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two colorful star quilt blocks made with andover fabrics, arranged on a table with office supplies and quilting notions arranged in a pleasing manner.
Missouri Star Blog | February 17, 2026

Everything You Need to Know About Andover Fabrics

Sometimes, a single fabric collection is all it takes to inspire an entire quilt idea. The story, color, and personality woven into a designer's work can provide the perfect starting point for a new creation. This is where the magic of Andover Fabrics truly shines. They partner with some of the most creative minds in the quilting world, from the modern vibrance of Amy Latta and Stephanie Organes to the timeless romance of Edyta Sitar. This collaboration results in a stunningly diverse catalog of prints that feel both fresh and familiar. Exploring their collections is like walking through an art gallery—you’re sure to find a masterpiece that speaks to you.

Key Takeaways

  • Rely on Superior Quality: Andover Fabrics are known for their soft, sturdy feel and rich, colorfast dyes. This means your quilts will be a pleasure to piece and will stay vibrant and beautiful for years to come, even with plenty of snuggles and washes.
  • Discover Exciting Designs: With a diverse family of designers like Amy Latta, Stephanie Organes, and Edyta Sitar, there’s an Andover collection for every creative style. You can easily find the perfect prints to bring your unique vision to life, whether it's bold and graphic or soft and romantic.
  • Preserve Your Prints with Proper Care: A little prep work goes a long way in keeping your fabrics looking their best. Pre-washing in cold water helps prevent shrinkage and color bleeding, while storing your stash away from direct sunlight protects those gorgeous colors from fading.

 

What Makes Andover Fabrics So Special?

 

When you’re searching for the perfect fabric, you want something that feels as good as it looks and holds up beautifully wash after wash. That’s where Andover Fabrics truly shines. For decades, they have been a trusted name in the quilting world, known for combining top-notch quality with designs that spark creativity. Whether you’re drawn to bright, modern prints or soft, traditional florals, Andover has a collection that feels like it was made just for your next project.

 

Their fabrics are more than just pretty patterns; they represent a commitment to the craft. From the moment you feel the smooth, sturdy cotton in your hands, you can tell it’s something special. This dedication to quality and design is why so many quilters return to Andover time and time again, making it a beloved staple in stashes everywhere.

 

What Sets Their Quality Apart?

 

At its core, Andover’s reputation is built on exceptional quality. Andover fabric collections are known for having a wonderful hand—a soft yet substantial feel that’s a dream to cut and stitch. The high thread count ensures durability, so your finished quilts can be loved and used for years to come without worry.

 

One of the most celebrated features of Andover Fabrics is their incredible color saturation. The prints are consistently bright, crisp, and vibrant, bringing a special energy to any quilt block. Plus, these high-quality materials are designed to resist fading and shrinking, which means the beautiful quilt you pull out of the dryer will look just as stunning as the one you so carefully pieced together.

 

What's Their Design Philosophy?

 

Andover Fabrics has a knack for creating designs that feel both fresh and timeless. Their philosophy centers on collaborating with a diverse group of talented artists who bring their unique visions to life on cloth. By partnering with designers like the timeless Edyta Sitar or the playful and bold Giucy Giuce, Andover ensures their catalog is always filled with exciting options.

 

This approach means there’s truly something for every quilter. You can find everything from whimsical novelty prints to sophisticated, romantic florals and geometric patterns. This wide range of styles makes it easy to find the perfect fabric, whether you’re working on a traditional heirloom quilt or a contemporary art piece for your wall.

 

A Legacy of Craftsmanship

 

Since starting in 1983, Andover Fabrics has built a legacy of reliability and artistry. For a company to thrive for so long in the fabric world, it has to be doing something right! This long history is a testament to their consistent quality and their deep understanding of what quilters need and love. When you hear someone refer to a fabric as "good quilt shop quality," they’re talking about the standard that Andover has helped set.

 

This legacy isn’t just about producing great fabric; it’s about supporting the creative community. By consistently offering beautiful, dependable materials, Andover empowers quilters to bring their ideas to life with confidence. Choosing an Andover fabric means you’re not just buying a piece of cloth—you’re investing in a long tradition of craftsmanship.

