By "Old fashoned way" what exactly are you talking about?? Hand piecing or hand quilting or both??? I don't hand peice (I like the sewing machine for that job), but if you are just starting out and don't have a machine, then this is what I would do...
1. you don;t need a lot of gadgets...a good pair of scissors, a good selection of needles, some fabric, a pattern and a hoop 9 I like the Q-snap it is a pvc pipe set up that is very lightweight and can be used for other needwork projects.
2. I would start out with a simple pattern (you can get some online at HGTV Simply quilts or DIY)... or look for some books at your local fabric store (Don't know what you have up there in Canada, but even WalMart has a few) The main thing to remember in hand piecing is that you have to mark the 1/4 inch seam allowance on both pieces of fabric and then match the line up...and remember to PRESS the seams! the patterns will indicate how to do this.
3. Start small a wall hanging or baby quilt you won't be so overwhelmed and will have a better chance of completing your project.. You can also often find kits (online at Herschners.com) Be carefull of these though you don't want the "pre-quilted" ones If you like to embroider, they have a good selection of small wall hangings and lap quilts to do.
4. After you complete the top, then you need some batting (stay away from the 100% cotton while it makes a beatiful old fashioned look, it is a bear to hand stitch). You also need to pick out a fabric for the back You will want something that will go well with the fabrics on the front (maybe even used in the front.And also a fabric for the binding. The pattern you get or even the HGTV website will have a diagram of how to make the quilt "sandwich" That's what they call the top, batting and back. i know this is a lot to digest, and is nowhere near all the info you need, but it does give you an idea of what is involved.
what ever your first project is, let me know how you are progressing!
