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| Arkansas Crossroads Quilt |
The Arkansas Crossroads Quilt, as showcased by Ruth on her blog Ye Olde Sweatshop, epitomizes this balance beautifully. Crafted from just two simple blocks—a 16-patch and an "X" block—this design creates a complex-looking lattice effect that's surprisingly easy to achieve.
Ruth's rendition of the Arkansas Crossroads Quilt is particularly inspiring. She utilized leftover pieces from Kate Spain's Terrain collection, cutting her squares with an Accuquilt 2.5" die, though rotary cutting works just as well. By laying out each 16-patch block with individual squares, she ensured a balanced color distribution, adding a personal touch to the quilt's overall aesthetic. The quilt measures approximately 58" x 74", making it a cozy lap blanket. Ruth backed it with a midnight blue minky fabric, providing both warmth and a luxurious feel. Her quilting choice—a wavy line grid using Aurifil 50wt thread—adds texture without overwhelming the design.
For those interested in creating their own Arkansas Crossroads Quilt, Ruth's blog post offers detailed instructions and links to helpful tutorials, including videos from the Missouri Star Quilt Company. These resources guide you through sewing and cutting charm squares for the 16-patch blocks and assembling the "X" blocks, making the process accessible even for those new to quilting.
Whether you're looking to utilize your fabric stash or seeking a project that offers both simplicity and visual appeal, the Arkansas Crossroads Quilt is a pattern worth exploring. Its adaptability in size and color scheme ensures that each quilt is a unique reflection of its maker.
Design Considerations:
Ruth emphasizes the flexibility of this pattern, noting that it's perfect for quilters without a design wall. Blocks can be created individually and stored until ready for assembly, making it a manageable project for various schedules. Additionally, the pattern is scrap-friendly and can be adapted using different fabric collections or color schemes to suit personal preferences.
For detailed instructions, fabric requirements, and additional tips, visit Ruth's original blog post:
Final Thoughts:
The Arkansas Crossroads Quilt pattern by Ruth offers a delightful balance of simplicity and sophistication. Its straightforward construction makes it accessible for quilters of various skill levels, while the resulting design provides a visually striking finished product. Whether you're looking to utilize fabric scraps or explore new color combinations, this pattern is a valuable addition to any quilter's repertoire.
