Quilting Frame Plans save Money and Provide a New Creative Outlet

Many avid quilters will eventually need to invest in a quilting frame to create beautiful handmade projects. In previous generations, once the top of the quilt was pieced and joined together, the creator would sandwich a piece of batting or an old blanket between this top layer and an old sheet. The layers would then be pulled taut across a wood frame so that the hand stitching could be done to put the final polish on the quilted piece. Today, quilters who want to add this finish to their own work will also need some sort of quilting frame to keep the pieces together and taut while the hand stitching is being done. While there are a number of beautiful and functional ready-made quilting frames available, many become an expensive investment. A cheaper alternative is to create your own frame, using quilting frame plans.

Where to Find Quilting Frame Plans

You can shop for a variety of quilting frame plans through your craft or quilting store, or through a variety of websites on the Internet. Some of these plans will be quite comprehensive, and provide the supplies needed as well as the instructions. Others will simply be the written quilting frame plans, which will provide you with a supply list so that you can purchase the wood and hardware on your own. Keep in mind that if you decide to go this route with your quilting frame plans, you should select a sturdy wood for the frame, like oak, that will be able to withstand the strain and pull of the heavy fabric. The hardware also needs to be high quality, since there will be plenty of pressure placed on the joints of the quilting frame.

The Simplest Quilting Frame Plans

You can even simplify your quilting frame plans a step further, and purchase four oak two-by-twos and some C-clamps to construct your own quilting frame. Make sure that two of the boards are longer than the width of your fabric and covered with a loose length of heavy fabric like denim or twill. This fabric will hold your quilt to your frame, so make sure that it is stapled securely to the boards. Attach your quilt to these fabric ends with a basting stitch or large safety pin to hold it taut and steady. Finally, attach the other two boards to the ends of the first two, using the C-clamps to hold the boards and the quilt in place. You can then lay your quilting frame across sawhorses or chairs, and begin your stitching process.

A good, sturdy quilting frame is essential for quality handwork on your piece. By investing in quilting frame plans, you can save some money and achieve satisfaction by creating your own personalized frame.