Quilting Essentials: The Tools I Reach for Every Single Day

Whether you’re brand new to quilting or you’ve been stitching for years, having the right tools makes the process smoother, more enjoyable, and a whole lot more accurate. Over time, I’ve learned which items truly earn their place in my studio and which ones just take up space. Today I’m sharing the quilting essentials I rely on for every project — the tools that help me design, cut, sew, and finish with confidence.

🧵 1. A Reliable Sewing Machine

You don’t need the fanciest machine on the market, but you do need one that creates consistent stitches and handles layers well. Look for a machine with:

• A ¼" foot (or the ability to sew an accurate ¼" seam)

• A walking foot for quilting and binding

• A zipper foot for a new way to bind, see previous blog post

• Easy tension adjustments A dependable machine is the heart of your quilting practice.

✂️ 2. Rotary Cutter + Sharp Blades

A rotary cutter is non-negotiable for clean, accurate cuts. I keep a 45mm cutter on hand for most tasks and a smaller 28mm for curves or tight corners. And here’s the truth: a fresh blade solves more problems than you think.

• My favorite blades are Guggenhein

My favorite rotary cutter is made by Martelli, they have left and right handed cutters.

📏 3. Quality Quilting Rulers

Clear acrylic rulers with non-slip grips are a game changer. My go-tos:

• 6" x 24" for cutting yardage

• 6½" square for trimming blocks

• A specialty ruler or two depending on the pattern Accurate rulers = accurate quilts.

• My favorite rulers are Quilters Select as they have a non slip backing.

🧵 4. Good Thread

Thread is one of those things you don’t think about until it causes trouble. I prefer high-quality 50wt cotton for piecing because it’s strong, smooth, and presses beautifully. Consistent thread tension makes everything easier.

✨ 5. A Cutting Mat That Can Take a Beating

A self-healing mat protects your blades and your table. Choose the largest size your space allows — you’ll never regret having more room to work.

My favorite mats are from Martelli Notions, one side is purple, the other side is yellow. They are the thickest mats I have used and a joy to cut on, plus they last forever.

🔥 6. An Iron You Trust

Pressing is half the battle in quilting. A reliable iron (steam or dry, depending on your preference) helps seams lie flat and blocks stay crisp. Pair it with a sturdy ironing board or wool pressing mat for best results.

🧷 7. Pins, Clips, and All the Little Helpers

These small tools make a big difference:

• Fine pins for piecing

• Clips for binding or bulky seams

• A seam ripper you actually like using

• A small pair of snips for trimming threads These are the unsung heroes of the quilting room.

💻 8. EQ8 or Your Favorite Design Tool

For me, EQ8 has become an essential part of my creative process. It lets me experiment with color, scale, and layout without cutting a single piece of fabric. Whether you use software, graph paper, or a sketchbook, having a dedicated design tool helps you explore ideas freely.

🧵 9. Fabric You Love

At the end of the day, quilting is about joy. Choose fabrics that inspire you — solids, prints, textures, whatever makes your creativity spark. A well-curated stash is a treasure chest of possibilities.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need every gadget in the quilting world to make beautiful quilts. Start with the essentials, invest in quality where it matters, and let your tools support your creativity rather than overwhelm it. Over time, you’ll discover which items become your personal must-haves.