Quilting Terms Every Beginner Should Know

August 19, 2025

Quilting can feel overwhelming at first, especially with all the unfamiliar terms. But knowing the basics - like "fat quarters", "WOF" (width of fabric), or "RST" (right sides together) - can make projects easier and more enjoyable. This guide breaks down key quilting terms, fabric types, tools, and techniques so you can confidently start your quilting journey.

Key Takeaways:

Quilt Layers: A quilt has three layers - top (design), batting (warmth), and backing (underside).
Fabric Cuts: Learn terms like fat quarters (18" x 22"), jelly rolls (2.5" x 44"), and layer cakes (10" x 10").
Basic Techniques: Understand piecing (joining fabric), basting (layering fabrics), and binding (finishing edges).
Essential Tools: Rotary cutters, quilting rulers, and self-healing mats are must-haves for clean, accurate cuts.
Seam Allowance: A consistent ¼-inch seam allowance is critical for precise piecing.

Whether you're assembling a quilt sandwich or creating your first block, mastering these terms will simplify the process and help you achieve polished results.

Quilt Terms Every Beginner Should Learn First...........

Basic Quilting Terms Every Beginner Should Know

Quilting comes with its own unique vocabulary, and getting familiar with these terms can make following patterns and tutorials much easier. Once you understand these basics, you'll feel more confident tackling projects and chatting with other quilters.

Quilt Top, Batting, and Backing

A quilt is made up of three layers: the quilt top, batting, and backing. The quilt top is the decorative layer on the front, showcasing your fabric patterns and designs - this is the part everyone admires. The batting is the middle layer, adding warmth and thickness. Batting comes in materials like cotton, wool, or polyester, each offering different levels of loft (or thickness). Cotton batting gives a flatter look, while wool or polyester batting adds more puffiness and warmth.

The backing is the fabric layer on the back of the quilt. It's usually a single, large piece of fabric that covers the entire quilt's underside. Together, these three layers form the foundation of your quilt.

Quilt Sandwich and Basting

Once you’ve prepared your quilt top, batting, and backing, it’s time to assemble them into a quilt sandwich. This is simply the layering of the quilt top, batting, and backing in preparation for quilting.

To keep these layers from shifting during the quilting process, you’ll need to baste them together. Basting is a temporary method of holding the layers in place, and you can use safety pins, spray adhesive, or large hand stitches. Proper basting prevents the fabric from puckering or bunching as you sew.

Piecing, Patchwork, and Quilt Blocks

The art of quilting starts with piecing, which involves sewing smaller pieces of fabric together to create a larger design. This technique is the foundation of your quilt top, requiring careful stitching and precise planning.

Patchwork refers to the overall design that emerges from piecing, often featuring geometric or pictorial patterns. Within patchwork, you’ll work with quilt blocks, which are individual sections - usually squares or rectangles - that serve as building blocks for your quilt. For example, you might create multiple "log cabin" blocks by sewing strips of fabric around a central square. These blocks are then arranged and sewn together to complete the quilt top.

Binding, Seam Allowance, and Sashing

When your quilt is finished, you’ll add binding - a long strip of fabric sewn around the edges. Binding isn’t just for looks; it secures the raw edges of your quilt, protecting it from fraying and adding durability.

A seam allowance is the space between your stitching line and the fabric’s edge. In U.S. quilting, this is typically ¼ inch. Keeping a consistent ¼-inch seam allowance ensures your pieces fit together perfectly and match the pattern dimensions.

Sashing refers to strips of fabric placed between quilt blocks, framing each one and adding separation. For instance, white sashing can make colorful blocks stand out. While sashing isn’t necessary for every quilt, it’s a popular design feature that can enhance the overall look.

Fat Quarter, Jelly Roll, and Layer Cake

Pre-cut fabric pieces make quilting more convenient, especially when it comes to coordinating colors and patterns. Here’s a quick guide to some popular pre-cuts:

Fat quarters are roughly 18" x 22" and are perfect for small projects or when you want a variety of fabrics without buying full yards.
Jelly rolls are 2.5" x 44" strips, ideal for strip-piecing techniques that make assembly faster.
Layer cakes are 10" x 10" squares, great for block-based designs where each square becomes the foundation of a larger pattern.

