Happy Easter!

I have had some issues lately with skipped stitches as I quilt on my machine. When that happens, I usually turn my needle a quarter turn and make minor adjustments. But on a couple of quilts, I have really struggled to prevent the skipped stitches. After discussing this with the quilt owners, we figured out that regular quilting cotton was not being used. In one case, it was poplin cotton, and in the other, it was a very low-quality fabric purchased at Hobby Lobby or Walmart. It’s the same situation if I try quilting a bedsheet backing. The thread count is just too tight to allow the needle to slip between the threads. PLEASE be aware of your fabric type, and if you bring something to me that is not regular quilting cotton, please let me know.

I’m sure we have all heard that Joann Fabrics is closing all of its stores and online business. In the past, I have purchased bolts of batting from Joann to share with my customers. Until I find a new batting supplier, please plan to provide your own batting. If you need help figuring out what size of packaged batting to use for your quilt, please let me know, and I can help you figure out the right size for your project.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands!

Here in town, you can purchase batting at Hobby Lobby. They carry some well-known national brands that are good quality, like Warm and Natural and Hobbs Batting. Another brand name batting I like to recommend is Quilter’s Dream. I’ve also had good experiences with Missouri Star’s new batting line.

Here are some places I know where you can order batting online:

www.missouriquiltco.com Missouri Star Quilt Company

www.connectingthreads.com Connecting Threads

www.hancocks-paducah.com Hancock’s of Paducah

www.fatquartershop.com Fat Quarter Shop

There are also hundreds of small quilt stores online that sell batting and can ship to you. You can also try Amazon, though I prefer to support quilt stores. It’s frustrating for all of us, so be sure to share any new places you find and I can post them here for others to learn about!