From Small Things: Episode 16: Hand Quilting For Beginners

Welcome back!
Those of you who have watched past episodes have probably already seen me talk about these hand quilting tips. Next week will be another episode of what I've been working on lately!
There have been many questions about what tools I like to use while quilting, and many requests to see a demonstration of hand quilting. So I thought I'd make a video where all of that is in the same place, and is hopefully thorough enough to be of help-- especially to people who might be interested in hand quilting, but haven't yet given it a try.
I'll show you the motion of taking basic quilting stitches, as well as the tools which I use while hand quilting. Some of these tools are essential, while others are optional. I prefer to mark my quilting lines with water-erasable markers, but I will also share my thoughts on and experiences with chalk for marking.
I hope that if you have been itching to give hand quilting a try, you will go for it!
Happy quilting!
You can find me on Instagram @fromsmallthings509

[@robineasley491]

Thank you for this video…I have been hand quilting for 30 plus years and love it…the younger quilting generation doesn’t know what they are missing !!

[@fromsmallthings509]

I agree, it’s a lovely and relaxing way to quilt. I feel so much more connected to my finished quilts if my hands are actively involved!

[@cathyriles3063]

Thank you Sue for sharing all your tips! I find hand quilting so relaxing and I think the hand quilted quilt looks and feels so much cozier. I’m really enjoying your videos!

[@fromsmallthings509]

Hand quilting is very therapeutic for me, I can't imagine going more than a week without it! I also love how the finished quilt feels, just so cozy!

[@pennyh8996]

I am so happy when I see a new video from you! I have to feel my needle from the bottom too. Thank you for another great video!!❤

[@lyndakling901]

What a nice surprise to see a new video today!

[@singing-bird]

Thank you for another great video, Sue! As a longtime hand quilter, I find it so interesting the many different ways there are to quilt a quilt. I wear my thimble on my middle finger to “push” the needle, and a rubber tip (like they use at the post office) on my index finger to “pull” the needle through. I mark my quilts as I go, one block or section at a time, and for decades I’ve just used a pencil. The lines are visible on all but the darkest fabric (for those I use a Clover chalk marker) and are fine enough to be covered by the quilting thread. Any marks that are still visible wash out or wear off in time. I used to use 12 betweens needles and make very tiny stitches, but with age comes change. Now I use a big eye #10, and I’ve switched to 12 wt. cotton thread or perle cotton and my stitches are bigger. I love the rustic, handmade look this gives my quilts. I recommend trying it to any viewers who’ve been struggling with the smaller needles and tiny stitches. Happy Quilting!

[@fernie5128]

Thanks for your suggestions also! Cheers from Minnesota!

[@fromsmallthings509]

I think you are quilting the RIGHT way! I know my way is unconventional because I had no one to teach me in person and there was no internet at that time. I have had quilts that I wish I could have used a #12 needle on, but I really can't thread those needles. I so admire those small perfect stitches!!!! Happy Quilting!

[@tammieupshaw8005]

Thank you, thank you, thank you, Sue. That was great. I really appreciate you. Have a super day. 😊

[@fromsmallthings509]

You are very welcome! I'm so glad you enjoyed it!

[@angiej9956]

I love watching a good hand quilting video as much as I love doing it. I've never taken a quilt to long arm quilter because doing it myself gives me so much joy. As always thanks for sharing your knowledge and talent with all of us. I'll have to keep the ear plugs in mind since I do use thread heaven for my embroidery and cross stitch. For hand quilting I use locally sourced beeswax and make my own rounds.

[@fromsmallthings509]

One of my friends has bees, and I keep hoping that some beeswax will come my way but she makes a lot of lip balms for her family from it. That's ok, I have enough ear plugs to last a long, long time!

[@heidim.5545]

Good afternoon Sue, thank you for another great video. A big sunny hello from the Handquilter Heidi from Switzerland. Happy Quilting

[@fromsmallthings509]

Hello Heidi! Welcome to my little corner of the world!

[@wandap8248]

I really like your straight forward, honest approach regarding your quilting style. I respect you for hand quilting all your quilts, that’s amazing! One thing you didn’t include that a beginner might like to see in this video is how you begin and end a line of quilting. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience. 😊

[@stitchann]

You are a beautiful quilter and so talented. A number of years ago I hand quilted weekly at our church. It was so much fun to work with a group of ladies around the frame. We met in the morning and quilted through the morning and then had our lunch together and quilted for several more hours in the afternoon. I loved it but I am sure I would have been better if I did a little hand quilting every day. I so enjoyed watching you.

