By: Karly Kenyon

There is no such thing as 'too many dresses'! Follow this step-by-step tutorial to create your own knit tank dress for this season.

Here's what you'll need:

• 2.5 yards of Telio Stretch Bamboo Rayon Jersey Knit Tie Dye Black
• Tank top or a bodysuit you own to trace the pattern
• Fabric Scissors
• Thread
• Sewing machine
• Measuring tape

Let's get started!

Step 1

Lay a tank top or bodysuit you own and like the fit of on your fabric folded so there are 2 layers. I chose a high neck tank I own to complete this look. You can also use a regular tank for the fit and eyeball the high neckline!

Step 2

Cut one side tracing your top, adding 2 cm of allowance

Step 3

Then fold the cut side over to cut the other side with symmetry

Step 4

Right sides together, sew down the sides.

Step 5

Hem the armholes. I used a double rolled hem.

Step 6

Measure around your neck

Step 7

Right sides together, sew the length of the neckband leaving a 2 inch gap (to turn through later on)

Step 8

Push one end inward, line up with the other end right sides together and sew a straight stitch attaching all 4 layers of fabric.

Step 9

Cut excess bulk seam allowance for this seam.

Step 10

Turn your neckband right side out through the 2 inch gap you left earlier

Step 11

Top stitch the neckband to the top

Step 12

Hem the bottom of the dress & you are done!

By: Benartex Fabrics

Say hello to the fall season with these enchanting fall themed collection and free quilt patterns for fall and winter quilting!

Harvest Time Quilt

• Featured collection: Harvest Farm Collection
• Free Pattern: Download the 'Harvest Time' pattern here

Falls Calling Quilt

• Featured collection: Hello Fall Collection
• Free Pattern: Download the 'Falls Calling' pattern here

Winter Afternoon Quilt

• Featured collection: A Very Wooly Winter Collection
• Free Pattern: Download the 'Winter Afternoon' pattern here

Hayrides & Happiness Quilt

• Featured collection: Kanvas Hayrides & Happiness Collection
• Free Pattern: Download the 'Hayrides & Happiness' pattern here

By: TELIO

Give your ottoman a refreshed look and feel with this step by step ottoman slipcover pattern using faux leather fabrics from TELIO.

Here’s what you'll need:

• Download the FREE PATTERN
• Faux Leather fabric
• Scissors or Rotary cutter
• Ruler
• Thread
• Sewing machine

Let's get started!

Step 1

Measure your ottoman. As we used a square ottoman base, the 5 sides required are all the same size For example, our ottoman is 20” wide x 20” wide.

Step 2

For contrast color blocking as per our ottoman, divide the 20” in half = 10” squares and add 1 inch all around for seam allowances.

You will have 4 squares of 11” x 11” for each side of which:
- 2 squares will be in colour 1 (brown)
- 2 squares will be in contrast color 2 (grey)

For all 5 sides, you will need a total of:
- 10 squares of 11” x11” in colour 1 (brown) and
- 10 squares of 11” x11” in contrast colour 2 (grey)

Step 3

Assemble the right sides of contrasting squares together of color 1 (brown) and color 2 (grey).

Step 4

Repeat with 2 more squares and place alternate colors together.

Step 5

For a square panel, open seams flat and topstitch at 1/8” on each side of each seams.

Step 6

Repeat all the steps above for a total of 5 square panels

Step 7

Sew the 5 panels together by matching the colors as shown below.

Step 8

Now assemble the sides together by matching the colors as shown.

Step 9

Turn in the hem at 1⁄2” and stitch.

Step 10

Place your slipcover over your ottoman and voila a new look!

By: Shannon Fabrics

Whether you’re traveling by plane or by car (or sitting on the couch), this super soft and comfortable neck pillow made with Cuddle® Minky plush fabrics will help you relax and sleep!

The added hidden zipper allows you to remove the stuffing to launder the cover or adjust the amount of stuffing to better suit you. The contrast of Cuddle® 3 and Luxe Cuddle® Hide adds interest and appeal to this easy-to-stitch project.

