Quick How-To - Homemade Quilting Frames

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.

When you are in the midst of selecting the blankets, you must avoid those poorly made products. You are reminded to choose products which come with high threat count. In order to minimize down leakage, you need to get a blanket with a thread count of at least 220. At the same time, you are reminded to focus on the stitching. It will be better for you to pick those blankets with regular V stitching, box stitching or quilt squares. Besides, it is also important for you to feel the materials personally when you shop around. Don't be shy to test the products. You are advised to feel the blankets with your fingers and play with the materials. If possible, you should hold each blanket against your face to find out how soft and warm it is before you purchase. Make the selection carefully.

Another way to make a memory quilt is to use all new fabric with a different approach. You could make each square a representation of some part or event of a child's life. Each square would be embellished by applique, embroidery, scanned pictures, iron-on letters, fabric paint or whatever you like. You could ask important people from the child's life to contribute a square or two and to sign their square with their name.

Here is a basic Crazy Quilt pattern you can use to try your hand at crazy quilting. Just remember that you can do this many different ways, and that this is only meant as a suggestion.

Blanket Quilt Unlike comforters, a quality quilt is filled with cotton. This results in a much more substantial bedcovering. When you compare a comforter and a cotton-filled quilt of the same size, you will find that the quilt weighs quite a bit more. The quilt is heavier, but it takes up less space. Therefore, you get all of the warmth of a comforter, without the bulk. And because the batting is cotton and not polyester, you won't wake up sweaty in the morning. Quilts are also much easier to store when not in use, and they can double as a picnic blanket! When was the last time you took your comforter to the park?

Make pillows. Single blocks are the perfect sice to create toss pillows for your sofa, loveseat or chairs. Make pillow shams for your bed by stitching several together to fit your pillows.

Usually these programs encourage you to bring in your own supplies and patterns. This is perfect for someone considering baby quilt patterns. It's great because you can actually work in the quilt that you want to make at the same time you are learning how to make it. The instructor is there to guide you every step of the way.

The next time you are trying to figure out just what to get for an upcoming baby shower, think of the impression your gift will make if it is personalized. Even if mom and dad have not announced the baby's name, you can still have the child's last name added to any gift you choose. If you decide on a baby blanket, quilt, or pillow, ask the parents what theme they have chosen so you can coordinate your gift.