[@marybeth4002]

Sue, It's always so good to see you when you post a video. I agree with you on encouraging people to give hand quilting a try. The investment is so minimal - most people will be surprised that they probably have a lot of the supplies on hand. Start small with a block. I feel so happy and accomplished when I finish a hand quilted piece. Not to mention, you can pick it up and take it with you to work on - unlike a machine.

[@fromsmallthings509]

So true! I also think that at some point in the future hand quilting will make a big comeback and be all the rage.. . the NEW thing that everyone is excited about. You heard it here first! haha!!!

[@violaqueen2234]

Hi Sue, another great video. I absolutely love to hand quilt, but I taught myself to machine quilt because I had so many ideas in my head I couldn't keep up with the quilting, however I do try to hand quilt at least one top a year. My only issue with hand quilting is that I find it so relaxing that I become so sleepy and have to stop so it takes me forever to get a quilt done. But I much prefer hand quilting. Thank you for sharing, and happy quilting.

[@fromsmallthings509]

I'm glad to hear that you are still doing some hand quilting. Machine quilting has been a blessing to so many people and it certainly helps people to finish their quilts, which is a great thing!

[@preppedforeternityhomestea2848]

Never hand quilted… now I feel inspired to give it a try. Thanks 🤗

[@bathens4971]

Go for it! There's next to zero cost investment. Your stitches will not look good at first,no one is an expert right out of the gate. Pick a thread color that blends in with your fabric, because like Sue said, the stitches sink into the depression they create, and aren't really visible anyway. Stick with it! I see others here commenting on how relaxing and meditative it can be, so enjoy it ❤

[@fromsmallthings509]

I really encourage you to give it a try! Start on a small project so that you don't get discouraged, and start with a size 7 or 8 needle. I usually take about 3 or 4 stitches each time but my daughter quilts by doing only one stitch at a time because that's what works for her. It is a really personal thing, so do what works best for you!!!!

[@susantrombley9014]

Great explanation on your hand quilting. Take care of those fingers! ❤

[@fromsmallthings509]

Thank you! Every once in a while I need to rest my fingers for about 3 days until they heal but for the most part I have a callous and I'm used to it.

[@lfpetrock]

I use a candle stub to pull my thread across. That's what my grandma and her mom used also. It works, so I'll stick with it. Works for any hand work. I also use a big old circular hoop sometimes, if I'm tired of sitting up close to a table. It's fun to see different styles of accomplishing a job. Your work is lovely, and the videos helpful. 😊

[@fromsmallthings509]

Thank you for mentioning the candle, I had forgotten that people used that before Thread Heaven. Your way is even less expensive than mine! Good job!

[@dckroyer4451]

Love the feel of a hand quilted quilt. However, I don't hand quilt due arthritis in my hands and I lucked into a purchase of a used sit down quilting machine several years ago. I have a hint for needing to mark a darker colored fabric - I have used an old sliver of soap - works great, shows. up well on darks, and completely washes away! Mavis

[@fromsmallthings509]

I feel like I have heard that the Amish and Mennonites have used soap to mark their quilts. Long long ago, I used flour with my stencil marking because I did not have a quilt shop near me and Amazon did not exist yet! It worked great!

[@carmenbailey1560]

Thank so much for sharing your thoughts, techniques, supplies, but most of all your soft manner. What a enjoyable video to listen to. Again Thank you 👍❤️😊

[@fromsmallthings509]

Aw, thank you for being here with me!!!

[@kathleenmcginley4827]

Thank you for another enjoyable chat.. I had to laugh as I read through the comments. People think of so many great things to ask that a seasoned quilter takes for granted as habit. I have never tried hand quilting, but I have done some applique. So I have a very basic knowledge of 'the feel', but enjoy reading others tips. I am just amazed at how many quilts get quilted by you Sue! Especially when it's straight line. As always, I look forward to every video & Instagram of progress that you put out.

[@fromsmallthings509]

Thank you for joining me! I really appreciate, and really enjoy all of the conversations and questions that accompany my videos and I love how we all share tips and tricks with each other!