 

Who Are Andover's Star Designers?

 

One of the most exciting parts of quilting is getting to know the artists behind the fabrics we love. Just like a painter has a signature brushstroke, a fabric designer has a unique point of view that shines through in their collections. Andover Fabrics has a wonderful family of designers, each bringing a distinct personality and creative flair to their work. From bright and modern to soft and traditional, their star designers create prints that inspire us to head straight to our sewing rooms.

 

Getting to know these artists helps us understand the story behind the fabric. It can even help us find a "fabric soulmate"—that one designer whose style just clicks with our own. When you find a designer you love, it makes collecting fabric and planning projects even more joyful. You start to recognize their signature style and eagerly await their next release. Whether you're drawn to bold graphics, romantic florals, or whimsical novelties, there's an Andover designer whose work will feel like it was made just for you. Let's meet a few of the creative minds who make Andover’s fabric lines so special and sought-after by quilters everywhere.

 

Alison Glass: Modern & Bright

 

If your fabric stash is a rainbow of saturated color, you’re probably already a fan of Alison Glass. She is celebrated for her vibrant and modern designs that practically buzz with energy. Her collections are filled with intricate patterns and bold, unapologetic color palettes that are perfect for contemporary quilts. Alison’s work inspires quilters to play with color and create projects that make a statement. When you want to make a quilt that is truly a work of art, exploring the world of Alison Glass fabrics is a fantastic place to start. Her designs are a playground for the modern quilter.

 

Edyta Sitar: Timeless & Romantic

 

For those who adore the soft, classic beauty of traditional quilts, Edyta Sitar of Laundry Basket Quilts is a kindred spirit. Her work for Andover brings a timeless and romantic feeling to every collection. Edyta is a master of blending delicate florals, gentle paisleys, and other classic motifs with sophisticated, muted color palettes. Her fabrics are perfect for creating heirloom quilts that feel both cozy and elegant. Working with her Laundry Basket Quilts collections is like stepping into a beautiful, well-tended garden—calm, lovely, and full of grace.

 

Giucy Giuce: Playful & Bold

 

Get ready for some fun with Giuseppe Ribaudo, known in the quilting world as Giucy Giuce. His designs are recognized for their playful and bold spirit, often featuring whimsical themes and eye-poppingly bright colors. He brings a fresh, graphic quality to his work that feels both retro and futuristic at the same time. His collections are a hit with quilters looking to add a fun, unexpected twist to their projects. If you want your next quilt to have a big personality and a cheerful vibe, you’ll find endless inspiration in the imaginative prints from Giucy Giuce.

 

Renee Nanneman: Traditional & Elegant

 

Renée Nanneman is a cornerstone designer for Andover Fabrics, revered for her ability to breathe new life into 19th-century aesthetics. As the creative force behind Needl’Love, Renée specializes in "sophisticated primitives"—collections characterized by their rich, earthy palettes, intricate small-scale prints, and antique-inspired florals.

 

Her designs for Andover are a masterclass in texture and tonal depth, making them the gold standard for quilters who love scrappy, heritage-style projects. With a keen eye for historical detail and a signature "moody" color sense, Renée’s fabrics offer a warm, lived-in elegance that turns every quilt into an instant heirloom.

 

Amy Latta: Classic & Modern

 

Amy Latta is a celebrated designer for Andover Fabrics, where she translates her signature hand-drawn style into vibrant, modern textile collections. Known for her "perfectly imperfect" aesthetic, Amy’s fabric designs often feature whimsical motifs, sophisticated color palettes, and delicate textures that appeal to both traditional quilters and contemporary sewists.

 

Her work with Andover seamlessly bridges the gap between paper arts and patchwork, often incorporating the fluid lines and artistic flair of her illustration background into high-quality cotton prints. Whether she is designing bold florals or subtle blender prints, Amy Latta fabric collections are crafted to inspire creativity and bring a touch of hand-crafted joy to every sewing project.

