Need gift ideas to surprise your friends and family who quilt? Surprise them with a gift they that’s a must-have or nice-to-have, like a new rotary cutter, pre-cut fabric bundle or the cutest straight pins. They will love everything that supports their sew time. I’ve got a bunch of ideas to share with you for the holiday season: grand gestures and useful gifts, like scissors, and fun experiences. Beginners, veteran quilters and the quilter who has EVERYTHING, plan to delight them this year.
New this year in this post is gifts under $25 with links to buy. I’d love everything on that list!
Best Gifts for Quilters? What They Really Want.
When I shop for presents for quilters, I’m biased because I tend to give gifts that I want or can’t sew without. Which leaves out piles of other cool gifts for quilters in your life, like the latest digital tools, fabrics and patterns.
In this post, find pretty, handy and smart presents as your ultimate guide to the best presents for quilters. Yourself included. (I do my best self-shopping when buying gifts). Hunting down the best gifts for quilters is inspiring, especially if you’re also a quilter. Make sure to add your tips for great gifts in the comments.
You’ll find presents for quilters in these categories:
- Beginner tools and supplies
- Sewing room storage
- Tool upgrades
- Quilting notions
- Learning new skills through books and workshops
- Fabric for their stash
- Holiday decor
- Gifts under $25
Let’s explore some presents for quilters to spread the joy of quilting.
Make a modern triangle in my free class and learn the magic of Freezer Paper Piecing! Download the free pattern and I’ll walk you step-by-step through the technique. Get started here!
Beginners: Presents for Quilters Just Starting Out
Ergonomic rotary cutters for precision cutting
Keep sewing enthusiasm high with a well-designed tool like a high-quality rotary cutter. An ergonomic design is easy on the hands and wrists, which prevents fatigue and injuries. Ergonomic cutters are designed for comfort and control.
Look for features like comfortable grips and easy to use safety locks. Most quilters use a 45mm blade. A 60mm blade works better for longer cuts, like strips. A 28mm cutter is perfect for cutting small shapes and foundation paper piecing.
TOP PICKS
- Olfa Deluxe 45mm Ergonomic Rotary Cutter with Self-Retracting Blade
- Olfa 60mm Ergonomic Rotary Cutter with safety lock
Self-Healing Cutting Mats
A self-healing mat is essential for any sewing space and all quilters use them. They are designed to bounce back together after cuts, which keeps the surface smooth. They come in many sizes and features.
- Folding cutting mat – easy to tuck into your tote bag
- A rotating mat for cutting triangles or templates;
- A magnetic version prevents fabric from shifting while cutting, which I love for curved shapes and applique pieced. Use small magnets or magnetic rulers to hold fabric.
- Even though they are self-healing, they eventually wear out. An extra one is always handy in the sewing room.
TOP PICKS
- Fiskers Rotating Cutting Mat – 14 x 14 inches
- Olfa Folding Cutting Mat – 17 x 24 inches
- We R Memory Keepers Magnetic Mat – 18 x 14 inches
Scissors
Using good quality tools makes a difference, especially scissors. Choose durable scissors that stay sharp longer with an ergonomic design. A longer blade and handle is easier on hands, like a 10-inch versus a 6-inch scissors. This is the tool to splurge on!
I can’t sew without this little scissors. Give serrated edge scissors to any quilter and you have a friend for life. Tiny teeth on the blades grab fabric easily and make very sharp cuts, perfect for for cutting small shapes, clipping threads and seams.
TOP PICKS
- Kai 7250 10-inch Professional Shears
- Karen Kay Buckley’s Perfect Scissors, Small 4-inch Micro Serrated Blade
Straight Edge Quilting Rulers
Straight edge quilting rulers for measuring and cutting are made in many width and length combinations. The largest sizes include 30, 45 and 60 degree angle lines. Every quilter needs at least three different sizes: 3.5 x 8 inch, 1.5 x 12, and 6 x 24 inches.
TOP PICKS
PINS AND Needles – Quilting and Embroidery
Give your quilter a variety pack of sewing machine needles. Superior Threads Titanium Needles last a very long time. Different machine brands require different types of needles, but usually do fine with a “universal” needle. A fresh needle makes a big difference when stitching because needles get bent or develop burrs. New needles are a small luxury that make our projects less prone to thread nests and stitching snafus.