[@marthatroyer3021]

Interesting video. I learned to quilt from my ex-Amish grandmother when I was a child. I am now 65 and still enjoy it. I prefer the traditional floor frame. I have never seen anyone wear their thimble on their pointer or thumb, but whatever works! I use the same thimble, but on my middle finger. Happy quilting!

[@fromsmallthings509]

hahahaha!!! I knew someone would find it odd how I use my thimble. That's because I had to figure things out myself, there was no internet when I started and I had no one in my family to show me. My sister quilted, but she lived far away so we only had phone conversations. You are doing it the Right Way!!!

[@brendamc3535]

I learned some things on this video and I'm glad because I thought it was just me. Like the pencil leads breaking when you sharpen them. They break with me too and it's so discouraging. I loved your video. And am looking forward to more . Take care of your hands. They look so painful. I don't handquilt as much as you do but my fingers also get sore. I use thimbles too. Have a wonderful day!!!

[@fromsmallthings509]

My finger looks a lot worse than it feels, I have a hard callous on it from quilting every day but when I have brand new needles it just pokes right through the skin and that hurts!!! I just have to give it a day or so to heal and then I'm right back to quilting again. I just find it so meditative.

[@paulathomas9240]

Thanks for the hand quilting lesson. I love to hand quilt. I try to have an old top in the hoop to take with me when I house sit/dog sit. I carry a bottle liquid bandaids if my receiving finger gets too sore. Thanks for calling out Thread Heaven with the price gouging. I use Mack’s ear plugs in my Addi knitting machine to reduce yarn static and they work great. Another great episode. ♥️

[@fromsmallthings509]

I also do some house sitting/cat sitting and I love it! I feel like I am on a little quilt retreat and I make sure I take some fun projects with me to work on!

[@donnafrancis9163]

Thank you for sharing! I am glad I found you today.

[@linhdasagen6498]

I was so excited to see another Sue video!!

[@merrancharles8888]

Hi Sue, I am loving your channel and completely sympathise with you and your receiving finger 😝. In Australia we have stick on ‘thimbles’ called Thimblets. They are ovals of flat plastic that stick onto your finger and protect it from receiving the needle when hand quilting. I have used them for years and my receiving finger is very grateful! Thank you so much for your channel. I love it! Merran (Melbourne, Australia)

[@connieking9873]

Oh yes I remember the days of splits in my finger tips when I did counted cross stitch projects for so many years. As you mentioned it is in the feel. I find your tutorials so informative and enjoyable to watch. I plan to do some hand stitching on a couple tops I have waiting. I don’t want to send out and don’t care for some machine stitching. You have a great balance not over filling your top with quilting. Ready to watch your next video. I watch a couple at a time to get caught up. I do have a design board that I am very happy with but also occasionally use my floor or table top but getting down isn’t easy. Need to get my pvc pipe quilt frame out and jump in. You give me the confidence to try again.

[@fromsmallthings509]

I love the look of counted cross stitch, I have seen some amazing designs on Instagram! I somehow missed that trend when it first became popular but I began by doing stamped cross stitch in the 70's and I still have one of the samplers I made. And actually, the very first quilt I ever made was a cross stitch quilt kit. I'll have to share that with everyone one day. I still love it!

[@grandmakuhl]

Thank you Sue for the example of thimble use. I'll be practicing! And for the previous Info on seam pressing. I wish you were my neighbor, God bless you and your skills.

[@angiec2509]

That's what I said too. I wish she was my neighbor!

[@fromsmallthings509]

I'm glad you found this info useful, but remember that there are many types of thimbles and if one of them isn't working for you then you can try a different type. At least they are inexpensive!

[@fernie5128]

You are such an excellent teacher and I can't thank you enough Sue! Cheers from Minnesota. And kudos to the guy (I am assuming - oops) behind the camera!

[@dckroyer4451]

Hi from another Minnesotan! I'm in Southern Minnesota.

[@SpeakTruthBeKind]

I believe it is Sue’s daughter behind the camera.❤

[@fromsmallthings509]

My daughter is the camera operator-- and she was also the brainchild of this whole crazy wild adventure of making videos. I was completely happy staying anonymous in my little sewing space, just quietly making quilt after quilt, haha!

[@patriciavacilek3791]

Thanks, Sue, nice to see and hear about the supplies you use for your beautiful quilts. 💗

[@Craftythrifter]

Thanks so much for your tutorial. Great quilting!👍🏻 great idea to thread all your needles at once, why didn’t I think of that? I’ve been sewing forever!!!! I especially enjoy your encouragement, things don’t have to be 💯 perfect. Get in there and try it!

