Creating a Twenty Quilt Block Design: A Step-by-Step Guide
Want to create a beautiful quilt using simple techniques and fabric scraps? Look no further! This article will guide you through making a 20-block fat quarter quilt, a project inspired by the "Fat Quarter Fancy II" pattern. This design offers a clean, geometric look and requires minimal sewing experience.
Materials Needed
- 20 fat quarters of different print fabrics or fabric scraps for variety.
- Background fabric (approximately 2 1/4 yards or substitute scraps if you have enough solid or neutral scraps).
- Quilt batting appropriate for your quilt size.
- Backing and binding fabric according to your finished quilt dimensions.
Cutting and Templates
- From each fat quarter, cut 4 squares measuring approximately 9" x 9". These will be the main block pieces.
- From background fabric, cut double the number of small squares (e.g., 4 1/2" x 4 1/2") for setting or accent blocks.
- Use simple square and half-square triangle (HST) templates. For each block, pair two squares right sides together, sew on both sides of the diagonal, cut through the center line to produce two HST units. Press and trim to size (e.g., 8 1/2" squares) for neatness.
Block Assembly
- Arrange half-square triangles with background squares in a simple pattern, creating a visually appealing 20-block layout.
- Chain-piece your blocks for efficiency.
- Press seams in alternating directions to reduce bulk.
Quilt Top Layout
- Lay out your blocks in a grid, mixing colours and prints to your liking.
- Set blocks with background squares or sashing strips made from scraps or leftover fabric.
Quilting and Finishing
- Layer quilt top, batting, and backing.
- Quilt as desired — simple straight lines or free-motion quilting adds texture.
- Bind the quilt using leftover strips or purchased binding fabric.
Naming Your Quilt
- Since you want a new name, consider calling your pattern something personal or descriptive based on fabric colours, block shape, or inspiration (e.g., "Scrap Harmony," "Twenty Squares Delight," or "Fat Quarter Mosaic").
Additional Resources
- For visual guidance, check video tutorials like the “Fat Quarters 2-Hour Quilt Top” on YouTube, which walks through layout, cutting, and stitching steps efficiently.
- The Fat Quarter Fancy II tutorial on Sew Can She gives step-by-step instructions on using 20 fat quarters and background fabric with templates and cutting details.
This approach is perfect for beginners or scrap users, as it uses simple squares and half-square triangles, easy-to-make templates, and minimal measuring. Adjust the block size or layout to your preference, and enjoy a quick, personal quilt project!
This quilt project, inspired by the "Fat Quarter Fancy II" pattern, is ideal for those seeking a new lifestyle venture in fashion-and-beauty, as well as home-and-garden enthusiasts. By using 20 fat quarters of various printed fabrics, you can explore a variety of colors and designs, creating a stunning and modern home-and-garden accessory while also experimenting with quilting techniques.
