Quilting has been a community craft, long before it was a hobby, it was a reason to gather. And while social media has made it easy to share your makes online, there's nothing quite like sewing side by side with people you love.

That's exactly the idea behind Throw an AccuQuilt Party — a chance to invite your friends, your guild, your neighbors, or your family over for a day (or afternoon, or evening) of cutting, sewing, and creating together. And the best part? When you share photos and tag us, you're entered to win prizes.

Ready to host your first AccuQuilt Party? Here are 16 tips to make it one to remember.

The difference between a stressful hosting experience and a seamless one almost always comes down to what happens before guests arrive. A little prep goes a long way.

1. Choose a Project Everyone Can Finish in One Sitting

The best sewing party projects are ones that feel satisfying to complete, not ones that take six months and a YouTube tutorial series. Think simple quilt blocks, table runners, mug rugs, or a fun June Tailor Quilt-As-You-Go kit. Pick something with a clear beginning and end so guests leave with something in hand.

Tip: Download our free Party Starter project suggestions from the AccuQuilt Party page to get inspired.

2. Send the Invitation 1–2 Weeks Out

Quilters are planners. Give your guests enough lead time to gather their fabrics and clear their schedules — but not so much time that it falls off the radar. One to two weeks is the sweet spot.

Use our free downloadable party invitation to make it official (and fun to receive).

3. Decide What You're Providing vs. What Guests Should Bring

This is the single most important thing to communicate before party day. Will you be providing fabric? Are guests bringing their own sewing machines, or are you running a cutter-only setup? Make it clear in your invitation so no one shows up unprepared or over-prepared.

A good default: you provide the AccuQuilt cutter, dies, and cutting mats. Guests bring their own fabric, thread, and if possible, their sewing machine.

4. Test Your AccuQuilt Cutter Before Guests Arrive

Nothing slows down a sewing party like troubleshooting equipment in front of a room full of people. Do a quick test run the night before. Make sure your cutting mats are in good shape, your dies are organized, and your cutter is working smoothly. Future you will be very grateful.

5. Have a Beginner-Friendly Backup Project on Hand

Even if everyone on your guest list is an experienced quilter, it's worth having a simple, no-fail project option available. It takes the pressure off guests who are newer to AccuQuilt and keeps everyone sewing instead of waiting for help.

You don't need a dedicated sewing studio to host a great AccuQuilt Party. A dining room table, a few folding tables, and some thoughtful setup will do the trick.

6. Create Dedicated Zones

Even in a small space, defining distinct areas makes the party run smoother. Aim for three zones if possible:

• Cutting station — your AccuQuilt cutter, dies, and mats
• Sewing station — machines and space to piece
• Pressing station — even a small travel iron and pad works

When everyone knows where to go for each step, the flow of the party takes care of itself.

7. Label Your Supplies

Download and print our free Supply Station sign and use small labels or cards to mark where different tools, notions, and materials live. When guests can find what they need without asking, you spend less time being a tour guide and more time sewing.

8. Make Sure Your Lighting Is Up to the Task

Fabric work and good lighting go hand in hand. Position your cutting and sewing stations near windows if you can, and supplement with bright overhead or task lighting. Your guests' eyes (and seam ripper trips) will thank you.

Once guests arrive, your job as host is less about managing logistics and more about setting a tone. Keep it relaxed, keep it fun, and remember: the point is connection, not perfection.

9. Start with a Quick AccuQuilt Demo

If any of your guests haven't used an AccuQuilt cutter before, a five-minute demo at the start of the party makes all the difference. Show them how to layer fabric, place the die, and run it through the cutter — then let them try. Most people are amazed by how fast and accurate it is, and that excitement sets the energy for the whole party.

10. Pair Experienced Quilters with Beginners

One of the best things about a mixed-skill group is the organic teaching that happens. Seat a seasoned quilter next to someone who's just starting out, and you'll find that tips and techniques get shared naturally without anyone feeling put on the spot. It's community at its best.

11. Keep Projects Simple — This Is a Party, not a Workshop

Resist the urge to tackle a complex pattern at a group gathering. Simple, satisfying projects keep the energy light and ensure everyone finishes something. If guests want to go deeper on a technique, that's what the next party is for.

12. Build In Breaks

Snacks, conversation, and laughter are at least half the reason everyone showed up. Don't sew so intensely that you forget to enjoy each other's company. Set out food where people can graze and let the party breathe.

13. Designate a Photo-Taker

In the middle of hosting, it's easy to forget to document the day. Ask one guest to be your unofficial photographer, someone who'll capture candid moments, in-progress projects, and group shots. These are the photos you'll want to share and the ones that will inspire other people to host their own AccuQuilt Party.

14. Post Your Photos and Enter to Win

This is the fun part. Gather your favorite photos from the day, post them to Instagram or Facebook, tag @AccuQuilt, and use #ThrowAnAccuQuiltParty for a chance to win an AccuQuilt prize. It takes two minutes, and you might just win something amazing.

15. Start a Shared Scrap Bag

Sewing parties generate fabric scraps and those scraps are treasures. Set out a bag at the end of the party that guests can add their leftover pieces to, then pass it around at the next gathering. It's a fun tradition that builds over time and gives every scrap a second life.

16. Set the Date for the Next One Before Everyone Leaves

Party energy is contagious. While everyone is still gathered and excited, suggest a date for the next get-together. You'll lock in commitments before the moment passes, and suddenly you're not hosting one AccuQuilt Party, you're building a tradition.