 

Stephanie Organes: Pretty & Organic

 

Stephanie Organes is a vibrant new voice at Andover Fabrics, quickly capturing the hearts of the quilting community with her radiant color stories and lush, organic motifs. Her collections are a celebration of movement and light, featuring flowing florals and nature-inspired patterns that feel both fresh and timeless.

 

With an intuitive eye for "pretty" and a bold approach to saturation, Stephanie’s designs bring a modern, high-energy elegance to the Andover family. Her work is increasingly becoming a staple for makers who want to infuse their projects with a sense of joy, growth, and the effortless beauty of the natural world.

 

What Kinds of Fabric Does Andover Offer?

 

One of the best things about Andover Fabrics is the sheer variety they bring to the cutting table. Whether you’re planning a traditional nine-patch, a modern art quilt, or a cozy flannel throw, Andover has a collection that will inspire you. Their fabric lines are designed to be mixed, matched, and loved, giving you endless possibilities for your projects. From foundational quilting cottons in every color of the rainbow to unique specialty fabrics that add that perfect finishing touch, there’s truly something for every quilter’s stash. They have a knack for creating collections that feel both timeless and fresh, appealing to quilters who cherish classic patterns as well as those who are drawn to contemporary design.

 

Andover understands that quilters love options. That’s why they offer their beautiful designs in so many different forms. You can find fabric by the yard for big projects, but they also have an incredible selection of precuts that make quilting quicker and more convenient. They also collaborate with a fantastic team of designers, which means their catalog is always fresh and full of exciting new prints. Exploring their offerings feels like a treasure hunt where you’re guaranteed to find a gem. Let’s look at the wonderful world of fabrics that Andover has to share.

 

Quilting Cottons

 

At the heart of Andover’s collection are their high-quality quilting cottons. These fabrics are the bread and butter for so many quilters, and for good reason! Andover’s cottons have a beautiful hand: they feel soft yet sturdy, making them a dream to cut, piece, and quilt. They are known for their rich, saturated colors and crisp, clear prints that hold up beautifully wash after wash. Whether you need a solid color to make your other fabrics pop or a delicate print to complete a vintage-inspired quilt, their quilting cottons provide a reliable and beautiful foundation for any project you can imagine.

 

Precuts and Fat Quarters

 

For quilters who love to get right to the fun part, Andover’s precuts are a gift! They offer a huge variety of bundles, including single scoops (5” squares), double scoops (2.5” strips), and sundaes (10” squares), not to mention the ever-popular fat quarter bundles. These coordinated collections take the guesswork out of matching fabrics, as they are curated from a single designer line. Precuts are perfect for saving time, building your stash with a little bit of everything, and starting projects like log cabins or strip quilts in a snap. They’re a fantastic way to sample a full collection without committing to yards of fabric.

 

Fun Novelty and Licensed Fabrics

 

Andover truly shines when it comes to fabrics that are just plain fun. Their collections are filled with playful novelty prints, bold geometric designs, and cheerful florals that are sure to make you smile. These fabrics are perfect for quilts for kids, themed projects, or anytime you want to inject a little whimsy into your work. Andover is also known for its wonderful licensed collections, featuring beloved characters and stories that bring a sense of nostalgia and joy to your quilting. These unique and bright prints are a wonderful way to let your personality shine through in every stitch.

 

What Are Andover's Most-Loved Collections?

 

With so many beautiful fabrics to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start! Andover has several standout collections that have captured the hearts of quilters everywhere. From modern and bright to timeless and nostalgic, these fan favorites are a wonderful addition to any fabric stash.

