Most quilters strive to make short and even hand quilting stitches.

To do this, it helps to have the right tools to work with.

1 - High quality, 100% cotton quilting thread. Quilting thread is

a little different from other threads in that it has a kind of

waxy coating on it to help it glide through all the layers of your

quilt.

2 - Quilting needles, called Betweens. These needles are shorter

than other needles which helps create the smaller stitches. They

come in sizes 9, 10, and 12. The larger the number the shorter

the needle.

3 - Small scissors for clipping threads. I use very sharp

embroidery scissors for my quilting.

4 - Thimble that fits the finger that will push the needle through

the quilt. Some quilters use their middle finger, others use

their thumb. Whichever it is, you will have more success in hand

quilting if you use a thimble that fits.

5 - Quilt frame or hoop. This will put even tension on your quilt

and help prevent puckers and pleats. A quilt frame generally is

a large frame that stands on the floor by itself. A hoop is

smaller, and you can hold the quilt in your lap.

Until next week - Happy Quilting!

Penny Halgren

TheQuiltingCoach.com