[@fromsmallthings509]

No one starts off being perfect, there is a learning curve in everything. But you can't reach your goal if you never get started! And I am still learning too, still trying to get better and be more mindful as I work.

[@christinekeay8456]

I love sitting hand quilting, it’s meditative, relaxing and I get to know my quilt all over again. Like you I am mainly a scrap quilter, I use the same thimble and have those cable stencils too. But I’ve never done Baptist Fan and I’m going to order a stencil for that too. I found the best thing for my “receiving” finger was a cod liver oil ointment. My pharmacist originally recommended it for my baby’s bottoms and I had used it for over 40 years( on my finger, that is😀) it would heal my finger practically overnight. Of course it has been taken out of production, so frustrating!

[@fromsmallthings509]

I also like to sit with my quilt and spend time with it while I work. I feel more connected to it when I hand quilt. And thank you for the tip on cod liver oil, I hadn't heard of that before!

[@IndecisiveQuilter]

Thank you for this video, I've been seriously considering giving hand quilting a go.

[@fromsmallthings509]

Give it a try! It is one of the very few things that requires such a small amount of money to try. Needle, and thread basically. Maybe a hoop of some sort although some people don't even need that.

[@angiec2509]

I was so excited to see your video pop up. I love watching you. I do a lot of hand quilting and use the size 10 betweens also. I use beeswax for my thread. I also have the same iron as you. I was so intrigued by how you thread all those needles on the spool. That's something I would like to try.

[@fromsmallthings509]

Yay!!! Another hand quilter! It's been such a pleasant surprise to connect with so many quilters who are still doing that. Sometimes I feel like I'm the only one, because all of the videos seem to show machine quilting and the quilts at quilt shows are probably 99% machine quilted.

[@rhodachavarria1430]

I am enjoying your videos. You are my style quilter! But when I saw your thimble on the first finger I wondered how does she hold the needle ?! I use my thimble on the second finger and hold the needle with first. Also I don't do hoop quilting (usually) I learned on a floor frame and thats what works best for me.

[@fromsmallthings509]

I know I am not doing it 'right'!!!! Keep in mind that I learned over the phone with my sister, and that there was no internet! I had no one in person to correct me and now after 35 years it's just too late, haha!!!! Your way is the way I see most people do it. The only other person I have ever seen do it like me is Alex Anderson and it made me so happy to see someone else use their thimble on the 'wrong' fingers!

[@renestovall9226]

Very happy to see you again😊

[@marcellarodriguez7955]

Thank you for your teaching. I want to try hand quilting a large block to start and if I think I can handle more, I’ll do more. If I can’t do more I will make it into a pillow cover. It seems relaxing like hand embroidery.

[@fromsmallthings509]

Good! I'm glad you're going to give it a try! And I think your idea sounds wonderful!

[@lorineidtinytoadplot744]

I was a hairdresser for many years, I still have some clients ;) but carpal tunnel is an issue for me. I can't hold a needle to do hand quilting. I can however appreciate the work that goes into it. Your work is fanominal.

[@michele6708]

Sorry to hear about your carpal tunnel. I really cracked up at the autocorrect-culprit tunnel! 😂😂😂

[@lorineidtinytoadplot744]

@@michele6708 O ha ha ha ha. It was most likely becouse I spelt it wrong in the first place lol

[@fromsmallthings509]

I'm sorry to hear about your carpal tunnel, but this is why I think that machine quilting has been such a blessing to the quilting world! It enables so many people to still be able to create beautiful quilts! Take Care, and Happy Quilting!

[@debrawortman1712]

I love hand-quilting! I find it to be soothing and meditative. Also, it seems to me that my quilts are much lighter in weight; some machine quilted projects feel a great deal heavier!

[@bathens4971]

I agree, and not just heavier, I feel as if machine quilted ones are very stiff, too

[@fromsmallthings509]

I agree, I feel like my quilts have a nicer drape than machine quilting gives. I had an opportunity to see one up close and personal that was heavily quilted, and it was so incredibly stiff! It was made for a book and was in a show so I'm sure it looked good while it was hanging and it was probably easy to photograph, but I personally would not want that as a functional quilt.