 

Floral Fabric Collections

 

Andover Fabrics is home to some of the most iconic floral fabric collections in the quilting world, ranging from modern botanical prints to timeless reproduction florals. Among their most-loved lines are the heritage-inspired designs of Renée Nanneman, whose Always and Forever and Wildflower Cottage collections are staples for traditional quilters. For those seeking a more modern aesthetic, Alison Glass continues to dominate with her Sun Print and Chrysanthemum series, known for their bold, saturated colors and graphic floral motifs. Rising stars like Stephanie Organes have also become fan favorites with radiant collections such as Memories Unfold and Sunset Cottage, which showcase lush, organic blooms. Whether you are looking for the delicate, hand-drawn charm of Amy Latta’s Bloom and Sew or the classic elegance of Laundry Basket Quilts, Andover’s diverse floral catalog offers high-quality cotton prints that inspire endless creativity for every sewing project.

 

Laundry Basket Quilts Collections

 

Designed by the talented Edyta Sitar, the Laundry Basket Quilts collections are the epitome of timeless elegance. These fabrics exemplify Andover's commitment to high-quality quilting cottons, offering a wide range of sophisticated designs, colors, and styles for various projects. From delicate florals to classic paisleys and geometric prints, there’s a design for every traditional quilting project. These collections are perfect for creating heirloom quilts that feel both classic and fresh. You can explore the full range of Laundry Basket Quilts fabrics to find the perfect prints for your next masterpiece.

 

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Fabrics

 

Bring a touch of childhood magic to your sewing room with The Very Hungry Caterpillar collection. Based on the beloved book by Eric Carle, these fabrics are known for their playful designs and high-quality materials that are perfect for quilts, children’s clothing, and nursery decor. Andover’s commitment to quality ensures these fabrics are soft, durable, and a joy to work with on projects large and small. This collection is a wonderful way to create a special gift for a little one in your life. These charming novelty prints are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.

 

Seasonal and Holiday Favorites

 

Andover Fabrics truly shines when it’s time to celebrate the seasons. The company offers a delightful range of seasonal and holiday-themed collections perfect for all your festive projects. You can find everything from bold geometric prints for a modern Christmas quilt to jewel-toned wovens for a cozy autumn table runner. With modern florals for spring and fun novelty prints for Halloween, their holiday fabric collections make it easy to add a handmade touch to every celebration. These festive fabrics are perfect for creating treasured decorations and gifts that can be enjoyed year after year.

 

What Do Quilters Think of Andover Fabrics?

 

When you pour your time, creativity, and heart into making a quilt, you want to be sure your materials are just as dedicated as you are. It’s a question every quilter asks: will this fabric hold up? When it comes to Andover Fabrics, the buzz in the quilting world is strong and positive. Fellow quilters are often our most trusted resource, and they consistently praise Andover for its reliability and beauty. From bustling online communities to the friendly chatter at a local quilt guild, the feedback is clear: this is a brand you can count on. But what exactly makes it a go-to choice for so many? Quilters tend to focus on a few key areas when sharing their experiences. They talk about how the fabric feels in their hands, how it behaves after a trip through the washing machine, and whether those gorgeous, vibrant colors will stand the test of time. These are the practical concerns that matter most when we're creating something meant to last. The consensus is that Andover delivers on all fronts, providing a foundation of quality that lets our creativity shine. Let's take a closer look at what your fellow makers think about working with Andover.

 

How Does the Fabric Wear and Wash?

 

A quilt is made to be loved, which means it needs to withstand plenty of snuggles and trips through the laundry. Quilters consistently report that Andover’s high-quality cotton is up to the task. The fabric has a soft but sturdy hand, making it a dream to cut and piece without a lot of fraying. More importantly, it holds its shape beautifully after washing. This durability means you can confidently create quilts for babies, kids, or everyday use on the couch, knowing your hard work will last for years to come. It’s that peace of mind that makes Andover a trusted name in so many quilting rooms.

 

Do the Colors and Prints Stay True?

 

There’s nothing more heartbreaking than watching the vibrant colors of your quilt fade or, even worse, bleed onto the lighter fabrics. Thankfully, this isn't a worry with Andover. The company is known for its rich, saturated colors and uses high-quality, colorfast dyes that stay put. Quilters rave about how the prints remain crisp and bright, wash after wash. This reliability is especially important when you’re working on a high-contrast quilt. You can pair a deep navy with a crisp white without holding your breath on laundry day. This commitment to color quality allows you to focus on the fun part—creating something beautiful—without stressing about the finish.

