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Best Gifts For Quilters Reviewed & Rated for Quality
Apart from letting you create awesome clothing items, quilting sharpens the mind and develops your cognitive capabilities. It also follows that purchasing effective quilting tools as gifts goes beyond merely allowing you to make great quilts.
It is for this reason that you want to invest heavily in the kind of quilting supplies and their accessories you select for the job. We are here to help you out. We have identified some of the best quilting accessories and tools. Our review below endeavors to shed more light on them.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Accessories
Accessories are tools which as needed to construct and design the quilt. The list of tools are explained in detail below:
Cutters
They are essential in quilting. The main purpose is to cut the fabric into sizes and shapes required. Below are the types of cutting tools.
Scissors: You will need quality functioning fabric scissors. These will include a small and large one designed for cutting fabrics.
Large cutting scissors - Great quality is not a choice. This will enable you to make excellent cuts. It can be either on a straight line or around the templates. This will lead to the formation of offering precise cuts.
Small cutting scissors - They can be used in minor projects such as cutting threads and clipping bits of fabric that are out of proportion. The best ones should be pointed and narrow at the cutting edge. This will enable you to reach small and tight corners in your fabric.
Rotary cutters - They have a blade which is circular and a handle. The blade rotates when cutting. That’s where the name of the tool comes from. The tool is available in sizes that range from small to larger ones. They are mainly used for cutting curves. Furthermore, it can cut several layers of the fabric.
Seam Ripper
When quilting, a few errors may occur. To undo, a seam reaper will be handy in this case. You can purchase one, but the smaller ones are usually packaged with the machine. The form of the reaper is two points: the head and the handle. The head has a fork form with the sharp end, which is used for cutting threads. Its inserted beneath the thread, then lifted to cut it. The loosened thread can then be easily removed.
Pins
They are mainly used for securing the fabric when sewing. This assures steadiness and efficient quilting. In this case, there are two major types: The quilting head pins and silk pins.
Quilting Head Pins
For accuracy, head pins are what you need. When stitching, the fabric is prone to shift and cause mishaps. Therefore, they are used mainly to secure the fabric in place for stitching. In addition, the pins are sharp and smooth. This enables them to glide swiftly into the fabric without creating destructive punctures.
Silk Pins
These are pins which are entirely metal with ends that compose of plastic or glass. They are usually longer compared to other pins. They are sharp, thus penetrating easily into the fabric. Being long enables them to be firm and not to fall. This makes it an ideal pin for securing your fabric when quilting. Moreover, fewer pins will be used. The material is usually rust resistant.
Thread
For the best outcome, using a high-quality thread is a must. The threads are mainly composed of poly-cotton and cotton. The threads are available in different weights. The thread weight, which is 50, is commonly used. But other weights are applicable as well. This may include the creation of flowers, patterns, and binding the edges of the fabric.
Rulers
When dealing with sewing, taking measurements is inevitable. A good measuring instrument is needed. This will enable accurate measurements and will yield the best end results.
The ruler ensures consistency and precise quilting. There will be steady lines and curves through their use. They are available in different shapes and sizes. Some of the shapes available are a straight line, curves, novelty shapes, and half circles, etc.
When you get frustrated with quilting freely without a guide, a ruler is the best alternative. Following the hard edge ensures you never go wrong. In addition, it ensures uniformity in the patterns that you will create.
The ruler can be used as a preventive measure against mishaps. Moreover, its use can be applied jointly with a quilting foot. This ensures evenness in both stitching and filler distribution.
Cutting Mats
For the protection of your working surface, cutting mats are handy. They ensure no indentations are left behind. Thus provides quality and long lasting services. It also protects the rotary blade against damage by a hard or rough surface. The purchase of one will save you from losses that will result from, damages on your working surface as well as damages to the blades.
Fabric
Fabric is the main raw material for making quilts. The best fabric is cotton, which should be 100%. This is because it undergoes minor shrinking after multiple cleaning when compared to other fabrics.
Bottom Line
To get best results, quality supplies are not a choice. They are a must as they will guarantee the best outcome. This includes both the raw materials and tools. The fabric and threads are major raw materials that’s needed. Ensure they are both made from the finest material. This way, your quilt will have the best value. Moreover, quality materials ensure that quilts last longer.
For tools, this ensures efficiency when handling them. If you pick quilting as your line of business, quality tools ensure more profits and low maintenance fees. This is because there will be little to no replacement required. The only things you will be required to spend on are consumables.
Accuracy
This criterion applies to accessory tools such as rulers. When handling fabric, accuracy is key in order to get the best results. Rulers are made into different shapes; ranging from curved ones to straight. Therefore, you can create consistent patterns which are accurate and similar.
