Quilting tip #10

[homesteadmamma]

When purchasing material for a quilt, purchase your thread at the same time. First, you always have some on hand and second, you don't want to run out of the color you might be using and find there no longer is that color.

If you are using only 100% cotton, then you need 100% cotton thread. If your using synthetics, you need to use synthetic thread (although as you know, I always say 100% cotton material should be used). But there are many quilters who use polyester/cotton mix because the price is so much less than 100% cotton.

Threads and fabrics need to be the same.

Also the thread needs to be weaker than the fabric. Thread that is too strong will cut the fabric, thus weakening it. You then will get a break in the fabric after wear and tear of the quilt. (I learnt this the hard way and would never have known why had my teacher not told me.)

As well, if you want to use the same colored thread as your material, often when you go back, that color is out or no longer being made. I sometimes like to match my thread exactly to the material and I've learnt the hard way, that when I don't purchase it the same time has I do the material, or enough - when I go back there isn't any of the color I want.

I also find it very frustrating to be ready to quilt something and not have thread. It means running out specifically to purchase more and although that does give me a reason to purchase more fat quarters, it really isn't very frugal.

[frugalmel]

Thanks CJ. I have a question. How do you know how much thread you will need?