What Are Quilters Blogging About Today?

Elephants are one of the most beloved and admired animals in the world, and their presence in art, literature, and culture is well-documented. These majestic creatures have a special significance in many cultures and are considered symbols of wisdom, strength, and good luck.

That’s why I’ve compiled this roundup of quilting patterns that are specifically themed around elephants. These patterns range from free to paid and also includes Etsy links. You will find a wide variety of designs that feature cute and cartoonish elephants, realistic depictions of these magnificent animals, and even patterns that incorporate traditional elephant motifs ...

Give your holiday a modern and updated look this year with this free table runner pattern from Suzy Quilts.

In the tutorial you will find all of the instructions plus templates for the appliqué shapes.  In addition there are suggestions for the type of fabric to use and where it can be purchased.

I love the simplicity of using just two colors.  Can I just add that the red fabric she uses in one of her runners is absolutely gorgeous and I may have to do a little shopping now that I have seen it.

This runner uses raw edge ...

Are you ready to try your hand at some needle turn appliqué?  It may look tricky, but with a little practice it really is not.  This tutorial from DIY Tutorial Ideas can help you out.

Filled with helpful instructions and detailed photos, you’ll be a pro in no time.

There is a list of supplies that you will need, how to prepare your appliqué shapes, and how to stitch your shapes.  Along the way there are tips for some of the trickier parts.

Appliqué is a wonderful way to add some real interest to a quilt.  You can make ...

Are you a fan of the AccuQuilt fabric cutting system?  Are you wanting to up your feathers game?  AccQuilt has many beautiful feather shaped dies in all shapes and sizes.  Feathers add a nice decorative touch to many quilt designs.  They can be quite complicated to make, but with AccuQuilt it is easy.

Here are five of my favorites and they can all be purchased over on AccuQuilt.

1. The Heather Feather would be a lovely border accent.
2. The Feathers die can be used for all sorts of projects and designs.
3. The Arabesque die by Ricky Tims is stunning.
4. The Heather ...

Are you ready to tackle one of the most well-known quilt patterns out there?  Think about trying a Dear Jane Quilt.  This book that is available for purchase over on Electric Quilt 8 (EQ8) has you covered.  The book has a number of the blocks highlighted and EQ8 even has add-on software that you can buy for all 225 blocks.  Wow!

Originally created in 1863, the blocks are geometric and almost take on a modern look depending on how you color them. This quilt is not for the faint of heart, but it is a show stopper to end all ...

Grab all of your favorite green scraps and get ready to make this festive patchwork appliqué shamrock throw pillow from Aubree Originals.

You will need a few special supplies, including Heat ‘n Bond which you can buy here, but the tutorial has the complete list so you won’t be caught without something.

I love projects for Saint Patrick’s Day and they are not always easy to find.  This pillow adds that perfect finishing touch to your holiday décor.  The tutorial has plenty of step-by-step photos to help you finish your pillow.

Get ready to add some holiday fun ...

Are you interested in adding some wool felt appliqué to your next quilt project?  This handy tutorial from Fresh Figs will help you with your plans.

With detailed step-by-step instructions and photos, you will be adding appliqué to plenty of projects.  The article provides information for both hand and machine methods.  The photos are sharp and eye-catching and help make this process easy.  You will also find tips on what thread and needles to use.

Wool appliqué adds a nice dimension to projects and wool adds some nice texture as well.

If you are looking to add some unique wool ...

The holidays are here and what better way to show off some holiday spirit than adding some appliqué to your quilts?!  AccuQuilt has numerous festive dies to choose from and they can all be purchaased on the AccuQuilt website here.

If you have never used this cutting system then you don’t know what you are missing.  The cuts are accurate and the system is not too difficult to use.

I’ve rounded up my top ten picks for you.  Once you get to the website, which you can find here, there are pages of different holiday dies.

