Finding the perfect gift for a quilter can be tricky, especially since quilters come in all experience levels—from bright-eyed beginners to seasoned veterans who have been stitching for years. The key to picking a great quilting gift is to match it to their skill level and their passion. Whether your quilter is just getting started or already has a room full of fabric and completed quilts, here’s a guide to help you select the perfect present.

Gifts for Beginner Quilters

Beginners are often in the discovery phase, learning the basics and getting their first taste of the joys of quilting. They typically need foundational tools, easy-to-use supplies, and encouraging items that make the learning process fun and rewarding.

1. Starter Tool Kits

A great way to help a new quilter get started is with a beginner’s quilting tool kit. Look for sets that include rotary cutters, quilting rulers, cutting mats, and fabric shears. These essentials will help them build a solid foundation.

You can find a nice starter kit at JoAnn Fabrics:  SINGER Learn To Quilt 86-Piece Starter Kit | JOANN

2. Easy-to-Follow Patterns

Beginner-friendly quilt patterns make excellent gifts. Choose patterns that are designed specifically for beginners—those with simple shapes, minimal piecing, and easy-to-understand instructions. Patterns with pre-cut options like charm packs or layer cakes are great choices.

Fat Quarter Shop has a great kit:  The Ultimate Beginner Quilt Kit | Featuring Bella Solids by Moda Fabrics | Fat Quarter Shop

Add the batting into your gift (easy add-on in Fat Quarter Shop checkout) since they'll need that for the final stages.

3. Quilting-Themed T-Shirts and Accessories

Encourage their new hobby with a fun, cozy quilting-themed t-shirt! Apparel with phrases like “Life is Short, Buy the Fabric” or lighthearted quilting jokes can help them feel connected to the quilting community, even as they’re just starting out. Items like quilting mugs or fun post-it notes are also great ways to cheer them on.

This is where The Quilters Retreat Store really shines. Check out our great guide of the Top 10 Budget-Friendly Gifts for Quilters Under $30 – The Quilters Retreat Store

4. Beginner-Friendly Fabric Bundles

New quilters often need fabric but might not be sure where to start. Pre-cut fabric bundles or fat quarter sets are a great way to give them a variety without overwhelming them. They can get creative without worrying too much about choosing and cutting fabric themselves.

You really cannot go wrong by selecting one of the many beautiful fat-quarter bundles from Fat Quarter Shop or the Missouri Star Quit Company.  Since all the fabric is perfectly coordinated, they'll be excited to start on their quit right away.

5. Books and Online Classes

Books that explain quilting basics or online courses for beginners can be incredibly helpful. Look for resources that cover foundational skills—such as fabric selection, rotary cutting, and piecing techniques. This helps new quilters learn at their own pace and build their confidence.

Craftsy.com has a wonderful collection of videos for the beginning quilter and a subscription would make a wonderful gift.

 

Gifts for Seasoned Quilters

Seasoned quilters likely have a well-stocked collection of tools and fabric, but there are still plenty of unique gifts that can enhance their quilting experience. For experienced quilters, it's often about quality, creativity, and taking their projects to the next level.

1. Specialty Tools and Gadgets

Advanced quilters may already have the basics, so focus on specialty tools that make quilting easier and more enjoyable. Consider gifting a ruler set for more intricate blocks, a wool pressing mat for perfect seams, or a portable LED light to make detailed work easier. High-quality specialty tools can really elevate their quilting experience.

The Accuquilt system is a great gift since, once your favorite quilter has the cutter, you know exactly what to get them for their upcoming birthdays and holidays!  They'll always be looking for the next fun quilt block "die".  These babies can be heavy so make sure your favorite quilter will have a permanent place to put it if they'll have trouble lifting it when they want to use it. 

*Please note: As an amazon affiliate, I earn a small commission if you purchase using the above link -- at no additional cost to you.

2. Luxury Fabric Bundles

For an experienced quilter, there’s nothing better than receiving premium fabric. Think designer collections, curated bundles, or high-end fabrics that they wouldn’t normally splurge on themselves. Seasonal or rare fabrics are also a lovely surprise.  On the higher end are "Block of the Month" subscriptions.  These are beautiful quilts where a single block is shipped for them to sew each month. That keeps the good times rolling.

You'll find some amazing block-of-the-month quilt kits from McKenna Ryan at participating local and on-line fabric stores. They are 'seasonal' so you'll want to be on the lookout for block of the month offerings. You'll find McKenna Ryan's "Dog Park" quilt being sponsored by Stichin Heaven in 2025.  Dog Park Block of the Month - Begins May 2025 – Stitchin Heaven.

If you can't find what you like during a particular time of the year, or your favorite quilter just can't stand the suspense of waiting each month, you can go to McKenna Ryan's web site and purchase directly from there.  You'll find it at McKenna Ryan - Pine Needles | Patterns & Kits, Fabric & More.

3. Quilting Apparel 

If your experienced quilter is already sporting the coolest quilting t-shirts, then consider a quilting inspired jacket or hoodie. A fun quilting-inspired jackets or hoodie can keep them warm during those long sewing sessions or when they are out-and-about to their latest quilting meeting.  These unique gifts allow them show their passion for quilting in style!

Check out our quilting-inspired jackets at Quilting Jackets – Funny Quilting Windbreakers & Gifts for Quilters – The Quilters Retreat Store.

You'll find our 'oh-so-warm-and-snuggly' hoodies at Quilting Hoodies & Sweatshirts – Funny Quilting T-Shirts & Gifts – The Quilters Retreat Store 

 

4. Quilt Show Tickets or Retreat Experiences

If you’re looking to really impress, consider giving tickets to a local quilt show or a quilting retreat. Experienced quilters love connecting with others, seeing new techniques, and getting inspired. This is a wonderful way to support their passion and give them an experience they’ll never forget.

You can check out the Quilters Retreats Public Facebook Group for the latest in quilting retreats.  Even though we have similar names, our two companies are not affiliated, but I'm personally a member and can vouch for the great content.

 

5. Gifts that Support their Quilting Lifestyle

Experienced quilters often love to surround themselves with quilting-inspired items. A quilting-themed desk pad or a quilting-inspired shower curtain can add a touch of their favorite hobby to everyday life. These practical yet stylish gifts remind them of what they love even when they’re away from the sewing machine.

The Quilters Retreat has you covered.  You'll find those and more in our Top 10 Budget-Friendly Gifts for Quilters Under $30 – The Quilters Retreat Store

 

Wrap-Up

Whether you’re shopping for a beginner or an experienced quilter, the key to finding the perfect gift is to think about where they are on their quilting journey. Beginners appreciate the essentials that make learning easy and fun, while seasoned quilters enjoy high-quality items that support their creativity and help them master new challenges. From beginner kits to personalized tools, these gifts will bring joy to quilters at every level.

Want more ideas? Check out our Ultimate Gift Guide for Quilters for even more inspiration, and explore our wide range of quilting gifts at The Quilters Retreat.