It's the season of setting resolutions and whether you're setting goals or not, chances are you're reading this because you plan to get a few quilts done or try new quilting techniques in the next 12 months.
If your resolutions include picking up quilting, this is a great place to get started! We have great quilt patterns for beginners and articles that can help. We'll list a few below but don't forget to subscribe to our blog to get advice straight to your inbox and follow everyone on our GO! Getter team for more helpful tips.
- 5 Tips for Beginning Quilters
- How to Avoid these Common Rotary Cutter Injuries
- 10 Need-to-See Resources for all Quilting Lovers
- 7 Top Tips to Improve Your Quilts
Now, let's get to the goal-hitting tips!
Organize Your Projects
This is critical. How can you accomplish your goals if you don't know what they are? First, establish what it is you want to see done by the end of 2020. We recommend brainstorming the skills you want to learn and projects you want to complete, then looking at that list critically.
The beginning of the year is filled with optimism and excitement for the months ahead, and that can lead to dreams of grandeur. For instance, your goal is to complete 24 quilting projects with an average of two deadlines a month. While that might seem realistic in theory, averaging two quilting projects a month all year long is not. Will you have the same time to devote to your goals in February as you would during July's summer days or December's holiday visits? Everyone has their own pace, so look back at past years for insight into what's realistic for you.
Do you have a quilt bucket list? AccuQuilt Blocks on Board® can help you achieve those aspirations!
Once you select your objective, it's important you don't change them from that point forward. Changing a few dates or switching one project for a new idea is fine, but making a habit of moving your target means lowering your focus and a lower likelihood of hitting deadlines. You can certainly add more if you meet all your objectives early, but keep your eye on the prize until then.
Start with Accountability
Accountability is one of the most important parts of hitting your goals. Some people are self-motivated all the time, but the rest of us need someone or something in our corner, cheering us on and mentioning upcoming deadlines.
There are a few ways to go about this - you can write out your goals and place your list somewhere you will see it every day. You can also join a local guild to find other quilters who are also focusing on new accomplishments and will happily check in on your progress. Plus, you get the chance to hold others accountable all while meeting others who share your love of quilting. Often, it's groups like these where you learn the best advice and tips regardless of your quilting experience level.
Read this for ways to beat procrastination and finish your WIPS!
Announce Your Intentions
There are two reasons for this: 1) if you speak it, that's one more affirmation toward reality and, 2) more accountability. Just think about it: when a friend mentions something they're working on, you make a mental note to ask about their progress the next time you chat. It's not out of a need to check up on their goals, but an interest in their seeing the finish line.
You want someone or a team of someones who are genuinely invested in your accomplishments. Talk to your spouse, friends and family about what you want to accomplish this year. Again, joining a local guild can be a great place for accountability in addition to getting some one-on-one help along the way. Your own social media followers and groups can also be a wonderful resource for inspiration and information. There will probably be times when you have to admit to missing deadlines, but you'll have a built-in brag space when you meet your goals.
Achieve. Reward. Repeat.
The keyword here being "reward". Quilting innately provides a reward for hard work; you end up with a quilt, after all! However, a little additional treat for sticking with it is a great idea too. There are a ton of ways you can approach this, so pick one you think will work best for you. For example, one quilter will love the reward of fabric shopping after completing the binding of each a project, however, another quilter might need smaller rewards, like chocolate or a nice coffee, throughout the process.
Find a Quilt Along
If you really don't know where to start, but know you're ready to sharpen your quilting skills, join a sew or quilt along (SAL or QAL). There is a quilt along for any and every quilter, regardless of skill level and interests. You can focus on technique like foundation paper piecing or style like modern or vintage. There are even some QALs or SALs for specific characters, franchises and subjects.
Use the following to find a QAL that will keep you hitting goals:
- Your local quilt shop
- Online shops and quilting websites
- Your favorite blogger
- Facebook groups, Instagram hashtags and Pinterest
Additional Tips for Success!
Clean Your Space
A sure-fire way to love being in your sewing space is to have some organization. It makes projects more approachable and saves you from having to search for tools or have questions about what supplies you need. You just know what you have and where it's at. Cleaning a sewing room isn't easy, so if it needs to be a goal in and of itself, that is just fine!
Here are some more, expert-approved tips for organizing a sewing space.
Are any inspired by your quilting objectives? Do you have any tips or tricks you plan to use that we didn't mention? Tell us in the comments below and be sure to share your progress with us on Facebook and Instagram!