What Makes Laser-Cut Quilt Kits Unique?

Traditional appliqué quilting requires precision cutting, tracing, and fusing, which can be time-consuming. With pre-cut quilt kits, the pieces come laser-cut with peelable adhesive backing, making assembly fast, accurate, and frustration-free.

Holi Ganesha Quilt Kit – What’s Included?

This quilt kit provided everything needed to bring this intricate design to life:
Pre-cut appliqué pieces with peel-and-stick backing
A full-size placement diagram for easy assembly
Coordinating binding

Step-by-Step Process for This Appliqué Quilt

1⃣ Placing the Appliqué Pieces – Using the placement diagram, I carefully arranged each laser-cut fabric piece onto the background fabric. The adhesive backing allowed for effortless positioning.

2⃣ Pressing & Securing the Design – Once satisfied with the layout, I pressed the pieces to fuse them in place, ensuring they stayed secure for stitching.

3⃣ Appliqué Stitching – To make the design permanent, I stitched around each appliqué piece, adding durability while maintaining a clean finish.

4⃣ Quilting the Design – I wanted to keep the quilting simple to let the intricate elephant design stand out. I chose a free-motion meander stitch, using a larger meander outside the elephant and a smaller meander within to enhance the texture without overpowering the appliqué.

5⃣ Binding & Finishing – The final step was adding the coordinating binding, which completed the quilt beautifully.

Why Choose a Laser-Cut Appliqué Quilt Kit?

Time-Saving & Hassle-Free – No need to trace or cut intricate shapes!
Perfect for Beginners & Experienced Quilters – Whether you’re new to appliqué quilting or a seasoned pro, these kits make the process easy and fun.
Precise & Professional Finish – Laser-cut edges ensure clean lines and perfectly shaped appliqué pieces.

Final Thoughts on This Holi Ganesha Quilt

From start to finish, this quilt took about a week, working a few hours each day. The vibrant colors, detailed elephant design, and smooth appliqué process made it an absolute joy to create.

If you’re looking for a fun and stress-free way to make an appliqué quilt, I highly recommend checking out Laser Cut Quilts!

Have you ever tried a laser-cut quilt kit? Share your experience in the comments!

The post Holi Ganesha Appliqué Quilt – A Laser-Cut Quilt Kit Experience first appeared on FOUR ROBBINS.

I originally designed this pattern years ago, using Angela Walters’ first fabric line, and I loved how it turned out. That quilt was gifted as a wedding present, and, of course, I immediately planned to make another one for myself.

Five years ago, I finally did—and went scrappy this time! I shared it back then, but I know many of you are new here, so let’s take another look at this favorite quilt and the updates I’ve made to the pattern since.

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A Scrappy Spin on a Classic

For my second version of Twists & Turns, I went for a scrappier feel, pulling fabrics from multiple Bonnie & Camille collections. Mixing prints gave the quilt a completely new personality, and honestly, I think scrappy quilts always have a little extra magic.

One of the best things about this pattern? It works beautifully whether you’re using a curated fabric line or digging into your fabric stash for a scrappy look!

What’s New in the Pattern?

Since I first released Twists & Turns, I’ve updated the pattern to make the process even smoother:

A layout guide for easier assembly
A coloring page to plan your fabric placement
Pattern piece markers for better organization

These updates make it faster and easier to put together—perfect for quilters who love a good project without the stress.

A Quilt That Keeps Inspiring

One of my favorite things about this pattern is seeing how others make it their own! My friend Angie from my quilt guild made a version using Tula Pink fabrics, and it’s stunning. Seeing different fabric choices bring this quilt to life in so many ways never gets old. Want to make your own Tula Pink fabric version? True Colors and and Besties would be perfect.

Get the Pattern & Start Sewing!

The Scrappy Twists & Turns Quilt Pattern is available in downloadable PDF in my Etsy shop. Stay tuned for paper copies in the near future. Whether you’re revisiting this pattern or discovering it for the first time, I hope you love making it as much as I did!