These pre-cuts are based on U.S. measurements, so keep that in mind when working with American quilting patterns and tools. They’re a great way to save time while still achieving beautiful results.

Basic Quilting Tools and Supplies

Having the right tools can make all the difference in quilting, especially when it comes to achieving clean cuts, tidy seams, and a polished finish. While you don’t need to buy every tool right away, starting with a few essentials will set you on the right path.

Rotary Cutter, Quilting Ruler, and Cutting Mat

These three tools - often called the cutting trinity - are the backbone of any quilting project. Together, they ensure straight, precise cuts that are crucial for accurate piecing.

The rotary cutter is your go-to tool for slicing through multiple fabric layers with ease. Its rolling blade delivers sharp, clean edges far more efficiently than scissors.
A quilting ruler keeps your cuts straight and measurements accurate. Made from thick, clear acrylic, these rulers are marked with grid lines and angles to help you line up fabric perfectly. For beginners, a 6" x 24" ruler is a great all-purpose choice.
The cutting mat protects your table and keeps your rotary cutter blade sharp. Self-healing mats, marked with 1-inch grids, are especially helpful for measuring and squaring fabric. A 24" x 36" mat offers plenty of space for most projects while fitting comfortably on a standard table.

When using these tools, always cut away from your body and hold the ruler firmly in place. Rotary cutters are extremely sharp, so proper technique is key to staying safe and achieving professional results.

Quilting Pins, Needles, and Ironing Supplies

Once your fabric is cut, you’ll need tools to hold everything in place and ensure smooth sewing.

Quilting pins keep your fabric pieces exactly where you need them. Look for pins with flat or small glass heads, as these won’t interfere with your sewing machine. Flower head pins are especially handy because their colorful, flat tops are easy to spot. Avoid using pins with plastic heads - they can melt if accidentally ironed.
For sewing, the right needles depend on your method. If you’re machine quilting, choose quilting needles (size 90/14) or universal needles (size 80/12 to 90/14). For hand quilting, use betweens (quilting needles) in sizes 8 to 12 for smooth stitching through fabric layers.
A reliable iron is essential for pressing seams flat. A standard household iron works well as long as the soleplate is clean and it produces good steam. Press seams to one side rather than open - this strengthens the seams and reduces bulk where they intersect.

High-Quality Cotton Fabrics

The quality of your fabric can make or break your project. Quilting-weight cotton is ideal because it holds its shape, resists fraying, and maintains its color over time. It also cuts cleanly with a rotary cutter and presses beautifully, making it easier to achieve accurate piecing.

Using premium, pre-washed quilting cotton ensures your fabric behaves predictably during cutting and sewing. For beginners, starting with high-quality fabric can save a lot of frustration and help your finished quilt look polished. Brands like Mrs. Quilty offer carefully selected cotton fabrics that are perfect for both new and seasoned quilters.

Using Quilting Terms in Your First Project

This hands-on project is a great way to bring quilting terms to life as you create a classic nine-patch block. Let’s dive into how these terms come into play throughout the process.

Planning and Cutting Fabric

Before you start cutting, take a moment to plan your fabric needs. For a nine-patch block, you’ll want two contrasting fabrics. A fat quarter from each fabric - measuring 18" x 22" - is perfect for this project.

Prep your fabric by washing and pressing it. Then, use a cutting mat, quilting ruler, and rotary cutter to cut your pieces accurately. For a 12" finished block, cut 4.5" squares, keeping in mind the ¼" seam allowance. The rotary cutter ensures clean, precise cuts, but always handle it with care.

Using high-quality cotton fabric is a smart choice, as it holds its shape well during cutting. Precise cutting is key - it ensures your pieces fit together perfectly when it’s time to sew.

Piecing and Assembling Quilt Blocks

Piecing is where your individual fabric squares come together to form a quilt block. For the nine-patch, arrange your squares in a checkerboard pattern - three rows of three, alternating the two fabric colors.

Start by sewing the squares into rows, sticking to that all-important ¼" seam allowance. Quilting pins can help keep edges aligned as you sew. After each seam, press it toward the darker fabric to reduce bulk and create neat intersections.

To save time, try chain piecing. Instead of stopping after each seam, feed the next pair of squares through your sewing machine right after the first. This method not only speeds things up but also keeps your pieces organized.

