Quilting Land: September 2019

How to make a Handkerchief Quilt

As quilters, we often look for ways to weave history, emotion, and artistry into a single piece—and few projects accomplish that quite like a handkerchief quilt. These delicate treasures not only showcase our skills but also preserve precious family heirlooms in a beautiful, functional form. If you’ve inherited a box of vintage hankies or collected some over time, Rhonda Dort’s tutorial on making a Handkerchief Quilt with a Custom-Sized Swag Border is a must-read.

Rhonda brings warmth and knowledge to the process, sharing not just the steps but also the heart behind her craft. Her blog post is rich with photographs and thoughtful tips, making the journey approachable even if you're new to working with delicate vintage fabrics.

What Is a Handkerchief Quilt?

A handkerchief quilt is exactly what it sounds like—a quilt made using vintage or decorative handkerchiefs as the focal design elements. These pieces often feature intricate embroidery, lace edges, and soft, fine fabrics that carry memories and character.

Rather than hiding these hankies away in a drawer, Rhonda's technique honors them by placing each one in its own block, beautifully framed with a custom swag border. The result is a quilt that feels like a curated museum of textile art—but made for your home.

Highlights from the Tutorial:

In her tutorial, Rhonda provides a step-by-step approach that covers:

Preparing and stabilizing your handkerchiefs – a critical step when dealing with older, more delicate fabrics.
Cutting and planning the layout – including how to size your swag borders to perfectly complement each piece.
Appliqué tips – Rhonda shares her method of attaching each handkerchief gently and securely.
Quilting ideas – how to enhance your design with careful stitching while preserving the hankies’ original beauty.

One of the most valuable aspects of Rhonda’s tutorial is her encouragement to treat each handkerchief as a unique work of art. She reminds us that imperfections are part of their charm—and that quilting is about storytelling as much as technique.

A Thoughtful and Elegant Keepsake:

This project is especially meaningful if you have handkerchiefs passed down through generations. By turning them into a quilt, you’re creating a family keepsake that can be admired, touched, and remembered.

Rhonda’s method ensures your quilt remains elegant and balanced, even if your handkerchiefs vary in size, color, or condition. Her approach is flexible, thoughtful, and deeply personal.

Final Thoughts!

Making a handkerchief quilt is more than just a sewing project—it’s a journey into family history, vintage textiles, and creative expression. Rhonda Dort’s tutorial offers the perfect guidance for quilters who want to embark on this journey with care and confidence.

Whether you plan to make a full quilt, a wall hanging, or even just a single framed block, this tutorial will give you all the tools you need to begin.

You can find the full tutorial here: How to Make a Handkerchief Quilt

Happy stitching—and may each block you create carry a little piece of history forward.

Jewel Box Quilt

Jewel Box Quilt by tamarackshack

If you're seeking a quilt pattern that combines timeless elegance with vibrant design, the Jewel Box Quilt by Debbie Beaves for RJR Fabrics is an excellent choice. This pattern showcases a harmonious blend of traditional blocks and striking fabric selections, making it suitable for both novice and experienced quilters.

About the Jewel Box Quilt:

The Jewel Box Quilt features a captivating arrangement of square and triangle units, creating a dynamic interplay of color and geometry. Designed by Debbie Beaves, this quilt utilizes fabrics from the Jinny Beyer Palette and Border Print collections, known for their rich hues and intricate patterns.

Finished Size: Approximately 52¼" x 64¼"
Skill Level: Confident Beginner to Intermediate
Techniques Used: Strip piecing, precise cutting, and careful pressing

Materials Needed:

To create the Jewel Box Quilt, gather the following materials:

Assorted fabrics from the Jinny Beyer Palette for the blocks
Coordinating border print fabric for the borders
Basic quilting tools: rotary cutter, ruler, mat, sewing machine, iron, and pins

The pattern provides detailed instructions on fabric selection, cutting dimensions, and assembly steps to guide you through the process.

