The Best Baby Shower Gifts

Cut the number of 12 and a half inch muslin squares you will need for your finished project. You could cut one if you just wanted to make a single block for learning purposes.

Once a quilt block template has been created it should be put on the fabric lined up with the fabric's grain on one straight edge. Then with either a tailor's chalk or a quilter's pencil it can be drawn around. Folding several layers of the fabric accordion style will create several patches at once. Then after the template has been stapled to the layers one can cut the pieces out. If it is possible, it is of great value to use a cutting mat and a rotary cutter should they be available.

Blanket Quilt Design is the next step in the process of creating the perfect baby quilt. Different types of quilts require different materials in different amounts; therefore it is essential to have your quilt designed before you purchase materials. Another variable is time: patchwork quilts take a lot more time and dedication than tie quilts, and a crocheted quilt takes even more time than a patchwork. Quilters should be prepared for the amount of work they are going to dedicate to the quilt.

We have a wonderful family tradition of everyone making at least one homemade gift for Christmas to give another family member. My children have all made at least one blanket to give a family member. The fabrics are fun to choose and put together as we think of the personality of the family members. We have a daughter very much into music so there are always musical motif fabrics in her quilts, a son who loves insects so a quilt with ants or other insects are often made for him. There is the wonderful John Deere fabrics to make beautiful quilts. If you have a hobby or interest there is sure to be a fabric just right to personalize your blanket.

Don't be afraid to use your handmade quilt. The layers and the warmth of the batting make it perfect for keeping you warm cold winter nights. Even after many years of use, this author has several quilts that are still in excellent condition.

Selvedge edges are about one-half inch in width and run the length of the bolt. The writing on the edge varies in font style, color, and amount of coverage. This then becomes the decoration on this strip. The selvedge edge's size and shape matches another material women used a century ago that was definitely not intended for quilt makers, but instead was a by-product of cigar companies.

There are a lot of different kinds of down throw blankets out in the market today. The quality of these blankets depends on the type of down that was used. There is the eider blanket that is made in lightweight cloth and can really keep in the heat to warm you up. The fine material comes from the feathers of the sea water ducks of the Northern Hemisphere. If you are not convinced, try going for the best down throw blankets made with eider down or goose down. There are also other types of down but these two have the best warmth and durability with a very affordable and reasonable price.