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| Curio Flower Mini Quilt |
Every once in a while, we come across a design that stops us in our tracks—not because of its complexity or size, but because of its sheer beauty and charm. The Curio Flower Mini Quilt by Erin Russek is exactly that kind of project. This delightful mini quilt is a perfect mix of elegance, color, and traditional hand-appliqué. It's small enough to finish in a weekend, but the impact it leaves is lasting.
Designed by Erin and shared on her inspiring blog One Piece at a Time, this pattern offers quilters a creative opportunity to practice their appliqué skills while working with rich colors and detailed floral shapes. Whether you display it on a wall, include it in a gallery of minis, or gift it to a fellow quilter or friend, this quilt is bound to bring joy.
A Closer Look at the Design:
The Curio Flower Mini Quilt features a beautifully centered floral appliqué set against a classic background. Erin’s design, inspired by the Curio fabric line by BasicGrey, captures the graceful essence of handwork. With its bold petals, curving leaves, and layered center, the flower becomes the star of this small but striking quilt.
- Technique: Needle-turn or fusible appliqué
- Size: Mini quilt (approximately 14" x 14", depending on borders)
- Style: Traditional meets modern florals
This is a lovely project for anyone wanting to try their hand at appliqué in a manageable format.
Materials and Supplies:
To make your own version of this mini quilt, here are the basics you’ll need:
- Background fabric: A neutral tone to let your flower shine
- Assorted prints or solids: For petals, leaves, and flower centers
- Appliqué supplies: Such as freezer paper, thread to match, and a good appliqué needle
- Batting and backing: Small scraps work perfectly for a mini like this
- Binding fabric: Choose a color that complements your flower
The project uses a variety of colors for a vibrant finish, but you could easily adapt the palette to suit your style—pastels for a soft look, or brights for a bold statement.
Why This Project is Worth Trying:
The Curio Flower Mini Quilt is a great introduction to appliqué for beginners, and a relaxing, rewarding project for experienced quilters. Erin’s pattern is thoughtfully written and provides a printable template for the flower and its components.
Here’s why it’s a great choice:
- Skill builder: If you’ve been wanting to improve your hand-appliqué, this project is the perfect size.
- Creative freedom: Play with color and fabric placement for a totally custom look.
- Quick finish: Because it's small, you’ll be able to complete it in a short time—ideal for weekends or gift deadlines.
Plus, it’s just plain fun! Watching the flower come to life as you stitch is incredibly satisfying.
Finishing Touches:
Once the appliqué is complete, you can quilt the background to enhance the flower. Simple echo quilting, crosshatch, or stippling all work beautifully on a mini. Add a hanging sleeve or corner triangles on the back to display it on a wall.
The Curio Flower Mini Quilt reminds us that quilting doesn’t always have to be about big projects or complicated techniques. Sometimes, a small piece stitched with care and creativity brings just as much joy. Whether you're looking for a weekend project or a lovely addition to your mini quilt wall, this design by Erin Russek is one to treasure.
Erin generously shared the pattern for free on her blog post, along with a downloadable flower template:
Happy stitching—and may your garden of quilts always be in bloom!
