---
title: "The Usual Suspects – a Basic Supply List for Quilters"
date: 2025-11-04
author: "Quiltweb"
featured_image: "https://quiltweb.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/fabric-and-pincushion.webp"
---

# The Usual Suspects – a Basic Supply List for Quilters

Every quilter starts somewhere, but having the right tools makes the journey smoother. Here are the essential items every stitcher should keep close. It’s a generic list, so you can print it out and double-check what you need if you are going to a class or retreat. You can find most of the items on my [Amazon List.](https://amzn.to/4oSa5h9)





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## Quilting’s Most Wanted: The Supplies You Can’t Quilt Without

- A sewing machine in good working order complete with power cord and foot pedal. A manual for the same, which you have completely read so you know the correct way to use it. (Hint: many manuals can be found on the Internet. ) Be sure to practice using all the features and stitches.
- A 1/4″ foot and a walking foot for your machine that you know how to use.
- Filled bobbins, extra sewing machine needles (size 80/12 is a good general size), extra light bulb, machine cleaning tools such as a lint brush, Q-tip and/or oil
- Rotary cutter with extra blades
- 6-1/2″ × 24″ ruler, a 3-1/2″, 4-1/2″, 5-1/2″, 6-1/2″ and 9-1/2″ square ruler
- 18″ × 24″ or 24″ × 36″ cutting mat
- Selection of good quality threads – gray is a good neutral, but you should have white, ecru, and black also. Do not use discount thread!
- Pins and pincushion
- Writing utensils: Pencil or disappearing ink pen for drawing lines on fabric, pens for notes on your pattern, pigma pen for signing your quilt
- Sewing notions such as hand sewing needles, thimble, needle threader, small scissors or snippers
- An Ott light
- Tape measure
- Iron and ironing board, wool pressing mat, power strip
- An open mind and a desire to try something new
- A cushion to sit on, and maybe a TV table to help organize quilt pieces.
- Patience, patience, patience – and a good seam ripper.

## If you are going to a retreat

- Pack all of the above, your clothes, and any medicine you need. Don’t forget to pack a project or two to actually work on!
- Have a designated spot for your car keys. You don’t want to find that you accidentally packed them when you leave. (Ask me how I know.)
- Bring snacks and fabric to share.