I've never been much of a fan of blogs, finding my own life more interesting than that of others. That probably sounds self-centered, but how can I live my own life when I am spending time reading about other people's lives? Regardless, every now and then, I'll follow a link to a crafter's blog and spend quite a bit of enjoyable time perusing their pictures and ideas. It's a fun break from the daily grind.

More and more often I am finding that these crafters who seem more comfortable with paper and a glue gun are branching out into making quilts. I celebrate anyone who joins in with this wonderful artful expression. But, because most of these crafters are very beginning sewers, I really wish they would refrain from showing others how to make a quilt. Other than that, I love what they are doing.

Making quilts is more than just sewing some seams. Like couture sewing or any other specialized stitchery, there are basic rules than need to be learned as well as techniques that result in well-made, beautiful quilts every time. While it does require some specialized quilting supplies and tools, most of it can be done with regular, everyday sewing supplies.

While it isn't strictly necessary, I tell my students that it is preferable to have some sewing knowledge before tackling quilting. In a lot of ways, it is easier than fashion sewing, but it also takes a high level of accuracy to create perfect quilts. Because I teach both sewing and quilting, I usually see my students in both classes at the same time. This is difficult for them, but if they have the ambition, they will be making quilts beautifully in no time.

A beginning quilter may feel more comfortable learning to make a basic quilt on a craft blog; less expectations and a lot less insecurity about learning from an accomplished quilter. Once again, I have no problem with this. However, if a person wants to learn the ins and outs of anything, they need to learn from experts, not someone who is treating quilt-making as just another craft.

And, that, I think is the crux of my problem! Making quilts is a form of art. Whether we make basic patch quilts for the local animal shelter or fabulous heirloom quilts for our grandchildren, each of us quilters puts our heart and soul into our quilts, pouring forth every artistic shred of ourselves into each one. Making a quilt as a craft project is similar to paint-by-number. Anyone can do it with a minimum of fuss or emotional attachment.

I sound pretty nit-picky, don't I? I honestly understand that I probably sound like a quilt snob! But, I am a quilter through and through. I started making quilts as a way to use up fabric scraps from my fashion and décor sewing, but quickly learned to love it for the art form that it is. I want others to love the art of quilting as much as I do. And, still, I waited until I had won awards for my quilts before attempting to teach others.

Unlike bloggers, no one is giving me quilting supplies for free so that I will write about them. This leaves me free to create my artistic visions as they come to me, not based on which product is waiting for a review.

My advice is this: if you really want to learn about making quilts, stay away from blogs. Instead, visit real websites that are created by those so passionate about what they are doing that they are willing to pay for their own web space. These quilters offer free tutorials, lots of ideas, and even free embroidery designs for embroidery quilting! They teach the basics from a point of view of what you will need to know in order to progress further.

Learn the basics from someone who knows more than just the basics, and you'll be a top rank quilter in no time!