To help you navigate the staggering amount of gadgets and quilting tools available on the market, I've created this resource page listing items I consider the best notions and tools for quilters. The list is conveniently grouped into sections, and each item is linked to Amazon making it easy for you to purchase. If I've written a review of the item, you can click on the item's name to read the review.
Having worked in a quilt shop I've had the opportunity to try out almost every gadget on the market, and I'm continually on the lookout for new items to add to my toolbox - anything that makes quilting easier, better and more fun! The product on the right is my latest favorite find!
Each of the Amazon links below are affiliate links, which means that if you click the links and choose to make a purchase, I will earn a small commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you but does help me earn enough to support the cost of this website. Please know that I only link to items which I personally use and feel that I can confidently endorse. Your support by clicking on these links is greatly appreciated.
This month's "Good Thing"
15 Minutes of Play Book by Victoria Findlay Wolfe
Basic Rotary Cutting Tools and Notions
These items make up what I consider the "basic" kit you need to be productive as a quilter. If you're a new or beginning quilter, these are your first investments. I heartily endorse the Creative Grids rulers because I can see through them clearly, they do not slip, and most of them have additional lines to help with lining up fabric, helping you make excellent cuts. Another plus is that almost all of them have instructional videos on YouTube where you can learn better ways to use the ruler, and these videos can be easily accessed from a mobile device by scanning the QR code that is printed directly on the ruler.
For safety reasons, this style cutter is the only one I will use. With other versions, I have accidentally nicked my hand when it brushed up against the cutter laying on my table as I moved fabric between cuts. With this type, the blade is always protected unless you engage it.
24" x 36" Cutting Mat
- Less odor than other brands (some new mats will give off chemical odors)
- This size mat has ample room to work with various sizes of fabric
- Useful for precise trimming
- I've had mine for nearly 6 years and it's still in perfect shape.
12.5" Creative Grids Square Up Ruler
- This is a good versatile size that has many uses.
- You will build a collection over time...buy the size you need for the blocks in your current project
- doesn't slip
- clear color makes it easy to see markings
- QR code links you to video tips
Basic Sewing Notions for Quilters
These items make up what I call a "Basic Sewing Kit for Quilters." You may have a lot of these items already, but when it comes time to replace them, here are the ones I think are your best bet to get the job done.
A quality product. Tough ceramic lead does not easily break when marking fabric.
Sew Straight
Attach this handy guide to the throat of your sewing machine and never mark another line down the middle of your quick corner units. Helps save time and improves accuracy of Flying Geese, snowball units, and more. Hands down one of those things I cannot live without.
Specialty Rulers & Tools for Quilters
There are a ton of specialty rulers on the market, and it's hard to know which ones are worthy of your investment. I consider the rulers listed below to be my "special" workhorses, as they have greatly improved my accuracy and given me exceptional results.
English Paper Piecing Recommendations
Fussy Cutting Mirror
Best Tools and Notions for Applique
Thread Cutter Ring
Best tools, notions and fun stuff for Quilt Retreats
Quilt retreats and sewing group days are my favorite part of quilting. I try to keep a bag ready to go at a moments notice in case some friends call and say "Let's Sew!" I've found the tools and notions listed below to make my sewing excursions a lot more pleasant.
Large Tote Bag
I take a LOT of fabric with me when I retreat. I love the way I can stack the fabric in these large totes.