If you sew one, I’d love to see it! Tag me on Instagram @FourRobbins so I can cheer you on. Happy quilting!

The post Scrappy Twists & Turns Quilt Pattern: A Stash-Busting Favorite You’ll Love! first appeared on FOUR ROBBINS.

Affiliate Disclaimer:This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I love and trust. Thank you for supporting Four Robbins!

I’ve had my eye on making a map quilt for a while, and I finally tackled it on a cozy day at home with a good movie playing in the background. If you’ve been thinking about making one, too, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process.

Whether you want a US map, a different country, or even a world map, the technique is the same. You just need a clear map, some fusible web, and fabric scraps. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Print Your Map at Poster Size

First, print your map as an enlarged poster so you can use it as a template. Here’s how:

1. Open the map file and click Properties in the print settings.

2. Select the Page Setup tab.

3. Look for the Tiling/Poster option and select it.

4. Click Specify, then set Image Divisions to 16 (smaller divisions make tiny states like those on the East Coast harder to cut).

5. Print and tape the pages together, making sure everything lines up correctly.

This is the map I used but if you prefer a different map or want to do a different country or the world map, you can find a nice clear map and follow the same steps. Printable PDF

Step 2: Prepare Your Appliqué Pieces

1. Trace the map – Use Steam-A-Seam 2 (or your preferred fusible web) to trace each state or section of your design. Numbering your pieces helps keep things organized.

2. Cut out your shapes – Carefully cut out each piece along the traced lines. These are amazing scissors for applique or fine cutting.

3. Fuse to fabric – Peel off one side of the paper backing and press the fusible web onto the back of your fabric.

Step 3: Assemble Your Quilt Top

1. Position the states – Arrange the pieces on your background fabric, either lining them up exactly or slightly overlapping.

2. Press in place – Once everything is where you want it, use an iron to fuse the pieces securely.Optional: While Steam-A-Seam 2 holds the fabric in place well, you can also stitch around each state for added durability and a decorative touch.

Optional: While Steam-A-Seam 2 holds the fabric in place well, you can also stitch around each state for added durability and a decorative touch.

For a personal touch, I added little fabric hearts to mark where my family has lived and where each member was born.

Step 4: Add Borders and Quilt

1. Cut (46) 3.5-inch squares from coordinating fabrics for a scrappy border.

2. Piece the border and sew it around your map.

3. Quilt as desired – I chose a meander quilting pattern over the states and an outline stitch around the background.

Final Quilt Size and Finishing Touches

The finished quilt measures approximately 42” x 32”—perfect for a wall hanging, learning tool, or unique home décor piece.

I love how mine turned out, and I’d love to see yours! Share your creations with the hashtag #FourRobbinsQuilts on social media.

Happy quilting!

Krista

The post How to Make a Map Quilt – Step-by-Step Sewing Guide first appeared on FOUR ROBBINS.

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Introduction

Quilting is more than just a craft—it’s an opportunity to create something beautiful with your own hands, whether for yourself, your home, or as a special gift for someone. But, if you’re new to the world of quilting, it can feel a bit intimidating. There’s so much to learn and so many tools to gather, but don’t worry—this guide is here to help you every step of the way!

In this beginner’s guide, we’ll walk through the essential tools you need to get started, some helpful tips to make your quilting journey smooth and enjoyable, and a few simple steps to help you dive into your first quilt project. Ready to start quilting? Let’s go!

Essential Quilting Tools for Beginners

Before you start your first quilt, it’s important to have the right tools. While quilting does require a few specific supplies, you’ll soon find that the tools help streamline the process and make each step easier. Let’s go through what you’ll need to create your first beautiful quilt.

