There’s a particular joy I find in blending the classic charm of embroidery with the vivid possibilities of quilting. My inspiration for the Embroidery Flower Quilt came from my fascination with vintage needlepoint designs, which seemed to bring a cozy, nostalgic elegance to any room.
Combining floral imagery with a rich, peacock-blue background, this quilt truly reminds me of the tapestries and needlework that once adorned walls in simpler times, yet its charm is remarkably fresh and modern.
This project may look complex, but it’s surprisingly approachable, relying on a single square size throughout. It’s a celebration of color and simple technique, with a dash of precision in seam matching to pull off the embroidered look. I’m excited to guide you through creating this unique quilt that’s as delightful to make as it is to admire!
Embroidery Reimagined: The Art of Quilt Pixelation
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Embroidery Flower Quilt is how it uses fabric to imitate the detailed look of hand-stitched embroidery. This effect comes from the careful arrangement of squares in a palette of earthy tones, punctuated by a deep peacock background.
Each square acts as a “pixel,” allowing us to blend colors subtly and create a mosaic that mimics the shading and depth of embroidery. This technique transforms a straightforward piecing method into a visual masterpiece that almost feels alive with floral textures.
Crafting with Purpose: Color Selection and Composition
The selection of colors is crucial to achieve the embroidery effect and the quilt’s balanced beauty. I recommend carefully choosing solid-colored fabrics in the shades listed to make each “pixel” contribute to the overall design.
The intentionality of using a single color background—peacock blue in this case—creates contrast that allows the floral design to shine. You’ll find that even though it’s built of squares, the quilt’s detailed composition gives it a wonderfully intricate look.
Embroidery Flower Materials
For this quilt, you’ll need to gather an assortment of solid-colored fabrics, with special attention to the peacock blue, which serves as the primary background color. Here’s the complete list:
- Fabric 1 (Peacock, background): 3¼ yds (3m)
- Fabric 2 (Warm Sand): 10 in (25.5 cm) square
- Fabric 3 (Cappuccino): 6 in (15.2 cm) square
- Fabric 4 (Toffee): 10 in (25.5 cm) square
- Fabric 5 (Burgundy): 12 in (30.5 cm) square
- … (continue listing all required fabrics as provided)
- Backing fabric: 5 yds (4.6 m) if using a single fabric or refer to the pieced backing instructions below for additional fabric details.
- Binding fabric: ⅝ yd (60 cm) – Solid Peacock (120045)
- Wadding/Batting: 72 in x 90 in (183 cm x 229 cm)
- Piecing and Quilting Threads
- Quilter’s Ruler, Rotary Cutter, and Mat
Preparing for Success: Setting Up Your Workspace
Before you dive into cutting and piecing, set up a workspace that allows you to keep your fabric squares organized. With 46 different colors, it’s easy to mix things up! I suggest creating labeled piles for each fabric as you cut. Keeping them in numerical order will simplify your selection process when you begin piecing. This step will save you time and help ensure that the quilt’s visual “embroidery” effect remains true to the original layout.
Full Pattern: Click Here
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cutting the Squares
- Prepare and Label Your Squares: Start by cutting each of the fabrics into 2-inch squares as specified. To keep it efficient, cut 2-inch strips across the width of each fabric, then sub-cut into squares. Label each pile with its fabric number to avoid any mix-ups.
- Organize Your Fabric Squares: With 46 colors, it’s essential to stay organized. Place each set of squares in numerical order on a tray or flat surface where you can easily access them. Consider using small containers or resealable bags if your workspace is limited.
Step 2: Piecing Each Unit
- Layout the Squares: Begin with Unit 1 by laying out the squares as shown in Figure E (from the pattern layout). Follow the sequence carefully to match the “pixelated” floral effect. Lay out all the squares for Unit 1 before you start sewing.
- Sew Rows: Working row by row, sew the squares together using a ¼-inch seam. Press seams open or to one side as you go to ensure they lie flat, alternating the direction for each row to reduce bulk and help seams nest when joining rows together. After completing each row, check that it measures 21½ inches wide.
- Join Rows to Form the Unit: Once all rows for Unit 1 are complete, sew them together carefully. Match each seam and pin them in place to prevent shifting. Your finished Unit 1 should measure 21½ inches by 27½ inches.
- Repeat for Units 2–9: Follow the same layout and assembly steps for each remaining unit, carefully consulting Figures F to I for color placement.
Step 3: Assembling the Quilt Top
- Arrange the Units: Lay out the completed units as shown in Figure L, following the color flow and arrangement. Make sure everything aligns properly for a seamless transition between units.
- Sew Units into Rows: Sew the units into three horizontal rows of three units each, using ¼-inch seams and pressing seams in opposite directions to reduce bulk.
- Join Rows: Sew the three rows together, carefully aligning the seams and pressing the quilt top thoroughly once complete.
Step 4: Creating the Backing
If you’re opting for a single fabric backing, cut your backing fabric into two pieces, each 90 inches long. Remove the selvages and join along the length with a ¼-inch seam, pressing it open.
For a Pieced Backing:
- Cut and Assemble Backing Pieces: In addition to the quilt front fabrics, you’ll need extra fabric for the pieced backing. Cut one piece each of solid warm sand and terracotta to 72 inches by 44½ inches.
- Assemble the Center Strip: From the fabric scraps you’ve saved, cut two rectangles measuring 3¾ inches by 2 inches from each of the colors specified in Step 5. Sew these into a long strip, alternating colors as shown in Figure M.
- Join Backing Pieces: Lay out the backing pieces according to Figure N. Sew the long strip of rectangles between the two large pieces (warm sand and dusty rose) and press.
Step 5: Quilting and Finishing
- Make the Quilt Sandwich: Layer the backing, batting, and quilt top together. You can baste these layers using pins, hand-basting stitches, or fabric glue spray, depending on your preference and the size of your workspace.
- Quilt as Desired: You can quilt by hand or with a machine, using patterns that complement the embroidered look, like cross-hatching or gentle stippling. If you’re new to quilting, consider sending it to a long-arm quilter for professional results.
- Trim and Bind the Quilt: Once quilting is complete, trim any excess fabric and batting from the edges. Use the prepared binding strips to finish the quilt’s edges. Sew the binding to the front first, mitering the corners for a polished look. Fold the binding to the back and slip-stitch it in place.
Additional Tips for Success
- Seam Allowance Accuracy: For a quilt that requires precise alignment like this, using a consistent ¼-inch seam allowance is essential. If possible, test your seam accuracy before beginning to avoid misalignment.
- Pressing Matters: Pressing is as important as sewing in this project! Press seams open or to alternating sides as instructed for each row to help reduce bulk and keep rows aligned.
- Color Placement: Stick to the layout and color placements given in the diagrams; it will ensure your quilt achieves that charming, “embroidered” look.
- Binding Corners: Take time when folding and pinning the binding around corners. A well-executed mitered corner adds a professional finish to your quilt.
Congratulations! You’ve completed the Embroidery Flower Quilt, a piece of handmade art that combines the charm of traditional needlepoint with the warmth and coziness of a quilt.
As you step back to admire your creation, take a moment to appreciate the vibrant colors and the unique “embroidered” effect that makes this quilt so special. Every carefully pieced square brings this floral tapestry to life, celebrating both the simplicity of quilting and the intricate beauty of embroidery.
Making this quilt isn’t just about following steps; it’s a journey in color, creativity, and precision. I hope that each time you see this quilt, it reminds you of the joy and dedication you put into every stitch. May it bring warmth and style to your home, and serve as a beautiful example of how a little patience and creativity can turn fabric into a cherished work of art.