Start Here: Learn to Quilt with Tips, Tutorials & Techniques
Welcome to Curious Quilter — a place for beginners, returners, and curious makers who want to learn how to quilt without pressure or perfection.
If you’ve ever thought:
- “How do I start quilting?”
- “What do I need to make my first quilt?”
- “Is there a right way to quilt?”
You're in the right place.
This site is built around the idea that quilting should be creative, flexible, and fun. Whether you want to try piecing by hand, explore modern quilt designs, or learn how to bind a quilt properly, you’ll find tutorials, tips, and real experiences to help guide you.
What you'll find on Curious Quilter
Tutorials for beginner quilters
Learn how to quilt from the ground up — with tutorials covering piecing methods, binding, finishing techniques, and more. These are beginner-friendly, written from personal experience, and include photos or videos where possible.
Quilting Techniques
Explore different ways to approach quilting. I share multiple methods, including hand quilting, machine quilting, facing instead of binding, and experiments from my quilting “lab.”
Quilt Stories
Real stories from my quilting journey — the wins, the mistakes, and the things I learned along the way. These are here to show that making quilts isn’t about being perfect. It’s about making something that matters.
Quilting Resources
From tool checklists to printable templates, I’ve created and collected helpful resources to support your quilting journey.
Quilt Pattern Reviews
Not sure what pattern to start with? Read my honest reviews of quilt patterns I’ve actually made — including the Tattoo Quilt by Happy Sew Lucky and other beginner-friendly options.
Not sure where to start
- Start with a quilt tutorial
- Explore different ways to finish a quilt
- Read about the first quilt I ever made
- Download a free quilt planning checklist
Why Curious Quilter?
There are lots of quilting websites that tell you how to do something. I created this one to also share why I do it the way I do — and what I learned through trial, error, and curiosity.
This is a place to explore, try different quilting methods, and find what works best for you. There’s no one right way to quilt. And that’s the best part.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I start quilting as a beginner?
Start small! Choose a simple quilt pattern and focus on learning the basics: piecing, quilting, and binding. Explore my tutorials for beginner quilters for step-by-step guidance using real examples.
What tools and materials do I need to begin quilting?
You'll need fabric, a rotary cutter or scissors, a quilting ruler, pins or clips, and either a sewing machine or hand stitching supplies. Visit my resources page for printable checklists and tool recommendations.
Can I quilt by hand, or do I need a sewing machine?
You can absolutely quilt by hand! Many quilters enjoy the slow, meditative process of hand quilting. I share both hand and machine techniques so you can choose what works best for you.
What’s the difference between patchwork and quilting?
Patchwork refers to sewing pieces of fabric together to create the quilt top. Quilting is the process of stitching the layers (top, batting, and backing) together. You'll find techniques and tutorials for both throughout this site.
Is there a right way to quilt?
Nope! Quilting is a personal craft — full of choices, preferences, and discovery. That’s what Curious Quilter is all about. Try different methods, explore what you enjoy, and develop your own approach.