Quilt tools make sewing tasks easier and can even help us avoid injuries, increase accuracy, and solve problems. Do you own a quilting tool that you can’t live without–one that you think, “Why didn’t I invent this?”

Consider the rotary cutter for a moment. For many people, this is one of their must have quilting tools. Until the invention of the rotary cutter in 1979, all the pieces of cloth for a quilt had to be cut with scissors. A rotary cutter does not cause the repetitive strain injuries you might suffer when doing a lot of cutting with scissors. A rotary cutter, ruler, and mat can help you cut fabric accurately and more quickly than you could with a pair of scissors. While most people would cut two layers of fabric at most with scissors, a rotary cutter should be able to cut through four layers of fabric without difficulty. For all of these reasons, most quilters love their rotary cutters.

When you learned to sew, you probably acquired some sewing tools. When you learned to quilt, you discovered you needed some quilting tools. As you have expanded your repertoire of quilting techniques, you have probably added quilting tools and accessories to your sewing basket. No matter what your level of expertise is, Missouri Star can help you find the quilting tools and supplies that will become your favorites.

Let’s start with the beginning sewist. What would you need to purchase if you wanted to put together a basket of sewing tools and accessories for a novice? A basic list of sewing tools and notions should include fabric scissors, snip scissors, seam ripper, measuring tape, a variety pack of hand sewing needles, needle threaders, straight pins, and a few small spools of basic colors of thread.

If you already know how to sew and have basic sewing supplies at the ready, perhaps it’s time to try your hand at quilting! Although you likely have the major things you need already, there are some basic quilt tools that will make everything much easier.

For example, if you are going to quilt, you are going to cut a LOT of fabric. As previously mentioned, most quilters prefer to do this with a rotary cutter rather than scissors. So, for our list of quilting tools for beginners, let’s assume they own the sewing supplies listed above and add a rotary cutter, a self-healing rotary cutting mat, and at least 1 quilting ruler. These are probably the most useful quilting tools–every quilter uses them, no matter what style of quilting they do. Fabric clips are also handy-dandy for holding together layers that are too thick for pins.

Beyond basic sewing tools and equipment and investment in the quilt tools you need for rotary cutting, it is wise to acquire additional quilting tools and notions slowly. If you decide to try a quilt that calls for a special template or ruler, add it to your toolbox at that time. You don’t need to buy everything at once. Be assured that Missouri Star will have the latest and greatest sewing and quilting tools on hand at the time you tackle your next project!