[@michele6708]

Thanks! I just set up a quilting frame and I’m getting ready to tackle loading the first quilt onto it. I did a bit of hand quilting years and years ago but then took a long break from quilting and just now trying hand quilting again. I love the tip for the ear plugs and I just put some Leonis markers in my Amazon cart. I have always used the Drizzled thimbles too. They just feel right on my finger compared to other types and brands I have tried. Have you ever tried liquid bandage on the bottom finger? I remember hand quilters I knew used to use that. It might let you feel the needle while still giving a bit of protection. I have been hand sewing binding like mad because I just got 5 quilts back from longarmer plus had 1 left from the last batch. Apparently I use my left thumbnail to guide the needle because my nail is scratched and pitted! 😂 I used to use size 12 between too, but now I am struggling to thread size 100 silk thread into size 10 milliners needles, so we’ll see how I do with betweens. I may have to sit down with a magnifier and load a couple of those threaded needle domes with threaded needles before I start quilting each day or something! One thing I remember-you can make pretty tiny stitches but if you increase the size just a bit you get much more regular stitches and that looks much better than irregular tiny stitches.

[@teresadawkins3876]

The liquid bandage is a good tip! In winter if my fingers split I use a thin super glue. It seeps into the crack and then covers and the soreness is instantly gone. Wears off in a few days but might be good to try even if letting that finger rest a few days.

[@fromsmallthings509]

For the most part, my finger is good to go--it just looks really bad! If I quilt a lot longer than usual on some days, then it can hurt. I have used some clear nail polish on it (only because it was handy and I didn't have to get up and search for something else!) and that has helped. I have also found that brand new needles hurt a lot more because they are so sharp! After quilting this way for over 35 years I have come to think of my hand quilting stitches as my signature, or fingerprint and that it is unique to me. I have never entered anything into a show, and I have no intention of doing so. . . So I am fine with what I do, however imperfect it may be.

[@DonnaHaft]

Thank you for another great video. You are so nice to watch and to listen to you. I've been quilting a long time, but I still learn from you with every video 😊 I really think I'm going to fry hand quilting now. Thank you for sharing your passion for it.

[@fromsmallthings509]

I've been quilting for a long time and I am also still learning new things and I think that it's important for us to all share our little tips so that others may learn too. Thank you for supporting me!

[@lorettahenderson8979]

Sue...delightful posting on hand quilting...thanks so much ❤

[@jaynecarreiro5005]

I've hand quilted for 35 years but had my last 8 quilts machine quilted by a longarmer. I have arthritis in my hands now. I miss it. It was my favourite part of quilting.

[@fromsmallthings509]

I'm sorry to hear you can't hand quilt any more. That is a big fear for me too, and I am trying to do as much as I can now, in case that happens to me too.

[@rosehixon2790]

Always excellent information❤ I see you have almost 5000 viewers in such a short time. Congratulations.

[@nanigail395]

Thank you, Sue❣️ Such valuable information and personal insight 😊

[@stephenaucott3865]

That was wonderful and answered many of my questions. Thank you! Cheryl

[@fromsmallthings509]

That's good to hear!

[@jackiehorn3724]

I like the look of both hand quilting and machine quilting. I dont want to take my quilt to a long arm quilter because the quilting is such a hugh part of a quilt. I would not feel like i made it myself. So, i quilt on my domestic. But i really enjoy the peace and tranquilty of listening to audio scriptures, study, or music and quilting at the same time. I am considering investing in a smaller standing frame that would work in front of my chair. I think i have found one i like. Now hoping it goes on sale.

[@fromsmallthings509]

Years ago, when machine quilting was first becoming a business, I took a quilt to be quilted. The woman did a good job, I had no issues with her work.... but I just could not shake the feeling that I did not make that quilt. That feeling never left me and I didn't like it, so now I hand quilt everything myself and I feel so lucky that I really enjoy that process. Now I feel more connected to what I make. I understand how you feel. I am glad you are getting a machine that works for you!

[@LauraSup]

Thank you Sue for sharing the supplies that work for you! I have only done very tiny projects but would like to try to hand quilt a larger quilt! My husband bought me a large round standing quilt frame but I noticed that your frame is smaller and looks easier to manage. Can you tell me what kind of frame you use and if you have ever used a round quilting frame? Thank you so much for all the great information and ideas you have shared regarding your quilting journey! ❤

[@fromsmallthings509]

I have never used the round hoops, but they should be similar to what I use in size. I like this size because I can easily turn it when I quilt round or circular motifs. I wish you success on your new frame! Happy Quilting!

