Elevate Your Quilting: Discover the Beauty of Movement in Squares

Growing up, my surroundings always played a significant role in shaping my creative expressions.

My name is Julie, and I find solace in the structured beauty of quilts, a passion that intertwines with my personal history.

My latest project, Movement in Squares, designed for Benartex’s Op Art Reflections fabric collection, diverges from my usual aesthetic. Yet, it deeply resonates with my inherent love for structure and order. This quilt reflects a perfect blend of my creative inclinations and my tendency towards symmetry, even in the realm of home decor, which leans more towards the masculine despite my appreciation for soft, feminine touches.

Despite my efforts, the cottage, vintage, and shabby chic aesthetics that I adore have never quite translated into my decorating style. Everything in my space needs to exhibit a certain symmetry and order, a trait that once made a beloved cousin humorously advise me to “lighten up.”

However, this intrinsic need for order has beautifully manifested in my quilting, particularly in the Movement in Squares quilt. It’s a testament to my belief that structure and creativity can coexist, offering a unique perspective on quilting designs.

A Confluence of Structure and Movement

The most striking aspect of the Movement in Squares quilt is its ability to balance structure with a soft, inviting aesthetic. This quilt is an exploration of how geometric precision and the gentle allure of fabric can create a piece that’s both visually captivating and emotionally resonant.

The choice of Benartex’s blush sage swatch as the background fabric was a departure from my usual preference for whites or grays. This experiment not only added a new dimension to the quilt but also highlighted how colors could play a crucial role in transforming a design.

The blush sage background acts as a canvas, bringing out the vibrant patterns and the intricate linkage effect that defines this quilt. It’s a reminder that sometimes, stepping out of our comfort zones can lead to stunning outcomes.

This project was not just about creating another quilt; it was about challenging my boundaries, both in terms of design and color palette.

Full Pattern: Click Here

Embracing the Geometry of Fabric

At the heart of the Movement in Squares quilt is the interplay between geometric precision and the softness of fabric. This project is a deep dive into how structured patterns can evoke a sense of movement and depth, all while maintaining a comforting softness that quilts are known for. The key to achieving this effect lies in the meticulous construction of the quilt top, crafted in sections that come together to form a cohesive whole.

The Canvas of Color

Materials List:

To begin crafting your own Movement in Squares quilt, you will need:

• Fabric: Benartex’s Op Art Reflections fabric collection is central to this project. Specifically, the blush sage swatch was chosen for its unique ability to complement and enhance the geometric patterns.
• Background Fabric: The blush sage swatch not only provides a stunning backdrop but also introduces a subtle, soothing color contrast that elevates the entire design.
• Quilting Thread: Select a thread that matches or complements your fabric choices. This will ensure that the stitching enhances the quilt’s design without overwhelming it.
• Batting: Choose a batting that suits the final use of your quilt. For a wall hanging, a lighter batting may suffice, while a bed quilt might require something warmer and heavier.
• Quilting Tools: A rotary cutter, cutting mat, and quilting ruler are essential for precise cuts and measurements. Additionally, a sewing machine equipped for quilting will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Setting the Stage for Creativity

Before you dive into cutting and piecing, take a moment to envision the finished quilt. The Movement in Squares design is more than just a pattern; it’s a testament to the beauty that can emerge when structure meets creativity. As you select your fabrics, consider how each piece contributes to the overall effect of movement and depth. This quilt is an opportunity to experiment with color and texture, allowing the structured patterns to guide your choices without limiting your creative expression.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Fabrics:

• Begin by washing, drying, and pressing all your fabrics to prevent any shrinkage after the quilt is complete. This step ensures that your fabrics are ready to be cut and pieced together.

2. Cutting the Pieces:

• Using your rotary cutter and quilting ruler, cut the fabric according to the pattern instructions. Precision in cutting is crucial for ensuring that the pieces fit together perfectly. For the Movement in Squares quilt, focus on creating the squares and rectangles that will form the basis of the quilt top.

3. Piecing the Quilt Top:

• Start by laying out your cut pieces on a design board or a clean, flat surface. This will give you a visual idea of how the quilt will look and allow you to make any adjustments before sewing.
• Sew the pieces together, carefully following the pattern to ensure that the squares and rectangles come together in a way that creates the desired movement effect. Press seams as directed to ensure a flat and neat finish.

4. Assembling the Quilt:

• Once the quilt top is pieced together, prepare your quilt sandwich. Lay the backing fabric on a flat surface, wrong side up, followed by the batting, and then place the quilt top right side up on top of the batting.
• Baste the layers together using your preferred method (pins, spray baste, or hand basting) to prepare for quilting.

5. Quilting:

• Quilt as desired. The Movement in Squares quilt offers a great canvas for both custom quilting and more straightforward quilting designs. Consider quilting in the ditch along the squares and rectangles to accentuate the quilt’s geometric design or explore free-motion quilting to add a unique texture.

6. Binding:

• To finish, trim the excess batting and backing fabric, and attach the binding. You can use a fabric that complements the quilt’s color scheme or opt for a contrasting color to frame the quilt beautifully.

Additional Tips

• Fabric Choices: While the blush sage swatch is recommended for its unique compatibility with the Movement in Squares design, feel free to experiment with other colors or prints from the Benartex’s Op Art Reflections fabric collection to personalize your quilt.
• Precision is Key: Take your time with cutting and piecing to ensure the geometric design aligns perfectly. Small inaccuracies can add up, affecting the overall appearance of the quilt.
• Quilting Techniques: For beginners, stick to simpler quilting designs that complement the geometric nature of the quilt. More experienced quilters can experiment with intricate designs that highlight the quilt’s dynamic movement.
• Enjoy the Process: Remember, quilting is not just about the final product but also about the joy and satisfaction found in the creative process. Take breaks, step back to admire your work, and enjoy the journey of bringing the Movement in Squares quilt to life.

Conclusion

Completing the Movement in Squares quilt is a rewarding journey that blends structured design with creative expression. As you hold the finished quilt in your hands, take a moment to appreciate the care and attention to detail that went into every cut, seam, and stitch. This quilt is not just a beautiful piece of home decor but a reflection of your creativity and passion for quilting.

Whether displayed on a wall, draped over a couch, or gifted to a loved one, the Movement in Squares quilt is a testament to the beauty of quilting and the endless possibilities it offers for personal expression. May this project inspire you to continue exploring the vast and vibrant world of quilting, one square at a time.