To host a sewing party, you need a sewing space with good lighting, a cutting station (an AccuQuilt fabric cutter and dies work great for groups), at least one sewing machine, basic notions like thread and scissors, and a beginner-friendly project that guests can finish in one sitting. Snacks, good company, and a printable invitation to make it official are a bonus.

An AccuQuilt Party is a sewing gathering where friends, family, or quilting guild members get together to cut, sew, and create using AccuQuilt and June Tailor products. Hosts can download a free party kit from accuquilt.com/throw-a-party, including an invitation, signage, and project ideas, and guests who share photos and tag @AccuQuilt with #ThrowAnAccuQuiltParty are entered to win prizes.

The best projects for a group sewing party are ones that can be completed in a few hours and don't require advanced skills. Great options include simple quilt blocks, table runners, mug rugs, and June Tailor Quilt-As-You-Go kits. AccuQuilt's fabric cutters make group cutting fast and accurate, so even a room full of mixed skill levels can keep pace together.

To enter the AccuQuilt Party sweepstakes, host or attend an AccuQuilt Party, take photos during your gathering, and post them to Instagram or Facebook. Tag @AccuQuilt and include #ThrowAnAccuQuiltParty in your caption.

Absolutely. AccuQuilt Parties are designed for all skill levels, from first-time sewists to experienced quilters. AccuQuilt's fabric cutters make precise cutting fast and easy, even for guests who have never quilted before. Choosing a simple project and doing a quick cutter demo at the start of the party will set everyone up for a great experience.

Download the free AccuQuilt Party Kit, including a printable invitation, party signage, and project ideas, and start planning your gathering today. When you share your photos and tag us, you're entered to win an AccuQuilt prize bundle.

Get your free party kit at accuquilt.com/throw-a-party. We can't wait to see what you make!

The AccuQuilt GO! Curved Log Cabin Quilt Along is here—and we’d love to have you join us. AccuQuilt hosts Erica and Pam are sewing along together using the GO! Curved Log Cabin - 9” Finished die, and this is your invitation to make the project right alongside them, share your progress, and get inspired by the AccuQuilt community.

There’s no fee to participate, no pressure to keep pace, and no quilt police. Just a free pattern, a fun project, and a community of quilters ready to cheer you on.

The quilt along project is the GO! Curved Log Cabin Wall Hanging, a smaller-scale project that’s well-suited for quilters at any experience level. The pattern is a free download from AccuQuilt.com.

The design draws on the traditional light-vs.-dark structure of the classic log cabin block, with the added dimension of graduated color—an ombré effect created by arranging fabrics from darkest to lightest. Erica has already made one version in shades of purple to great response in the Under the Needle with AccuQuilt Facebook group; this quilt along is a chance to make it in a completely different colorway.

This project uses three dies:

• GO! Curved Log Cabin—9” Finished die
• GO! Qube Mix & Match 6” Finished Block — Shape 2: GO! Square 3½” (3” Finished)
• GO! Qube Mix & Match 6” Finished Block — Shape 4: GO! Quarter Square Triangle 3” Finished

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   GO! Curved Log Cabin-9" Finished Die (Die to Try, July 2026)

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   GO! Qube Mix & Match 6" Block

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   GO! Curved Log Cabin Wall Hanging Pattern

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Getting started is simple:

• Download the free GO! Curved Log Cabin Wall Hanging pattern from AccuQuilt.com
• Check your die library for the three dies listed above — if you need to add any, they’re available at AccuQuilt.com or your local AccuQuilt retailer
• Join the Under the Needle with AccuQuilt Facebook group to post your progress, ask questions and get inspired by what others are making
• Sign up for AccuQuilt Live: Unscripted email reminders here.

The schedule below gives you a framework, but you can join at any stage and work at your own pace. The shows are recorded and available to watch anytime on AccuQuilt.com and the AccuQuilt YouTube channel.

Erica and Pam will demonstrate each step on AccuQuilt Live: Unscripted, airing Wednesdays at Noon CT. All episodes are recorded and available to watch afterward on AccuQuilt.com and YouTube.

August 12 — Kick-off: How to cut and sew GO! Curved Log Cabin blocks

August 19 — Week 2: Light Ohio Star blocks

August 26 — Week 3: Dark Ohio Star blocks

September 2 — Week 4: Assemble the top

September 9 — Reveal: Finished tops and community showcase from Under the Needle with AccuQuilt

Note: The August 12 kick-off and September 9 reveal are full quilt-along episodes. The shows in between will also include other quilting projects and demonstrations.

The GO! Curved Log Cabin Wall Hanging pattern is built around the traditional log cabin principle of light vs. dark, combined with a saturated ombré effect created by arranging a range of hues from darkest to lightest. You don’t have to follow that approach—there are no quilt police here—but if you want to achieve the same graduated look, here’s how to pull it off.

Whether you’re shopping your stash or at a quilt shop, lay your fabrics out in order from darkest to lightest and take a photo with your phone. Open the photo in edit mode and convert it to black and white. Without color distracting your eye, you’ll immediately see whether your values are actually graduating the way you want.

Pro tip: The black-and-white phone test is one of the most reliable tools for checking fabric value progression. It works with solids, prints and everything in between.

Prints work just as well as solids for this design—the key is value contrast, not fabric type. Pam is planning to change both her colors and her finished project size, which is a great reminder that this pattern is a starting point, not a rulebook.

No. The quilt along is completely free. Download the pattern, gather your dies and fabric, and join the community—there’s no cost to participate.

Not at all. Prints work beautifully in this design. If you want to achieve the ombré effect, focus on selecting fabrics with a clear range of values from dark to light—the print or solid choice is entirely up to you.

