Are your children already showing interest in quilting, hanging out where you’re working, rummaging through your fabric stash, or eying your inventory of buttons and threads? With a little encouragement, you can easily get them started on a new hobby. By teaching them the basics early on, your child will have a useful set of skills they can enjoy for life. Here’s a bit of advice to help you get them started with quilting.

How to Get Kids Started With Quilting

1. Introduce Them to Fabrics & Patterns

You can learn a lot about which textures and colors excite and interest a child by letting them sort through your leftover fabrics and scraps. Take them to a quilt shop and let them browse through the variety of colors and patterns to gauge their interest. Encourage them to choose a few of their favorites to bring home. 

2. Practice Cutting Simple Shapes

Experimenting with scraps of fabric is a great way to get started. Supervise them as they learn how to use a small quilting ruler, scissors, or a rotary cutter to create easy patterns and shapes. Have them begin with squares and rectangles. Jelly rolls—precut color-coordinated strips of fabric—help younger children learn.

Also, teach them to respect the tools of the trade. Many are sharp-edged or pointy. Teaching them how to properly handle these tools will reduce the risk of accidental scratches or cuts.

3. Identify a Fast-and-Easy Project

Keep beginners engaged by avoiding projects that may be too advanced or difficult at this stage. Instead, stick to basic patchwork designs. Some ideas for beginner projects include tote bags, place mats, coasters, decorative flags, table runners, or pillows to give as gifts.

4. Quilt By Hand

Begin with hand-stitching a quilt, gradually introducing young quilters to the sewing machine. Be sure to explain the different aspects of a sewing machine while it’s turned off before easing them into working the pedal and feeding fabric through the machine. Working together at a comfortable pace, your children will learn teamwork, patience, and a brand new set of skills.

Head to Olive Juice Quilts for the supplies and equipment you need to quilt, sew, and embroider. Located in La Crosse County, WI, they welcome both beginners and advanced quilters to join their quilting classes and clubs. Visit them online to view a wide variety of fabrics for both children and adults. Call (608) 782-3257 for further information or to discuss events, longarm quilting, sewing machines, and repairs.