TOP PICKS
Superior Titanium-Coated Assortment Pack
Cutest straight pins: Tula Pink Unicorn Head
Clover Glass Head Pins – Fine (my fav!)
Quilt Patterns and Books
Quilters draw inspiration from magazines, blogs, books, Pinterest and Instagram – and each other. Does your quilter create modern, traditional or holiday-themed quilts? Love jelly roll quilts? Applique expert? New books are often released in the spring and fall, showcasing the latest quilt patterns and techniques. Let them choose with a gift certificate from the publisher.
Modern Scrap Quilts: Playing with Negative Space by Sylvia Schaefer is a juicy, modern take on using up your stashy scraps. Love this!
TOP PICKS
Stash Builders: Premium Quilting Fabric Bundles
Ooooooo, yes! Perfect presents for quilters always include fabric, especially premium 100% designer quilt fabrics. Better than a box of chocolates and birthday cake.
Nothing is quite like unboxing a bundle of beautiful, coordinating fabrics in lushy 100% cotton, right? Inspire your quilting friend with fabrics in a favorite color palette. My top picks include my favorite designer fabrics for modern and traditional quilts. Rainbow palettes forever!
TOP PICK
Stash Fabrics is my favorite online shop. I buy pre-cut fat quarter bundles because they have a great selection of new releases. Check out their pre-cut bundles collection for your quilter (or yourself ~wink~).
Digital Quilting Subscriptions
Daily, weekly and monthly inspiration? Sign ’em up. Beautiful photography, in-depth articles and techniques offer your quilter plenty of inspo.
Here are a few, including my own Make Modern Triangles Club, that offer up the latest offerings in the online quilting universe. Online platforms give them access to professional instructors, video tutorials, downloadable patterns, and virtual communities.
TOP PICK
Laundry Basket Quilts Subscriptions and BOM – traditional quilters
Gift Cards to Favorite Fabric Stores
For quilters, fabric stores are a slice of heaven in millions of colors with infinite possibilities. Give a gift certificate to their favorite local quilt shop or online fabric retailer. This gift combines practicality with creating joy!
Organizational Tools and Storage Solutions for Quilting Supplies
A well-organized sewing space is most quilters’ happy place. Help streamline their work area and keep their supplies in order with practical organizational tools and storage solutions.
Quilt Journal for Tracking Projects
Quilters tend to juggle multiple projects, ideas, and inspirations. A personalized quilting journal provides a dedicated space to capture all their quilting thoughts, track their projects, and document their creative journey.
They can sketch out quilt designs, jot down fabric requirements, note down quilting techniques, and record their progress. Personalized touches, like their name embossed on the cover or their initials on the pages, make the journal even more special.
A quilting journal becomes a treasured keepsake, capturing not just their projects but also their creative process.
TOP PICKS
Vertical Storage Solutions
Presents for a quilter in a small space could include pegboards, floating shelves, and hooks. Going vertical has big height advantages. Protect fabrics from artificial light and sunlight – with a tall metal cabinet with doors. They are surprisingly lightweight, hold 200 pounds per shelf and easy to move. Most cabinets are only 15 to 18 inches deep and up to 72 inches tall.
TOP PICKS
- Crafty look – IKEA Skadis Pegboard
- Industrial look – Wall Control Industrial Pegboard
- Shelves with Hooks
- Tall Metal Cabinet with Doors – available in different colors and strong enough to hold sewing machines in storage.
Add to their Quilting Experiences
A longtime quilter has all the stuff, right? Quilting experiences like retreats, workshops and classes are next-tier gifts for budding and advanced quilt people.
Quilting Workshops and Retreats – Eat, Quilt, Sew
For quilters who love learning and connecting, workshops and retreats are their jam. These experiences offer learning from professional instructors with with like-minded stitchers.
Workshops typically focus on a particular skill or project, while retreats offer a more extended escape dedicated to quilting. If your quilter needs a welcome break – and who doesn’t – these options give them sewing time without daily life interruptions.
- Gift card to a local quilt shop that offers classes
- Splurge on a workshop at a regional or national quilt show
- Many quilters are taking care of family members. Give them a break and fill in while they get some quality quilting time.
High-Definition Table Lamps for Detailed Work
Great lighting is essential for sewing by hand or machine. I’ve heard of quilters wearing headlamps! Luckily, high definition table lights are available for working with bright, focused light. More light equals less eye strain. And more lights can never be too many.
Look for lamps with:
- adjustable arms and heads, allowing them to direct the light exactly where they need it.