It’s a perfect gift for anyone who needs a little TLC (including yourself)!

Here's What You'll Need:

• Shannon Digital Minky Cuddle Mother Bouquet Pink
• Luxe Cuddle® Hide in Rosewater
• Polyester sewing thread
• One 9” zipper
• Zipper foot
• Poly-Fil stuffing

Neck pillow pattern

To make your own pattern of the three pieces you need, use copy paper sheets taped together and draw a 1” grid on them. Re-draw the pattern onto the paper following the photos below.

• Click here to download Pattern 1
• Click here to download Pattern 2
• Click here to download Pattern 3

Be aware of the nap of the Cuddle® as you cut the pieces — you want the nap going downward on all pieces. Cut 1 front from the Cuddle® 3 and the 2 pieces for the back (1 Upper and 1 Lower) from the Luxe Cuddle® Hide.

TIP: Serrated scissors are great for cutting low pile (3mm) Cuddle®. To cut Luxe Cuddle® Hide or any higher pile Cuddle®, first draw the pattern piece onto the back side using a light-colored marker, then cut on the line using a craft knife (this way you’re only cutting through the backing and not the fibers).

Installing the zipper

Don’t be intimidated by the zipper. Due to the pile of the fabric, you will not see any of your stitching especially if you use thread that matches your fabric — Cuddle® is very forgiving! Find the center of the zipper and the upper and lower back pieces along the straight edge. Mark all centers with pins.

Place the zipper right side down on top of the lower back piece matching the centers. Pin it securely in place.

Using a zipper foot, stitch the top edge of the zipper to the edge of the fabric. Back stitch at the beginning and end.

With right sides together, match the zipper center to the center of the upper back piece and pin securely together. Stitch the zipper to the fabric.

At this point, the back piece will have the zipper in between the upper and lower pieces.

Fold the upper back down over the zipper until the edges at the sides meet forming a continuous curve. A small triangle shaped piece will extend off each side. Pin near both side edges.

Make sure the fold is even going across. Turn the piece to the back side.

TIP: Use a press cloth and very lightly press the fold in place (do not steam). Never press directly onto the fibers of Cuddle®.

Sew ¼” from the raw edge of the fabric all the way across the back. You will stitch over the zipper again.

On the back side, fold the edge of the lower back up to the raw edge of the upper back on each side of the zipper and pin.

The ends of the zipper and the small areas on each side of the zipper need to be stitched closed. Start about ½” in from the end of the zipper and stitch across it then pivot towards the outer edge. Repeat this on the other side.

This will create a small fold in the seam on the lower back piece. Don’t worry about it. It won’t be seen. Cut the small triangles on each side off following the curve of the edges.

Unzip the zipper.

Finishing touches

Place the front and back pieces right sides together and pin securely all around the edge.

Stitch all around ¼” from the edge using a 3.0-3.5mm stitch length. A walking foot is very helpful for this step.

TIP: Stitch with the Cuddle® 3 on top. You will be able to control the fabric better. If needed, use a stiletto to help guide the fabric under the needle.

Clip into the curves being careful not to cut the stitching. This helps to relax the fabric and make the curves smooth when you stuff the pillow. Turn the pillow to the right side through the zipper. Round out the curves and stuff to your desired firmness. Use a stiletto to fluff the fibers from the seams.

And you're done!

TIP: To launder your neck pillow, machine wash on gentle in cold water. Machine dry using low heat.

By: TELIO Fabrics

Get ready for back to school with this Re-usable Lunch bag DIY for carrying school lunches, snacks and treats!

Here’s what you'll need:

• Download the FREE PATTERN
• 1 yard of Telio Deandra Cotton Tie-Dye Denim Blue
• Fabric scissors
• Ruler
• Pins
• Matching thread
• Sewing machine

Let's get started!

Step 1

To make the lunch bag ties, fold in half and press each piece. Fold again each side toward the middle of the piece. Sew at the edge of the fold.