1. Rotary Cutter, Ruler, and Mat

• Rotary Cutter: This is an essential tool for cutting your fabric with precision. The sharp, circular blade allows you to cut fabric quickly and accurately, and is perfect for making straight lines and shapes. Find it on Amazon here.
• Ruler: A quilting ruler helps you measure and cut fabric with accuracy. The markings on the ruler help guide your cuts, ensuring they’re perfectly straight. A 6″ x 24″ ruler is ideal for beginners as it gives you plenty of space to measure and cut. Shop for quilting rulers on Amazon.
• Cutting Mat: Protect your workspace and extend the life of your rotary cutter with a self-healing cutting mat. These mats repair themselves after each cut, which ensures they last longer. Buy a self-healing cutting mat here.

Or you can get buy a three piece set.

Why It’s Essential: These tools are the foundation for cutting fabric accurately and safely, and they make the entire quilting process faster and more enjoyable.

2. Sewing Machine

While hand-sewing is a viable option, using a sewing machine is far quicker and more efficient—especially for quilting! Look for a sewing machine with basic stitch functions, such as straight, zigzag, and reverse stitches. Find a beginner-friendly sewing machine on Amazon here.

Why It’s Essential: A sewing machine helps you piece the layers of fabric together easily, making the entire process much more efficient, and it ensures precise stitching.

3. Fabric

Choosing fabric is one of the most exciting parts of quilting. For beginners, start with cotton fabric as it’s durable, easy to sew, and comes in a variety of colors and patterns.

• Tip: You might want to use pre-cut fabric bundles like charm squares, fat quarters, or jelly rolls. These options provide a variety of colors and patterns without needing to cut the fabric yourself, which is perfect for beginners.

Why It’s Essential: The fabric you choose is the canvas for your quilt. Cotton fabric will give you a solid, durable quilt that will last for years.

4. Pins and Clips

• Pins: Quilting pins are longer than regular pins, making them perfect for holding multiple layers of fabric together. They help ensure your fabric stays in place while sewing. Buy quilting pins here.
• Clips: Fabric clips are great for thicker fabrics, like batting, and are a good alternative to pins. They hold your fabric without leaving holes. Find fabric clips on Amazon here.

Why They’re Essential: These tools help keep your fabric aligned and in place while you sew, preventing it from shifting out of place.

5. Thread

The right thread ensures your quilt will hold together beautifully, even after it’s washed. Look for quilting thread or all-purpose cotton thread, as they’re designed to be durable and work well with most fabrics. Find quilting thread here.

Why It’s Essential: Thread is the glue that holds your quilt together. Using the right thread guarantees your quilt won’t unravel after a few washes.

6. Quilting Needles

Quilting needles are designed to work with multiple layers of fabric and batting. They’re stronger and have a slightly rounded tip, which helps prevent snags and ensures smoother stitching. Shop for quilting needles here.

Why It’s Essential: Quilting needles are specially designed to handle the tough job of sewing through thick layers, so you won’t break needles or damage your fabric.

Basic Quilting Tips for Beginners

Now that you have the essential tools, it’s time to get started on your quilt! Here are some tips to make the process easier and more enjoyable:

1. Start with a Simple Pattern

Begin with something simple, like a basic patchwork quilt or a four-patch design. These beginner-friendly patterns will help you learn the foundational skills of quilting without overwhelming you with complexity.

• Tip: Look for patterns that have fewer pieces to sew together. As you gain experience, you can move on to more intricate patterns.

You can also begin with something small like a pillow or throw. I have a few in my shop that are good for beginners.

2. Cut Fabric Accurately

Accuracy in cutting is critical in quilting. Even small mistakes can cause misalignment later on. Always measure your fabric carefully before cutting and double-check your measurements to avoid any errors.

• Tip: Use your rotary cutter, ruler, and mat to make clean and precise cuts. Accuracy here will make the whole quilt come together much better.

3. Press Your Seams

Pressing seams is crucial for achieving a smooth and flat quilt top. As you sew, press your seams open or to one side to make sure everything lines up properly.

• Tip: Be sure to use an iron set to the correct temperature for your fabric, and use steam to help press your seams flat.

4. Pin and Sew with Precision

Take your time to pin and sew your fabric carefully. Pinning helps keep your pieces aligned, and sewing slowly ensures that your stitching is even and straight. Be consistent with where your seam lands, 1/4 inch from the edge of the fabric is the standard with quilting.