- different color temperature options, as some quilters prefer cooler light for brighter whites, while others find warmer light more comfortable for their eyes.
- Consider a “shop light” for better overall light with LED technology. Our sewing spaces are our work spaces and better lighting is better!
TOP PICKS
Daylight Company Slimline Table Lamp
Verilux Smartlight Full Spectrum LED Modern Floor Lamp
Comfortable, Supportive Chairs
Quilt making requires long hours spent at a sewing machine or cutting table, making a comfortable and supportive chair a worthwhile investment. Look for chairs designed specifically for crafting, featuring adjustable heights, ergonomic design, and comfortable padding. I prefer mine with wheels but some people prefer stationary.
The right chair reduces back pain, fatigue and strain on necks and shoulders. A comfortable chair promotes good posture and allows for longer sewing sessions.
TOP PICK
Specialty Rulers and Templates
Triangles
The least favorite task is trimming blocks. Especially triangle blocks that stretch easily. Half square triangles (HST) eventually debut in every quilter’s life. This is when the Loc Bloc ruler rules! It has a lip that lodges next to the seam for half square triangles, keeping the fabric in place while trimming. Every quilters will love this ruler and it comes in one size or a multi-sized version. Pricey but oh so worth it!
Bloc Loc – Half Square Acrylic Triangle Ruler Set #2
Curved Pieces – Drunkard’s Path
The WonderCurve™ Ruler by Sew Kind of Wonderful has markings and curved slots to make different sizes of a traditional Drunkard’s Path block. Your quilter will learn how to use the template through tons of videos, patterns and books produced by Sew Kind of Wonderful. Gift a book or pattern with the ruler.
Wonderful Curves Sampler Quilt Block Book
Creative Grids Folded Corner Clipper adds precision to piecing when sewing angled shapes together. Your quilter will wonder how she/he lived without it.
Free Motion and Walking Foot Quilting Resources
My favorite finishing method is straight line quilting with a walking foot. These books by accomplished quilters are fantastic resources for learning a variety of stitching methods.
Unique Gifts for Quilters for Quilters who have everything
Sometimes, it’s the unexpected and personalized gifts that truly stand out. Consider items that celebrate their love for quilting.
From custom-designed quilt labels to quilting-themed apparel and handcrafted tools, these gifts are the ones they won’t buy for themselves but are glad YOU did!
Customizable Quilt Labels for a Personal Touch
Adding a personalized quilt label is the perfect way for quilters to sign their work and commemorate their creations. Customizable quilt labels add a professional touch while preserving the memory of the quilt’s maker and its story.
Look for labels made from high-quality materials that won’t fray or fade with washing. Consider labels that can be personalized with their name, the date the quilt was finished, or a special message for special gift quilts.
Novelty woven labels such as Mistakes Made, Lessons Learned by Kylie and the Machine are a new favorite of mine. You can find them at FabricWorm.
Lori Holt’s labels, Made with Love, are so sweet for baby quilts.
Handcrafted Quilt Hangers and Displays
Quilts are meant to be displayed and admired, and handcrafted quilt hangers and displays provide a beautiful way to showcase their creations. These displays not only protect quilts from damage but also elevate them into works of art.
From decorative wall hangers to freestanding quilt stands, there’s a wide variety of options to suit their style and space.
TOP PICKS
Unique Gifts for Quilters Who Have Everything
Artisanal Thimbles
Elevate their quilting experience with artisanal thimbles and handcrafted tools that blend functionality with artistry. These one-of-a-kind pieces not only make beautiful additions to their sewing kits but also speak to the heart of their craft.
Artisanal thimbles can be found in various materials, from hand-painted ceramics to intricately carved wood. Look for thimbles that fit their finger comfortably and feature designs that resonate with their personal style.
Marking Tools
In a pinch, I grab any old marking tool I can find. Wouldn’t it be great to have fancy marking tools that work every time? Sewline Marking Tools never disappoint, especially the quilters who have everything but still need to make marks!
Sewline Marking Tools Gift Set
Christmas Gifts for Quilters Who Love Santa
Santa and quilts go together like needles and thread…and fabric.
- Santa Paws Fat Quarter Bundle
- Santa in the Trees Quilt Pattern
- Nicholas Santa Panel by J. Wecher Frisch for Riley Blake Designs
Small Sewing Gifts for Quilters That are mighty
Transform your quilters sewing space with practical and inspiring additions.