 

The Appeal of Their Vibrant Designs

 

Beyond its technical quality, Andover Fabrics collaborates with an incredible roster of designers who bring fresh, exciting, and beautiful prints to the quilting world. Whether your style is modern and graphic or classic and romantic, you’re sure to find a collection that speaks to you. Quilters often say that an Andover print was the inspiration for their entire project! The designs are thoughtfully created, with beautiful color palettes and motifs that are a delight to work with. Having such a wide variety of stunning designer fabrics to choose from makes every step of the quilting process, from planning to the final stitch, feel more creative and inspiring.

 

Where Can You Find Andover Fabrics?

 

Once you’ve chosen your favorite Andover Fabrics collection, bringing your vision to life is easy thanks to their wide availability. Whether you prefer browsing online from the comfort of your sewing room or love the experience of visiting a local quilt shop, there are plenty of places to build your stash. Knowing where to look can help you find exactly what you need and maybe even discover a few new favorites along the way.

 

Shop the Collection at Missouri Star

 

We might be a little biased, but we think the best place to start your search is right here! We’re proud to carry our huge selection of Andover Fabrics, from the latest designer collections to their classic blenders. Andover is known for its high-quality, vibrant fabrics, and we make sure to stock a wide variety so you can find the perfect match for any quilt. Shopping with us means you get the convenience of online browsing combined with the friendly service and speedy shipping you’ve come to expect. It’s a wonderful way to get your hands on those must-have prints without ever leaving home.

 

Finding Andover at a Local Quilt Shop

 

There’s something truly special about visiting a local quilt shop. You get to see and feel the fabric in person, which is a huge advantage when you’re trying to match colors or get a sense of the material’s weight and texture. Many local shops offer carefully curated selections of Andover Fabrics and have passionate quilting staff who are happy to offer advice. Supporting these small businesses also helps keep our quilting communities thriving. Andover makes it easy to find a shop near you with their online store locator, so you can plan a fun fabric-finding field trip.

 

How to Spot a Great Deal

 

Who doesn’t love finding a great deal on gorgeous fabric? To get the most value, always check the sale or clearance section of any online or local store. This is where you can often find hidden gems from past collections at a lower price. Another smart tip is to look for precut bundles like fat quarter stacks or jelly rolls, which can be more cost-effective than buying individual yardage. And of course, you can always keep an eye on our Daily Deals, where you just might find your favorite Andover collection at a wonderful price. Happy fabric hunting!

 

 

How Do You Pick the Perfect Andover Fabric for Your Project?

 

With so many beautiful prints and collections, choosing the right Andover fabric can feel like being a kid in a candy store! The secret to a stunning quilt is often in the fabric selection process. Thinking about the project's purpose, color story, and overall mood will help you pull together a stack of fabrics that sing in perfect harmony. Let’s walk through a few simple ways to select the perfect Andover fabrics for your next masterpiece.

 

Consider the Weight and Feel

 

The first step is to think about what you’re making. A soft, cuddly quilt for a new baby will need a different feel than a structured tote bag or a crisp wall hanging. Andover’s high-quality quilting cottons are known for their soft hand and durability, making them wonderfully versatile. When you’re shopping, consider the fabric’s drape—how it hangs and flows. For projects that require a bit more body, Andover’s fabrics still press beautifully, giving you clean, sharp points and seams. Trusting the quality from the start makes the entire creative process more enjoyable.

 

Tips for Matching Colors and Patterns

 

Andover is celebrated for its vibrant, colorfast dyes, which means your beautiful creations will stay bright through years of love and washing. When pulling fabrics, start with a "focus fabric" that you absolutely love. From there, you can select coordinating prints and blenders that pick up on the different colors in your main print. Don't be afraid to play with scale! Mixing large, medium, and small-scale prints adds visual interest and depth to your quilt. Consider the overall aesthetic you want—calm and serene, or bright and energetic—and let that guide your color choices.