• Tip: Don’t rush the process—taking breaks to maintain focus is key to achieving beautiful, consistent stitches.

5. Square Up Your Blocks

Once you’ve pieced together a block, make sure to square it up by trimming any excess fabric to ensure it’s the correct size. This ensures all your pieces fit together perfectly as you progress with the quilt.

• Tip: Use a quilting ruler to make sure everything is aligned and squared up before moving to the next block.

6. Don’t Be Afraid to Make Mistakes

Mistakes are a natural part of the learning process. If you make a mistake, don’t panic! Quilting is all about learning as you go, and most mistakes can be fixed with a little patience.

• Tip: Embrace the process and keep a positive attitude. You’ll get better with each project you complete.

Conclusion: Start Your Quilting Journey Today!

Quilting is a rewarding craft that allows you to express your creativity while creating beautiful, functional pieces. By gathering your essential tools and practicing a few basic skills, you’ll be well on your way to completing your first quilt. Remember, quilting is a journey—take your time, make mistakes, and enjoy the process of creating something unique. Grab your tools, pick out your fabric, and start quilting today!

Happy quilting!

The post The Beginner’s Guide to Quilting: Must-Have Tools and Simple Tips to Get Started first appeared on FOUR ROBBINS.

I had people asking me about a pattern and I loved it, too, so I decided to go ahead and write the pattern and make a Christmas themed quilt. I love how it turned out, don’t you? I had it folded in half across the back of the couch over Christmas and it looked so nice and festive and made me happy every time I walked into the room.

When it was time to pack up Christmas, I was bummed to put this quilt up. It is just so pretty! So I decided to make one for Valentine’s Day and it goes perfectly with all my Valentine’s Day Pillows of the Month! But I’m thinking I’ll need to make one more to keep out all year long. It uses no waste flying geese and sews up in a day. I made this Valentine quilt over a weekend.

You can, too, and the pattern is 30% off all this month!

I did all-over swirls, hearts, and double hearts on my Janome 8900 for the quilting design. It is one of my favorites to do. I also did my binding by machine this time, attaching it in the back, folding it over to the front, and then I used a decorative stitch to finish sewing my binding on.

I also shared on Instagram recently that when I designed my Christmas Cards quilt to send into magazines in the hopes of getting published, I designed it as Christmas Cards and as Love Notes. The magazine wanted the Christmas theme so that’s what I made. However, I still had these designs so I thought I’d share them. They are so cute! You can find the pattern here. I’ve added this to my ToDo list for next year.

If you’re looking for something a little quicker, my Valentine Pillows are just the thing: three pillow patterns (or 16″ quilt blocks if you’d rather).

Finally, I made these adorable little bags. They are really quick to make and perfect for your Valentine’s gifts. You can find the tutorial here.

Don’t forget to tag me on social media! #fourrobbins #fourrobbinsquilts #fourrobbinspillowofthemonth

I’d love to see what you make.

Krista

The post Show Someone You’re Sweet on them with one of these Valentine’s Day Themed Quick Sew Quilts, Pillows, and Gift Bags by Four Robbins first appeared on FOUR ROBBINS.

Here is a round up of some Valentine’s Day crafts and treats that caught my eye.

Diy Art

Painting is not really in my wheelhouse but I think these Love Letters from We Lived Happily Ever After are just gorgeous and would love to give them a try.

I’ve always wanted to do one of these string art projects. This one is over at Green Wedding Shoes is really cute!

How about some Scrabble tile inspired coasters from blue I style?

Hand Sewing

I just LOVE these mini hoop hearts by Laurenmakes. They are super simple but striking. I think they are so adorable and they are on the top of my make list right now!

And how cute is this little felt love note hoop by Amy Chappell from Ameroonie Designs at the Polka Dot Chair.

Machine Sewing

I also found a couple of adorable pillows to add to my Valentine pillow collection. First up is this adorable Love You Pillow by Amanda at JediCraftGirl guest blogging at Amy Smart’s Diary of A Quilter.

