So you’ve fallen in love with quilting, bought some fabric, maybe even stitched a few blocks together—and now you’re wondering, “Where are all the other quilters?” Quilting is a craft that really comes alive when it’s shared, but finding “your people” can feel intimidating at first. These five simple steps will help you plug into the quilt community, both locally and online, without needing years of experience or a huge stash.

Step 1: weStart with your local quilt shop

If you’re lucky enough to have a quilt shop nearby, that’s one of the easiest doors into the community. Most quilt shops do much more than sell fabric—they host classes, sew days, retreats, trunk shows, and charity projects.  

Look up shops in your area and check their websites, social media, or in‑store bulletin boards for beginner classes or “sit‑and‑sew” times. Sign up for something specifically geared toward beginners, or a small project class like a table runner or baby quilt. These classes are full of people who are also learning, and the shared “I’m new at this” energy is a great icebreaker.  

When you go, arrive a few minutes early, introduce yourself to the teacher, and simply say, “I’m pretty new to quilting and I’m hoping to meet other quilters.” Most teachers will immediately help you feel welcome and are great at connecting like‑minded students.

Step 2: Visit a quilt guild (or two)

Quilt guilds are organized groups of quilters who meet regularly for show & tell, demos, speakers, charity projects, and social time. Some are traditional, some are modern, some are very large, and others are small and cozy. It’s completely okay if the first guild you try doesn’t feel like a perfect fit.  

Search for guilds in your town or region, including any modern quilt guild chapters or smaller local groups. Many guilds allow guests to attend a meeting or two before joining. When you go, tell the person at the welcome table that you’re new and ask if there’s a “new member buddy” or someone who can sit with you and explain how things work.  

If the first experience feels overwhelming or you’re not sure you’ve found your people, give it a second try or visit a different guild. Every group has its own personality. You’re not “too new” for a guild—guilds exist to share knowledge and bring in new quilters.

Step 3: Join an online quilting community

If you don’t have many local options, or if schedules and travel are tricky, online quilting communities are a fantastic alternative—or a great supplement to local groups. There are many ways to connect:

- Online quilt memberships and virtual guilds that host monthly sew‑alongs, live chats, and challenges.  
- Quilt‑along groups centered around a specific pattern or designer.  
- Discords, forums, or community platforms built just for quilters, often with beginner channels and Q&A spaces.  

Look for spaces that are moderated, have clear community guidelines, and specifically mention being beginner‑friendly. When you join, introduce yourself with a short post: how long you’ve been quilting, what you’re working on, and what you’re hoping to learn. You’ll be surprised how many people chime in with encouragement and tips.

Step 4: Work on small, sharable projects

Big quilts are wonderful, but they can take a long time and feel intimidating when you’re just getting started. Smaller projects are easier to bring to classes, guild meetings, and online show‑and‑tell, and they naturally spark conversation.  

Great beginner‑friendly community builders include:  

- Baby quilts or lap quilts  
- Charity quilts or block drives  
- Table runners, pillows, or mini quilts  
- Block-of-the-month or mystery quilts  

When you attend a guild meeting or class, bring whatever you’re working on—even if it’s “just blocks” or a quilt top in progress. Sharing it is an instant icebreaker. Online, you can post progress pictures, ask for color suggestions, or celebrate finishing a binding. Those small interactions add up and help people remember you and your style.

Step 5: Say you’re new (and ask for help)

This might be the most important step of all: let people know you’re new, and ask questions. Many beginners try to “blend in” and not look inexperienced, but that actually makes it harder for others to support you.  

At a guild, class, or shop, try a simple script like:  

- “I’m pretty new to quilting and just made my first quilt top. Do you have any tips for quilting or binding it?”  
- “I’m looking for people who are also beginners—are there any groups or sew days that would be a good fit?”  

Online, you can post things like, “New quilter here, struggling with accurate seams—any favorite tutorials or hacks?” Most quilters love to share what they’ve learned and are genuinely excited to help someone starting out. You’re not bothering anyone; you’re giving them a chance to welcome you in.

How TheQuiltHub can help

If you’re ready to take these steps but not sure where to start, TheQuiltHub is designed to make that easier. You can use the directory to look up quilt guilds, local shops, shows, retreats, and more, and discover opportunities you might not even know existed in your area.  

Browse listings near you, pick one small step—visit a shop, attend a guild meeting, or join an online group—and introduce yourself as the new quilter you are. The skills will come with time, but the friendships and community can start today.