Step 2

Pin in place one edge of each tie on the gray square and sew.

Step 3

Fold in half lengthwise and sew along the sides in red (3/8”) right sides together. Repeat with the second piece.

Step 4

Matching middle of A and B, pin in place bottom seam and sew at 3/8” from the edge. Repeat on the other side. Repeat on the second piece.

Step 5

Assemble the bag, with right sides together, sew along the edge leaving a 3” opening. Turn bag inside out, and place corners together to form a flat bottom. Sew the opening.

And you're done!

Shop the Telio Deandra Denim Twill collection and create your own today!

By: Art Gallery Fabrics

Use a variety of different Floral Elements and Decostitch to create this soft statement piece that is perfect to add to your wardrobe. For this hat we used our Floral Elements in Washed Denim, Storm Winds, Antique Rose, Sweet Peach, Victorian Brick, and Chalk, and our Decostitch in Abyss, Timber Wolf, Airy, Rosebud, and Desert Rose.

To view the video tutorial for this hat, click here.

Here's What You'll Need

For strip set 1, we used:

• Fabric A: Floral Victorian Brick
• Fabric B: Decostitch Rosebud
• Fabric C: Floral Antique Rose
• Fabric D: Floral Sweet Peach
• Fabric E: Decostitch Timber Wolf

For strip set 2, we used:

• Fabric F: Floral Storm Winds
• Fabric G: Floral Chalk
• Fabric H: Floral Washed Denim
• Fabric I: Decostitch Airy
• Fabric J: Decostitch Abyss
• Fabric K (lining): We used Decostitch Desert Rose

Shop the Art Gallery Floral Elements collection here. Shop the Art Gallery Decostitch collection here.

We also have a PDF version of this hat pattern that we created with flannel if you would like to download that as well. You can find that here.

By: Marcia Spencer

I'm getting ready for the Summer with fabric.com Resort wear looks, and what is Summer Resort wear without swimwear? Fabric.com has provided a great selection of swimwear and performance fabrics to create a stylish neoprene swimsuit and lightweight cover-up. I chose three coordinating fabrics and mesh lining to bring this look together, and I am sharing a step by step on this look with you.

For my one-piece swimsuit I pulled inspiration from swimwear looks by Cynthia Rowley and added my own touch with a zip up front and flounce sleeves. For this look I chose a more sturdier fabric to hold the construction of the flounce sleeve and give the suit a little more structure. Fabric's Neoprene stretch scuba in coral and a contrasting red was perfect to create a cool color blocked look.

Featured Fabrics

• Neoprene Scuba Stretch Coral
• Neoprene Scuba Stretch Red
• Telio Pandora Rayon Poplin Outlined Flower Print Coral Red

The Swim Suit

To construct this piece I used Simplicity Pattern 8928 as my base pattern. I added a 7 inch closed zipper and used 3/8 inch elastic for my leg, arm and neck openings.

For this swimsuit I cut the front and back pieces of the swimsuit pattern and used the flounce from the dress pattern for my swimsuit flounce. I also cut the mesh lining in the front and back pieces only.

Note: Be careful not to pull or snag the fibers of the Neoprene Scuba when cutting, it could leave unwanted knicks in your fabric. Make sure your cutters are sharp and rotary blades are changed.

I first stitched the front shoulder and corresponding back shoulder edges together with the front sides facing.

Next, starting 7.5 inches down the front seam, I pinned and stitched the flounce to the front and around the shoulder and back on each side matching edges.

Then I folded back 5/8 inch on the front seam edges for the zipper and with the bodice front faced down I placed the zipper faced down on the seam, edges matching and pinned zipper tape to seam allowance. Using a zipper foot I stitched the zipper in place about 1/4 inch from the zipper teeth.

I topstitched the zipper seam with a zig zag stitch leaving flounce free.

Next I pinned and stitched the back seam, side seams and crotch matching the raw edges.

I stitched mesh lining pieces the same way I stitched the scuba front and back pieces.