And how about this cute heart pillow by Anna from Noodlehead guest blogging on U-CreateCrafts.

I don’t really sew plushies but these Love Koi by Sew Desu Ne? on Blueprint are making me rethink that!

I also saw this felt heart table runner at Pottery Barn Kids. This would be so simple and cheap to make and they want $39.00 bucks for it?

I LOVE this one by Center Street Quilts. I might need to make one of these!

Sweet Treats

How about some delicious treats? I love a quick and simple yummy treat and this bark from Lauren at Delish looks amazing.

And who doesn’t love a yummy Rice Krispy treat? These from Midwest Living look so good!

I’ll wrap up this post with these Cookies ‘n Cream Strawberry Cheesecake Bars from Creme de la Crumb look amazing! I think I may be able to get Sam into making these with me!

You can find my treat bag tutorial here.

My Valentine pillow covers sew up quick! You can find the patterns here. They are on sale all through February.

And if you’re looking for a little bigger project, try out this Flying Home pattern. It is 30% off all month long.

I’ve also been meaning to make a Valentine version of my Christmas Cards quilt using some reds and pinks and calling it Love Notes. Can you see it? You can find the pattern here.

I hope these ideas have you inspired! I know I am, and I think I have a few ideas of my own!

Krista

Shop Related items

The post Four Robbins Round-Up of Some of the Best Valentine’s Ideas for You to Make this Year first appeared on FOUR ROBBINS.

Here are some of the must-have Valentine’s Day patterns from FourRobbins:

1. Patchwork Heart Pillow Cover PDF Pattern

• Shop the Pattern

If you’re looking for a fun and festive way to brighten up your home this Valentine’s Day, this Patchwork Heart Pillow Cover is a charming option. This pattern guides you step-by-step through creating a heart-shaped patchwork design that will add a sweet touch to your living room or bedroom.

Supplies Needed:

• Cotton fabric in various shades of red, pink, and white (or your favorite Valentine’s Day color scheme)
• Sewing machine (or hand-sewing kit if you prefer)
• Pillow insert (16×16 inches)
• Fabric rotary cutter and ruler for precise cutting
• Sewing pins

Where to Buy Supplies:

• Cotton Fabric: Check out Amazon’s fabric selection for Valentine’s Day-inspired patterns and colors.
• Pillow Inserts: Pillow Insert

This pattern’s patchwork style is easy to follow, and the final pillow will give your home a cozy, handcrafted vibe.

2. Rainbow Heart Pillow Cover PDF Pattern

• Shop the Pattern

For those who want to infuse some extra color and joy into their Valentine’s Day decorations, the Rainbow Heart Pillow Cover is a fun choice! With its vibrant rainbow hues and heart shape, this pattern is perfect for spreading love in a cheerful way.

Supplies Needed:

• Rainbow fabric or solid color fabrics for each heart section (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet)
• Quilting cotton for the pillow background
• Sewing machine or hand-sewing kit
• Pillow insert (18×18 inches)
• Thread matching your fabrics
• Fabric pins

Where to Buy Supplies:

• Rainbow Fabrics: Fabric Selection
• Sewing Machine: Consider a reliable model like the Brother CS7000x if you need an upgrade!

This pattern is not only great for Valentine’s Day but also makes for a fabulous gift for anyone who loves bright, bold colors and meaningful design.

3. XOXO Hugs & Kisses Pillow Cover PDF Pattern

• Shop the Pattern

When you want to say “I love you” with a handmade touch, the XOXO Hugs & Kisses Pillow Cover is the way to go! This pattern features the iconic X’s and O’s in a fun, easy-to-make pillow design that will make anyone smile.

Supplies Needed:

• Pink, red, or white fabrics for the X’s and O’s design
• Cotton fabric for the pillow background
• Pillow insert (16×16 inches)
• Fabric scissors or rotary cutter
• Matching sewing thread
• Pins for fabric placement

Where to Buy Supplies:

• Cotton Fabric: Fabric
• Pillow Insert: Pillow Insert

This pattern is an instant classic for Valentine’s Day décor, and it’s super quick to whip up—perfect for last-minute crafting sessions!