Once your rows are complete, sew them together to finish the block. Pay close attention to matching the seam intersections - this is where precise cutting and consistent seams make a big difference. With your nine-patch block ready, you’re all set to move on to the next stage: assembling the quilt sandwich.

Creating the Quilt Sandwich and Finishing

Now it’s time to layer your quilt sandwich - another key quilting term. This involves stacking your quilt top, batting, and backing fabric. Leave a 2–3" margin around the edges to make basting easier.

Basting secures these layers together before quilting. You can use safety pins spaced about 4" apart or try spray basting for a smooth finish. Start basting in the center and work outward to avoid puckers.

For beginners, straight-line quilting is a great option. Stitch parallel lines across the quilt or follow the seams of your blocks. This step not only secures the layers but also adds texture and a polished look.

The final touch is the binding, which encases the raw edges for a clean finish. Cut 2.5" strips from your binding fabric, join them into one long strip, and sew it around the edges of the quilt. Then, fold the binding over to the back and hand-stitch it in place for a professional touch.

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Tips for Learning Quilting Terms

Learning quilting terms doesn't have to feel like an uphill battle. As one quilter put it, "One of the ways in which I was most confused when I first started quilting was all the terminology with quilters and quilt patterns". With the right strategies, you can make sense of this specialized vocabulary and build confidence as you go.

Start a Personal Glossary

One helpful way to tackle new quilting terms is by creating your own glossary. Keep a notebook in your sewing space or use a digital note on your phone to jot down unfamiliar words as you come across them. Include the term, its definition, and maybe a note about how it's used.

For instance, if you come across the term "fat quarter", write down where you encountered it - perhaps in a specific project. Making a personal connection like this can make the term easier to remember. For visual learners, sketching simple diagrams next to terms like "mitered corners" or "flying geese" can be a game-changer.

Having a printed or digital glossary nearby is also a smart move. Keep one copy close to your sewing machine and another near your cutting tools. That way, you won’t lose momentum when an unfamiliar term pops up in the middle of a project.

Use Beginner-Friendly Kits and Guides

While building your glossary lays the groundwork, beginner-friendly kits can help you put those terms into action. These kits are designed to teach through hands-on experience, making it easier to connect vocabulary with real techniques. For example, Mrs. Quilty's beginner kits come with detailed instructions that use proper quilting terms, giving you a chance to see and apply the words in context.

Such kits introduce terms naturally. If the instructions say, "baste the quilt sandwich", you'll be working directly with the materials as you learn what that means. Subscribers to the Mrs. Quilty Box even get a monthly magazine packed with articles and project guides that consistently use accurate quilting terminology, reinforcing your knowledge as you work.

U.S. Quilting Measurements and Standards

In American quilting, imperial measurements are the norm. Familiarizing yourself with these units can simplify your experience when working with patterns or shopping for materials.

Imperial Units in Quilting

Quilting patterns in the U.S. rely on inches for cutting, yards for fabric, and Fahrenheit for ironing. Standard seam allowances and block sizes typically use whole or half-inch increments.

You'll often encounter fractional measurements like ⅜, ⅝, or 7/8 inch in patterns. These fractions are key for accurate piecing, but they can feel tricky if you're accustomed to metric measurements. For example, converting ¼ inch results in 6.35 millimeters - a figure that's not practical for most rulers.

A ¼ inch presser foot is practically a must-have for working with American patterns, as most quilting tools and notions are designed with these imperial standards in mind.

If you need to convert measurements, remember that 1 inch equals 2.54 centimeters. For quick approximations, multiplying inches by 2.5 can give you a close enough result in centimeters. Still, it’s wise to keep a conversion chart nearby - tape one to your sewing machine or cutting mat for easy access. Online calculators can also be a lifesaver when you're calculating fabric yardage or other precise measurements.

These imperial standards also determine the dimensions of pre-cut fabrics, which are designed to make quilting projects more convenient.

Common Pre-Cut Fabric Sizes

Pre-cut fabrics in the U.S. follow standard imperial dimensions, streamlining the planning process for quilters. For example, a fat quarter measures 18" × 22".

