Quilting templates are very useful quilting tools. They provide a quilter exact patterns to follow so it is easier to work with various designs whether they have different angles, shapes, curves, or even applique. Quilting templates also make patchwork quilting easy because it shows exactly where the pieces go all at the proper angles.
You can use a rotary cutter for cutting your quilting templates but it may dull the blade, especially if the quilting templates are made of acrylic or cardboard so just make sure not to use the rotary cutter for your fabric.
Usually, quilting templates are made of paper or cardboard but these have a tendency to wear out after a few times of using them so you may want to choose quilting templates made of acrylic plastic, which last longer. If you want extremely durable quilting templates, look for those made of metal or plastic. In addition, experienced quilters recommend metal or acrylic quilting templates if you will be making a large quilt because they are a lot easier to work with and will be more accurate than small cardboard or paper pieces.
Indeed, accuracy is critical to make a perfect piece especially if you are making a patchwork, which are pieces of cloths cut in different shapes and sizes and sewn together, or an applique, which is the method of sewing a shaped fabric onto another fabric. With these quilting projects, using quilting templates helps a lot. However, the pattern needs to be 100 percent exact so you need to cut your quilting templates accurately. Acrylic or metal quilting templates are sturdy enabling the quilter to cut each pattern piece accurately every time with no need to measure at all.
Where can you get quilting templates? Quilting templates are easily available from any quilt shop or crafts store, physical or online. For a quick look up of various quilting templates, simply search on the Internet and you will find a host of beautiful easy-to-use quilting templates along with suggestions and tips on how to work with them. Some of these templates are free and some you have to order.
For beginners, there are basic set quilting templates such as the star point, flying geese, nine-patch quilt, and many others so you can start making those classic quilts in no time You can also custom order quilting templates based on any pattern you want. Certainly, quilting templates are one of the essential tools to make quality quilts whether you are beginner or experienced quilter.