No. You can follow along by watching AccuQuilt Live: Unscripted on AccuQuilt.com or the AccuQuilt YouTube channel and reading the weekly quilt-along blog posts. The Under the Needle with AccuQuilt Facebook group is the best place to share your progress and connect with other participants, but it isn’t required.

Yes. Every episode is recorded and available to watch anytime on the AccuQuilt YouTube channel. A special quilt-along edition of the blog will also be published each week.

Shape 2 is the GO! Square 3½” (3” Finished). You may have it as SKU 55006 with two squares on the die, or as Shape 2 from the GO! Qube Mix & Match 12” Block. Alternatively, you can cut squares using the GO! Strip Cutter 3½” (3” Finished), SKU 55032.

Shape 4 is the GO! Quarter Square Triangle 3” Finished. This shape is included with any GO! Me cutter, and can also be found on the GO! Big Snail’s Trail die (SKU 55460).

The GO! Cutting Equivalents Chart is a free download available at AccuQuilt.com. Click Discover and look for the chart in the resources section—it’s a helpful reference for finding compatible dies across the GO! lineup.

The GO! Curved Log Cabin Wall Hanging pattern is a free download at AccuQuilt.com. You can also search the pattern name directly in the search bar on the site.

Free patterns on AccuQuilt.com require you to be logged in to your account. If you don’t have an account yet, creating one is free and takes just a minute.

Yes. The pattern is a starting point, not a requirement. You can adjust the number of blocks and setting to make a larger or smaller project. The GO! Curved Log Cabin—9” Finished die also lets you use fewer logs to create smaller blocks, giving you additional flexibility.

Download the free pattern, check your die library, and join the Under the Needle with AccuQuilt Facebook group to share your progress. Erica and Pam can’t wait to see what colorways and fabrics you choose—post your picks and questions in the group and let’s get started together.

English Paper Piecing has been bringing quilters together for centuries—and the GO! English Paper Piecing Honeycomb—1” Finished Sides die makes the technique more accessible than ever. In a single pass through your GO! cutter, it cuts both the fabric piece and the paper template at exactly the right sizes, so you can spend more time stitching and less time measuring and trimming.

The honeycomb shape is at the heart of some of the most beloved EPP quilts in the world—including the iconic work of Lucy Boston. Whether you’re recreating a classic or finding your own creative direction, this die opens up a world of possibilities.

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   GO! English Paper Piecing Honeycomb-1" Finished Sides Die (Die to Try, August 2026)

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   FREE MAT

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English Paper Piecing is a hand-sewing technique with roots in England dating to the 1700s. The method involves basting fabric around a precisely cut paper (or stabilizer) template, then sewing the basted shapes together by hand or machine to create a quilt top. Because each piece of fabric wraps around a firm template, the edges stay crisp and perfectly shaped—making it possible to achieve intricate designs with small, complex shapes that would be difficult to piece any other way.

The technique gained popularity partly because it made excellent use of small fabric scraps left over from dressmaking, which is why EPP quilts often feature a wide variety of prints and fabrics. That tradition of variety and creativity is very much alive today.

While the hexagon may be the shape most commonly associated with English Paper Piecing, the honeycomb, specifically the shape used in Lucy Boston’s Patchwork of the Crosses, has become one of the most sought-after designs in the EPP world.

Lucy Boston was a remarkable person well beyond her quilting. A World War I nurse and author of the beloved Green Knowe children’s book series—which she began writing in her 60s—she created a stunning patchwork that has inspired quilters for generations. What makes her quilt so extraordinary is the illusion of complexity: every block in the quilt is made from just two shapes, with fussy-cut fabrics creating the appearance of an endlessly varied design.

Lucy’s daughter-in-law worked with author Linda Franz to preserve that legacy through the book “Lucy Boston: Patchwork of the Crosses,” which includes directions for recreating the masterpiece quilt. The GO! English Paper Piecing Honeycomb die is the fastest and most accurate way to cut the pieces you need for this project.

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   Lucy Boston: Patchwork Of The Crosses Book By Linda Franz

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You don’t need to take on a full quilt to enjoy this die. The honeycomb shape works beautifully at any scale, from an ambitious bed quilt to a quick weekend project. Some ideas:

• Full quilts in the Lucy Boston Patchwork of the Crosses tradition
• Pillow covers and cushion fronts
• Table runners and placemats
• Wall hangings
• Applique motifs stitched onto ready-made items like aprons, tote bags, jackets and shirts
• Small decorative pieces and gifts

Sparkly fabrics, wool and a wide range of specialty materials cut beautifully with GO! Dies. And because GO! Dies stay sharp indefinitely. You’ll eventually need a new mat, but never a new die, and the GO! EPP Honeycomb is a long-term addition to your collection.

If English Paper Piecing is new to you, AccuQuilt has a full tutorial video series to get you started. The series was developed for the GO! Qube for English Paper Piecing and covers all the foundational EPP steps—the techniques translate directly to working with the GO! EPP Honeycomb die.

Watch the AccuQuilt English Paper Piecing tutorial playlist on YouTube

Fussy cutting—positioning a die so that a specific motif or design in the fabric is centered within the cut shape—is one of the techniques that made Lucy Boston’s quilt so visually spectacular. All those blocks that appear so different from one another are built from the same two shapes; it’s the strategic placement of fabric prints that creates the magic.

You can absolutely fussy cut with GO! Dies. The video below shows the technique using a hexagon shape, and the same method applies to the GO! EPP Honeycomb die.