For experienced quilters, rulers as a guide are optional since they have enough skills to freely quilt accurately without them. But for the beginners, a ruler is an ideal tool. This will not only assist to avoid mishaps, but also will give you the best learning experience.
Durability
This touches both the tools and raw materials. A consumer will need a quilt which lasts longer and resistant to wear and tear. Therefore, to make this possible, getting high-quality threads and fabrics is the only way. This not only satisfies the user but also encourages them to purchase more for quilting in the future.
In the case of quilting tools, durability means you will have little cost of maintenance. This is because durable tools are resistant to damages and wearing out. Therefore, getting replacements or spare tools take time; and if it's required, it's totally worth it. Therefore, when purchasing the accessories, ensure they are durable at all cost.
Effectiveness
This applies entirely on tools which make quilting possible. Some of them include pins, cutters, cutting mats, and rulers. Ensure each one of them functions best, as a defect in one may affect the general outcome. For pins, ensure they are strong enough to get through the fabric and hold it in place.
For cutters, they should be sharp to precisely cut the fabric. And also ensure that’s the only purpose they serve. Engagement in other household activities may render them ineffective.
For cutting mats, a self-healing kind is the best choice. This will ensure it serves you longer, and also protects your working surface from indentations due to cuts.
Last but not least, rulers ensure simplicity when using and are top quality enough to offer the intended services
10 Best Gifts for Quilters
1. MumCraft
In the course of quilting, you will often have to hold several layers of fabric in place. This is where the sewing clips come in. We recommend that you try this package out. Apart from requiring no pins for sewing, it also has the ability to hold heavier fabrics intact. With this arrangement in mind, you can handle the most daunting of your sewing chores with some ease.
Perfect for Diverse Crafts
The sewing clips are suited for a diverse variety of crafts. For instance, it may organize paper, post notes, or hang pictures and mementos.
Your use of these clips are a guarantee that you will gain so much more in return for the money you part with. It also guarantees some convenience to you as you will not have to spend too much.
Wide Opening
Compared to the other brands, this one opens wider. Because of this, these clips are capable of holding multiple layers of fabric at any given time. Complementing the wide opening is the flat base. It allows for the easier feeding of the clip to the presser foot.
This, in turn, yields you expedited applications and smoother results. This means limited waiting time and a greater degree of convenience.
Cost and Value
The most notable benefit of these sewing clips is the fact that they handle numerous types of fabrics at a time. It means that you spend less, yet obtain more benefits in return. What’s more? These sewing clips are further accompanied by a limited manufacturer’s warranty. You should shop for it with maximum confidence and utmost peace of mind. They are available for purchase.
2. Fairfield
While making pillows, you will usually want to fill its interior with fabric. It is the filling that makes it possible for you to obtain the softness and support necessary. This fiberfill comes in at such times. It occupies those interior spaces within the pillow to confer the softness and support necessary. This is not your ordinary filler. As you are about to note, it contains some unique characteristics that set it apart.
100% Premium Polyester Fiber
On the whole, the filler is made of premium polyester fiber. This material is warm, soft, and highly breathable. This being the case, it allows for smooth exchange of air within the fiber. At the same time, it offers warmth and support necessary for comfortable sleeping.
Further to this, the materials used are also recycled. Your purchase of this filler is a boost to the environment. Win-win!
Washable and Non-Allergenic
The materials used are also easily washable and non-allergenic. You will be able to get rid of any dirt from the materials by hand just as easily as you would by machine wash.
And if you happen to be allergic to dust or dirt, worry not because the fabric is yet again capable of repelling them. This is a filler you want to acquire and give to an allergy sensitive user.
Cost and Value
Most fillers are normally averse to allergic individuals. This is not the case with this particular filler. You will stand to derive the value of many returns on your investment with this material.
Additionally, the cost of acquiring the filler is not really prohibitive. This offsets the limited warranty which accompanies it. You, therefore, want to make these factors a priority while shopping for your filler.
3. Cricut
It you need to cut out cloth or materials, you will have to use a grip mat. It is called a grip mat because it has an adhesive surface in which you stick the material you intend to handle. Even though the adhesive surface of this mat is sticky, it nevertheless releases the item that is patched onto it easily. This makes your handling and use of the mat a breeze.
Multiple Variants
This mat does contain numerous variants: these are light, standard, and strong grips. They let you choose the thickness and longevity of the adhesive you want to make use of.
With these variants, it is possible for you to tackle quite a number of materials, fabrics, and surfaces. You will get to achieve your designated tasks and duties conveniently. Furthermore, you buy one and get all the benefits.