Construction Highlights:

Strip Piecing: Efficiently sew fabric strips together to create the foundational units of the quilt.
Precision Cutting: Accurately cut the strip sets into specified units to ensure seamless assembly.
Block Assembly: Combine square and triangle units to form the distinctive Jewel Box pattern.
Border Application: Add the border print fabric to frame the quilt and enhance its visual appeal.

Attention to detail during each step will result in a polished and professional-looking quilt.

Design Possibilities:

The Jewel Box Quilt's versatile design allows for creative exploration:

Color Variations: Experiment with different color palettes to achieve various moods, from bold and vibrant to soft and subtle.
Fabric Choices: Incorporate batiks, solids, or prints to personalize the quilt to your taste.
Size Adjustments: Modify the number of blocks to create a quilt that fits your desired dimensions.

This adaptability makes the Jewel Box Quilt a delightful project for expressing your unique quilting style.

Ready to embark on your Jewel Box Quilt journey? the free pattern here: Jewel Box Quilt Pattern

This comprehensive guide includes step-by-step instructions and helpful diagrams to assist you throughout the quilting process.

The Jewel Box Quilt by Debbie Beaves is a testament to the beauty achievable through thoughtful design and fabric selection. Its classic pattern, combined with the rich Jinny Beyer fabrics, results in a quilt that's both timeless and captivating. Whether you're creating it as a cherished gift or a personal masterpiece, this quilt is sure to be a rewarding project.

Full Post: Jewel Box Quilt Pattern

Astrodelic Quilt

Astrodelic Block Quilt By KbQuilts

f you're seeking a quilt project that combines modern aesthetics with a touch of cosmic flair, the Astrodelic Quilt is an excellent choice. Designed by Karen Turchan and featuring the vibrant Utopia fabric collection by Frances Newcombe for Art Gallery Fabrics, this quilt offers a dynamic and engaging experience for quilters of all levels.

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A Celestial-Inspired Design:

The Astrodelic Quilt draws inspiration from the cosmos, incorporating bold geometric patterns and a rich color palette to create a visually striking piece. Measuring 42" x 42", it's perfectly sized for a wall hanging or a decorative throw, making it a versatile addition to any space.

Materials and Fabric Requirements:

To recreate this stellar design, you'll need the following fabrics from the Utopia collection:

Fabric A: UT-24502 – ⅛ yd

Fabric B: UT-24509 – ¼ yd

Fabric C: UT-24507 – ¼ yd

Fabric D: UT-24504 – ⅛ yd

Fabric E: UT-14501 – ⅛ yd

Fabric F: UT-14505 – ¼ yd

Fabric G: UT-14503 – ¼ yd

Fabric H: UT-24506 – ⅜ yd (also used for binding)

Fabric I: NE-104 – 1 yd (background fabric)

For the backing, 1½ yards of UT-24502 is suggested.

Construction Overview:

The Astrodelic Quilt pattern provides detailed instructions for cutting and assembling the various components. It involves creating multiple block combinations, each constructed with precision to form the overall design. The pattern includes diagrams to guide you through each step, ensuring clarity and ease of assembly.

The complete Astrodelic Quilt pattern is available as a free PDF from Art Gallery Fabrics. It includes comprehensive instructions, fabric requirements, and assembly diagrams to assist you throughout the quilting process: Astrodelic Quilt pattern

Final Thoughts!

The Astrodelic Quilt is a captivating project that marries modern design with celestial inspiration. Whether you're an experienced quilter or just beginning your quilting journey, this pattern offers an opportunity to create a piece that's both visually stunning and personally rewarding.

Blueberry Pie Quilt Block

If you're in the market for a quilt block that boasts classic charm with a touch of complexity, the Blueberry Pie Quilt Block by Wendy Russell of Patchwork Square is an excellent choice. This nine-patch block features a lovely star design through the use of half-square triangles and flying geese units, making it a great project for intermediate quilters.