Watch: Fussy cutting with GO! Dies — AccuQuilt YouTube

All of the following patterns are free downloads available at AccuQuilt.com.

Designed by Lissa LaGreca of Lovingly Lissa, this pillow is a stylized take on the classic Grandmother’s Flower Garden rosette. Honeycomb flowers are appliqued onto background squares for a design that showcases EPP at its most charming.

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   GO! Crazy Daisy Pillow Pattern

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Designed by Brianna Roberts of Sew Cute and Quirky, this wall hanging combines the GO! EPP Honeycomb with the GO! Bee and Beehive and GO! Hearts—2”, 3”, 4” dies. It’s a fast, satisfying project for anyone who loves a good bee pun and an even better quilt.

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   GO! Sweet Bee Wall Hanging Pattern

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Designed by Brianna Roberts using fabrics from Benartex LLC, these striking placemats prove that a classic shape can look completely modern with the right fabric choices. They’re a great project and an even better gift.

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   GO! EPP Honeycomb Modern Placemats Pattern

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Designed by Chantelle Bailey, this pillow brings the spirit of Lucy Boston’s work into a fresh, modern format. The basted honeycomb shapes can be attached to the background either by hand or machine—your choice—and the colorway can be adjusted to suit any décor.

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   GO! Honeycomb Medallion Throw Pillow Pattern

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The GO! English Paper Piecing Honeycomb—1” Finished Sides die cuts two sizes on a single die board: a template piece with 1” finished sides, and a fabric piece that is ¼” larger on each side to allow for seam allowance when wrapping the template.

Yes. Load cardstock or stabilizer for the template alongside your fabric, and the die cuts both in a single pass. The template pieces include a small hole in the center to make removal easier when using cardstock.

No. The GO! EPP Honeycomb die cuts fabric pieces sized for both template-based EPP and direct hand or machine piecing without templates, giving you the flexibility to work whichever way you prefer.

A hexagon has six equal sides of the same length arranged in a regular pattern. The honeycomb shape used in English Paper Piecing—particularly in the Lucy Boston Patchwork of the Crosses tradition—has elongated sides that create a different visual effect when sewn together. The two shapes are related but distinct, and they produce very different quilt designs.

The GO! English Paper Piecing Honeycomb - 1” Finished Sides die is compatible with all GO! cutters, including the GO! Me, GO!, GO! Bolt and GO! Big.

If you can cut it with scissors, you can cut it with a GO! Die. Compatible materials include cotton, wool, felt, specialty and sparkly fabrics, faux leather, cork, craft foam and more. For English Paper Piecing templates, both cardstock and cut-away stabilizer work well.

AccuQuilt has a full tutorial video series for English Paper Piecing beginners, originally developed for the GO! Qube for EPP. All the foundational techniques covered translate directly to working with the GO! EPP Honeycomb die. Find the playlist on AccuQuilt.com under Discover, or search “AccuQuilt English Paper Piecing” on YouTube.

No. Cardstock templates need to be removed—typically once all sides of the piece are sewn into the surrounding project, or after the piece has been pressed firmly. To skip the removal step entirely, use a cut-away stabilizer such as Brothread Cut Away Stabilizer for your templates. Stabilizer can be left in the project permanently.

Yes. AccuQuilt also offers the GO! EPP Hexagon—1” Finished Sides and the GO! EPP Jewel Petal—1” Finished Sides dies. Each die cuts both the template and fabric pieces in a single pass.

Yes. Free downloadable patterns for the GO! EPP Honeycomb die are available at AccuQuilt.com, including the GO! Crazy Daisy Pillow, GO! Sweet Bee Wall Hanging, GO! EPP Honeycomb Modern Placemats and GO! Honeycomb Medallion Throw Pillow.

English Paper Piecing is one of the most portable quilting projects you can make—small, self-contained and easy to pick up and put down. Pre-cut your fabric and templates with the GO! EPP Honeycomb die before you leave home, tuck the pieces in a small project bag, and you have a go-anywhere project ready for retreats, travel, waiting rooms or quiet evenings on the porch.

Ready to get started? The GO! English Paper Piecing Honeycomb—1” Finished Sides die is available at AccuQuilt.com and at your local AccuQuilt retailer. Free patterns are ready to download whenever you are—share your finished projects with us on social media or in the Under the Needle with AccuQuilt Facebook group.

Every craft has its own language, and quilting is no exception. If you’ve ever found yourself nodding along at a quilt shop while quietly wondering what a jelly roll actually is, this glossary is for you. We’ve pulled together 50 essential sewing and quilting terms, from basic fabric vocabulary to quilting-specific techniques, with definitions designed to be brief, clear and easy to remember. We’ve also included nine bonus terms at the end that every quilter eventually learns (and loves).

1. Selvage edge: The tightly woven, finished edges that run lengthwise along both sides of a fabric to prevent fraying. One selvage often includes manufacturer details and color registration marks for printed fabrics.

2. Width of Fabric (WOF): The measurement across a piece of fabric from selvage edge to selvage edge.

3. Lengthwise grain: The tightest grain direction of a fabric, running parallel to the selvage edge. If the selvage has been cut off, tug the fabric in both directions—the direction with the least stretch is the lengthwise grain.

4. Bias: The direction of fabric with the most stretch, running at a 45-degree angle to the selvage edge. Bias-cut pieces are more flexible and prone to stretching, which can be an advantage or a challenge depending on the project.

5. Weave: How the fibers in a fabric are interlocked together. The weave of a fabric affects its strength, stretch, drape and how it behaves when cut and sewn. 