4. Flying Home Quilt PDF Pattern

• Shop the Pattern

For those who want to take their Valentine’s Day crafting to the next level, the Flying Home Quilt is a stunning pattern to create a large, meaningful project that’ll become a family heirloom. The Flying Home Quilt features sweet, bird-inspired designs that will bring a sense of warmth and comfort to your home. It’s ideal for those who enjoy piecing together intricate designs and love a good challenge!

Supplies Needed:

• Assorted quilting cotton fabrics for the quilt pieces
• Quilt batting
• Coordinating thread
• Rotary cutter, quilting ruler, and cutting mat
• Pins for piecing

Where to Buy Supplies:

• Quilting Cotton Fabrics:
  • Pinks
  • Low Volume
• Quilt Batting: Cotton Quilting Batting

This quilt pattern will take a bit longer to complete, but the result will be a gorgeous, thoughtful gift for someone special or a beautiful addition to your own home.

Tips for Making the Most of These Patterns:

• Prep Your Fabric: Before diving into your project, always pre-wash and iron your fabric to prevent shrinking and ensure a smooth sewing experience.
• Choose a Sewing Machine That Works for You: If you’re new to sewing, consider starting with a beginner-friendly machine like the Brother CS7000x, which is great for quilting and home décor projects.
• Personalize Your Projects: While these patterns are fantastic as-is, don’t be afraid to make them your own! Add embroidery, use different color schemes, or experiment with fabric textures to create something unique.

Conclusion:

With FourRobbins’ fantastic selection of Valentine’s Day patterns, you’ll be ready to spread love and creativity in no time. Whether you choose to sew up a cozy pillow or challenge yourself with a beautiful quilt, these patterns are sure to make your Valentine’s Day extra special. Happy sewing!

Feel free to browse the FourRobbins shop on Etsy and get started on your next crafty adventure today.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase through these links. This helps support my blog and allows me to continue creating helpful content. Thank you for your support!

The post Craft Stunning Valentine’s Day Décor with FourRobbins’ Must-Have Patterns first appeared on FOUR ROBBINS.

I was part of a monthly bee, Sew Bee It, through my local quilt guild, St. Louis Modern Quilt Guild.
If you are not familiar with a bee, basically it is a small group, usually up to 12 members.  Each member gets assigned a month and during that month all the other members make a block or blocks of her choosing.  They may provide fabric or part of the fabric and the rest is pulled from your stash.

One of the blocks in our bee this round was an improv bird block.  Improv is not really in my comfort zone and especially having to look like something when it’s done so I procrastinated big time.  Turns out not only was it easy, it was really fun and went together fast.   We only needed to make one but with it being that quick and easy, I made a second.  

And then, of course, living in St. Louis and being a Cardinals fan, I had to make one for myself.   I used some leftover scraps of Baby Jane by the Comstocks for my cardinal and low volume and text prints for the background.

Want to make one for yourself?  This is the tutorial from Pie Lady Quilts. I modified the head to look more like a cardinal.  I also added extra fabric around the perimeter so my finished square would measure 12.5″.

The block I contributed for my beemate, @stlcaverly, became this beauty!

Isn’t it great?!

Have a great day!

The post Improv Cardinal Mini Quilt Block first appeared on FOUR ROBBINS.

The lawn chair quilt pattern is a quick and fun and free pattern to make by Monica Solorio-Snow, aka Happy Zombie that you can find in the Moda Bake Shop. It’s also kind of cool because it uses precuts and also, you can get 2 quilts out of three jelly rolls. But I didn’t do that.

The first couple I made were Christmas gifts for my sister, Kendra, and sister-in-law, Kelly, for Christmas. I followed the tutorial for two and made them at the same time, though I used very different fabrics for each. Let me apologize in advance for the poor photos of these first two. I’m going back a LONG time and my photos are subpar.
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I had this stack of fabrics in my stash, which I love, and decided to use them for Kendra’s quilt. I can’t remember what the fabric was called or who it was by.

