Christmas Cards Quilt Pattern – My First Published Quilt
Every quilt tells a story, but the Christmas Cards Quilt will always hold a special place in my heart. It was the very first quilt pattern I ever had published, and the journey to get there was one of those moments that changed everything for me as a quilt designer.
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The Idea That Started It All
I had the idea one day: what if I could get one of my quilts published in a magazine? At the time, I was designing with Microsoft Publisher (yes, really!) and some colored pencils. I played around with two variations: a Christmas version called Christmas Cards and a Valentine’s version called Love Notes. When I submitted both, Quilty Magazine loved the holiday spin—and suddenly, it was a go.
What I didn’t know then was that magazines usually want quilts shown in upcoming fabric collections, so readers can make them exactly as pictured. After a few back-and-forth suggestions, Riley Blake Designs sent a Christmas line that was just perfect for this quilt.
Sewing on a Deadline
I pieced carefully, polished my seams, and even created an improv scrappy back using the leftover fabrics. And because life never slows down, I ended up finishing the binding during our 18-hour family car ride to Ocean City, New Jersey. Picture me stitching in the passenger seat, then rushing it to the post office with my sister so it could make the deadline. That quilt traveled as much as I did that summer!
The Joy of Seeing It in Print
When Quilty Magazine sent me an early copy, I was thrilled. But the real highlight was spotting it at JoAnn Fabrics and proudly showing people that my quilt was in the magazine. It was a pinch-me moment that still inspires me to keep designing.
Make Your Own Christmas Cards Quilt
Now you can sew this festive favorite yourself! The Christmas Cards Quilt Pattern is beginner-friendly, block-based, and perfect for holiday fabrics—whether you go scrappy or coordinated. It’s one of those quilts that looks just as good on the couch as it does wrapped around you on a chilly December night.
✨ Get the Christmas Cards Quilt Pattern on Etsy in PDF or Print
Looking for more? Browse all Four Robbins Quilt Patterns or pair this quilt with one of my Holiday Pillow Patterns for a matching set.
My Favorite Quilting Tools & Fabrics
I’ve learned that the right tools make the process smoother. Here are some I recommend for this project:
- Riley Blake Christmas Fabric Bundles – festive prints that sparkle in this design
- Olfa Rotary Cutter – sharp, reliable, and perfect for clean cuts
- Kai Professional Scissors – my go-to for trimming threads
- Quilter’s Dream Batting – soft, cozy, and snuggle-ready
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Share Your Quilt
If you make the Christmas Cards Quilt, I’d love to see it! Share your version on Instagram with #ChristmasCardsQuilt so I can cheer you on and feature your work. I’m
More Ways to Make It
While the original Christmas Cards Quilt was designed for the holidays, this pattern works beautifully in any color palette. Over the years, I’ve made several alternate versions—each with its own personality and charm. These quilts show how the same block design can shine in completely different ways.
Modern version in bright prints and cool tones
Love Notes – the Valentine’s Day spin on the same design
This pattern isn’t just for the holidays—try it with your favorite fat quarters or scraps to create a quilt that fits your season or mood. Whether you go classic Christmas, Valentine’s, or modern brights, the Christmas Cards Quilt Pattern adapts beautifully.
✨ Get the Christmas Cards Quilt Pattern on Etsy in PDF or Print