6. Fan fold: A method of folding fabric back and forth in accordion-style layers, often used when cutting multiple layers at once.

7. Raw edge: An unfinished fabric edge that has not been hemmed, serged or otherwise secured against fraying.

8. Yardage: Fabric measured and sold by the yard along the selvage edge, as it comes off the bolt.

9. Pre-cut: Fabric that has already been cut to a specific size before purchase. Pre-cuts save time and are especially useful for quilters who want to skip the measuring and cutting steps. AccuQuilt GO! Dies let you cut your own pre-cuts quickly and accurately from any fabric you choose.

10. Fat quarter: A quilter’s standard unit of fabric: a half-yard cut divided down the center to yield a more useful shape. A fat quarter measures approximately 18” x 22”, compared to a standard quarter yard of 9” x 44/45”.

11. Fat eighth: A quarter-yard cut of fabric divided in half, measuring approximately 9” x 22”, compared to a standard eighth yard of 4.5” x 44/45”.

12. Jelly roll: A pre-cut fabric bundle consisting of 2½” x width-of-fabric strips, typically 42 per roll and all from the same fabric collection, giving quilters a coordinated assortment of prints and colors. “Jelly roll” is a term used by Moda Fabrics; other brands use names like strip rolls.

13. Charm pack: A pre-cut fabric bundle of 5” squares, typically 42 per pack, all from the same fabric collection. “Charm pack” is a term used by Moda Fabrics.

14. Layer cake: A pre-cut fabric bundle of 10” squares, typically 42 per stack, all from the same fabric collection. “Layer cake” is a term used by Moda Fabrics.

15. Bobbin and bobbin case: A bobbin is a small spool wound with thread that forms the bottom half of a machine stitch. It fits into the bobbin case, which holds it in place beneath the needle plate.

16. Throat: The open area of a sewing machine between the needle and the upright body of the machine to the right of the stitching area. A longer throat, called a “throat space,” gives you more room to maneuver larger quilts.

17. Presser foot: The attachable foot that lowers onto fabric to hold it in place and help it advance evenly through the machine as you sew. Different presser feet are designed for different tasks.

18. Feed dogs: The metal teeth located beneath the needle in the throat plate that grip and advance fabric forward through the machine as it is stitched.

19. Decorative stitch: Any machine stitch other than a straight stitch. The most common decorative stitch is the zigzag, but modern machines offer dozens of options including blanket stitch, satin stitch and more.

20. Embroidery machine: A specialized sewing machine capable of stitching digitized designs onto fabric held in a hoop. Embroidery machines read digital design files in a specific format, loaded via USB, Wi-Fi or cable. Some models also function as standard sewing machines.

21. Quarter-inch foot: A specialized presser foot used by quilters to sew an accurate ¼” seam allowance, the standard for most quilt blocks. The foot is aligned so the right edge of the fabric lines up with the edge of the foot, placing the needle exactly ¼” from the raw edge.

22. Backstitch: Two to three reverse stitches sewn at the beginning or end of a seam to lock the thread and prevent the seam from unraveling.

23. Seam allowance: The distance between the raw edge of the fabric and the line of stitching. The standard seam allowance in quilting is ¼”.

24. Seam: The line of stitching that joins two pieces of fabric together.

25. Seam ripper: A small tool used to remove unwanted stitches without damaging the surrounding fabric.

26. Notch: A small cut or mark used to align fabric pieces correctly before sewing, most commonly used when joining curved pieces. GO! Dies simplify curved piecing by cutting alignment notches into the fabric automatically.

27. Half Square Triangle (HST): A fundamental quilting unit made by sewing two right-triangle pieces of fabric together along their diagonal edge to form a square. Half square triangles appear in hundreds of quilt block designs.

28. Quarter Square Triangle (QST): A quilting unit made from four triangles sewn together to create a square. Quarter square triangles are used in a wide range of traditional and modern quilt blocks.

29. Unfinished size / cut size: The size of a quilt piece or block before it is sewn into the final project. The unfinished size includes the seam allowance on all sides.

30. Finished size: The size of a quilt piece or block after all four sides have been sewn into the surrounding project and the seam allowances are taken up.

31. Press: Using an iron to set a seam open or to one side. Unlike typical ironing—which uses a back-and-forth gliding motion—pressing uses an up-and-down motion to avoid distorting the fabric.

32. Quilt sandwich: The three-layer construction of a quilt: the finished quilt top, a layer of batting, and the backing fabric. The sandwich is held together by quilting stitches.

33. Binding: A strip of fabric folded and stitched around the perimeter of a finished quilt sandwich to enclose and protect the raw edges.

34. Bias binding: Binding cut along the bias grain of the fabric, which gives it stretch and strength—making it the preferred choice for finishing quilts with curved edges.

35. Basting: A method of temporarily holding quilt layers or fabric pieces together in preparation for final stitching. Basting can be done with long, loose hand stitches, safety pins, spray baste, or a combination of methods.

36. Fussy cut: Cutting a piece of fabric so that a specific part of the print—a motif, a face, a design element—is deliberately centered or placed within the cut piece.

37. Longarm quilting: A method of quilting in which the quilt layers are loaded onto a large frame and remain stationary while a large machine moves across the surface, stitching the layers together in decorative patterns.

38. Free motion quilting: A quilting technique in which the quilter moves the fabric freely under the needle while the machine stitches, creating custom designs. It can be done on a standard sewing machine, mid-arm, or longarm. Think of it as drawing a picture by moving the paper instead of the pencil.