Materials and Preparation:

The Blueberry Pie Quilt Block is available in various sizes, including 6\", 9\", and 12\" finished blocks. All the sizes require precise cutting and a consistent ¼\" seam allowance for accuracy. The pattern provides precise instructions for each block size, including how many and what size squares and triangles to utilize. It is important to follow these measurements exactly in order to achieve the desired outcome.

Construction Overview:

The Blueberry Pie Quilt Block is constructed in several steps:

Half-Square Triangles (HSTs): These form the star points and require accurate alignment.

Flying Geese Units: These form the star arms and require precision in cutting and sewing.

Center Square: This forms the background of the block and can be utilized as a focal point to spotlight a unique fabric.

Due to the number of pieces and the need for precise alignment, this block is rated intermediate in difficulty. With attention to detail, though, it can be a rewarding but challenging project that will enhance your quilting skills.

Design Tips:

Fabric Selection: Employ contrasting fabrics to highlight the star design.

Color Placement: Experiment with different color placements for interesting visual effects.

Block Layout: Experiment with setting the blocks on point or using sashing to add interest to your quilt layout.

For inspiration, Patchwork Square has sample quilt layouts that show a number of different possibilities for piecing the Blueberry Pie blocks into a completed quilt.

The Blueberry Pie Quilt Block pattern by Wendy Russell is available free on the Patchwork Square website: Blueberry Pie Quilt Block Pattern

Final Thoughts!

The Blueberry Pie Quilt Block is a beautiful addition to any quilter's repertoire. Its classic design and the opportunity to practice precise piecing make it a difficult but satisfying challenge. Regardless of whether you're creating a single block for a sampler quilt or combining many for a complete quilt, the Blueberry Pie pattern offers versatility and timeless appeal.

Charm Baby Quilt

There’s something truly special about creating a baby quilt. It’s a small but meaningful project that allows us to blend beauty, warmth, and creativity into something a little one will cherish. If you’re looking for a charming design that’s both beginner-friendly and visually striking, the Charm Baby Quilt from Mulberry Patch Quilts is a wonderful option.

Designed by Jane, this pattern uses charm squares (5" precut squares) and combines them with simple lattice and cornerstone sashing to produce a classic quilt with a soft, elegant layout. Even better, the blocks are set on point, which gives the quilt a lovely diagonal flow—perfect for showcasing your favorite fabrics while adding a bit of visual flair.

What You'll Need:

To make this sweet quilt, you’ll need the following:

One Charm Pack (or 42 5" squares of your choice)
Lattice fabric – to create the sashing between the blocks
Cornerstone fabric – for those little squares that add extra pop
Setting triangles – for the edges of the on-point layout
Backing, batting, and binding

Jane provides clear measurements and layout instructions in her blog post, making it easy to follow even if this is your first time working with blocks set on point.

What Makes This Quilt Special?

The standout feature of this quilt is the on-point layout, which can make even a simple block feel more dynamic and sophisticated. The lattice and cornerstone sashing frame each charm square, giving the quilt a neat and polished look while adding just enough contrast to make each fabric pop.

Jane’s tutorial walks you through how to lay out your blocks, cut and sew the sashing and cornerstones, and assemble the quilt top step by step. She also offers tips on trimming and handling bias edges, which is important when working with diagonal layouts.

Perfect for Beginners and Beyond!

If you're a newer quilter looking to try setting blocks on point, this is a great project to build your confidence. And if you're more experienced, it's the perfect quick project to use up a favorite charm pack, or whip up a thoughtful gift in a short amount of time.

Jane’s friendly writing style and helpful visuals make the process approachable. You’ll come away with a quilt that looks more advanced than it really is—always a win!

Final Thoughts!

Whether you’re making a gift for a baby shower, decorating a nursery, or simply want a fast and satisfying quilting project, the Charm Baby Quilt offers a beautiful balance of simplicity and style. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best quilts come from the humblest beginnings—a few charm squares and a touch of thoughtful design.

