Top Quilting Books for Beginners in 2020

Embark on Your Quilting Journey with Confidence

Starting as a beginner in quilting can be both exciting and overwhelming. To build a solid foundation, it’s best to begin with straightforward patterns that allow you to develop essential skills without the frustration of complex designs. Remember, every experienced quilter once started where you are now. The wealth of beginner-focused quilting books available today offers invaluable guidance, helping you transform your creative ideas into beautiful, functional quilts that can be cherished for years to come.

Our Curated List of the Best Quilting Books for Newcomers

• 1. Better Homes and Gardens: Complete Guide to Quilting – With over 750 detailed color photographs, this comprehensive manual guides you through every quilting step, from design to finishing. Its visual approach makes complex techniques accessible, making it ideal for visual learners eager to master quilting fundamentals.
• 2. A Beginner’s Guide to Quilting by Christine Mann – Featuring a practical spiral binding, this book is designed for ease of use, lying flat on your workspace as you follow along. It introduces six beginner-friendly projects, including placemats, table runners, and full-sized quilts, accompanied by vibrant images and helpful templates.
• 3. New Patchwork & Quilting Basics by Jo Avery – Published in 2020, this modern guide offers fresh insights into quilting with clear, step-by-step instructions for 12 projects. It progresses from simple strip and square techniques to more intricate curves and appliqué, building your confidence at every stage.
• 4. Quilting 101 by Creative Publishing International – Covering both hand and machine quilting, this 176-page resource combines printed instructions with online video tutorials. It emphasizes essential skills such as fabric selection, cutting, and machine operation, guiding you through increasingly challenging projects.
• 5. The Art of Quilting for Beginners by Freya Gates – This guide focuses on the therapeutic and artistic aspects of quilting. It celebrates quilting’s rich history while providing practical advice on tools, techniques, and troubleshooting to help you approach your first projects with confidence.
• 6. First-Time Quiltmaking by Landauer Publishing – Structured into six easy lessons, this book simplifies the quilting process, making it accessible for absolute beginners. It covers tools, fabric preparation, seam sewing, layering, and finishing, with four starter patterns included.
• 7. Quilting (Idiot’s Guides) by Jennifer Fulton – As an experienced author, Fulton offers a thorough introduction to quilting with over 20 sample projects, detailed instructions, and full-color photographs. It covers both hand and machine techniques, preparing you for more advanced quilting adventures.

Detailed Insights into Each Recommended Book

1. Better Homes and Gardens: Complete Guide to Quilting

This extensive guide boasts a vast array of visual instructions, making it perfect for those who learn best through imagery. It covers everything from designing your quilt blocks to finishing techniques, including troubleshooting tips for common challenges. Whether you’re a visual learner or seeking a comprehensive reference, this book offers a wealth of information to support your quilting endeavors.

2. A Beginner’s Guide to Quilting

Designed with practicality in mind, its spiral binding allows the book to lay flat, facilitating hands-free reference during your sewing sessions. It introduces you to six foundational projects, each accompanied by colorful photographs, templates, and color-coordinating advice. The author’s extensive experience enriches the content with insights into quilting history and design principles, making it both educational and inspiring.

3. New Patchwork & Quilting Basics

This modern manual is tailored for newcomers eager to learn current trends and techniques. It walks you through the process of creating diverse projects, from basic patchwork to complex appliqué, helping you develop a versatile skill set. The step-by-step instructions and project variety make it ideal for building confidence and expanding your quilting repertoire.

4. Quilting 101

Offering a multi-media learning experience, this book combines traditional instructions with access to online videos. It provides a comprehensive overview of essential skills, including fabric selection, cutting, sewing, layering, and finishing. The gradual progression of projects ensures steady skill development, making it suitable for complete novices.

5. The Art of Quilting for Beginners

This inspirational guide emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of quilting, encouraging beginners to find joy and relaxation in the craft. It explores quilting’s rich history while offering practical advice on selecting tools, designing projects, and fixing mistakes. Although pattern-free, it serves as an excellent primer for understanding quilting’s artistic and technical aspects.

6. First-Time Quiltmaking

Structured around six straightforward lessons, this book simplifies the journey from fabric selection to the final quilt. Each lesson introduces new skills, with clear instructions and illustrative photographs. The inclusion of four beginner-friendly patterns allows you to practice techniques and see tangible results early in your quilting journey.

7. Quilting (Idiot’s Guides)

With a focus on clarity and thoroughness, this guide provides detailed instructions, full-color images, and over 20 sample projects. It covers a broad range of techniques, from basic hand stitches to advanced machine quilting, empowering you to progress from novice to confident hobbyist. Its comprehensive approach makes it a valuable resource for all aspiring quilters.

Stay Inspired and Start Creating

Choosing the right quilting book is your first step toward a rewarding creative hobby. Whether you prefer detailed visual guides, step-by-step lessons, or inspirational stories, these titles offer something for every beginner. Dive into quilting today, and discover the joy of crafting handmade treasures that bring warmth, beauty, and personal meaning to your life.