Other popular pre-cuts include charm packs, which feature 5" × 5" squares (usually 42 pieces per collection), perfect for creating small blocks like four-patches. Jelly rolls consist of 2½" × 44" strips, ideal for strip piecing or binding, while layer cakes provide 10" × 10" squares, offering larger pieces for bigger blocks or background sections.

Pre-Cut Type	Dimensions	Typical Count	Common Uses
Fat Quarter	18" × 22"	1 piece	Appliqué, small blocks, borders
Charm Pack	5" × 5"	42 squares	Four-patches, small pieced blocks
Jelly Roll	2½" × 44"	40 strips	Strip piecing, binding, sashing
Layer Cake	10" × 10"	42 squares	Large blocks, background fabrics

Knowing these pre-cut sizes makes it easier to calculate fabric needs and ensures compatibility with patterns and projects, especially those offered by Mrs. Quilty.

When it comes to pressing fabrics, U.S. quilting guidelines use Fahrenheit temperatures. For cotton fabrics, set your iron between 300–400°F to achieve crisp seams without scorching. For synthetic blends, lower the temperature to around 275°F to avoid damaging delicate materials. These temperature settings are essential for clean, professional-looking results.

Conclusion

Getting familiar with basic quilting terms turns what might initially feel overwhelming into a clear, manageable path. These terms are more than just jargon - they’re the building blocks for precise cutting, consistent seams, and avoiding common mistakes. Once you understand the language of quilting, you’ll feel more confident interpreting patterns, connecting with other quilters, and diving into projects that may have once felt out of reach.

Armed with these essentials, you’re ready to take on your first quilting project. While your vocabulary will naturally grow with experience, starting with these basics sets you up for success. Whether you’re working with pre-cut fabrics in standard imperial sizes or assembling your first quilt sandwich, you now have the tools to follow patterns correctly and communicate effectively with fellow quilters.

For an even smoother start, beginner-friendly kits can be a great way to apply these terms in real-world projects. Mrs. Quilty’s thoughtfully curated materials and expert advice are excellent resources to help you transition from a novice to a confident quilter.

Now, it’s time to transform fabric into something truly special - your very own quilt.

FAQs

What basic tools do I need to start quilting as a beginner?

To dive into quilting, having the right tools on hand can make the entire process smoother and much more enjoyable. Here’s a quick list of must-haves to get you started:

A sewing machine designed for quilting tasks
A rotary cutter with sharp, replaceable blades
A self-healing cutting mat to protect your surfaces and extend the life of your cutter
A quilting ruler to ensure precise cuts and measurements
Pins or basting spray to keep your fabric layers securely in place
A seam ripper, because even the best quilters make mistakes

These essentials will make cutting, stitching, and assembling your quilt a breeze, giving you a solid start in your quilting adventure. If you’re looking for beginner-friendly kits or top-notch supplies, don’t forget to check out what Mrs. Quilty has to offer!

What are pre-cut fabrics like fat quarters, jelly rolls, and layer cakes, and how do they help beginners in quilting?

Pre-cut fabrics like fat quarters, jelly rolls, and layer cakes are a game-changer for quilting, especially if you're just starting out. These pre-measured fabric pieces take the hassle out of measuring and cutting, so you can skip straight to the creative part - piecing your quilt together.

What makes pre-cuts so handy? Each type comes in standard sizes, making it easier to follow patterns and assemble quilt blocks without needing advanced skills. For instance, fat quarters are incredibly versatile and ideal for smaller projects. On the other hand, jelly rolls and layer cakes are perfect for quickly crafting coordinated designs. They’re a fantastic way to simplify the process, boost your confidence, and enjoy quilting without the usual stress.

Why is a consistent ¼-inch seam allowance so important in quilting, and how can beginners achieve it?

Consistency in maintaining a ¼-inch seam allowance is a cornerstone of successful quilting. It ensures your blocks come out the right size, align seamlessly, and result in a tidy, square quilt. Skipping this precision can lead to mismatched pieces, uneven seams, and a quilt that looks distorted.

For beginners, accuracy can be achieved with a quarter-inch presser foot - a handy tool on most sewing machines that helps guide your fabric for perfect seams. To double-check your precision, try sewing a practice strip and measure the seam to confirm it’s exactly ¼ inch. If you need extra help, you can mark your sewing machine’s throat plate with tape or explore quilting tutorials to fine-tune your skills.