Getting started with reversible patchwork patterns

If you have one of my patterns that uses reversible patchwork, you are probably curious about the technique.

Here is more information about these patterns and the techniques that are used.

Reversible patchwork is made with seam that are finished on both sides, so the final product is a single layer of fabric. There is no lining or backing.

If you are a quilter, you need to forget all of the quilting “rules” you have learned over the years. Even if you are a patchwork expert, this technique is totally different.

What fabric should I use?

You can use any type of fabric with this technique. Choose the fabric that is best for your project type.

What colour thread should I use?

Thread colour is a personal choice. In traditional pojagi, which this technique is based on, a contrasting colour is used and stitches are visible.

So you could use a contrasting colour or try to match one of the colours you are piecing with.

No matter what colour you use, it will sometimes be a contrast to the fabric you are stitching on. You could rethread your machine every time to match the top and bottom fabrics, but I don’t recommend it.

How do I do the seams?

There are a few different methods for making these seams. The finished seam looks the same, but they are put together differently.

Click the links to see detailed tutorials.

95% of the time, you will use the Simple Pojagi Seam method. This seam is different from a regular 1/4″ seam, but it isn’t difficult.

Sometimes, the Simple Pojagi Seam can be tricky to press if you are joining pieces that have a lot of seams in them.

So if pressing is a problem, then the Alternate Pojagi Seam Technique is the solution.

Which side of the seam is the right side?

When you stitch the seam, you will notice that one side of the seam has two rows of stitching and the other side has only one row of stitching. The “right side” is personal choice.

If you want the double row of stitching to be the right side, then stitch the seam with your fabrics wrong sides together. For the single row, stitch right sides together.

In my projects, I usually don’t even pay attention to the seams and mix them up so that both single and double rows of stitching are showing. It is not obvious in a finished project.

More tips (things you didn’t think to ask)

Offset seams where possible

In quilting, people usually want the points to meet. It is very satisfying to make a block and have everything line up perfectly!

But pojagi seams have many layers of fabric. Matching seams will result in a lot of bulk. Whenever possible, offset them so that they lay beside each other and not on top. This will make stitching them much easier.

Relax and enjoy the process

Have fun with the technique.

Let go of your perfectionist tendencies and enjoy the process. The results will be beautiful.

Looking for a project?

Project Tutorials

“Stacked Bars” is a free tutorial for placemats using this technique. It is a good beginner project.

This is good technique for clothing. See how I made a reversible patchwork baby dress.

Window hangings

This technique is perfect for window hangings and curtains. Because of the seam technique, the pieces look like stained glass.

See how to use these techniques to make stained glass window hangings.