One of the most important, and ironically least considered things when it comes to quilting is selection of the proper quilting fabric. Fabrics used for quilting come in many sizes, shapes and colors, as well as a variety of materials. With such a wide selection of choices available to you, it might seem like a daunting task to find the best fabric for your particular quilt. The experts have this down to a science, and with a little practice, so will you. As a beginner, you should use the basic guidelines below for assistance in selecting an appropriate fabric that is both versatile and practical. Eventually, you will be able to rely on experience and will be an expert in your own right.

The first factor to be considered is color. There are many tools available to assist you in finding the most aesthetically pleasing color for your quilt, the most basic of which is a color wheel. A color wheel allows you to compare and contrast different colors so you can figure out which one looks the best. Comparing colors side-by-side is the best way to determine which is your favorite. There are many kinds of color wheels, in varying sizes and with different colors and shades. Generally, you will use a color wheel with shades of just one or two colors to narrow in on the perfect shade. If you are reasonably sure what primary color is ideal for you, this is all you will need. However, if you have no idea what primary color you would like to use, you should get several wheels so you can fully appreciate how each color would look within the overall scheme of your home. All shades of colors can be found on a color wheel, so be sure to make use of this valuable resource before taking the plunge into buying quilting fabric.

Now that you have selected the colors of your quilting fabric, there is one more decision that must be made before going to the store and buying the materials. There are numerous quilting fabrics out there, such as polyester, velvet and cotton. Before making a decision, think about the type of quilt you are making. Depending on if you are making a quilt for overall warmth, for a baby, simply to be displayed, or for another purpose, you might select your material differently. Regardless of the type of fabric that you end up choosing, be sure to choose the best quality material you can afford.

Lastly, you should take into account the ease of care of the quilting fabric, along with who is going to be using the quilt. If you are planning to create an intricate work of art that is to be displayed, then it is probably best to use delicate materials. However, if you are going to make a quilt for a baby's crib, you should select a durable material (such as cotton) that will allow the quilt to last for years even with the expected wear and tear that will occur with a quilt that will constantly be at a baby's side.

If you are sure to take into account each of the above factors before purchasing a quilting fabric, the end result will be a wonderful quilt that meets your personal needs!