bag so that the photo of the completed quilt or block faces outside. This gives your customer a chance to see what they are purchasing and an example of how it should look upon completion.
Jessica