How to quilt patchwork DIY9015_patchwork_quilt.jpg
When you make a patchwork quilt or similar project, you need a backing, batting and a main fabric. A plain fabric, e.g. cotton canvas, is ideal to use as a backing. To add volume, choose synthetic fibre or cotton batting, or a similar product. The most important thing is that you find the right product for your project and one that adds the volume you need.

  1. 1.Place the interlining on the wrong side of your backing fabric and the main fabric on top of the interlining. Here it is important to mark the finished edge of your project. If the backing is to form the edging, both the backing and the interlining must be somewhat larger than the main fabric so that you can make them your edging at a later stage in the project.
  2. 2.You can sew the layers together in one of three ways 1. Fuse the layers together using water-soluble adhesive (available as a spray-on product). This works best for smaller projects (e.g. cot blankets) 2. Tack the layers together. 3. Pin the layers together. No matter which method you use, start at the centre of the blanket and work your way out towards the corners. Make sure that all three layers are neat and there are no creases.When you have all three layers in place, it is time to start quilting.
  3. 3.You can quilt by hand or use a sewing machine.Once again, start from the centre and work your way outwards.If you sew by hand, it is easiest if you use an embroidery hoop to keep all the layers smooth.
  4. 4.As for quilting thread, the most important thing is that you use a strong thread - preferably a strong cotton thread.You can draw quilting lines on the right side of the quilt using a water-soluble marker pen.If you wish to quilt straight lines, apply masking tape to the main fabric and then quilt along the tape.
  5. 5.If you quilt by hand, start by making a knot at the end of the thread. Now sew from the back, through the interlining to the main fabric. Gently pull the knot through the back so that it is concealed inside the quilt. When you tie off the end, do the same. Finish sewing on the back. Make a knot as close to the back as possible and then pull the knot through the back. Both ends of the thread are securely knotted to the interlining.