A quilt kit gives you a fantastic head start by providing the fabrics and pattern needed for your project—but you'll still need a few additional supplies before you begin sewing.

The good news? Most of these are tools you'll use for many quilting projects to come, making them a worthwhile investment for every quilter.

Let's walk through the essentials.

Batting

Batting is the soft layer that goes inside your quilt, between the quilt top and the backing fabric.

The batting you choose affects:

• Warmth

• Loft (thickness)

• Drape

• Stitch definition

• Overall feel of the finished quilt

Popular choices include:

• Cotton

• Cotton/Poly Blend

• Polyester

• Wool

• Bamboo

Need help choosing? Visit our Batting Learning Center to compare the different types and find the best option for your project.

Backing Fabric

Most quilt kits include fabric for the quilt top only.

You'll typically need to purchase backing fabric separately.

When selecting backing fabric, consider:

• Quilt size

• Fabric width

• Coordinating colors

• Pattern scale

Many quilters enjoy choosing a backing that complements the quilt front while adding its own unique personality.

Thread

Quality thread makes sewing easier and produces more consistent results.

For piecing quilts, many quilters prefer:

• 50 wt cotton

• 40 wt polyester

For quilting, your thread choice depends on the look you want to achieve.

Choose a thread that matches both your fabric and your sewing machine.

Our Thread Learning Center can help you compare thread weights and fiber types.

Quilting Needles

Using the right needle helps prevent skipped stitches, thread breaks, and fabric damage.

Replace your needle:

• At the start of every major project

• After 6–8 hours of sewing

• Anytime it becomes bent or dull

A fresh needle is one of the simplest ways to improve stitch quality.

Rotary Cutter, Ruler & Cutting Mat

Even though your kit includes the fabric, you'll usually cut the pieces yourself.

Accurate cutting is essential for:

• Matching seams

• Square quilt blocks

• Easier assembly

• Better finished results

A quality rotary cutter, self-healing cutting mat, and quilting ruler are three of the most important tools every quilter should own.

Pins or Wonder Clips

Keeping fabrics securely aligned helps improve accuracy while sewing.

Many quilters use:

• Glass-head pins

• Fine quilting pins

• Wonder Clips

• Fabric clips

Choose whichever method feels most comfortable for your project.

Iron & Pressing Surface

Pressing—not ironing—is one of the secrets to beautiful quilts.

Press your seams as you sew to:

• Improve accuracy

• Reduce bulk

• Help blocks fit together correctly

• Create crisp, professional-looking results

A good steam iron and pressing surface quickly become favorite quilting companions.

Sewing Machine

A reliable sewing machine is, of course, one of your most important tools.

The good news is that you don't need an expensive machine to create beautiful quilts.

What matters most is:

• Consistent straight stitches

• Accurate seam allowance

• A comfortable workspace

• A properly maintained machine

Optional Extras

Once you've completed a few quilts, you may enjoy adding specialty tools such as:

• Walking foot

• Quarter-inch quilting foot

• Quilting gloves

• Spray basting adhesive

• Fabric marking tools

• Seam roller

• Design wall

These aren't required, but many quilters find they make projects easier and more enjoyable.

Laura's Studio Tip

Before opening your quilt kit, gather everything you'll need to finish the project.

Having your supplies ready means fewer interruptions, less frustration, and more time doing what you love—creating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does every quilt kit include batting?

Usually not. Batting is almost always purchased separately so you can choose the loft and fiber that best fits your project.

Do I need special quilting thread?

Not always. Many quality cotton or polyester threads work beautifully for piecing and quilting. The best choice depends on your project and personal preference.

Can I use my regular sewing machine?

Absolutely! Most quilt kits can be completed on a standard home sewing machine.

What is the one tool every beginner should buy first?

A quality rotary cutter, self-healing cutting mat, and quilting ruler will make nearly every quilting project easier, safer, and more accurate.

Ready to Gather Your Supplies?

Now that you've chosen your quilt kit, make sure you have everything needed to complete your project with confidence. Explore our Thread, Batting, Needles, and Quilting Tools collections to find the supplies that will help bring your quilt to life.