 

How to Mix and Match Collections

 

One of the best parts of quilting is creating a look that is uniquely yours, and mixing collections is a fantastic way to do that. The talented designers at Andover create collections that often share complementary color palettes or themes, making them easy to combine. To create a cohesive look, find a common thread to tie different fabrics together. This could be a specific color, a design element like a floral or geometric shape, or even a similar mood. Browsing the full range of Andover Fabrics is a great way to spot these connections and get inspired for your next scrappy-happy project.

 

How Do You Care for Andover Fabrics?

 

Once you’ve brought home that beautiful Andover fabric, you’ll want to keep it looking its best for years to come. Proper care is the secret ingredient to a long-lasting quilt, ensuring your hard work shines through every stitch. Taking a few simple steps to wash and store your fabric correctly will preserve its vibrant colors and soft feel, so it’s ready for you the moment inspiration strikes.

 

To Pre-Wash or Not to Pre-Wash?

 

Ah, the great debate in the quilting world! When it comes to Andover Fabrics, giving your yardage a pre-wash is a wonderful idea. This simple step helps remove any leftover sizing or chemicals from the manufacturing process and can prevent any surprising shrinkage or color bleeding down the road. For best results, machine wash your fabric in cold water on a gentle cycle. It’s always a good practice to wash dark and light colors separately, just in case any of those rich dyes decide to mingle. This little bit of prep work ensures your beautiful fabrics stay crisp and true to their original hue.

 

Best Practices for Storing Your Stash

 

A well-organized fabric stash is a happy stash! To keep your Andover fabrics in pristine condition, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can cause those lovely colors to fade over time. Fabric bins or shelves are perfect for keeping your collection tidy and protected from dust and any curious pets. While rolling fabric can look pretty on a shelf, folding it neatly is often a better choice for long-term storage, as it helps prevent deep creases from setting in. Taking care of your Andover fabrics by the yard this way means they’ll be smooth and ready to cut the moment you start your next project, saving you from extra time at the ironing board.

 

Keeping Your Fabric Vibrant for Years

 

To maintain the brilliant color of your Andover fabrics for years of enjoyment, always opt for a gentle detergent and steer clear of bleach, which can be too harsh on the fibers. After washing, you can either tumble dry on a low setting or let your fabric line dry for that fresh, crisp feel. Be sure to remove it from the dryer promptly to minimize wrinkles and keep it feeling soft. If you need to press your fabric, a cool iron is your best friend. It will smooth out any creases without damaging the fibers or the charming fabric prints. Following these simple care instructions will help your fabrics remain a beautiful and cherished part of your collection for many quilts to come.

 

What Makes Andover a Premium Choice?

 

With so many beautiful fabrics to choose from, it can be tricky to decide which ones to add to your stash. Andover Fabrics has earned a special place in the hearts of quilters for its wonderful quality, stunning designs, and the sheer joy it brings to the creative process. When you choose Andover, you’re not just buying fabric; you’re investing in a piece of art that will stand the test of time. From the moment you feel it in your hands to the final stitch of your project, the difference is clear. Let’s look at what makes this brand a go-to for quilters who value excellence.

 

A Closer Look at Quality and Durability

 

When you pour hours of love into a quilt, you want it to last for generations. Andover understands this deeply, which is why they use high-quality cotton and colorfast dyes in all their fabrics. This means your finished projects will keep their vibrant colors and soft feel, wash after wash. The fabric itself is a dream to work with—it has a lovely hand, presses beautifully, and holds a stitch perfectly. This commitment to quality ensures that your hard work results in a durable, beautiful quilt that can be cherished for years to come.

 

Exploring Their Unique Designs

 

One of the most exciting things about Andover is their collaboration with talented and beloved designers. Partnering with creative minds like Edyta Sitar of Laundry Basket Quilts, Amy Latta, Stephanie Organes, and other talented designers offers a diverse and inspiring range of prints. Whether your style is traditional, modern, or whimsical, you’re sure to find a collection that speaks to you. Their catalog is filled with everything from intricate florals and bold geometrics to charming novelty prints, making it easy to find the perfect fabric to bring your vision to life.