1. Santa Stocking ...

For an interesting appliqué technique, you may want to take a look at reverse appliqué.  Geta’s Quilting Studio wrote this blog post that demonstrates the way she does it.

Complete with plenty of photos, she shows you what methods she uses and gives tips to get good results. Her three dimensional mini quilts are stunning.  Pictured are only two of them, but wait until you see the rest in her article.

I’m inspired to go give it a try, although I don’t think I will be doing anything as intricate as she does.

At times I like ...

The beauty of raw edge machine appliqué is that you can do any shape you want to.  No matter what it is, like feet in this article from Magic Little Dreams or your own alien creation, it can be done.  It is also not as hard as you may think it is.

This detailed tutorial comes complete with step-by-step photos and written instructions.  It takes you through the planning of the design, the supplies and products you will need, and the finishing up process.  After you have read this article, you may just be an expert.

There is even a ...

This free appliqué mini quilt pattern from Felicia’s World is absolutely charming.  It is ideal for anyone who loves doing appliqué.

Because of its size, 15 1/2″ x 17 1/2″, it is not a project that will take too long.  Look closely and you will see that along with the appliqué shapes there are yo-yos too.  I love that!.

Wouldn’t this be an adorable gift for a friend or family member with a new house?  Standard quilting and appliqué tools are needed. In the tutorial you will find a link to the pattern as well as ...

Here is a big, bold, and beautiful quilt pattern from Allspice Abounds.  Perfect for spring, or any other season, this is such a happy quilt.  Not only is it in full bloom with all of the tulips, if you look closely you will see some sweet birds scattered throughout.

This quilt uses two techniques, piecing and appliqué.  The birds and the leaves of the flowers are appliquéd on, while the blooms and stems are pieced.

There is a detailed downloadable pdf for the six page pattern.  You will find all of the measurements and cutting instructions.  You will also find ...

Perfect for Easter festivities, this charming Easter Egg placemat pattern was designed by Jaquelynne Steves for Thermoweb.  It’s a simple, yet striking design that would look lovely on your Easter tablescape.

This placemat includes many design elements.  You will find a ribbon embellishment, patchwork appliqué, and machine stitching.  Because of the negative space, there is plenty of room for some beautiful machine quilting.  Not all designs have that.

In addition to standard quilting supplies like fabric and batting, you will need ribbon and Heat ‘n Bond which you can purchase on the website.

This is a perfect project for ...

Made in bright and cheerful colors, this festive Hanukkah sampler quilt from FaveQuilts, would be a lovely quilt to make for the holiday.  The designer of the wall hanging is Ellen Maxwell and it was made to highlight the Chanukah Hallmark Collection from Free Spirit Fabrics.

The pattern combines piecing and fusible appliqué. You will find a list of all of the supplies needed, as well as step by step instructions to help you out.  The downloadable PDF also has the templates for the four designs in the center.

Measuring 38″ by 38″ when finished, it’s an ideal wall ...

If you are an AccuQuilter and are looking for some fun and festive Christmas embroidery designs then look no further than this list.  Here’s a round up of all of the adorable holiday designs that AccuQuilt has to offer.

Your quilts and other embroidered projects will be the star of your Christmas décor when you use one of these patterns.  They are all designed to be used with the AccuQuilt Go! and can be purchased via the links.

1. This silly reindeer is taking the easy route by driving around in his car.  I’m not sure if Santa will ...

You’ll love this pretty wall hanging by our second MWM designer, Deirdre Bond-Abel! Entitled “Betty’s Blooms”, the look is shown here in 1930s prints, yet would translate equally well in your favorite Marcus collections, including prints and basic texture lines for a more contemporary look! It’s a fun mix of piecing and applique that will add charm to any room setting.

To get the FREE PATTERN, just email deirdre@hatcreekquilts.com.au. Then, check out (and be sure to bookmark!) her companion video of applique tips and techniques!

Next Up: Pam Buda – October 19!