Ready to give it a try? You can view the full Tutorial here: Charm Baby Quilt Tutorial

Happy quilting, and may your stitches be as sweet as the little ones who snuggle under them!

Jellied Lone Star Quilt

Jellied Lone Star Quilt by Betsy Smith

Few quilt blocks are as iconic as the Lone Star. Its radiating diamonds and bold visual impact have made it a favorite for generations of quilters. But if you’ve ever felt intimidated by the complex piecing and precise angles of a traditional Lone Star, the Jellied Lone Star Quilt might be your perfect introduction to this timeless design—made more approachable thanks to pre-cut jelly roll strips and a clever construction method.

Designed by Terri Ann Swallow for Moda Bake Shop, this pattern takes the grandeur of the Lone Star and makes it beginner-friendly without losing any of its dazzling charm. Whether you’ve admired Lone Star quilts from afar or you’re simply looking for a new way to use jelly rolls in your stash, this quilt is a wonderful project to explore.

Why This Lone Star is So Accessible:

Traditionally, Lone Star quilts require cutting many diamonds and sewing them together with extreme precision. Terri Ann simplifies this by using 2½" pre-cut strips (jelly rolls) to assemble strip sets that are later sub-cut into diamonds. This method not only saves time but also makes the construction more forgiving—perfect for quilters who want to try a Lone Star without fear of distortion or mismatched points.

Materials Needed:

1 Jelly Roll (40 strips) – for the star points
2½ yards background fabric – for setting pieces
1 yard border fabric
¾ yard binding fabric
4½ yards backing fabric
Batting and basic quilting supplies

The tutorial walks you through each step, including how to press seams to reduce bulk, align diamond units, and set the star into the background fabric.

Construction Highlights:

This quilt finishes at approximately 76" x 76", making it a great lap quilt or wall hanging. The process starts with assembling and sewing the jelly roll strips into panels. You’ll then use a 45-degree ruler (or carefully marked cutting lines) to sub-cut your diamonds. Once sewn into eight wedges, these pieces form the star’s points, which are joined into a complete star and set into the background.

Terri Ann’s tutorial includes plenty of tips and visual aids to help you manage bias edges and achieve sharp points—a huge help, especially if you’re trying this type of quilt for the first time.

Tips for Success:

Starch your fabric before cutting to reduce stretching and distortion.
Label your strip sets and diamonds to stay organized during assembly.
Use a design wall or large floor space to audition placement and ensure balance.
Take your time with the Y-seams when inserting background pieces—slow and steady wins the race.

Final Thoughts!

The Jellied Lone Star Quilt is a fantastic gateway into more advanced-looking designs without the usual stress. With the help of pre-cuts and smart piecing techniques, you’ll be able to create a stunning centerpiece quilt that looks far more complex than it actually is.

Whether you’re sewing this as a gift, a showpiece, or just to challenge yourself with something new, this project delivers beauty, satisfaction, and plenty of quilting joy.

Ready to get started? You can view the full pattern here: Patriotic Quilt Pattern

Modern Churn Dash Block

In the world of quilting, few blocks are as beloved as the Churn Dash. It's a staple in traditional patchwork—simple, reliable, and full of charm. But every once in a while, it’s exciting to reimagine a classic with a fresh and modern spin. That’s exactly what Rose Johnston of Threadbare Creations has done with her Modern Churn Dash Block—a reimagined version that blends time-honored design with contemporary flair.

Whether you're a traditional quilter looking to try something new, or you love sleek, updated styles with crisp lines and bold contrast, this block offers the perfect balance. It’s still recognizably a Churn Dash at heart, but with design elements that bring it right into the modern quilting conversation.

What Makes It “Modern”?

Rose’s take on the Churn Dash block emphasizes negative space, bold fabric choices, and graphic layout—hallmarks of the modern quilt aesthetic. This version uses clean, angular lines and a carefully balanced composition that allows your fabric choices to take center stage.

