Can I make a quilt without a sewing machine?

Yes, every bit of it. Quilts were pieced and quilted by hand for generations before machines came along, and plenty of people still prefer it. It’s quieter, it travels with you, and you can stitch while chatting.

Piecing by hand

Mark a seam line on the back of each square with a pencil. Pin two squares right sides together and sew along the line with a small running stitch, a backstitch every inch or so to keep it firm.

Quilting by hand

Use a short quilting needle and a thimble. Rock the needle up and down through the layers, loading a few stitches before pulling through. Even stitches matter more than tiny ones.

Make it easier on yourself

• Start with large squares so there are fewer seams
• Use a hoop when quilting to keep layers taut
• Tie the layers with knots instead of stitching lines if your hands tire

Follow the full beginner’s path, or see quilting with children.

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