Then with wrong sides facing I matched the edges of the lining and scuba suit and pinned and stitched the lining to the suit keeping flounce free.

Next, from the wrong side of the suit, I used the overlock stitch to install my elastic by matching the edges of my measured elastic to the raw edges of the leg opening. I pulled the elastic slightly as I stitched.

To finish the elastic edges I folded the elastic over onto the wrong side and zig zag stitched the raw edge down at the edges. Then I topstitched the elastic at the outer edge about 1/8 inch from folded edge.

I repeated these steps for the elastic in the remaining leg opening, arm opening and edges of the neckline and back.

Finally to close the lining around the zipper I folded in the edges of the mesh lining and slipped and stitched the opening closed at the zipper.

The Cover Up

This look would not be complete without the coordinating cover-up. I chose a Telio Pandora Rayon Poplin Outlined Flower Print Coral Red fabric for this piece. It has a beautiful bold large scale floral print. It's a lightweight drapey fabric and makes a great beach cover-up.

I went with a sarong wrap style to pair with my neoprene suit, as not to interfere with the volume of the flounce on my suit.

Thanks to all of you that suggested the wrap over the kimono style in my Instagram post. It is a very versatile choice! Mainly it can be wrapped around the waist leaving the flounce free. I think this style is best suited to pair with my suit particularly.

To create the Sarong I cut two rectangles 45 × 64. Using my curved edge ruler I cut the bottom corners of both pieces on a curve.

Next I pinned the two pieces together front facing, matching raw edges.

Stitch edges, leaving an opening to turn the Sarong inside out.

After turning the piece right side out I gave it a press around the edges.

Lastly, close the opening using a slip stitch.

And you're done!

The Sarong is a classic cover-up style and I love how the piece came together with my neoprene scuba suit. The color combo paired so well together. This look is great for lounging on the beach or pool side while staying ready for a quick dip!

Until Next Time! Marcia 💋

By: Mister Domestic

DIY with Pride with our EXCLUSIVE Mister Domestic Love is Love Pre-cut assortments. Check out the video to learn how to make half square triangle quilt and use the same pattern to make pillow cases.

Pre-cut selection:

5” x 5” pre-cut assortment can make two pillow fronts. Two 10” x 10” pre-cut assortments can make either one 80” x 80” quilt or one 60” x 80” quilt and two pillows.

Here's What You'll Need

• EXCLUSIVE Mister Domestic Love is Love Pre-cut assortments
• Rotary cutter
• Ruler
• Marker
• Sewing machine

Pattern:

Shop the entire EXCLUSIVE Mister Domestic Love is Love collection here.

By: Shannon Fabrics

Make plush pillows for kids with Luxe Cuddle Minky from Shannon Fabrics. The possibilities are endless, from sports-themed decorative pillows rainbow-shaped pillows to pillow beds!

Football Pillow

Warm the heart of any football fan with this soft and cozy pillow. Gentle curves make for easy construction. No fumbles, just fun!

Fabric Requirements (as shown)

• 3/8 yard of Cuddle® 3 Brown
• 5" x 15" rectangle of Cuddle® 3 Snow
• Download the free pattern here.

Rainbow pillow

Maybe there isn’t a pot of gold at the end of this rainbow, but there is still a lot of cozy delight. A fun pillow for all ages.

Fabric Requirements (as shown)

• 1/8 yard Cuddle® 3 Paris Pink
• 1/2 yard Cuddle® 3 Coral
• 3/8 yard Cuddle® 3 Banana
• 3/8 yard Cuddle® 3 Lilac
• 1/4 yard Cuddle® 3 Turquoise
• 3/8 yard Luxe Cuddle® Marble Snow, for clouds
• Download the free pattern here.

Comfy pillow bed

A cozy bed for a sleepover, or a comfy mat to watch some flicks on a Friday night—no matter, any child would love to curl up on this cozy pillow bed.

