Introduction

One of the biggest mistakes new quilters make isn't choosing the wrong fabric...

It's buying fabric before they have a plan.

A little planning before you shop can save money, reduce waste, and help your project come together exactly as you imagined.

Whether you're making your very first quilt or your fiftieth, following a simple planning process makes every project more enjoyable.

Let's walk through it together.

Step 1: Choose Your Project

Start with your finished project—not your fabric.

Ask yourself:

• Am I making a baby quilt?
• A throw quilt?
• A table runner?
• A wall hanging?
• A gift?
• Something for my home?

Once you know what you're making, every other decision becomes much easier.

Step 2: Choose Your Pattern

Before purchasing fabric, decide which pattern you'll be following.

Your pattern tells you:

• Finished quilt size
• Fabric requirements
• Block sizes
• Additional materials needed

Your pattern should always be your primary planning tool.

Step 3: Choose the Right Fabric Pre-Cut

Now it's time to choose the fabric bundle that best matches your project.

Examples:

Choosing your pre-cut after selecting your project helps prevent overbuying and unnecessary waste.

Step 4: Estimate Fabric Requirements

Now determine approximately how many pre-cuts—or how much yardage—you'll need.

Don't forget to account for:

• Background fabric
• Borders
• Binding
• Backing fabric

Our How Many Fabric Pre-Cuts Do You Need? guide can help you estimate quantities before you shop.

Step 5: Choose Your Batting

Now think about how your finished project will be used.

Will it be:

• A cozy everyday quilt?
• A lightweight summer quilt?
• A decorative wall hanging?
• A baby quilt?

The answers help determine which batting will give your project the look and feel you want.

👉 Link to the Batting Learning Center.

Step 6: Choose Thread

Thread often gets overlooked during planning.

Think about:

• Cotton or polyester?
• Matching or contrasting color?
• Piecing thread
• Quilting thread

Planning your thread now prevents delays later.

👉 Link to the Thread Learning Center.

Step 7: Double-Check Your Shopping List

Before placing your order, take one final look.

Do you have:

✔ Pattern

✔ Fabric

✔ Backing

✔ Binding

✔ Batting

✔ Thread

✔ Needles

✔ Rotary Blade

✔ Ruler

✔ Cutting Mat

✔ Pins or Clips

✔ Marking Tool

Taking a minute now can save you another shopping trip later.

Laura's Studio Tip 💜

Excitement makes us want to buy fabric first.

Experience teaches us to plan first.

The few extra minutes you spend organizing your project before you shop often save hours of frustration once you begin sewing.

Continue Learning

Next, explore:

• Mixing Fabric Pre-Cuts with Yardage
• Common Fabric Pre-Cut Mistakes
• Fabric Pre-Cuts for Gifts & Seasonal Projects