I'm brand new, what do I need to start quilting?

I've wanted to post about this for a while and since I've had numerous requests I'll finally indulge.  I've taught several people and I start everyone off the same way.  This isn't the only way, just what I've found to be effective.
Please note I've edited this post to include a couple more items in the misc. category.

#1.  A sewing machine or access to a sewing machine: 

If you don't already have a machine, I recommend borrowing one until you decide if you like this little hobby obsession.  I do not recommend going out and buying a machine until you are more educated on what you want/need from the machine, unless money is no object, then by all means, go out and purchase the most expensive machine you can afford (Bernina 820QE anyone?).  The reason I recommend this is that most people will go out and buy a relatively inexpensive machine, thinking that "We're just sewing straight lines, why do I need fancy features?".  For example, my first sewing machine was about $75.  I used it for years and originally used it mainly for making clothing. It was a workhorse and over 10 years later its still going strong but as soon as I started quilting I quickly grew to hate using my little manual Kenmore machine.  Almost everything about this machine made piecing quilts more time consuming and difficult and forget about trying to use this machine to actually quilt a quilt (free motion or otherwise).  So, I recommend waiting and saving up for a really nice machine that has the features you need even if its not the Cadillac I mentioned above.

If you do have a machine or access to one, by all means, use it to get started.  This will help to keep your initial investment low and you can get started right away.  If your machine hasn't been used in a while I recommend taking it in and having it professionally cleaned/serviced (usually costs between $65-75).  There's nothing worse than working with a temperamental machine that hasn't been properly serviced especially as a beginner.  

One more note for those who fall into the category of digging an old machine out of their closet or a friend's closet, for the love of God, buy a couple packs of new sewing machine needles.  They're cheap and aren't meant to last for years.  Using an old needle or the wrong needle for the fabric you're working with can cause a catastrophic failure which can be quite scary.  So, if you have no idea how long the needle has been in the machine, or what type it is, its time to just throw it away.  You can use general purpose needles for quilt piecing.  I often buy Singer or Schmetz brands.  I keep quilting, general purpose, heavy duty and topstitch needles on hand at all times, depending on what I need to sew (yes, it does make a big difference).

#2. A 1/4" presser foot for your sewing machine: 

This is the MOST IMPORTANT THING!!!!!  If you do not have this, do not begin.  Most older machines or machines not sold as quilting machines will not come with this foot.  You can google around and find the one that fits your machine.  They're not expensive.

Unlike sewing clothing, where a 5/8" seam is standard and corresponds to a line etched into your machine's bed, in quilting, you line up your fabric edges with the presser foot of the machine.  If you're in doubt about the foot, sew something with it and measure the width of the seam that comes out.

#3. Cutting tools: 

It can get out of hand w/ the cutting tools...

If you start sewing with me you're in luck because I have almost every cutting/measuring tool known to man (I'm a gadget freak).  I even have some rulers in duplicate (b/c I forgot I had it) and several that aren't even opened or I haven't used!  If you're not that lucky and are starting from scratch, you need 3 basic things: a rotary cutter, a cutting mat, and an acrylic ruler.  I recommend newbies purchase this set.  You can get it on Amazon or at JoAnn fabrics for half price.

The 4th tool you will need is a 12.5" square ruler.  My favorite brand is Creative Grids.  I buy this brand whenever possible.

Always ensure you also have at least one extra blade for your rotary cutter on hand.

#4. Thread:

If you talked to 100 people they'd have 100 different favorite threads.  I've used a ton of different ones.  My only recommendation here is get a good quality one (you usually get what you pay for).  Don't buy the el-cheapo ones.  You can use cotton or polyester for piecing.  In the beginning I recommend having white, cream, grey and black on hand.  And those tiny little spools don't go far in piecing, so get larger spools if you can.

#5. Misc. Items:

You'll need some small scissors for trimming and a seam ripper (sorry, but you WILL need it).  Get some 1 1/4" pins and if you're feeling ambitious get some of the 2" fine pins that have flat heads (usually w/ flowers or butterflies).  You will also need some hand sewing needles (a variety pack is probably good) and a thimble.  You will also need to get some curved safety pins for basting your project.  It is also worth it to pay a little more and get the better quality ones.  You will need quite a few of these.

There you have it, I believe this is all the basics.  I'll do a follow-up post talking about good candidates for a first project and how to get started.