[@LauraSup]

@ thank you for your response! I love your channel and I’m already looking forward to watching more!🥰

[@Heywoah73]

I spy the beginnings of your Hunter's Star!! Looking good 👍🏻 Appreciate you sharing your knowledge

[@fromsmallthings509]

Yes, you're right!!! Watch my next video for more info!

[@s.a.whirley4559]

Love your videos so much! Thank you.

[@fromsmallthings509]

Thank you for being here with me!

[@malindahawkins6551]

So nice to see you ❤

[@fromsmallthings509]

I'm glad you could join me!!!

[@barbmckinlay5108]

Thank you; this was great information. Think I’ll try it on a wall hanging.

[@fromsmallthings509]

That's a great way to start! You don't need to put a heavy amount of quilting on it, and please don't be too hard on yourself if you haven't hand quilted before. I wish you lots of luck!!!!!

[@hollykarlsen1792]

Have you ever tried using an “Aunt Becky’s Finger protector “ for your receiving finger? I don’t do much hand quilting but when I do, it is very helpful for saving me from needle pokes. I also think the shape of it allows me to make smaller, more consistent stitches.

[@fromsmallthings509]

I will have to look for Aunt Becky, I've never heard of it! Thanks for the info! For the most part, my finger is ok but it just looks really bad. There is a good callous on it and it is generally the brand new needles that hurt the most---they are so sharp!

[@hollykarlsen1792]

@ the inventor developed it after getting blood poisoning from pricking her finger so many times 😢

[@rosehixon2790]

Always excellent information❤

[@amandaaskew7606]

Thank you for the wonderful tips!

[@rosesoderberg4089]

Thanks so much for the tips😊.

[@plansandprocrastination]

most excellent video! How do you determine the tightness of the fabric in the frame? Do you start in the center of the quilt and work out? Is it always either toward or away from you, or do you ever quilt side to side? What type of batting do you find offers the least resistance to the needle...cotton or ??? What is your preferred length of thread to use, and is there a special knot that you've found when that length of thread runs out and you have to get a new one? .. Sorry for so many questions...this is just very inspiring, and I want to give it a go.

[@angiec2509]

What she said

[@fromsmallthings509]

It is generally suggested that you begin quilting in the center, working outward. I personally quilt away from me, or toward me but in a pinch I can quilt from my right working toward my left. My length of thread is usually an arm's length and I usually just make small circle at the end and pull my thread through it twice to make a small knot. You can also begin your first stitch with a back stitch to make your knot a little more secure. I hope this helps and I hope you will give it a try!

[@SpeakTruthBeKind]

Thank you for another great post. ❤ I would like to suggest that you could do what other You Tube posters do and that is have a list with links to Amazon for the tools you use and that is a way you could get a little $$ too. Doesn’t cost your viewers extra at all. Maybe your daughter could look into that for you?

[@fromsmallthings509]

I will pass on this info to her, she does the video and I do the quilting.

[@beatricevonkaenel3922]

Thank you❤

[@TheCussinQuilter]

I have to feel the needle from the top and bottom. I use a leather thimble on top and nothing on the bottom. My finger looks just like yours. I've tried many things and they just don't work for me. Wool or cotton/wool batting is my go to. I love seeing your videos pop up!

[@fromsmallthings509]

I was at a fabric sale one time and I saw a woman showing her quilting finger to a friend and it made me smile, I felt such a kinship with her! I have quilted through wool (only one time) but it was so nice and easy! Just dreamy!

[@TheCussinQuilter]

@fromsmallthings509 My manicurist always asks what happened to my finger lol

[@ShellyFuqua-t2q]

Thank you Sue for all your valuable info. Your quilts are just stunning and your hand stitching is amazing too! I'm really interested in where you get some of your stencils but I don't see the link provided. ❤

[@fromsmallthings509]

I have typically bought them at quilt shows. But the name of the business is The Stencil Company, so I hope this helps you find them.

[@bbymks5]

I love the way hand quilting looks! I've tried a few times, and I'm not great...I have ended up picking it out each time and just machine quilted the project 🤦🏼‍♀️

[@fromsmallthings509]

Keep trying... you will get it! Don't be too hard on yourself and don't compare yourself to others. The only way to get better is to do it, and then do it some more! It's true!

