There are lots of great simple quilting designs like matchstick quilting or spirals, but sometimes you want more. Why not combine multiple designs?
Things to consider
1. What is the focal point of the quilt?
If there is an obvious focal point in the quilt, you can pick designs that will highlight that area. Heavier or lighter quilting in only one area draws attention to it.
If there is no obvious focal point, you can create one with the quilting.
2. How complicated is the piecing?
If the piecing is complicated, you want the quilting designs to support that, not compete with it.
3. How busy are the fabrics?
Fabrics that have a lot of pattern and colour will camouflage quilting stitches, If you have a lot of that, look for designs that give texture rather than pattern.
4. What will the final use of the quilt be?
If the quilt will receive a lot of use, you need a quilt design that will stand up to the wear and tear. Quilting will have to be dense enough to hold it together. Usually quilting every 4″ is good enough.
Design options
There are limitless design options, but here are some ideas to get you started.
Medallion Quilt
Use outline stitching around the medallion and diagonal lines around it to draw the eye in.
Line Variation
Use straight, wavy, vertical and diagonal lines to mix things up.
Stitch Style
Stitch a few lines with decorative stitches and the rest with straight stitches.
Helpful tips
- Take a picture of the quilt top and play with the lines. Use the draw option on your phone.
- When in doubt, keep it simple.
Sample
This sample is a small placemat, but the procedure would be the same for a quilt of any size.
Make your own quilting practice placemats with this Simple Placemat tutorial.
Design Option – Straight vertical lines and wavy diagonal lines
This is a simple design but it has a lot of interest.
Marking
Mark the vertical and horizontal lines in the middle of the squares. Use a ruler and hera marker for easy marking.
Stitching
Stitch straight lines on the marked lines, following the marked lines as a guide.
Stitch the lines in one direction, then rotate and stitch in the other direction.
Next, add the wavy lines on the diagonal.
There is no need to mark these lines. Use the intersections as reference points.
Once the quilting is done, just trim and add binding to finish it off.
Be sure to share a picture #simplequilting to inspire others.
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Elizabeth DeCroos
designer, teacher, speaker
Elizabeth enjoys doing all types of sewing and needlework and teaching others new techniques. For more information or to have her speak to your group click HERE.