Rather than sticking closely to traditional prints or muted palettes, this block thrives on contrast. Try using solids, low-volume backgrounds, or high-impact prints to enhance the visual effect.

Materials You’ll Need:

This block is perfect for using scraps or small cuts of fabric. You’ll need:

Two contrasting fabrics – one for the background, one for the Churn Dash components
Rotary cutter and ruler
Sewing machine, thread, and pins
Optional: starch or fabric stabilizer for crisp seams

Construction Highlights:

The Modern Churn Dash Block is a 12" finished block and comes together using familiar units—half-square triangles, rectangles, and squares. The tutorial provided in the free PDF pattern is clear, beginner-friendly, and includes helpful diagrams to guide you along the way.

If you’ve made a traditional Churn Dash before, you’ll enjoy how this one uses similar skills but with a refreshing twist. And if it’s your first time trying this block, it’s a great way to learn essential piecing techniques while creating something that feels clean and contemporary.

Why You’ll Love This Block!

A fresh take on a timeless favorite
Fast to make, even for newer quilters
Versatile – works beautifully in samplers, mini quilts, or as part of a modern quilt layout
Scrap-friendly and stash-busting potential!

This block also looks great when repeated in a grid for a full quilt, or when alternated with other modern blocks for a dynamic sampler project.

The Modern Churn Dash Block by Rose Johnston offers a beautiful opportunity to revisit a classic pattern with a renewed perspective. It’s a reminder of how quilting continues to evolve—honoring tradition while making space for bold creativity.

So if you're looking to freshen up your quilting projects or just want to enjoy a quick and satisfying block, this one is definitely worth adding to your collection.

You can view the full pattern here: Modern Churn Dash Block Pattern

Happy stitching, and may your modern blocks be as beautiful as the classics that inspired them!

Fiddlesticks and Fancies Quilt

For quilters who appreciate a harmonious blend of traditional patchwork and delicate appliqué, the Fiddlesticks and Fancies Quilt by Kim Diehl offers an engaging and rewarding project. Designed for Henry Glass Fabrics, this quilt showcases Kim Diehl's signature style, combining rich, warm tones with intricate design elements.

Quilt Overview:

Designer: Kim Diehl
Finished Size: 70½" x 70½"
Block Size: 14" x 14"
Skill Level: Intermediate

The quilt features a central medallion adorned with appliqué, surrounded by pieced blocks that create a cohesive and visually appealing design. The combination of patchwork and appliqué techniques provides a satisfying challenge for quilters looking to expand their skills.

Materials and Fabric Requirements:

The pattern utilizes fabrics from Kim Diehl's Fiddlesticks and Fancies collection for Henry Glass Fabrics. Key fabric requirements include:

Brown Check Print: 1⅓ yards
Blue Paisley Print: 1⅞ yards
Dark Brown Stripe Print: 1 yard
Brown Floral Print: ⅔ yard
Assorted Cream Prints: ⅝ yard each of three different prints
Assorted Blue Prints: ⅝ yard each of seven different prints
Assorted Brown Prints: ½ yard each of four different prints
Backing Fabric: 4½ yards (suggested: blue starburst print)
Binding: Dark brown stripe print

Additional supplies include a bias bar for creating ⅜" wide stems, water-soluble fabric glue, and standard sewing notions.

Construction Highlights:

The quilt construction involves creating square-in-a-square units, assembling pieced blocks, and applying appliqué motifs. The pattern provides detailed instructions and diagrams to guide quilters through each step, ensuring clarity and precision.

Notably, the appliqué center adds an elegant focal point, allowing quilters to showcase their appliqué skills and personalize the design.

The Fiddlesticks and Fancies Quilt pattern is available as a free PDF from Henry Glass Fabrics. To obtain the pattern, visit the following link: Fiddlesticks and Fancies Quilt Pattern.

