Scrappy Irish Chain Quilt

Scrappy Irish Chain Quilt by Iva Steiner

If you're looking to transform your collection of fabric scraps into a cohesive and charming quilt, the Scrappy Irish Chain Quilt by Jessie Fincham offers an ideal project. This pattern marries traditional design with a modern scrappy twist, resulting in a quilt that's both visually appealing and personally meaningful.

A Classic Design with a Scrappy Flair

The Irish Chain pattern is a time-honored favorite among quilters, known for its interlocking squares that create a lattice-like effect. Jessie Fincham's interpretation infuses this classic design with a scrappy aesthetic, allowing quilters to utilize a variety of fabric remnants. The finished quilt measures 90" x 90", making it a substantial piece suitable for a bedspread or a cozy throw.

Materials and Fabric Requirements:

To create the Scrappy Irish Chain Quilt, you'll need:

• 2½ yards of white fabric
• 1½ yards of pink fabric
• 4¾ yards of assorted scrap fabrics
• ¾ yard for binding
• 8 yards of backing fabric
• 98" x 98" cotton batting

The pattern utilizes 2.5" squares, making it an excellent opportunity to repurpose leftover fabric pieces.

Constructing the Quilt Blocks:

The quilt comprises two types of blocks:

• Block A: Features a combination of pink and white squares, along with 66 scrappy squares.

• Block B: Incorporates white rectangles and 12 scrappy squares.

You'll need to create 13 Block A units and 12 Block B units. These blocks are then arranged in a 5x5 grid, alternating between the two to achieve the signature Irish Chain pattern.

Assembly and Finishing Touches:

Once the blocks are pieced together, the quilt top is layered with batting and backing fabric. Quilting can be done by hand or machine, following the chain pattern to enhance the design. Finally, bind the edges using your preferred method to complete the quilt.

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Tips for a Successful Project:

• Organize Your Scraps: Sorting your fabric scraps by color or value can help in creating a balanced and harmonious quilt top.

• Accurate Cutting: Ensure all 2.5" squares are cut precisely to maintain consistent block sizes and alignments.

• Press Seams Carefully: Pressing seams in alternating directions can help in achieving flat intersections and easier assembly.

Ready to embark on this scrappy quilting adventure? Download the free pattern here: Scrappy Irish Chain Quilt Pattern

This project not only helps in reducing your fabric stash but also results in a beautiful quilt that showcases your creativity and resourcefulness.

Calippo Quilt

Calippo Quilt

Are you in the mood for a fresh, colorful quilt project that’s fun to make and easy to personalize? The Calippo Quilt, designed by Carolyn Murfitt of Free Bird Quilting Designs, might be just what you're looking for. This design combines clean, modern lines with the charm of traditional strip piecing, creating a dynamic layout that’s perfect for showcasing your favorite fabrics. Whether you're sewing for a special occasion or simply looking to brighten up your space, the Calippo Quilt offers a creative and satisfying quilting journey.

Design Overview:

The Calippo Quilt is characterized by its use of light, medium, and dark fabrics to create a harmonious blend of tones. While Carolyn initially used blenders for her version, she encourages quilters to experiment with various fabric types, including florals, solids, and even seasonal prints like Christmas-themed fabrics. This versatility allows for endless customization, ensuring each quilt is unique.

The construction process involves sewing fabric strips together, pressing them, and then cutting them into triangles using a triangle ruler. These triangles are then arranged on a design wall or floor to determine the most pleasing layout before being sewn together into rows and assembled into the final quilt top. Attention to seam alignment and pressing techniques contributes to a polished finish.

Free Bird Quilting Designs

Pattern Details:

• Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
• Techniques Used: Strip piecing, triangle cutting, precise pressing

Tips for Success:

• Fabric Selection: Choose a range of fabrics that provide contrast between light, medium, and dark tones to enhance the quilt's visual impact.
• Pressing: After sewing the strips, press them thoroughly before cutting to ensure accuracy.
• Layout Planning: Lay out all triangle pieces before sewing to finalize the color placement and achieve a balanced design.
• Seam Alignment: Pin at each seam intersection to maintain precise alignment when sewing triangles together.

Carolyn offers a free tutorial on her website, providing step-by-step guidance for constructing the Calippo Quilt. For those interested in a more detailed pattern, including specific measurements and additional tips, the pattern is available for purchase in her shop.

Final Thoughts!

The Calippo Quilt is a testament to how simple techniques can yield stunning results. Its adaptability in fabric choices and sizes makes it a go-to pattern for various occasions, whether you're crafting a baby gift or a statement piece for your home. With Carolyn's clear instructions and encouragement to personalize, this quilt promises a rewarding experience for every quilter.