[@lindarubano4562]

Excellent video

[@lynnmcentire4014]

I use that thimble too. I have 2 sizes. My fingers are larger in the summer 😂 I once poked a hole in my needle when quilting. I assume I hit the same spot over and over which wore a hole in it

[@fromsmallthings509]

Same here, I poked a hole right through my thimble because I seem to use it in the same spot repeatedly. It really hurt when the eye of the needle pierced my finger! Time for a new thimble!

[@ShadowMoonFarms]

Thanks for sharing

[@SB_McCollum]

My great grandmother (last quilt in the late 50s probably) had a thimble with the top cut off, flattened a bit to conform to her finger, and it still has a lining of plaster cloth where she had wrapped her finger to fit it more comfortably. Do you think she might have been using that for her receiving finger, to keep the stabbing down to a minimum? I don't know how she cut the top off, but the top rim has been worn smooth and it's very, very old. The indentations look like fish scales instead of round dents and "France" is stamped at the bottom.

[@fromsmallthings509]

That is SO interesting!!! I especially like her 'make do' attitude!!! I think it's possible she did that to save her poor finger!

[@annroberson8890]

Very good.

[@charlotte3033]

This was so useful thank you! I was wondering how often you change your needles? I never know when it's time to change them with hand sewing, or if they can be sharpened like knives

[@plansandprocrastination]

I'd love to hear about this as well, thank you for asking this question! :)

[@singing-bird]

I’ve never heard of sharpening needles. I use mine for ages, until they get too dull to penetrate the fabric, or I accidentally bend, or even break (Yikes! 😳) one.

[@TheCussinQuilter]

I change mine only when they bend. Happy quilting.

[@angiec2509]

The little dangly thing on the tomato pincushion is for sharpening needles. Just poke needle through it several times.

[@angiec2509]

​@@singing-birdThe little dangly thing on the tomato pin cushion is for sharpening needles. Just poke it through it 10 or 12 times

[@ragdollyally]

Thank you Sue, I did indeed enjoy this episode. I’ve been reluctant to try because I have neck and shoulder issues in my dominant arm. I will have to try it but I wondered if you had any advice about the most important things to consider and remember when choosing where to sit to hand quilt. Is there any particular posture you find has led to pain or discomfort from the repetitive motion and the need to be bending your neck forwards when hand quilting? Do you have the frame on a table or your lap? I’ve had to be very careful with machine piecing too but mostly it’s rotary cutting that exacerbates my problems!

[@fromsmallthings509]

I do my hand quilting at my kitchen table because I rest the frame on the edge of the table and it allows me to get my other hand underneath the quilt. I find that my kitchen chair is not very comfortable for long periods of time so I have made a pillow to sit on and it helps me to sit a bit higher which also helps. I also find that I have to get up and move around frequently to stretch and get the blood moving. I have a new cat so he makes sure I don't sit too long, he needs to watch the birds and to chase his toys!

[@VeronicaJohnson-yh1dx]

Thx I'm going to try hand quilting a border

[@fromsmallthings509]

Good! I hope you have a good experience with it! It's such a rewarding feeling

[@MrsTeddy-yw9fk]

Love all the tips can you tell us where we buy the marking pen please

[@MrsTeddy-yw9fk]

Lol I didn't see the list at the end of video

[@trudyvanniekerk6647]

Hi Sue, Very interesting video, thankyou. What is your feeling of ever quilting with embroidery floss? Thanks Trudy

[@nanigail395]

I am trying my first hand quilting project & I’m using 2 strands of embroidery thread & making longer stitches ( embroidered straight stitch ). I’m also using different colors ( each square is a different material & lots of fall colors ) It is a queen sized one & with bear paws all in it. I can’t afford the long arm & I’m glad I decided to hand quilt it….like Sue said: you feel more a part of it 🥰 Now; my stitches are nothing like Sue’s beautiful traditional ones!! 😆

[@fromsmallthings509]

I don't have any experience with using embroidery floss for hand quilting. The only time I've used floss is when I made a crazy quilt -- they generally don't get hand quilted but I used the floss to hold the layers together.

[@fromsmallthings509]

I'm so glad you are giving it a try and that you found a way to make it work for you! It's so much more meaningful in the end! Good job!!!