Fabric Requirements (as shown)

• 21/3 yards Hoffman Backsplash Digital Cuddle® Rainbow
• Download the free pattern here.

Slam dunk basketball pillow

The perfect gift for your favorite basketball fan! This easy-to-make pillow will be a hit with players and spectators of all ages.

Fabric Requirements (as shown)

• 5/8 yard Luxe Cuddle® Marble Rust, Pillow
• 1/8 yard (or 6" x 20" rectangle) Solid Cuddle® 3 Black, Stripe Appliqués
• Download the free pattern here.

Soccer ball pillow

The perfect pillow for all soccer fans—players and bleacher folk alike. Appliqué patches make it easy to put together.

Fabric Requirements (as shown)

• 1/2 yard Cuddle® 3 Snow, Pillow
• 1/4 yard Cuddle® 3 Black, Hexagon appliqués
• Download the free pattern here.

Shop all Luxe Cuddle from Shannon Fabrics

By: TELIO

Welcome spring and get ready for summer with this easy to make linen tote bag that you can create in no time with little over a yard of lightweight linen fabric. You can carry this to your next vacation, beach getaways or tote groceries.

Let's get started!

Here's What You'll Need

• Download the Free Pattern
• 1.5 yards of lightweight linen from TELIO
• Fabric scissors
• Ruler
• Pins
• Matching thread
• Sewing machine

Fabrics used:

• Telio Digital Linen Floral Blue
• Telio Athena Linen Stripe Blue/White
• Telio Vienna Linen Purple Ash

Let's get started!

Cutting Directions

Cut out each fabric piece. The cutting directions below will create a lined tote bag. Skip cutting pieces C and D for a tote with no lining.

Pattern Piece Dimensions

• Front/Back (A/B/C/D): 15 3/4" x 15 3/4"
• Sides (1/2/3/4): 7 7/8" x 15 3/4"
• Bottom (5/6): 15 3/4" x 7 7/8"
• Bag Strap (5/6): 23 5/8" x 4"

Step 1

Sew the main front/back piece A to side 1. Sew main piece B to the other end of side 1. Then sew side piece 2 to front/back piece B.

Step 2

Repeat steps 1 and 2 with pieces C, D, 3, and 4 for the lining.

Step 3

Sew side 2 to the other end of front/back A to form a box.

Step 4

Sew the bottom piece 5 to the first box by aligning the corners. Repeat with bottom piece 6 for the lining.

Step 5

Fold bag straps E & F in half, right sides together. Sew at 4" from the edges. Then turn each piece inside out.

Step 6

Sew the lining to the main bag with right sides together and the straps between the layers. Make sure to leave a small opening to turn the bag inside out.

Step 7

Finally, turn the bag inside out, press, and sew the small opening closed by hand.

And you're done! Enjoy your new bag.

By: Wendy Chow

Add a pop of color to your spring outfit with a quilted tote bag. The tote bag is the perfect size to run errands in, pack some snacks and a book to enjoy at the park, and many more outdoorsy activities. Wendy Chow of The Weekend Quilter will show you how to make this tote bag in this blog using her latest quilt block pattern, Garden Tile. The block is a FREE download from her website. The FREE download Garden Tile quilt block is derived from the traditional spool quilt block, and is arranged to form a star in a cross design. Collectively, the blocks are inspired by repeating painted garden tiles.

Throughout March 2022, National Quilting Month, The Weekend Quilter will be sharing a series of three blog posts on fabric.com. Each post shows different variations of the Garden Tile quilt block and how to incorporate it into other smaller quilted projects including, the FREE Garden Tile quilt block download, table runner, throw cushion and tote bag. Follow fabric.com and The Weekend Quilter on Instagram and subscribe to their newsletters for the latest updates on the different applications.

Now, what are you waiting for? Scroll down to learn more about how to put this tote bag together.

Be sure to read through all the directions before you start. Sew all right sides together with ¼" seam allowance, unless specified.

