They don’t make them like they used to. Many of us were fortunate enough to have learned the art of quilting from our ancestors; parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles have long since been the best teachers to pass on the gift that is quilting. They stitched differently, as limited resources required more time and perseverance with each block. Each stitch was made with love though and the quilts survived, being passed down as family heirlooms for generations to come. Those beautiful patterns, bound in time by thread, became classics of the quilting world.
These projects have carried with them a sense of expertise, but there is no need to be an expert to create one of these timeless treasures. In honor of National Quilting Month, check out these five beautiful, traditional patterns and use your newfound knowledge to create something your family will cherish for years to come!
Stars and pinwheels are both iconic symbols of quilting. Quilt patterns including pinwheels and stars dating back to the 1800’s have survived demonstrating that quilter’s captured their surroundings and incorporated motion into their blocks. Using 10″ squares of precut fabric, the Stars and Pinwheels Quilt is an easily achievable project rich with history and tradition.
Consider keeping in theme with tradition when selecting fabric for this project. Elegant florals in a classic color palette really capture the ambiance of this quilt. Mercantile or primitive fabrics will add the traditional touch you’re looking for; we suggest Zellie Ann 10″ Squares for Benartex to truly create a timeless masterpiece.
When Jenny purchased an antique quilt block online, she never expected to discover a true hidden treasure within. Adorned with traditional pinwheels and complimented by a delicate border, when pieced together these blocks form a larger picture that’s full of the elegance associated with quilts from long ago.
A hint of color goes a long way with solid white backing. A Summer Breeze 2019 Jelly Roll from Moda Fabrics the perfect combination of vintage florals and bright colors that will make this quilt stand out among the rest.
Turnabout Granny Squares Quilt
This labor intensive classic has never been easier! The Granny Square, commonly used in crochet patterns, has been a long standing staple of the crafting world. Traditionally this quilt pattern requires numerous small squares be pieced together to create the desired effect, but with the help of Jenny’s modern approach to this classic, the Turnabout Granny Square Quilt can be made by any level of quilter and cherished for years to come.
For the conventional approach, consider again a floral pack of 2.5″ strips such as Gilded Blooms Metallic Roll Up by Robert Kaufman. If you’d like a bit of a twist on a classic however, take a tip from Jenny and try batiks! Artisan Batiks – Inspired by Nature Roll Up by Robert Kaufman will give this project the time-honored atmosphere desired, but with a modern and fun twist!
The Dresden Plate can trace its history back to the 1920’s where it quickly became one of the most popular patterns of it’s time. Emanating from a bygone era, the Dresden Plate is still a popular and widely sought after pattern today. The process of making this gorgeous pattern has changed though and now through the use of templates, this pattern has never been easier to create
Pick up the Missouri Star Large Dresden Plate Template and a pack of 2.5″ strips and you’ll be ready to quilt! Given the origin of this design, consider a fabric reminiscent of the times; vintage feed sack and reproduction fabrics are perfect for this design. A KT Favorites 2019 Jelly Roll for Moda Fabrics is a perfect choice to transport your quilting back in time!
Get the Large Dresden Plate Template >
Although our quilting styles, tastes and patterns have changed, the customs associated with quilting have withstood the test of time. Wedding quilts have a rich historical importance because they were often well cared for and passed down through generations. The Royal Wedding Quilt, a simplified variation of the antique English Wedding Ring Quilt, puts a modern and streamlined twist on a classic project.
Balance this quilt with both light and dark 10″ squares for a brilliant contrast. Again, try to keep in mind the popular quilting fabrics of the past to capture the motif of a classic. Rhapsody in Reds 10 Karat Crystals for Wilmington Prints is a great place to start building these quilt blocks, the bold reds and subtle cream colors blend well to provide the desired effect of the design.
Tell us, what’s your favorite traditional quilt pattern?
