How to Hand Sew a Quilt

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Choose the materials you will work with.

   Different fabrics have unique properties which determine how they will get used.
   
   Generally speaking, Cotton fabric is best for hand quilting, although other fabrics are sometimes used.
2. 2

   Step 2: Choose the block pattern(s) you will use.

   Quilts are created section by section (called "blocks").
   
   You do not need to carry a blanket around with you... only the materials for making one block, or one fraction, of the blanket at a time. ,, Most quilt patterns will give you a list of needed amounts of fabric yardage to complete a quilt in various common bed sizes... single, full, queen, king, etc. , Some patterns will specify the best order of assembly for the block pieces... follow the pattern suggestions, as they generally work best. ,, Pin them, if need be. ,, Tie off the end of the thread when finishing each seam. , This will make them stronger than if you ironed them "open". ,,, Generally, you will sew the blocks directly together or you will sew a lattice work of a contrasting color between the blocks.
   
   In either case, you will sew blocks together into long strips or rows and then sew the strips/rows together to make a finished quilt top.
3. 3

   Step 3: Launder and iron the fabrics.

4. 4

   Step 4: Measure and cut out your pattern pieces.

5. 5

   Step 5: Keep a diagram of your chosen block pattern handy.

6. 6

   Step 6: Begin sewing.

7. 7

   Step 7: Line up the seam edges of your first two pieces of fabric with the "right" or printed

8. 8

   Step 8: sides of fabric facing each other.

9. 9

   Step 9: Thread a hand sewing needle with 20–40 inches (50.8–101.6 cm) of thread and tie a knot in one of the ends.

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    Step 10: Stitch the pieces of fabric together

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    Step 11: leaving a 1⁄4 inch (0.6 cm) seam allowance and taking care to sew in a straight line.

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    Step 12: Press the seam allowances to one side.

13. 13

    Step 13: Continue to sew consecutive block pieces together in the order suggested by the pattern instructions

14. 14

    Step 14: pressing each seam open and flat

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    Step 15: until you have completed a "block" of sewing.

16. 16

    Step 16: Set the block aside

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    Step 17: and begin on the next block.

18. 18

    Step 18: Lay all completed blocks out in the pattern as a final check before joining them together.

Detailed Guide

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