 

Understanding the Value and Price Point

 

While Andover Fabrics might be priced slightly higher than some other brands, their value is evident in every yard. The premium price reflects the high-grade cotton, innovative design, and meticulous production process that go into each bolt. Think of it as an investment in your craft. Using top-quality materials not only makes the quilting process more enjoyable but also ensures a more professional, long-lasting result. When you consider the beauty and durability of the final quilt, it’s easy to see why so many quilters believe Andover Fabrics are worth every penny.

 

How to Start Your Andover Fabrics Stash

 

Dipping your toes into the world of Andover Fabrics is a treat for any quilter. Building a stash of these gorgeous textiles is like collecting jewels—each one is a little treasure waiting for the perfect project. But with so many beautiful options, where does one begin? Starting a collection doesn't have to be overwhelming or break the bank. With a little planning, you can build a beautiful and versatile Andover stash that will inspire you for years to come.

 

Tips for Building Your First Collection

 

The best way to start any fabric collection is with a plan! Instead of buying bolts at random, think about a project you’d love to make. This helps focus your choices and ensures you buy what you’ll actually use. Andover Fabrics are high-quality materials known for their bright colors and patterns, making them an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned quilters. A great starting point is a precut bundle from a collection that catches your eye. A fat quarter bundle or charm pack gives you a perfectly coordinated palette to play with, taking the guesswork out of matching prints.

 

Essential Prints for Beginners

 

Andover Fabrics are among the highest quality quilting cottons in the industry, offering a wide range of designs, colors, and styles. This variety helps you find the perfect prints for your projects. A well-rounded stash includes a mix of different scales. Try to collect a few large-scale "hero" prints that make a statement, some medium-scale coordinates that support the main fabric, and plenty of small-scale blenders. Versatile basics, like the popular Linen Textures collection by Laundry Basket Quilts, are great for filling gaps and adding texture without overwhelming your quilt top.

 

Shopping Smart on a Budget

 

Building a beautiful stash doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune. Keep an eye out for sales and special promotions, especially around holidays. Signing up for your favorite shop’s newsletter is a great way to get a heads-up on upcoming deals. Many online stores offer discounts and promotions that can help you save. Here at Missouri Star, we always have something fun going on, like our Quilting Daily Deal, which is a perfect opportunity to snag a beautiful fabric at a great price. When you find a background or blender fabric you absolutely love, consider buying a few extra yards when it’s on sale. You’ll thank yourself later!

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Is Andover fabric a good choice for a beginner quilter?

Absolutely! In fact, starting with a high-quality fabric like Andover can make the learning process much smoother. Its sturdy, high-thread-count cotton is a dream to work with because it doesn't fray excessively when cut, and it presses beautifully, helping you achieve those sharp, accurate seams. When you're not fighting with your fabric, you can focus on enjoying the process of making your first quilt.

 

Why is Andover fabric sometimes more expensive than what I see at a big box store?

When you choose Andover, you're investing in the quality of your finished quilt. The price reflects the premium-grade cotton, the rich, colorfast dyes that keep your project vibrant for years, and the artistry of their talented designers. This ensures the fabric feels wonderful, holds up to washing and loving, and results in a beautiful heirloom you can be proud of.

 

Can I mix and match Andover fabrics with other brands in my stash?

Of course! Most quilters have a wonderfully varied stash, and Andover fabrics play very nicely with others. Their quilting cotton is a standard weight that is compatible with most other quilt-shop-quality brands. The key is to ensure the fabrics you're combining have a similar weight and feel so they behave consistently as you piece and quilt them.

 

I've heard you should always pre-wash fabric. Is that necessary with Andover?

While Andover fabrics are known for their excellent quality and colorfastness, giving them a quick pre-wash is always a good practice. This simple step removes any residual chemicals from manufacturing and addresses any minor shrinkage before you cut into it. Think of it as a little bit of insurance that guarantees your finished quilt blocks will be the exact size you intended.

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