[@nanigail395]

@@fromsmallthings509 Thank you, Sue 🥰

[@donnanonne8612]

Thank you for all the great info. Have you tried using New Skin liquid bandage on your "receiving" finger?

[@fromsmallthings509]

I have tried something similar but most of the time I am ok because I have a callous built up. It just looks really bad!

[@susanrascone2098]

❤❤

[@lyndakling901]

I’ve enjoyed handquilting but sadly it now bothers my wrist and hands to do it…I can at times do large stitch quilting which I love too, but usually pay a friend to long arm my quilts…

[@fromsmallthings509]

It makes me sad to hear when someone can't do hand work anymore, and that's one reason why I am trying to do as much as I can right now. I never know when age or arthritis will put a stop to it for me. I will be so sad.

[@deborahbaxter27]

Thank you. Have you ever done the big stitch quilting?

[@fromsmallthings509]

Not yet! Not an entire quilt anyway. My orphan block quilt has a little bit on it, and I have made a crazy quilt that uses embroidery floss with big stitches to hold it together.

[@lindakQOV]

Have you tried liquid bandage on your receiving finger? It might keep it from getting quite so sore.

[@fromsmallthings509]

I have tried something similar. It looks really bad, but it doesn't always hurt. . . that's only if I quilt a lot more than usual, or if I am using brand new needles because they are sharp!!!

[@jeanettewithrow9641]

What is the name of frame you are using? What kind of thread do you use. Thank you for video, very helpful

[@tokyorosa]

Interesting! I don't think I could be a hand quilter. I'm not nearly patient enough! How about New Skin "liquid bandage" on your index finger?

[@fromsmallthings509]

My finger really isn't as bad as it looks, I am used to it!

[@FredaM]

When you quilt, do you do the area inside the Q-snap both ways, or do you keep moving the frame to do the whole length of that line? Thanks

[@fromsmallthings509]

It depends on the quilting pattern I am doing for that quilt. Generally speaking, I do it in the most efficient way that works for me and in a way where I can easily keep track of what has been quilted and what still needs to be quilted. Its different for each quilt.

[@jillschaumloeffel5138]

Do you always use white quilting thread? I tend to use just white unless there is a lot of black. I think it make the quilt look more traditional.

[@fromsmallthings509]

The majority of my quilting is with white thread. I have used colors occasionally, most often when I make my orphan block quilts. Every block is so unique, and I also add embroidery, and lace so those quilts are a good place to experiment and try new things.

[@AuntGrace]

❤🎉❤

[@kathydeschuiteneer4826]

I have used electrical tape on my receiver finger with good results. I can feel the needle and my finger takes longer to get worn out.

[@fromsmallthings509]

That's a clever idea, I'll have to see if my dollar store has some!

[@jillmcintyre5933]

I have to feel it too. But with me it’s y middle finger. And I put my thimble on the middle finger. What size needle go you use?

[@SpeakTruthBeKind]

I believe Sue said she uses a Size 10 betweens by Roxanne.

[@AvivaHadas]

How do you thread multiple needles onto one thread? How do you then remove one threaded needle?

[@tchr1106]

I never knew one could hand quilt using those snap frames.

[@fromsmallthings509]

This is what I first learned on so it just became a natural part of how I quilt. There are many many ways to quilt.... some people don't use a frame at all.

[@Faystory]

Thank you so much for sharing these tips, tools and sources..... I do have one more question, after you wash your quilts in the washing machine, do you dry them completely in your dryer? Thanks again,( from sewnow_don'twait )

[@fromsmallthings509]

Yes, I do put them in the dryer. Sometimes I sell a quilt or make one on commission and I want to be sure they will go through a regular washing/drying cycle for the new owners.

[@joyfuller3085]

Please can you show how loose or tight you have your quilt in your frame? Joy Cambridge uk

[@fromsmallthings509]

That's difficult to show. I think everyone probably has their own preference. But on my Q Snap frame there are clamps that you can turn a little outward to tighten the surface a little, or you can turn them inward to give a little more slack. It's really all about how it feels and what is comfortable for you. I find it useful to have a little slack on the quilt top to help the needle dive down and then come up to the surface again.

[@lynnmcentire4014]

When I hand quilted, I found that a callus would form on my oft hand

[@fromsmallthings509]

I also have a callous, and for the most part I don't have a problem with that finger, it just looks bad! Its generally the brand new needles that cause me pain.