Tote Bag Size

Finished project measures – 17½" x 21"

Skill Level

Advanced Beginner

Fabric Requirements

Fabric quantities are based on 42" WOF (width of fabric). All fabrics in the project are by Art Gallery Fabrics and available from fabric.com.

* A fat eighth (FE) is an eighth of a yard of fabric that measures approximately 9" x 21".

**A fat quarter (FQ) is a quarter of a yard of fabric that measures approximately 18" x 21". It is made by cutting a yard of fabric in half lengthwise and vertically.

Other Tools and Materials Required

• Download The Weekend Quilter’s Garden Tile quilt block for FREE here.
• Basic sewing machine
• Rotary cutter
• Quilting rulers – preferably in 6" x 24", 12" x 6" and at least one with 45-degree angle mark.
• Cutting mat
• Fabric scissors
• Batting – There needs to be at least 4" overhang on the front and back of the tote bag. Thereby the minimum batting requirement for these two parts are, two 26" x 30" rectangles.

For the bag straps, you can get away with less batting. Minimum batting requirement for bag straps is one 10" x 28" rectangle.

• Sewing pins
• Coordinating thread, 50wt cotton – for piecing squares and rectangles together and decorative quilting stitches.
•
• Iron
• Basting spray (if spray basting) or safety pins (if pin basting)
• Hera marker or blunt butter knife
• Walking foot or dual feed dog (optional)
• Machine-washable fabric pen or pencil

Cutting Directions

In addition to cutting fabrics for one Garden Tile quilt block (download the block pattern here), you will also need to cut the following fabric quantities:

Read through all the directions before you start, sew all right sides together with ¼" seam allowance, unless specified.

Block Assembly

Step 1

Download The Weekend Quilter’s Garden Tile quilt block for FREE here.

Step 2

Create 2 Garden Tile quilt blocks. Set blocks aside for Bag Exterior Assembly, Step 1.

Quick-Corner Units

Step 1

On the wrong side of 16 Fabric D 2" squares, draw a diagonal guideline.

Step 2

Noting the placement and orientation of the marked squares from the previous step, with right sides together, sew on the guidelines

• Place 2 marked Fabric D 2" squares on the top left and right corners 1 Fabric A 3½" x 12½" rectangle to create 1 Quick-Corner A unit.
• Place 2 marked Fabric D 2" squares on the top left and right corners 1 Fabric A 5½" x 12½" rectangle to create 1 Quick-Corner B unit.

Repeat this step to create a total of:

• 4 Quick-Corner A units
• 4 Quick-Corner B units

Step 3

Trim a ¼" seam allowance to the outside of all the sewn lines. Press the seams open or to the dark side to complete the Quick-Corner units.

Bag Exterior Assembly

Step 1

Complete the Bag Exterior unit by laying out 2 Quick-Corner A units, 2 Quick-Corner B units, 4 Fabric A 3½" x 5½" rectangles and 1 Garden Tile Block. Then sew the units to form 3 rows and sew the 3 rows together. Press the seams open or to the dark side as you go.

Repeat this step to create a total of 2 Bag Exterior units.

Basting and Quilting

Step 1

A quilt sandwich usually consists of three layers: quilt top, batting and quilt back. For this project, the sandwich is made up of two layers: the Bag Exterior unit (created in the previous step) and a layer of batting. This is because the quilt back (in this instance, the Bag Lining) is attached at a later step and there is no binding involved.

Create a total of 2 Bag Exterior sandwiches. Each cushion sandwich consists of the following layers:

• Bag Exterior unit (from the previous step)
• Batting 26" x 30" rectangle

The batting goes down on the basting surface first. Followed by the Bag Exterior unit, wrong side touching the batting.

Spray or pin baste the two layers together, and quilt as desired.

Step 2

Trim excess batting, and square up all Bag Exterior sandwiches. Take extra care when square up. Each Bag Exterior sandwich must measure 18½" x 22½" rectangle.

Set Bag Exterior sandwiches aside for Bag Assembly, Step 1.

