Why I Finally Upgraded My Quilting Tools
For years, my quilting studio has been a place of work. As a professional longarm quilter, I’ve been so blessed to stay busy quilting for the public. But if I’m being honest, I became so consumed with finishing client quilts that my own creative projects stayed tucked away in bins. My "making" time had almost completely disappeared.
Recently, I’ve made a shift. I am still longarming for the public, but by focusing more on edge-to-edge, I’ve finally found the breathing room to fit my own projects back into the schedule.
I am cutting and piecing more than ever before, and I am having an absolute blast! I’ve even started designing my own quilt patterns and am currently in the phase of testing them out in the studio.
Investing in the "New" Me
Because I’m back at the cutting table so much more, I realized my old tools weren't cutting it, literally. I’m a "use it until it breaks" person, but with this new season of creativity, I wanted tools that were as efficient and ergonomic as possible. I want to spend my time designing and stitching, not icing my wrists!
That’s why I’ve partnered with Martelli Enterprises to upgrade my studio. Here are the two game-changers that are making this new chapter so much easier on my body:
The Tool That Actually Fits: Martelli 45mm Ergonomic Fabric Rotary Cutter
For me this rotary cutter is different because it keeps your hand in a natural, neutral position. It feels more like you’re guiding the blade rather than forcing it.
Lefties Rejoice: They have dedicated Right-Hand and Left-Hand models to ensure the blade visibility and hand-fit are perfect.
The Pressing Powerhouse: The Martelli Iron
Pressing is easily 50% of quilting, and a lightweight, "weak" iron means you’re doing twice the work. I’ve been testing the new Martelli iron, and it has the heft needed to get those seams truly flat without having to lean my entire body weight into the board. It’s consistent, gets hot fast, and handles heavy steam like a pro.
What’s in your sewing room?
I love sharing what works for me, but I know every quilter has their own favorite tools. Are you a "use it forever" person like I was, or do you love trying the latest tech?
Shop My Upgrades
You can find both of these ergonomic game-changers on my Amazon storefront:
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.