39. Rotary cutter: A cutting tool with a sharp, round rolling blade mounted in a handle—similar in appearance to a small pizza cutter. Used with a quilting ruler and cutting mat to cut fabric accurately.

40. Quilting ruler: A clear acrylic ruler, available in a wide range of shapes and sizes, used with a rotary cutter and mat to measure and cut fabric accurately.

41. Rotary cutting mat: A self-healing cutting mat placed under fabric when cutting with a rotary cutter. It protects both the blade and the table surface.

42. Quilt: A textile made of three layers—a pieced or whole-cloth top, a layer of batting and a backing—stitched together and finished with binding. (Important note: do not refer to a quilt as a blanket.)

43. Quilting: The act of stitching together the three layers of a quilt sandwich, either by hand or machine.

44. Batting / Wadding: The middle layer of a quilt sandwich, providing warmth and loft. Batting is most commonly made from cotton, wool, polyester or a blend. An 80/20 cotton-polyester blend is one of the most popular options for its combination of softness and ease of quilting.

45. Stitch in the ditch: A quilting method in which stitches are sewn directly into the “ditch”—the slight groove created by a seam—making the quilting stitches nearly invisible from the front.

46. Echo quilting: A quilting method in which lines of stitching are sewn around a shape or design element at a consistent distance—typically ¼”—radiating outward in repeating rings, like ripples in water.

47. Stash: A quilter’s personal collection of fabric that has not yet been cut and used in a project. The stash is considered a point of pride.

48. Scrap: Fabric left over after cutting pieces for a specific project. Scraps vary in size and are often saved and incorporated into future projects.

49. RST —Right Sides Together: An instruction to place two pieces of fabric face-to-face before sewing, so the finished side of each piece faces inward, and the seam is hidden when the work is turned right-side out.

50. WST — Wrong Sides Together: An instruction to place two pieces of fabric back-to-back before sewing, so the finished sides of both pieces face outward.

Quilters have developed their own shorthand for the realities of the hobby. If you spend any time in a quilt shop, guild meeting, or online quilting community, you’ll encounter these:

WIP — Work in Progress: any project currently in progress

UFO — Unfinished Object: a project that has been started but not yet completed

PHD — Project Half Done

TBQ — To Be Quilted: a pieced top waiting to become a full quilt sandwich

PIGS — Projects in Grocery Sacks: fabric and supplies gathered for a project, bagged and waiting

WOMBAT — Waste of Money, Batting and Time

HIPS — Hundreds of Ideas Piling Skywards

STABLE — Stash Accumulation Beyond Life Expectancy

Frogging — Un-sewing a seam: named for the sound it requires “rip-it, rip-it, rip-it”

That covers the essentials, enough to hold your own at any quilt shop, retreat or guild meeting. Got a favorite term we missed, especially one of the funny ones? Share it with the AccuQuilt community on social media or in the Under the Needle with AccuQuilt Facebook group.

Quilters are a dedicated bunch. Being away from a project for too long has a way of making even the most relaxed vacation feel a little incomplete. Whether you want to totally disconnect from screens and go analog, or you just can’t imagine sitting on a long flight with nothing to stitch, here are practical tips for traveling with your quilting projects no matter how you’re getting there.

Air travel is the most restrictive way to go when it comes to packing quilting supplies, but there’s more latitude than you might expect. TSA’s website states that needles for knitting, sewing and needlepoint are permitted in both carry-on and checked bags. Great news for hand stitchers who want to keep busy during a flight.

Scissors are allowed in carry-ons as long as the blade is shorter than 4” from tip to pivot point. That said, avoid packing your favorite scissors in a carry-on. Travel scissors with an attached blade sheath are effective, inexpensive and easy to replace if they get confiscated. A small folding pair on a lanyard is another good option as they’re hard to drop and easy to find.

 

Travel Tip #1: Bring more than one needle. Losing your only needle at the start of a long flight with an English Paper Piecing project is a memorable lesson learned the hard way.

Travel Tip #2: Pack dental floss in your carry-on for emergency thread cutting. The tiny blade in the floss cutter will snip thread in a pinch and no one will ever question your floss.

No. Rotary cutters are not permitted in carry-on bags. If you need one at your destination, pack it in checked luggage or plan to pick one up when you arrive.

 

Travel Tip #3: Keep your needles and small scissors in a tiny tin with a needle minder. The magnet is a lifesaver if you drop a needle mid-flight. Tuck in a couple of binding clips while you’re at it.

 

Travel Tip #4: If stitching on the plane isn’t practical, use flight time to research projects, save patterns or watch technique videos as most flights have Wi-Fi.

Size is everything when flying. For that reason, English Paper Piecing is the single best hand-sewing project for air travel. It’s compact, self-contained and completely scissors-optional once your pieces are prepped. All you need is a small zipper bag of templates and fabric with a fabric glue stick, and you can glue-baste your way through an entire flight.

AccuQuilt has a full lineup of GO! English Paper Piecing dies that cut both fabric and templates with precision so you can prepare a trip’s worth of pieces before you leave home. If you’re not familiar with English Paper Piecing, it’s a hand-sewing technique where fabric is basted around a small template and shapes are joined by hand. Traditionally done with card stock and hand basting, it’s just as effective with a stabilizer template and fabric glue—and much faster to get started.

Another good option for air travel is hand quilting a small wall hanging or baby quilt. Keep it small, size and bulk are the limiting factors in the seat.

