When you’re learning something new, you’re sure to have many questions. If you’re a beginning quilter, The Maui Quilt Shop in Kihei, HI, is here to help. Whether you’re looking for fabric samples or Hawaiian quilt kits, they have what you need, even if what you need are some term definitions that will better acquaint you with quilting.

In fact, they’ve provided a list of commonly questioned terms and their definitions to help you prepare for your first quilt design project:

• What Are Fat Quarters? One yard of fabric usually measures 36 inches x 44 inches (depending on the height of the bolt. Based on these measurements, a standard quarter yard would measure 9 inches x 44 inches. A Fat Quarter is a piece of fabric that measures twice the width and half the length: 18 inches x 22 inches.
• What Are Fabric Repeats? When you’re working with patterned fabric, the fabric repeat is the distance from the beginning of the pattern to where the pattern starts over.
• What is a Backing? The backing is the piece of fabric that is on the reverse of the quilt. It is often made from a fabric that coordinates with the colors used on the top of the quilt.
• What is Batting? In between the backing and the quilt top is a softer “cushiony” layer often made with wool, silk, cotton and other common fabrics to create extra warmth.

If you’re interested in learning more about quilting, The Maui Quilt Shop features a “Traditional Hawaiian Quilting Class,” which entails two hours of introductory learning, where you’ll be taught regional quilting history in addition to basic quilting techniques. Participants will study the needle turn appliqué technique, and will complete the class with a pillow cover and wall hanging.

To reserve your spot in the “Traditional Hawaiian Quilting Class” at The Maui Quilt Shop, call (808) 874-8050 for details. Also, visit The Maui Quilt Shop online or follow them on Facebook to learn more about the shop’s classes, supplies and more.