- Small wool pressing mat – 9 x 9-inches is the perfect travel and retreat size. I use mine every day.
Pattern and fabric weights are handy for holding things DOWN. Some quilters use magnetic cutting mats and small magnets to keep patterns in place while cutting and tracing. These triangular weights keep the pointed edges from in check.
Magnets with clips and a magnetic strip can hold anything UP when a third hand is needed.
Add a Fons and Porter design wall that folds up small when not in action. A design wall helps quilters visualize designs and arrange blocks. Game changer!
Time and Talent Gifts for the Quilter Who Has Everything
If you have more time and talent than extra cash, help your quilter with your know-how:
- Sort and organize stash fabric
- Manage cords and outlet strips
- Teach tech skills used for quilting, like EQ8 software
- Help rearrange her sewing space
Gifts under $25 Every Quilter LOVES
Rotary Cutters and Blades
- Olfa Deluxe 45mm Ergonomic Rotary Cutter with Self-Retracting Blade
- Olfa 60mm Ergonomic Rotary Cutter with safety lock
- Titanium blades – I like this jumbo pack
Scissors
Ruler
Cute Stuff
- Cutest straight pins: Tula Pink Unicorn Head
Conclusion: Best Presents for Quilters
If you’re looking to make a quilter’s day with the perfect gift, this guide has you covered! From ergonomic rotary cutters to specialized quilting needles and inspiring quilt patterns, there’s something special for every quilter. Enhance their quilting experience with advanced sewing machines, quilting workshops, and high-definition table lamps. And don’t forget to add a personal touch with customizable quilt labels and handcrafted quilt hangers. Whether it’s comfort, creativity, or skill enhancement, these thoughtful presents are sure to delight any quilting enthusiast. Happy quilting!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best quilters gifts for Christmas?
The best fabric types for quilting often include cotton (like quilting cotton or cotton blends) due to its durability, ease of sewing, and wide variety of prints. However, the specific fabric choices depend on your quilter friend’s skill levels and project preferences.
What are affordable good gifts for quilters?
Beginners can elevate their quilting skills by starting with simple patterns, watching online tutorials, and practicing basic techniques like accurate cutting and consistent seam allowances.
What is the perfect gift for a quilter?
Fabric. Has plenty but will enjoy adding to a sizable stash.
What are great gifts for quilters who have everything?
Discover unique quilting supplies by exploring online marketplaces like Etsy, supporting small businesses specializing in handcrafted quilting tools, or checking the inventory at your favorite local quilt shop.
Make a modern triangle in my free class and learn the magic of Freezer Paper Piecing! Download the free pattern and I’ll walk you step-by-step through the technique. Get started here!
QUILTY TOPICS ON THE BLOG
- Master Freezer Paper Piecing – 12 Easy Tips
- Beginners Guide: Sewing Curved Quilt Blocks
- Beginners Guide: Glue Basting Curves
- Choose Easy Analogous Combinations for Quilts
- Beginners Guide: Using a Walking Foot
- Modern Quilt Colors: Mixing Brights Right Tutorial
- Celebrating Quilty Progress
- Rainbow Quilt Designs: 9 Ways to Make Inspired Rainbow Quilts
- Hexagon Quilts Roundup
- Aurora Block of the Month
- Quilt Coloring Pages: 4 Methods for Successful Color
I’m replacing all my rulers with Creative Grids Itty Bitty 8ths rulers. They are a game changer.
Ohhhh, I’ll have to look in to those.
How can i get more to sew in a day? Get up earlier or what? Just doesn’t seem like enough hrs in day.
Now that’s the real gift isn’t it? Time to sew!
Personally, I’m trying to reduce my screen time by jussssst an hour a day (I know! My screentime has crept slowly upward over the past few months.). I was shocked at how much time I was wasting… gulp!
Wonderful ideas
Thanks for the suggestions I will forward copies to friends & family members. I love to see & make my own clothes; I’m 6’1”for years I would save leftover material; now I’m starting to sewing runners first then the large quilts. Many Thanks on the gift list…
At *just* 5’11”, my mom had a similar experience! She taught me so much about sewing.
I am to a point where I want to create records of my finished projects. I need a project photo album. I have so many project pictures and I need a hands-on album instead of on my computer or phone.
Ohhh that’s a great idea. Fabric and textiles take me back to that time and place. It’s like a time machine!