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   GO! English Paper Piecing Hexagon-1" Finished Sides Die

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   GO! English Paper Piecing Jewel Petal-1" Finished Sides Die

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   GO! English Paper Piecing Die Bundle

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Yes, with some planning. Quilters travel with their machines regularly, particularly for retreats and extended trips. Check with your specific airline before you go as policies vary and can change at any time. The machine needs to fit in a secure bag that slides under the seat or into the overhead bin. If you check it instead, use a hard-sided suitcase with the machine well-padded using the original foam or clothing to minimize movement and damage in transit. Watch the weight limits; overages can be costly.

For retreat travel, it’s worth checking whether machines are available to rent or borrow at your destination. If you’ll be away for an extended period, picking up an inexpensive used machine when you arrive, and reselling it before you leave, is a practical option some quilters swear by.

Sewing machines are generally permitted on cruise ships but must be used only in your cabin and plugged directly into a wall outlet—not an extension cord or surge protector. Because machines are heat-producing electrical items, check with your specific cruise line before you pack one.

A simpler option: seek out a dedicated quilting cruise. Many quilt shops organize trips with onboard instructors, projects and machines provided so you just show up and stitch. Quilting cruises cover a wide range of destinations and skill levels and tend to fill up fast, so booking early matters.

Heading out by car opens up a lot more flexibility. Depending on your destination, you may want to bring your full setup: sewing machine, iron, pressing surface, folding table, power strip, a good light, scissors, pins, thread, clips, fabric cutter, mat and ruler. If you’re not cutting from pre-cuts, add your GO! cutter and dies.

The GO! Bolt is the ideal road trip cutting companion. It weighs under 10 lbs, has a small footprint, and fits neatly in the AccuQuilt Backpack alongside GO! Bolt Die Catchers, a power cord, a handful of dies and your fabric. The GO! Bolt Battery Pack—certified for air travel and available exclusively here or your local AccuQuilt retailer—means you can cut at a campground, a cabin, or anywhere else without hunting for an outlet. A fully charged Battery Pack delivers up to 7 hours of cutting time, making it a genuinely versatile travel companion for quilters on the move.

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Yes. TSA permits sewing, knitting and needlepoint needles in both carry-on and checked bags. Scissors with blades shorter than 4” from tip to pivot point are allowed in carry-ons. Rotary cutters are not permitted in carry-ons and must be packed in checked luggage. For the most current rules, check the TSA website at tsa.gov or your airline’s baggage policy.

No. Rotary cutters are not allowed in carry-on bags. Pack them in checked luggage, or plan to purchase or borrow one at your destination.

English Paper Piecing is widely considered the best hand-sewing project for air travel. It’s compact, requires no cutting once pieces are prepped, and can be worked entirely by hand in a small space. AccuQuilt GO! English Paper Piecing dies let you cut precise fabric and paper templates before you leave home.

Yes, in most cases. Your machine needs to fit in a secure bag that meets carry-on size restrictions, or it can be checked in a hard-sided, well-padded suitcase. Policies vary by airline, so confirm before you travel. Weight restrictions apply to checked bags, so lighter machines travel more economically.

Generally yes, in your cabin only, plugged directly into a wall outlet. No extension cords or surge protectors are typically permitted. Check with your specific cruise line before packing a machine. Alternatively, look for a dedicated quilting cruise where machines and materials are provided onboard.

Yes. The GO! Bolt Battery Pack is certified for air travel and can be packed in your carry-on. It delivers up to 7 hours of cutting time on a full charge and is available exclusively through local AccuQuilt retailers.

Yes. Pack the GO! Bolt in hard-sided luggage with adequate padding to prevent shifting in transit.

For checked luggage, place a layer of protective cardboard between dies, especially if they’re not in their original packaging. For carry-ons, check TSA guidelines—dies with exposed blades may need to be checked.

Start with your local quilt shop—many organize group trips. You can also search online for quilting cruises, which range widely in destination, price and focus. These trips book up quickly, so planning well in advance is recommended.

Your local quilt shop or needlepoint store is a great first stop. Travel scissors, needle cases, project bags and compact accessories are commonly stocked items, and staff can often point you toward what travels best.

Whether you’re boarding a plane, loading up the car, or setting sail, there’s a way to keep your project moving. We’d love to see where your quilting travels take you—share your on-the-go projects with AccuQuilt on social media or in the Under the Needle with AccuQuilt Facebook group.

Quilters know that a good holiday project starts well before the temperatures start to fall. The GO! Jolly Medley applique die and GO! Ugly Sweater-8” Finished Block on Board® (BOB®) die are built to make that head start as productive and fun as possible, whether you’re cutting quilts, crafts, gifts or all three.

Here’s everything you need to know about both dies, plus free patterns to get your holiday cutting underway.

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The GO! Jolly Medley applique die cuts three of the most iconic holiday shapes: a candy cane, a classic light bulb and a bell. It’s designed for fusible applique, but the possibilities stretch well beyond traditional quilts.

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GO! Dies cut a wide variety of materials, which means these shapes work just as well for crafts as they do for quilts. Some ideas to get you started:

• Quilts, pillow covers and wall hangings
• Ornaments and gift tags
• Embellishing pre-made objects like aprons and tote bags
• Sew and no-sew projects using felt, craft foam, sticky-back vinyl, cork and faux leather
• Embroidery projects - free downloadable embroidery files are available in satin, blanket and motif stitches

Want to expand your holiday die collection? Pair the GO! Jolly Medley with the GO! Holiday Medley for an even wider range of festive shapes. The bells, for example, do double-duty as wedding bells, or can be embellished with a snowflake from the GO! Mitten Die for a winter wonderland look.

All of the following patterns are available as free downloads at AccuQuilt.com.