Final Thoughts:

The Fiddlesticks and Fancies Quilt embodies the charm of traditional quilting with a touch of modern elegance. Kim Diehl's thoughtful design and the rich fabric palette make this quilt a delightful project for intermediate quilters seeking to create a timeless piece.

Florence Quilt

Florence Quilt by Mary Stagner Moore

The Florence Quilt, made by Larene Smith of The Quilted Button, is a fascinating project that best demonstrates the elegance of Hoffman California Fabrics' "Florence" fabric collection. This quilt combines traditional piecing with luxurious materials, creating a stunning wall hanging at 71" x 86" .

Materials and Preparation:

To create the Florence Quilt, you will need an assortment of Hoffman's "Florence" collection fabrics. This assortment contains deep metallics and colors and is perfect to provide your quilt with a touch of sophistication. Pre-wash and spray starch your fabrics prior to cutting and press them to help with accuracy and sewing together with ease.

Construction Overview:

The Florence Quilt pattern calls for traditional piecing techniques, and it is suitable for experienced quilters. Precise cutting and uniform seam allowances are highlighted in the design so that it can produce intricate layout. Pressing seams open whenever possible is recommended to minimize bulk and create a professional, flat finish.

Design Tips:

Fabric Selection: Select contrasting-toned fabrics to bring out the quilt's geometric motifs.

Layout Planning: Set your cut pieces out on the table prior to sewing to see how the finished pattern will look and make adjustments as you go.

Seam Consistency: Maintain a consistent ¼" of seam allowance so all pieces fit together nicely.

The Florence Quilt pattern made by Larene Smith can be downloaded from various quilting sources. One source you can visit is Sew Mini Things, where you can download the updated pattern:

Florence Quilt Pattern - Sew Mini Things

Final Thoughts!

The Florence Quilt is a testament to the timeless beauty of classic quilting and luxury fabrics. Its elegant design and rich textures make it well worth the effort for quilters who want to create a showpiece. Whether you're making it for your home or as a treasured gift, the Florence Quilt will impress.

Patriotic Quilt

Few quilts evoke as much pride and warmth as one stitched in the iconic red, white, and blue of the American flag. The Patriotic Quilt, designed by Courtney McNamara of Make All Things New, is a stunning celebration of national heritage, blending classic quilt traditions with a modern, eye-catching layout. Originally shared as a free pattern on How Dear in 2013, this design has continued to inspire quilters with its bold simplicity and heartfelt symbolism.

At its core, this quilt is a masterclass in balance—mixing crisp stripes, striking star blocks, and negative space to create a piece that feels both nostalgic and fresh. The alternating star and striped sections pay homage to the American flag while allowing for creative fabric choices, making it a perfect project for scrap busting or showcasing cherished patriotic prints. Whether you’re crafting it as a gift for a veteran, a decoration for Independence Day, or simply as a statement piece for your home, this quilt carries a sense of honor and tradition in every stitch.

What makes Courtney’s design especially appealing is its versatility and accessibility. The pattern is suitable for quilters of all skill levels, from confident beginners to seasoned stitchers. The instructions are clear and straightforward, yet the finished result looks intricate and thoughtfully designed. You can customize the size, adjust the color placement, or even add embroidery for a personal touch—making it a truly unique homage to the USA.

As you work on this quilt, you’ll find that the process itself feels like a labor of love. Cutting the fabric, piecing the stars, and watching the stripes come together is a reminder of the unity and resilience that the flag represents. When completed, this quilt becomes more than just a cozy blanket—it’s a story in fabric, a piece of comfort, and a tribute to the values that bind us together.

So gather your favorite reds, whites, and blues, select a bold contrast for the stars, and prepare to create a keepsake that will be treasured for years to come. Whether draped over a porch swing, displayed on a quilt rack, or given as a meaningful gift, the Patriotic Quilt by Courtney McNamara is sure to stir hearts and spark conversations.

You can view the full pattern here: Patriotic Quilt Pattern

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