Posted by Cathy Cooper

Quilting is often a relaxing, charming and addictive hobby. If you're new to quilting and you're all but ready to get started, then here are a couple of pointers you'll find handy.

Check out a kit

Kits are an easy way to get into quilting. If you have no idea where to begin or don't know how to shop for the right quilting fabrics, then a kit will do the work for you.

Go for pre-cut collections

Don't have a clue what fabrics to pick? Then think about buying pre-cut collections, The Seasoned Homemaker suggests. That way, you can get a feel for what fabrics look and feel right together. These may be a bit more expensive, but they're well worth it, considering the time and effort you save in shopping for quilting fabrics by yourself.

Check trusted shops

Look for trusted online shops like Runaway Quilting for supplies. Sketchy and dodgy shops may send you fabrics that are less than stellar. That's the last thing you want. Buy only from shops with a good reputation for credibility and customer service.

Browse through the inventory

Inventory size is another major consideration when you look at a quilting shop. Does the shop have an extensive inventory that contains more than enough quilting items and products to satisfy your quilter's soul? If that's the case, then you can shop to your heart's content.

Read the guidelines

Before you put in an order for those patches and quilts, be sure to read through the shopping guidelines. Check out the returns policy just in case you may need to return a few items. It pays to know what the shopping policies are in advance to decide which shops offer you the best terms and conditions.

Pick your colors

Any quilter knows just how important it is to pick the right colors and color combinations. Not sure of your moves yet? Then find a piece of fabrics you want to build around on. That's going to help you get going. You can shop for colors that will either contrast or compliment that piece of fabric. One trick to knowing how everything will look like is to sketch it out. Use colored pencils. This may not be accurate; but it should be enough to give you a sense of the results.

These tips aren't going to tell you everything you need to know. But they're enough to help you get your quilting off to a fun, fantastic start.