Designed by Amanda Harward of Larkspur Quilts, this quilt pairs star blocks made with the GO! Qube Mix & Match 9” Finished Block with candy cane hearts cut in seconds using the GO! Jolly Medley die. Pro tip: cut the candy cane pieces with fabric all right side up or all right side down depending on which direction you want them to face or do half each way. The bells in the corners spell out a message of peace, made using the GO! Carefree Alphabet Uppercase Set (2-Die Set).

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   GO! Candy Cane Vibes Throw Quilt Pattern

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Designed for AccuQuilt by Heather Kidd of Stringtown Lane Quilts, this festive wall hanging combines the GO! Jolly Medley with the GO! Pennants Die. It’s a perfect weekend project and a great way to work through holiday fabric scraps.

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   GO! Jolly Trees Wall Hanging Pattern

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Also by Heather Kidd, this set includes an insulated casserole pad and matching hot pad made using a quilt-as-you-go method. Use Insul-Bright along with batting to protect hands and surfaces from heat. The GO! Jolly Medley bell makes the perfect accent alongside holiday strips cut with any GO! Strip Cutter 2½” (2” finished) die.

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   GO! Jolly Medley Kitchen Bundle Pattern

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The GO! Ugly Sweater - 8” Finished BOB® die cuts a complete, 5-color sweater block in a single pass through the cutter. The 10” x 10” die board works with the GO!, GO! Bolt and GO! Big fabric cutters.

Screen-printed letters keep your pieces organized, and specialized dog ears fit together perfectly while eliminating trimming and reducing bulk at the seams. The center square is sized to show off a statement fabric, accommodate applique, or be swapped for any 5” finished quilt block.

Sweaters aren’t just for Christmas. Keep this die in rotation for Hanukkah sweaters, winter snowflake designs, Easter sweaters, and fall themes. This block adapts to any season with the right fabrics and applique shapes.

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   GO! Ugly Sweater-8" Finished Die

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   GO! Christmas in July Die Bundle

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All of the following patterns are available as free downloads at AccuQuilt.com.

Designed by Lissa LaGreca of Lovingly Lissa, this quilt centers GO! Ugly Sweater blocks within star blocks made using the GO! Qube Mix & Match 16” Block, the GO! Qube Mix & Match 5” Block and Companion Corners. It’s an excellent way to dive into a red and green fabric stash and come out with something far from ugly.

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   GO! Sweater Star Sampler Throw Quilt Pattern

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Designed for AccuQuilt by Brianna Roberts of Sew Cute and Quirky, this wall hanging combines the GO! Ugly Sweater with the GO! Setting Triangles 8” Finished, blocks from the GO! Qube Mix & Match 5” Block and Companion Angles, and a touch of whimsy from the GO! Mini Stocking and GO! Mitten dies. Made with Cotton Shot fabric from Benartex LLC, it’s designed with hidden pockets for season-long gift giving.

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   GO! Sweet Treat Secret Pocket Wall Hanging Pattern

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Designed for AccuQuilt by Lissa LaGreca of Lovingly Lissa, this fall wall hanging shows how far beyond Christmas the GO! Ugly Sweater die can reach. Dressed up with applique shapes from the GO! Fall Medley die, it’s a fast, satisfying project that proves this block earns year-round real estate in your die collection.

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   GO! Sweater Weather Wall Hanging Pattern

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The GO! Jolly Medley is compatible with all GO! cutters. The GO! Ugly Sweater - 8” Finished die works with the GO!, GO! Bolt and GO! Big, but is not compatible with the GO! Me.

The GO! Ugly Sweater die cuts all the pieces for an 8” finished, 5-color block in a single pass through the cutter. The die board measures 10” x 10”.

The GO! Jolly Medley die cuts three shapes: a candy cane, a classic light bulb, and a bell. It is designed for fusible applique and works across a wide range of materials including fabric, felt, craft foam, sticky-back vinyl, cork and faux leather.

No. Apply a lightweight paper-backed fusible to your fabric before cutting, allow it to cool, and cut without concern. GO! Dies are not damaged by fusible web.

Yes. If you can cut it with scissors, you can cut it with a GO! Die. Compatible materials include cotton, wool, felt, craft foam, vinyl, cork, faux leather and more.

No. The shapes can be fused down and finished with a straight stitch, a decorative stitch, or by quilting over the top, a great option for projects like wall hangings that won’t be washed frequently. Free embroidery files are also available for those who do have an embroidery machine, in satin, blanket and motif stitches.

No. The GO! Qube system does not include all the shapes needed to make the GO! Ugly Sweater block. The GO! Ugly Sweater - 8” Finished BOB® die is required.

Yes. Free downloadable patterns for both the GO! Jolly Medley and GO! Ugly Sweater dies are available at AccuQuilt.com, including the GO! Candy Cane Vibes Throw Quilt, GO! Jolly Trees Wall Hanging, GO! Jolly Medley Kitchen Bundle, GO! Sweater Star Sampler Throw Quilt, GO! Sweet Treat Secret Pocket Wall Hanging, and GO! Sweater Weather Wall Hanging.

Yes, and there are a few different methods you can use. Watch this step-by-step video tutorial: Tips for Fussy Cutting with AccuQuilt

The GO! Jolly Medley and GO! Ugly Sweater - 8” Finished dies are available at AccuQuilt.com and at your local quilt shop. Free patterns for both dies are ready to download whenever you are. Share your finished projects with AccuQuilt on social media or in the Under the Needle with AccuQuilt Facebook group. We can’t wait to see what you make!