5 Time-Saving Quilting Hacks Every Quilter Should Know
Quilting is a beautiful and rewarding craft, but let’s be honest—it can be time-consuming! Whether you’re working on a large project or just squeezing in quilting time between daily responsibilities, these five time-saving quilting hacks will help you quilt more efficiently without sacrificing quality.
1. Chain Piecing: Sew More, Cut Less
Chain piecing is one of the easiest ways to speed up your quilting process. Instead of stopping to cut threads between each piece, simply feed fabric pieces through your machine continuously. Once you finish, snip them apart all at once!
🪡 Tip: Keep a small thread cutter or snips handy to quickly separate your pieces.
2. Pre-Wind Multiple Bobbins
There’s nothing more frustrating than running out of bobbin thread in the middle of a seam. Save time by pre-winding multiple bobbins before you start sewing.
🧵 Tip: Use a bobbin organizer to keep them neatly sorted by color. There are lots of different types, but personally I like this sort.
3. Use Pre-Cut Fabrics
Cutting fabric takes time, especially if you’re working on a quilt with many small pieces. Pre-cut fabrics, like jelly rolls, charm packs, and fat quarters, can significantly cut down on prep time. Try making a jelly roll race quilt!
✂️ Tip: If using your own fabric, spend an afternoon pre-cutting pieces for multiple projects to save time later. I like to cut into different length strips, put them in tubs and label them for later.
4. Press Seams the Right Way
Pressing seams as you go can prevent mistakes and make piecing more precise. Instead of stopping every few minutes, set up an ironing station next to your sewing area for quick access.
🔥 Tip: Use a wool pressing mat—it retains heat and helps press seams faster and flatter. I like to use a little ironing mat that has a cutting board on the other side - I keep it right beside my sewing machine so I don't even have to get up!
Another handy little tool is this seam roller, while not as good as an iron, it will definitely help your seams go the right way.
5. Keep Your Supplies Organized
Nothing slows down quilting like searching for lost tools! I am definitely speaking from experience here. Keep your rotary cutter, rulers, and fabric markers in a designated spot to maximize efficiency.
📦 Tip: Invest in a rolling cart or pegboard to keep your most-used tools within reach. I have three of these little trollies! I got them from Hobbycraft.
Final Thoughts
Quilting doesn’t have to take forever! By using these time-saving hacks, you’ll spend less time on prep and more time enjoying the creative process. What’s your favorite quilting shortcut? Share your best tips in the comments below!
Looking for high-quality quilting supplies? Check out Oakapple Haberdashery for premium cotton fabrics, Aurifil thread, and must-have sewing notions! Happy quilting! 🧵✨