It’s Friday night, and I find myself in the craft room, looking at a huge pile of fabric scraps, contemplating which sewing projects to tackle this weekend. But rather than cleaning up the place or scrolling through social media feeds, I pick up a hot cup of coffee, roll my sleeves up, and get ready for a quick stitching session. Timber creating something original and usable in less than a weekend is just pure bliss.
1. Why I Think Small Quilting Projects Are Perfect for Weekends
For me, small or basic two-day quilting projects are perfect weekend retreats. They are short enough to complete within 48 hours, and I get that nice, “I have finished something” sensation without putting in the hard work of making it a full quilt size. While small projects are perfect for weekends, tackling a big quilt can be a rewarding challenge once you’ve built up your skills. There are plenty of things I get to try out, make small things that I can sell, or simply decorate my space, or even someone else’s if I’m in a nice mood.
Not to mention, I have learned the hard way that the smaller the project, the smaller the disappointment when something doesn’t go according to plan. How do you make a blender? It’s not the end of the world. How do you create a Queen-size blanket? That is a bad memory for a long time.
2. How I Tackle the Time and Difficulty Levels of Each Project
Depending on my motivation, I mix and match projects. One of my weekends, I will have made a set of quilted coasters that take me a few hours to make. The other weekend, I will have finished a table runner that is a little more demanding but still completed by Sunday night. But regardless of the projects I am working on, I always keep in mind that quilting is more of a hobby and not a race against time.
3. Making the Most of My Favorite Fabric Scraps for Creative Quilting Projects
Ah, if only they were perfect. I love and hate these little bundles of joy. For starters, it is the best way to garner some character into a project. However, I am unable to use them all too often, and somehow, manage to hoard them much faster. Quarantine is ideal for such projects of quilt making and those scraps come in very handy.
Having a well-organized sewing room can make it easier to find and use your fabric scraps effectively.
Sorting scraps should take most people’s time, but I have gladly accepted the beauty of mess. I pick up the first thing that attracts me and let the colors and the design motivate me. Why bother with a color-coordinated palette when there is so much imagination at hand?
4. Why I Love Mini Quilts and Think They’re Perfect for Beginners
Simple patterns intended for Beginner Quilters
When I began quilting as a hobby, I mostly used mini quilts. They are easy to make, do not take much time, and are useful to practice fundamental techniques. I love basic designs such as the nine-patch or half-square triangles; they are simple, rewarding, and dependable (or most of the time, anyway). I had so much fun making these simple patterns and seeing my skills improve.
Techniques for Saving Time
I am very efficient and therefore chain piecing is a great technique I adore. It is a very simple trick that enables me to sew many pieces at a single time and thanks to it, I can save a lot of valuable time and do not have to spend my entire weekend on one project. Chain piecing is not only efficient but also so much fun to see the progress quickly.
Fabrics and Dimensions
The dimensions of mini quilts are mostly between 12×12 to 24×24 inches — which is the perfect size for displaying fabrics that I love without needing to purchase anything. Whatever I require is always available in my fabric stash.
5. Crafting My Perfect Table Runner: A Weekend Project for Every Quilter
Patterns and Ideas for Everyone
Ever since I discovered children’s books and the wonders of embroidery, table runners have been my absolute favorite thing to make. It’s a significant enough accomplishment that it can easily be completed throughout a single weekend. I began with basic patterns such as the Log Cabin and with time managed to do the Flying Geese.
Seasonal and Creative Ideas
I love creating seasonal runners such as spring florals, autumn leaves, or even a cheeky holiday theme. They are quick ways to spruce up my house and serve as great gifts as well.
Finishing Tips
When it comes to the edges, I am a bit of a control freak. Accurate cutting and double-fold binding are my trump cards. Yes, I do iron every seam because I know from experience that skipping this step is just asking for things to go wrong and not in a good way.
6. How I Craft Quick and Easy Coaster Sets for a Weekend of Fun
What You Will Need
Quilted coasters are a good way to spend the weekend. All I need are fabric scraps, batting, thread, and my ever-faithful rotary cutter. Cut1/P7: They are so easy to make that I often have a full set before I even realize it.
My process
Here’s how I do it:
- Cut the fabric squares to 4.5 X 4.5 inches.
- Lay the fabric, the batting, and the backing like a mini sandwich.
- Using pins, hold everything together (do not ask me how crazy not doing this is).
- Using a sewing machine sew along the edge leaving an inch for turning the fabric around.
- Turn the fabric around and make sure the corners are also turned out.
- Topstitch to finish the sewing process neatly.
7. My Way of Making Throw Pillows and Pillow Covers for a Cozy Weekend Project
Creative Designs for Home Decor
Throw pillows and pillow covers are such a fun way to add a personal touch to your home decor. With a bit of creativity, you can transform your living space with unique designs that reflect your style. Whether you prefer piecing or appliqué, the possibilities are endless. Imagine a cozy corner adorned with pillows made from your favorite fabric scraps, each one telling its own story. It’s a quick project that brings a lot of joy and satisfaction.
Easy Techniques for Beginners
If you’re new to sewing, throw pillows and pillow covers are a great idea to start with. They require minimal fabric and can be completed quickly, making them perfect for beginners. You can use a pre-made pillowcase pattern or get creative and design your own. Just dive into your stash of favorite fabric scraps, and let your imagination run wild. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a beautiful pillow cover that adds a personal touch to any room.
8. Creating Coordinating Themes for My Quilted Projects
When it comes to coaster sets, I like to experiment. Once in a while, I will try and follow a color scheme while other times, I let the scraps dictate the design. They are great sewing projects for beginners and are good for presents. Everyone compliments them, however, they are not aware of how easy it is to make them.
9. My Go-To Free Patterns and Resources for Quilting
Where to Find Free Patterns
Finding free patterns and resources for your small quilting projects has never been easier. Countless websites and blogs are offering a treasure trove of options. Some popular resources include:
- Quilting blogs and websites: Various sites offer a variety of free patterns and tutorials that cater to all skill levels.
- Social media platforms: Pinterest and Instagram are gold mines for inspiration and free patterns from fellow quilters. Just search for your favorite styles and start pinning!
- Online communities: Join quilting forums and Facebook groups to connect with other quilters, share resources, and find great ideas for your next project.
Remember to always check the terms of use for any free pattern or resource to ensure that you are allowed to use it for personal or commercial purposes.
10. Finishing Touches and Presentation
To me, the finishing touches are only the icing on the cake. I love putting my projects in a ribbon or in a fabric bag I made myself. If it is a present, I will just add a small card and say “This was made with love, and quite possibly some swearing too.”
In a weekend, with a pile of scraps, and probably a reasonable amount of willpower, I’ve turned quilting into my zen place. Be it, a table runner for the dining room or a set of coasters for a friend, these projects clarify to me that creativity is not difficult. It just needs to come from within.