Works Well With Cricut Machines
This grip mat works well strictly with the Cricut machines. That is because they are designed to work jointly and deliver the necessary outcomes. In particular, the Cricut Expression II, Cricut Expression, and the Cricut Explore machines are good for its use.
They have been noted to deliver more accurate results. Moreover, they also deploy easily whenever the adhesive is removed. You get to save time and effort in the process.
Cost and Value
Given its slimmer and easier to use, form, and shape, this mat is a worthy companion while quilting. It is also backed by limited money back guarantee. This allows you to shop with confidence.
It handles many quilting-related chores with ease, meaning you just cannot afford to pass this by. What’s more? The mat is cheaper to come by and will not drain your finances.
4. Somolux
You will have to cut shapes and materials from time to time. You have to lay your hands on reliable cutters for getting the best results. This is a good one to try out. It operates using the rotary principle. This allows it to gouge out great shapes with minimal effort. Also, it is accurate enough to guarantee great precision in the course of handling the shapes.
Premium Japanese Steel
Standing out is its premium Japanese steel material construction. The material lasts longer than usual and is truly reliable for long term use. This is not to mention that it does not sustain any corrosion or damages easily.
Courtesy of this material, the cutter can handle numerous operational cycles. For this reason, you stand to enjoy added value for your money. Your costs of repairs and maintenance are also lessened.
Durable Tungsten Alloy
The blades, on the other hand, come in a durable Tungsten alloy. This material is generally cheaper, lighter, sturdier, and sharper. Expect the blades to pierce through the toughest fabric with ruthless efficiency.
This material also adds wear-resistance and strength to the blades. They will hardly sustain any corrosion while at the same time deliver effective performance. This brings down your operational expenses to a minimum.
Cost and Value
This cutter is accompanied by a 100% money back guarantee. In case you are not satisfied with your purchase, simply return it. You will not be asked any questions.
Furthermore, the cutter also assures you long-term cutting benefits and performances. There will not be a need to buy a new one every now and then. This will save you some money in the long run.
5. LaPierre Studio
The Supreme Slider is the ideal tool for all your threading and quilting tasks. It binds fabrics together and also generates embroidery, monograms, and calligraphy. It does all of this through the free-motion technique. With this tool at your fingertips, you will not have to look elsewhere for your quilting needs. Its comprehensive scope makes it better suited to handle all of your needs literally ‘under one roof.’
Motion Quilting Mat
The mat measures a decent 11.5 inches by 8 inches in area. The surface of the mat is both new and improved for better performances. You should expect to do all of your chores easily and effortlessly. This mat also fastens some of the items you work on for better results.
Super Slider for Quilting
Generally speaking, this mat makes all of your quilting a breeze. It not only lets your fabric glide with relative ease but also expedites the entire process. This minimizes the efforts needed on your part.
Your quilting task will take less time and expel the least amount of energy doing so. This also means that you will be able to tackle huge amounts of chores at any given time.
Cost and Value
The Supreme Slider may cost at bit. However, the benefits you stand to gain are many compared to the cost associated with it. It is this that makes it a nice try.
Further to the above, the mat is also accompanied by a favorable manufacturer’s warranty. You should shop for it with great confidence and maximum peace of mind.
6. Omnigrip
You will be required to take measurements in the course of quilting and handling your machine. You will need a ruler and a good one for that matter. This is a nice one to consider using. The Omnigrip ruler is appropriately calibrated and legible. The markings on it makes it easier for you to handle your projects. They also allow for a greater level of precision.
Distinctive Numbering and Angle System
A distinctive numbering and angle system top the ruler’s most notable aspects. The markings are clearly legible and are not possible to miss. They are also precise enough for accuracy.
These two arrangements make it possible for you to manage a fair degree of accuracy while handling your quilting. You will hardly miss any steps, not to mention that you will generate different varieties of clothing.
Clear Background and Neon Lines
The background of the rule is also clear. Furthermore, it is accompanied by neon lines which come in handy while marking out drawings at night. With this kind of arrangement, you can use the ruler at all times.
This is easy to use because it does not provide complicated markings and calibrations that other rulers sometimes have. Regardless of your skill level, you will find it handy.
Cost and Value
A number of factors make this ruler a great resource for your use. These are its clear nature, neon lights, and suitability for both left and right-handed people. It is relevant to all kinds of users regardless of their skill level.
You will also spend less yet obtain so much more benefits with it. Why would you even hesitate about purchasing it?
