If you’re quilting for the first time, you’re probably excited to get into such a fun, relaxing hobby. However, you’ll make mistakes if you don’t pay attention. When it comes to quilt design, there are a lot of important factors and techniques to keep in mind. Here are a few errors new quilters often make and how to avoid them.

Common Quilting Mistakes You Can Avoid

1. Going Too Complex

Anyone can fall in love with an intricate, gorgeous quilt design, but those should be reserved for when you have more experience. While tempting to try, complex patterns can become confusing and frustrating for newcomers. Beginners should start off with simple square patterns to familiarize themselves with quilting.

2. Improper Pressing

You’ll need proper pressing technique if you want your quilt to have a flat, clean look. Many make the mistake of using ironing motions on their seams, which can stretch your patchwork and make your quilt uneven. Instead, spray some pressing aid onto the fabric and press along the seams, moving the iron slowly, firmly, and steadily in a single direction.

3. Uneven Rows

Whether it’s because of stretched fabric or speeding through sewing, rows can sometimes end up mismatched. This leaves quilters with the annoying task of pulling out stitches. To prevent uneven rows, hold together the first two seams with your fingers, then sew and backstitch along that intersection. Cut the thread and sew the next intersection. You can open the joined rows to check on the uniformity of the seams. If everything looks good, sew up the remaining edges. If not, you have fewer stitches to take out for corrections.

4. Washing Disasters

Pre-washing fabrics or leaving them unwashed depends on the quilter’s preference, but never mix pre-washed fabrics with unwashed fabrics or you could end up with some shrinkage. Be sure to test your laundry products on your fabrics before washing the completed product as well, or you may risk distorting colors. To avoid running colors, pre-wash all of your fabrics.

5. Running Low on Fabric

It’s easy to miscalculate the necessary amount of fabric. For fabrics you’re going to use often, buy them by the bolt. If you need to calculate for a single project, online tools can help you figure out exactly how much fabric you’ll need for your quilt design.

The Maui Quilt Shop in Kihei, HI, has a broad selection of Hawaiian quilt patterns and kits. Newcomers and seasoned quilters alike can count on the staff to give expert advice on fabrics, quilt designs, and the best techniques. This quilt shop also offers an introductory course by appointment. To learn more, visit their website and sign up today by calling (808) 874-8050.