Bag Straps

Step 1

Lay 2 Fabric F 3" x 21" rectangles on top of 1 Batting 10" x 28" rectangle, wrong side of Fabric F touching the batting, and baste using preferred method to temporarily secure the layers.

Step 2

Edge sew the longer sides of the 2 Fabric F 3" x 21" rectangles to permanently secure the layers and complete Strap sandwiches.

Step 3

Trim excess batting and square up both Strap sandwiches. Take extra care when squaring up. Each Strap sandwich must measure 3" x 21" rectangle.

Step 4

With the wrong side facing up, eyeball approximately ½" and fold raw edge on one long edge of the Strap sandwich toward the center of the sandwich.

Repeat this step with the second Strap sandwich and the remaining 2 Fabric F 3" x 21" rectangles. The purpose of this step is to hide the raw edges.

Step 5

With right sides together, line up unfolded raw edges on the long edges of 1 Strap sandwich and 1 Fabric F 3" x 21" rectangle. Sew ½" away from the raw edge to secure the pieces.

Repeat this step with second Strap sandwich and Fabric F 3" x 21" rectangle.

Step 6

Fold Fabric F rectangle over so the wrong side of it is touching the batting of the Strap Sandwich, and the folds created in step 4 remains folded.

Press and using a coordinating thread, edge sew both long sides to secure the layers in place.

Repeat this step with the second bag strap. Set bag straps aside for Bag Assembly, Step 7.

Bag Assembly

Step 1

With right sides together, match the raw edges of 2 Bag Exterior sandwiches from Basting and Quilting, Step 2. Pin the two longer edges and one shorter edge together, leaving an opening on one shorter edge.

Repeat this step with 2 Fabric E 18½" x 22½" rectangles for the bag lining.

Set pinned Bag Exterior sandwiches aside for Bag Assembly, Step 4.

Step 2

On the wrong side and pinned shorter edge of bag lining, use a fabric marker to mark approx. 7" opening.

Step 3

Starting from the top right corner of the bag lining, sew ½" away from the long raw edge, turn and pivot the bag lining, and sew along the shorter edge, and stop at the marked guideline from the previous step. Then start at the second guideline, sew along the shorter edge, turn and pivot the bag lining, and sew along the longer edge. Leave the top shorter edge open. The small opening at the bottom of the bag lining will be used to turn the bag right side out at Bag Assembly, Step 11.

Also, don’t forget to reverse stitch at the start and end of each seam for additional enforcement. Set bag lining aside for Bag Assembly, Step 5.

Step 4

Similar to the previous step, ensure sewing machine seam allowance is set at ½". Sew together Bag Exterior sandwiches from Step 1 – starting from the top right corner of the Bag Exterior sandwich, sew along the two longer edges and one short edge.

Step 5

Lay the Bag Exterior and Bag Lining flat, keeping them turned the wrong side out. With a quilting ruler and fabric marker or pencil, mark a 2" square on both the bottom corners of each the Bag Exterior and Bag Lining (Bag Exterior used in photographed example).

With a pair of fabric scissors, carefully cut the marked squares from each bottom corner.

Step 6

Open up one of the corners. Bring the side and bottom seams together, matching the seams. Pin and sew ½" away from the raw edge. For additional enforcement, reverse stitch at the start and end of each seam (Bag Exterior used in photographed example).

Repeat with the remaining cut out corners of Bag Exterior and Bag Lining. Set Bag Lining aside for Bag Assembly, Step 6.

Step 7

Turn Bag Exterior right side facing out. With a fabric pen or pencil, at the bag opening (top shorter edge of the Bag Exterior), mark two guidelines, 4½" away from the top corners. These guidelines are used to determine Bag Strap (from Bag Straps, Step 6) placement.

Repeat this step on the second side of Bag Exterior.

Step 8

Using the marked guidelines from the previous step, pin and sew (½" away from the raw edge) 1 Bag Strap on each side of the Bag Exterior. Take extra care when pinning and sewing. Ensure the Bag Straps are not twisted and reverse stitch at the start and end of each seam for additional enforcement.