I still have some leftovers that I hope to do something with some day.

For Kelly’s quilt, I used Kona chartreuse and a colorful chevron striped jelly roll.

You start sewing your background fabrics on either side of your jelly roll strips, cut to different lengths.

Then layout your blocks as desired and begin sewing your columns together.

I decided to try applique, which I hadn’t really done yet, to add their names to the backs of their quilts.

Then, of course, basting. I guess I didn’t take a photo of this riveting step in Kendra’s quilt. LOL

For Kelly’s quilt, I decided to free motion quilt swirls all over.

And for Kendra’s, loops and hearts.

And then binding. I always love binding, the anticipation of finishing the quilt, the first one to kind of use it while I’m snuggled up under it stitching it. And this time was especially nice because I was binding to Christmas lights.

I wish I had taken better photos of the finished quilts but you live and learn, huh? And actually, Kelly’s was still being bound when I took the photo of the front. 

And here’s Kendra’s.

All washed and ready to wrap up for Christmas.

The last one I made was a couple years ago. I had leftover strips of a jelly roll by @aprilrosenthal from making a @Sewkindofwonderful Metro Hoops quilt that I paired with Essex Linen for this gorgeous version. It’s one of my favorites.

I quilted it with a somewhat loose, plain meandering pattern all over.

I love how it turned out!

Thanks for stopping by.

Products used and recommended

The post Quick & Easy Lawn Chair Quilts first appeared on FOUR ROBBINS.

We had to use only Riley Blake prints but we could use any solids. I tend to run more modern traditional in my quilt designs and preferences, but I stepped a little outside the box on this one. I had no idea what I was going to do so I hit the internet for some inspiration. I ended up looking at bathroom tiles and really liked the look of these and the alternating columns.

I added some lighter gray along with some black to give it a little more interest.

The biggest challenge for me was the circles, cutting them out and getting the edges turned under and still keeping a perfect looking circle. I can’t tell you how many circles I cut and pressed to get them looking right! Now, I have an Olfa circle cutter, which I love. It cuts out perfect circles every time and you can adjust your circle size. It is awesome! I machine stitched my circles down and left them unquilted.

I really wanted to step up my game on my quilting and all these different colors and areas was a good way to practice some free motion quilting. First up, I wanted to do pebbles. Since they take a crazy long time, I decided to do pebbles only in the white areas since it was the smallest. They turned out so good, if I say so myself, but they do seem to take forever.

I did fun swirls in the light gray tiles. I always like free motion quilting swirls.

And just a tip that helps me – whenever I want to free motion quilt a design, I practice it first by drawing it over and over on a piece of paper. It gives me the feel of the shape or pattern and kind of creates a muscle memory. Then when you go to practice it on your machine, it almost feels familiar and I find it much easier. Then, I practice it on a small quilt sandwich before I take it to my quilt. I learned so much from the book Free Motion Quilting with Angela Walters . I also like Free Motion Meandering, and Shape by Shape, and Shape by Shape 2. Another really awesome resource is 365 Free Motion Quilting by Leah Day.

Sorry for the wacky lighting on this one. I had to do some photo adjustment so you could see the black and dark grey blocks better. For the black tiles, I did just “organic” straight lines. I tried to get them super straight but that is really a weak spot in my quilting talent. I need more practice doing straight line quilting.

I did some free motion squares on the dark tiles just turning and turning every so often.

This was a fun quilt to make. It really challenged me to try some new things and to step out of the familiar and stretch my skills.

Here it is getting ready to go to St. Louis Modern Quilt Guild‘s first quilt show back in 2017.

And hanging in the show!

Well, that’s all I have on this one! I hope you enjoyed. If you have any questions, I’d love to hear from you!

Thanks for stopping by!

Products used and recommended

The post Finding My Fun & My Modern with the Riley Blake Challenge Quilt first appeared on FOUR ROBBINS.