7. BBTO
For your convenience, you will want an adhesive which holds your various gears in one place. The grips come in handy for such purposes. They basically stick the items against a rock-solid surface. These particular set of grips are self-adhesive. They are also tough enough to handle the heaviest types of items and fabrics. You should consider leveraging them if you want to eliminate any unnecessary losses.
Self-Adhesive Non-Slip Grippers
As noted above, these grips are self-adhesive in nature. This simply means that you do not have to apply any adhesive on them to hold your various gears in place. Apart from being convenient to choose, you will obtain positive results within the shortest time possible.
They can also stick onto various surfaces.
Durable Material
Only tough, hard, and quality materials have been used to make up the grips. High-quality silicone is by far the most outstanding of these. It has some awesome characteristics which allow for repeated use.
The anti-slip effects, combined with the soft and durable construction are two of these characteristics. Apart from being able to be used repeatedly, the features stated above offers pretty favorable results.
Cost and Value
Perhaps no other adhesive is as reliable in holding all your gears in place like this one. As you have seen, it is comprehensive in scope not to mention being reliable for repeated applications.
By purchasing this adhesive, you get to ward off the need to buy other tools and materials. This saves you time, minimizes inconveniences. and makes your performance a breeze. They are also affordable.
8. Fiskars 195210-1001
Wishing to develop fashion or embroidery while quilting? You will need a cutter which is specially designed and intended for that very role. Look no further than this one. In its entirety, this cutter is meant for fashion. Unlike an ordinary cutter, it possesses added features which makes it stand apart. At the same time, it also performs extra chores.
Premium Steel Rotary Blade
This cutter delivers and achieves long-lasting sharpness. The high-grade and premium steel rotary blade is chiefly responsible for this very role.
The blade measure 45 mm and is able to provide extremely deep cuts. At the same time, it eliminates the need to put in too much of your effort. You will rarely get fatigued while engaging this cutter.
Curved Loop-Handle Design
Its handle comes in the form of a curved and loop design. With this awesome design, it will fit your hands naturally. This minimizes pain and ensures seamless operability.
The design also allows for multitasking. This simply means that it lets you maintain your hands in the cutter, while at the same time, rearrange your other materials.
Cost and Value
The Fiskars 195210-1001 cutter is a tool you cannot afford to shy away from. It is easy to handle and yields comparatively better results than other brands. You will also appreciate unparalleled customer support and a manufacturer’s warranty. These two added benefits will offer you an added peace of mind.
9. Dritz
While quilting, you will occasionally have to stick the fabric and other materials firmly against a surface or wall. You need sharp-pointed pins for this role. These extra-fine and glass head pins are perfectly suited for your use. They are sharp, slim, and extremely prickly. That is why you want to incorporate them into your quilting. One notable characteristic of these pins is their durable nature.
Nickel-Plated Steel
Throughout their entirety, these pins are made of nickel-plated material. They are constructed extra-fine and straight. Being plated, the materials are resistant to corrosion. This means they will last longer and endure years of intense use.
Over and above this, you will spend less of your time and money to care for maintaining them.
Heat-resistant Glass Ball Heads
At their heads are heat-resistant glass balls. The ball heads further reinforce the prickles, which in turn provides the strength necessary to achieve long-lasting binding outcomes.
Being resistant to heat, they will hold up well regardless of the circumstances and will still stick firmly on the surface.
Cost and Value
Setting these pins apart from the others is the fact that they last longer. This means that you will not have to purchase newer pins every now and then.
They are extremely affordable. You can place an order at any time, as they are available for purchasing.
10. flic-flac
Are you a novice who is intent on sewing great fabrics and patterns? Lay your hand on this pack of thick and soft felt fabric sheets. They are intended for do-it-yourself kinds of applications. Regardless of your skill level or whether you have prior experience or not, this pack is perfectly suited for your use. Do get hold of them and use these fabrics as a launching pad for your patchwork.
Utmost Simplicity
This pack is very simple to use. They come with an innovative, easy-to-cut, and non-woven fabric. Apart from being simple to use, they endure a variety of applications.
These range from painting, drawing, stapling, folding, sewing, and gluing. You do not have to look elsewhere with this pack right at your fingertips. It consolidates all your applications in one station.
Awesome Material Construction
Only high-quality materials have been used to make up this pack. These are the high-quality acrylic, rayon, and wool blend, to mention a few. They are highly resistant to all forms of damages and stains. E
xpect the pack to last you longer, not to mention lessening the inconveniences of spending extra money to maintain it.
Cost and Value
The price of this fabric is very affordable. On the flipside, you should expect high performance. The benefits should always outweigh the costs. Therefore, should not shy away from purchasing it as you stand to accrue nothing but results. This pack is available for purchasing.
