Guiding Light King Size Nautical Quilt

Seven Quilting Shortcuts
By Maybelle Maddison

Do you love quilting, but it doesn't seem like you can find the time to have fun with your favorite hobby? Here are some shortcuts to get you quilting and finishing your projects.

1. Reduce the size of your quilt

If you are someone who quilts queen-size quilts, try quilting a lap-size one for your next project. If you are a lap-size quilter, how about quilting a baby quilt? Baby quilt person? Then try finishing a miniature quilt. This will reduce your quilting time while also getting in your fix. And before you say that you don't like miniature quilts, they make wonderful cubicle art for your favorite office worker. They can be hung with thumb tacks.

2. Use Fusible Batting

Instead of basting your quilt sandwich together with needle and thread, try some other options. I love using fusible batting. As long as you have an iron, you are in business. The heat from the iron will fuse the three pieces together. You'll have to check the manufacturer's instructions, but the glue comes out when it is washed. Other basting choices are to use quilt basting spray or safety pins.

3. Go back to Tried n True Patterns

Patterns you have pieced before are like old friends. There are no blips in the pattern. There is no stopping to re-read the directions. You'll be able to piece these quilt tops easily and quickly. If you want something different, try using different types of fabric for the quilt pattern or a different layout of the blocks.

4. Take Advantage of Strip-Piecing Techniques

Stick to projects where you can use strip piecing techniques. These allow you to chain stitch assembly-line style. It is also easier to cut out the pieces for these projects because you can just use a rotary cutter and mat. You'll save time cutting your fabric and piecing your quilt top.

5. Use Purchased Binding

You either have time or money. When you want to save time, try purchased quilt binding instead of making your own. This tactic will only work if you can find binding that will match your project. This shortcut works best on with baby quilting projects that call for vibrant colors.

6. Finish your quilt with mock binding

Mock binding is using the quilt's backing as part of the binding. It looks nice and makes finishing quilt a snap. Also, if you don't secure the edges, you have a built in sleeve to hang your quilts.

7. Plan your quilting in 15 minute increments.

Set your timer and go. You can get some serious chain stitching done in 15 minutes and you can surely find 15 minutes in your schedule for your favorite hobby.

Well, there you go. Using these tips will make it easier for you to finish your projects.

Maybelle Maddison is a true Southern Belle and dedicated quilter. She has made it her mission in life to spread the joy of quilting! Visit her site at http://www.joannfabrics.org for quilting information, pattern reviews and suggestions on how to start and keep quilting!

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Quilt vs. Comforter: A Bedding Dilemma
By Melissa Sands

When faced with the multitude of bedding options in today's marketplace, how do we know what is the best choice? Comforters, quilts, duvets, blankets, bedspreads, deep pockets- what's a shopper to do? It's enough to give you an anxiety attack at the local bedding superstore. It may sound like a trivial matter, but when you consider the amount of time spent in bed and the price of bedding these days, it is an issue which deserves consideration. Clearly the topic is large and deep, so for the purpose of this article we will focus on the top layer only. The question in question is, "What is better, a comforter or a quilt?"

In my personal experience, most people these days are using comforters on their beds. They are widely available in every price range and color, along with matching accessories as well. They are fluffy and warm and darn it, people like them. There is nothing wrong with a good comforter, and I have personally been sold on them for years. In fact, my linen closet is filled with old models, wadded up and crammed into the tiny space. However, I have made a new bedding discovery which has jazzed up my decor and even inspired me to write this article. This discovery is the modern quilt, which offers some pretty unique features.

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?

Comfort and ease of use is not the only reason to choose a quilt. For beauty and style quilts are simply the best choice. Modern quilts use thousands of pieces of fabric intricately sewn together in detailed patterns. Many of these quilts are artwork as well as bedding. Plaid, floral, stripe, check and solid fabrics are combined into rich patchwork designs, using today's popular colors and patterns. So don't be fooled by the word quilt-it's is no longer synonymous with country decor. Styles offered these days include every decor from sophisticated to rustic. Most high-end quilt manufacturers also make all of the necessary accessories, such as bedskirts, toss pillows, pillow shams, Euro pillows and window treatments. The result will be an eclectic decorator look which is a snap to achieve.

Quilts are a classic bedding choice that is here to stay. Choose wisely and your quilt will be around for generations. Avoid the cheaper versions that are filled with polyester, they are quite thin and best for decorative uses only. You should expect to pay at least $200 to $300 for a good cotton-filled, king-sized quilt. Shop around because prices vary quite a bit for the same products. We sell quality quilts because we love them and the instant beauty they provide to our home. If you would like to see some examples of quality cotton quilts, visit our website. I would be happy to help you find the right quilt for your home. You won't go wrong with a quality quilt!

Melissa Sands is a shopkeeper and new author of country decorating information.

Visit us for beautiful quilts, baby bedding, and country decor.

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