by Carla Therrien
One of the hardest parts of learning to hand quilt, for me, was finding the right thimble. I use a needle art guild thimble that as you can see from the photo has a deep ridge that I use to control the needle. I started out using the rocking method of hand quilting and then, thanks to the wonderful Internet, came upon Jean Brown's method of hand quilting. There are a couple of reasons I changed methods, a bit of arthritis in my hands and I was tired of poking my finger.
Jeans method relies on a little metal tool called the Aunt Becky. It is used underneath the quilt to help make wonderful quilting stitches. I also use a rubber fingertip to help pull the needle through the fabric after the stitches are made. This method allows you to really load up your needle with stitches, so having the rubber tip helps a lot.
As for scissors, I use these small little snips. I also own a pair of applique scissors that I use when I applique. It is amazing how many different tools are out on the market. Finding the right combination that works for you can be difficult, but very rewarding. Stitching is so therapeutic for me.
One of the hardest parts of learning to hand quilt, for me, was finding the right thimble. I use a needle art guild thimble that as you can see from the photo has a deep ridge that I use to control the needle. I started out using the rocking method of hand quilting and then, thanks to the wonderful Internet, came upon Jean Brown's method of hand quilting. There are a couple of reasons I changed methods, a bit of arthritis in my hands and I was tired of poking my finger.
Jeans method relies on a little metal tool called the Aunt Becky. It is used underneath the quilt to help make wonderful quilting stitches. I also use a rubber fingertip to help pull the needle through the fabric after the stitches are made. This method allows you to really load up your needle with stitches, so having the rubber tip helps a lot.
As for scissors, I use these small little snips. I also own a pair of applique scissors that I use when I applique. It is amazing how many different tools are out on the market. Finding the right combination that works for you can be difficult, but very rewarding. Stitching is so therapeutic for me.
I wish I could use something for underneath the quilt as well but I have tried several things and it just doesn't work for me, I have to be able to feel the needle.
ReplyDeleteI've wondered about the Aunt Becky technique. Was this hard to get used to at first?
ReplyDeleteI must say it took a bit of practice and determination to change. Once I got it, I am so pleased I took the time to make the change. I know there are some quilters that use a spoon in much the same way. I think the important thing to come away with is to do what works for you.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great blog! Thanks for setting it up. I watched the video on the Aunt Becky some time back and am thinking this is what I would like to try. My hands are getting older (just like the rest of me!!!) and this looks like it would be less strain on them. I do imagine it would take some practice .... but then again what doesn't? Thanks again for the blog.
ReplyDeletewould you be able to tell me where I could get the same type of thimble please?
ReplyDeleteWould you be able to tell me where I can get the same type of thimble? I cant find any in the UK.
ReplyDelete