Top 10 Tools Every Quilter Needs
![]() Whether you're a quilting newbie or a seasoned stitcher, one thing is certain: having the right tools can make all the difference. Quilting is more than just sewing fabric together—it's an art, a passion, and sometimes, a test of patience (especially when the seam ripper comes into play). But with the right tools, quilting becomes not just more enjoyable but way more efficient too. Today, we're talking essentials—the tools you absolutely need to have in your quilter’s toolkit. Think of it like a quilter’s survival kit, ready to rescue you from crooked cuts, uneven seams, and all the little mishaps in between. Whether you're just starting out or have been quilting for years, these tools are must-haves. 1. Seam RipperLet’s be real—mistakes happen. That’s where the trusty seam ripper comes in. Every quilter needs one (or two… just in case the first one gets lost in a pile of fabric). A seam ripper is your go-to tool for undoing those not-so-perfect stitches. They come in various types: ergonomic ones for comfort, tiny sharp-tip ones for precision, or even ones with a light and magnifying glass attached.
2. Rotary CutterGone are the days of cutting fabric with plain ol' scissors (unless that’s your thing, who are we to judge?). A rotary cutter is a quilter’s best friend for precision cutting. These handy tools come with different blade sizes—45mm is the standard go-to for most projects, but 28mm is great for smaller cuts and curves. And remember, safety first! Always retract the blade when you’re done cutting to avoid those "oops" moments. Oh, and stock up on replacement blades—there’s nothing worse than cutting with a dull or chipped blade! 3. Little Fabric ScissorsNot all scissors are created equal, and when it comes to quilting, you need a small, sharp pair. These little scissors are perfect for snipping threads, trimming seams, and making those detailed cuts. And as every seasoned quilter knows, keep these scissors away from paper and family members who will misuse them—fabric scissors deserve the royal treatment.
4. ThreadIt may seem obvious, but not all threads are the same. High-quality thread is key to making sure your quilts last. Cotton thread is a classic for quilting, but polyester is great for durability, and there are specialty threads for adding extra flair. The right thread depends on your fabric and project, but a general rule is to match the thread fiber with your fabric fiber when piecing. And remember, thread color doesn’t always have to match perfectly—sometimes contrasting thread can add a fun, decorative element to your quilt! 5. Cutting Mat
Your rotary cutter’s best buddy is the cutting mat. A good mat protects your work surface and helps with accurate cutting. Self-healing mats are especially popular because they show less blade marks. A standard 24” x 36” mat is a good size for most projects, but if you’re short on space, smaller mats work too. Just make sure your mat is flat and smooth—any warping can mess up your cuts.
6. Clear RulerClear rulers are your guiding light for precision. They come in all shapes and sizes, but the 6” x 24” ruler is a favorite among quilters for its versatility. The transparency helps you line up your fabric perfectly, and the gridlines make measuring easy. Pair it with your cutting mat and rotary cutter, and you’re ready to make precision cuts!
7. Iron and Ironing BoardQuilting is all about precision, and pressing your seams as you go is the secret to crisp, clean lines. Whether you prefer a steam or dry iron, the key is to press—gently lifting and lowering the iron onto your seams instead of dragging across your fabric which can cause it to stretch. A good ironing board with ample space is also important. And let’s face it, pressing a finished quilt block feels pretty satisfying!
8. NeedlesNeedles, both for your machine and hand-sewing, are essential. Machine needles come in different sizes and types (like universal, quilting, and microtex), and using the right one makes a world of difference. Hand-sewing needles are great for binding or detailed stitching. The best brands will depend on your machine, but always make sure your needles are sharp—dull needles can cause skipped stitches or snag your fabric. 9. Pins
Yes, pins are essential, even in today’s world of clips and wonder tapes. Flat-head or glass-head pins are perfect for holding fabric layers in place, and long, sharp ones are best for quilting. When pinning, make sure your fabric doesn’t shift, and avoid sewing over pins to keep your needle (and machine!) safe.
10. Quilting Ruler Grip or Non-Slip GripsOkay, this one might be more of a bonus, but trust us—it’s a game-changer. A quilting ruler grip (or non-slip grips) keeps your ruler steady while cutting fabric, preventing those annoying shifts that can ruin an otherwise perfect cut. They’re easy to attach and can drastically improve your cutting accuracy. There you have it—the top 10 tools every quilter should have in their toolkit. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been quilting for years, having the right tools makes everything easier. So, take a look at your current toolkit and see if any of these essentials are missing. And if you’re ready to upgrade or replace some of your well-loved tools, be sure to check out Quilters Quest for all your quilting needs. |