Exerpts from Chapter 3
Design DetailsExamine the quilts you want to make and look at the quilts you have already made. Can you identify the quilt category? Becoming more knowledgeable about quiltmaking means learning the basic categories, how the sections are divided, and what shapes determine the outcome. Of course, this could be a lifetime study, because there are thousands of quilt patterns, but understanding the basics has many advantages. Learning to distinguish blocks and overall quilt settings is a step toward quilt confidence. It aids in drafting, designing the next guild quilt, holding up your end of a conversation on quilting, and researching antique tops. Knowing the basic quilt categories will open many new doors. Design Categories
The following are the most basic quilt categories: Medallion. Bands of pieced or unpieced rows radiate outward from a central design to form a quilt top. fig. 3.1 (best for figs. 3.1-3.12a&b to be scattered to go with individual descriptions; if that won't work, I'll add text refs. so reader can find them when clumped.) Bar. The top is made up of elongated, vertical strips that alternate between pieced and unpieced rows. fig. 3.2 All-over Pattern. This honeycomb design of hexagons, for example, relies on one or more shapes repeated. Another example is the Wedding Ring pattern. fig. 3.3 Basic Four Patch. Any block pattern that is divided horizontally and vertically into four equal, or nearly equal, parts. fig. 3.4 Basic Nine Patch. Any block pattern that is divided by two horizontal and two vertical seams, which creates nine parts, either squares or rectangles. fig. 3.5 25 Patch Block. Any block pattern that is divided by four horizontal and four vertical seams to create twenty-five parts, either squares or rectangles. fig. 3.6 Diagonal Four Patch. Any block that is divided into four triangles by two intersecting diagonal lines. fig. 3.7 Square within a Square. Any block that has an offset or on-point square within the boundaries of a larger square. fig. 3.8 Log Cabin Block. A classic pattern based on rectangles added around a center square. fig. 3.9 Fan Block. Any block based on a quarter-circle in one corner. This corner circle can be further divided into wedges. fig. 3.10 Picture Blocks. Any patterns of realistic, recognizable designs such as baskets, houses, or trees. fig. 3.11 Star Blocks. Diamond and triangle shapes radiating within the boundaries of a square or rectangle. These blocks can form 4-, 5-, 6-, 7- or 8-pointed stars. fig. 3.12a and fig. 3.12b |
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Toll-free Ordering:
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