Maybe you’ve been enjoying another’s quilting talent for a while now and you’ve decided to dip your toe into the water and test the temperature but are wondering how or where to begin to learn about the tools, materials and even the methods of producing your own personal creations in this popular folk art that has been passed down through generations.

Your quest to begin making your own colorful, expressive quilts can commence when you examine cotton broadcloth and gingham, which are popular fabrics for quilters of all experience levels. Avoid the temptation to opt for different kinds of fabric (which can end up in any lighter kinds of fabric stretched or torn by heavier ones), and opt for just one kind even though the fabric outlet you visit will undoubtedly have all kinds, colors and textures of fabric, and each and every one will seem to be calling your name. You’ll probably want to start out with cotton broadcloth when you begin examining your options in fabric by the yard, because not only is cotton broadcloth on lots of fabric stores’ shelves, available in many versatile patterns, colors, textures and weaves, but because it’s also simple to work with, and that’s important for the novice.

Some quilters prefer flannel, mostly for baby quilts, because flannel is extra soft, wears particularly well and is also warmer than cotton broadcloth, although flannel will also add extra weight to your quilt. Batik fabric is cotton that has been dyed like the hand-tinted patterns typical in batik fabrics, and is usually quite durable and colorful, especially in the vibrant blues often associated with this kind of patterning, although bear in mind that batik is a bit more expensive than other cotton fabrics.

There are many quilting fabric suppliers that you can seek out both online and in your local phone directory, and each will likely offer a wide variety of fabrics in every possible color, style and texture, and when you’re shopping for fabric you might consider quilting fabric, which is produced specifically for quilters. Usually, quilts are made in three layers, with the quilt top, which is the colorful pattern that you will produce from various pieces of fabric, the batting or wadding, which occupies the center of the quilt and gives it 3-dimensional mass as well as better insulation capabilities, and finally the backing material, often muslin, is sewn on the bottom of the quilt.

With all three layers assembled and sewn together you’ve got the majority of your work done, but there’s still an added step of sewing a binding all along the edges of your quilt and that will finish the project and make your quilt more attractive and more durable, too.