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| The tutorial by © Kristen Hubert |
What Makes This Quilt-As-You-Go Method Unique?
Traditional QAYG methods often involve sashing, hand sewing, or bulky joining strips, which can be time-consuming and frustrating. This method, however, simplifies the process by allowing you to join quilted sections directly on your domestic sewing machine—no serger or overlocker required! The best part? There’s no need for hand sewing or folding over backing fabric. It’s a truly seamless way to create quilts, and the results are both durable and visually appealing.
Why You’ll Love This Method
- No Sashing Required: Say goodbye to the extra steps of adding sashing between blocks.
- No Hand Sewing: Everything is done on your sewing machine, saving you time and effort.
- Versatile: Works with traditional blocks, orphan blocks, or even solid fabric panels.
- Customizable Quilting: Each section can be quilted differently, allowing for creative freedom.
- Minimal Bulk: The seams are no thicker than traditional joining methods, ensuring a smooth finish.
How This Quilt-As-You-Go Method Works
The key to this technique is joining quilted sections directly, rather than piecing blocks first. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:
1. Start with a Quilted Section
- Begin with a quilted block or panel. This could be an orphan block, a traditional block, or even a simple piece of solid fabric.
- Make sure the batting and backing are cut slightly larger than the block to allow for any shifting during quilting.
2. Quilt the First Section
- Quilt your first section as desired. For example, you can use wavy lines, straight lines, or free-motion quilting.
- Trim the section to your desired size, ensuring the edges are neat and even.
3. Join the Next Section
- Place the next section (fabric, batting, and backing) right sides together with the first quilted section.
- Align the batting and backing layers, ensuring they are slightly larger than the top fabric to account for any shifting.
- Sew the sections together using an overcast stitch, zigzag stitch, or even a tight straight stitch. The overcast stitch mimics the finish of a serger, but a zigzag or straight stitch works just as well.
4. Open and Quilt the New Section
- Once joined, open the sections and quilt the new area. You can use the same quilting design or switch it up for a more dynamic look.
- Trim any excess batting and backing to match the size of the quilted section.
5. Repeat and Build Your Quilt
- Continue adding sections one at a time, joining and quilting as you go. You can build your quilt in rows, columns, or even organically, depending on your design.
Tips for Success
- Experiment with Stitches: If your sewing machine has an overcast stitch, it’s a great option for joining sections. However, a zigzag or tight straight stitch also works well.
- Press Seams: After joining sections, press the backing fabric away from the seam to reduce bulk and ensure a smooth finish.
- Topstitch for Flatter Seams: If you want to minimize the bulk at the seams, consider topstitching over the join after quilting.
- Plan Your Quilting Designs: Since each section is quilted individually, you can mix and match designs for a unique look.
Why This Method is Perfect for Any Quilt
This QAYG technique is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to almost any quilt design. Whether you’re working on a traditional block quilt, a modern improv project, or even a baby quilt, this method simplifies the process and allows you to focus on the creative aspects of quilting. Plus, it’s a great way to use up orphan blocks or leftover fabric from previous projects.
Real-Life Example: My Orphan Block Quilt
I first experimented with this method on an orphan block quilt, which was a mix of denim, heavy fabrics, and traditional quilt blocks. Despite the variety of materials, the quilt came together beautifully using this technique. I joined the blocks in rows, quilted each section, and then connected the rows using the same method. The result was a cohesive, durable quilt with minimal bulk at the seams.
Final Thoughts
This Quilt-As-You-Go method has completely changed the way I approach quilting. It’s faster, easier, and more flexible than traditional methods, and the results speak for themselves. Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or just starting out, I highly recommend giving this technique a try. It’s perfect for those who want to create beautiful quilts without the hassle of sashing, hand sewing, or complicated joining techniques.
So, grab your fabric, fire up your sewing machine, and start quilting! I can’t wait to see what you create with this method. Happy quilting!