There are people out there who want to quilt, but for some reason think that they can not. Well, you can learn to quilt even if you did not take Home Economics in high school and have never stitched in your life. Here are the top five excuses folks use for not trying quilting, and the truth that busts them right open.

No one teaches quilting near me
It’s a brand new world. Yes, back in the day, women did pass on the art from woman to woman. But now there is the Internet. There are web sites, blogs and books all overflowing with information on how to quilt. I am a self-taught quilter who learned from a book. You can do it! You just need to take your time and have the right tools.

I Can not Sew a Straight Seam
Neither can I. That’s why I choose fussy patterns with big blocks that will cover my mistakes. Believe me, the only people who would probably notice your mistakes are quilters. And since you do not know anyone who quilts (See Excuse Number 1), then it doesn’t matter.

It Takes Too Long
It is only taking too long because you are choosing the wrong patterns and techniques. Choose quilt patterns that feature strip-piecing techniques and have big blocks. I’m thinking of something like a rail fence or a log cabin using two-and-a-half inch strips.

Another problem could be that you expecting too much too fast. Remember that quilts last forever. They are supposed to take some time. They’re worth it. The first quilt I owned was made by my great-grandmother. I don’t remember her, but I do remember the uqilt.

If you really do not have the time, though, you can go with a whole-cloth quilt that is just a quilted piece of fabric. There are plenty of panels available if you want to finish a baby quilt. Buy a panel. Add borders. Quilt. Bind. Done. That’s a leisurely weekend of quilting.

It’s Too Expensive
Who says you have to use quilt shop fabric when you are just starting out? Go to a chain fabric store or look in your own closets. Denim quilts are very popular nowadays. Rip up your old jeans for material. Nothing is cheaper than free!

I Do Not Know How to Use a Sewing Machine
That’s what the manual is for. I have a mini sewing machine and I learned how to use it by reading the manual. Think of everything that you’ve accomplished in your life. A sewing machine is nothing special. It is just another machine to be mastered.

There you have it. The top five excuses from people who want to quilt, but think that they can not. Now that you do not have any excuses left, the next step is to get a good beginner quilting book.