Step 9

Take Bag Lining from Step 6, wrong side facing out. Slide Bag Exterior inside Bag Lining. Therefore, right sides of Bag Exterior and Bag Lining are facing each other.

Start at one side of the bag, line up side seams and raw edges. Pin Bag Exterior and Bag Lining together. When pinning, ensure the side seams on the Bag Exterior and Bag Lining are open to reduce bulk. Repeat with the second side of the bag. Then, pin in between the sides to hold the Bag Exterior and Bag Lining in place.

Step 10

Sew ½" away from the raw edge to secure the Bag Exterior, Bag Lining and Bag Straps.

Step 11

At the bottom of the Bag Lining, use the hole to carefully flip the bag right side out.

Step 12

Go back to the sewing machine, with a coordinating thread, edge stitch to close up the hole at the bottom of the Bag Lining.

Step 13

Insert the Bag Lining inside of the bag. At the top opening of the bag, pin Bag Lining to Bag Exterior, and use coordinating thread to sew approximately ⅛" and ½" below the top opening. These seams will provide additional enforcement and prevent the Bag Lining from coming out of the bag.

Trim loose threads to complete the project.

Share your progress and completed cushion on social media by tagging: #gardentiletotebag #theweekendquilter @the.weekendquilter

About the Author

Wendy Chow is an Aussie modern quilter and designer based in New York City. The founder of The Weekend Quilter and author of Urban Quilting, she aims to bring a timeless and fresh perspective to one of the oldest forms of needlework with her bold and distinct modern quilt designs.

By: fabric.com

Welcome the final week of the 2022 National Quilting Month Block Party! During this exciting series, we have created 6 free beginner-friendly quilt block patterns right here on the blog created by some of our amazing staff members. Featuring only half-square triangles and square pieces, they have each designed simple but fun quilt blocks - perfect for new and experienced quilters.

Last time, we created the Double Pinwheel and Peeping Cats Quilt Blocks with Elizabeth. Next up, we have 2 beautiful new blocks by Mariah S.!

Here's What You'll Need

• 1/4 yard of quilting cotton (Mariah used the 2022 Kona Cotton Color of the Year: Cosmos
• 1/4 yard of quilting cotton in contrasting color or pattern (Mariah used Kona Cotton Snow)
• Ruler
• Rotary Cutter
• Coordinating Thread
• Sewing Machine

Making Your Half-Square Triangles

For each of these blocks, you will need to construct a certain amount of 'half-square triangles' or 'HSTs'. They are an essential building block used in many quilt and quilt block designs. Depending on how many you need, you can cut fabric and construct them in a multitude of ways. If you are new to sewing HSTs, or would just like to learn about more efficient ways to make them, check out our blog post Sewing 101: 4 Half Square Triangle Methods.

For all of our block party blocks we created our blocks using 10" squares of fabric to produce 5" HSTs (before trimming). Then we trimmed each HST down to 4.5" each. Sewing each piece together using a standard 1/4" seam allowance created finished blocks of 16" x 16". Feel free to adjust your HST and square block pieces up or down though for your desired finished block size.

Block 1: Eclectic Arrows

Eclectic Arrows is a fun, bold, and somewhat atypical quilt block design. The variety of arrows and triangles in various directions give it a very striking, modern look - perfect for a framed wall art piece, or even a base for a table runner.

For this block you will need:

• (16) 4.5" x 4.5" Half Square triangles (trimmed)

To construct the block, sew each piece in the top row together piece by piece, adding on to the row from right to left - or however you'd like to work. Then sew each row together moving from top to bottom.

Block 2: Blast Off

The 'Blast Off' block was inspired by the stars and outer space. Mariah imagined it looked like a corner of a star or explosion, and that if you created a few more blocks and rotated them, if would make a sort of 'abstract, crystalized star shape'.

For this block you will need:

• (8) 4.5" x 4.5" Half Square triangles (trimmed)
• (5) 4.5" x 4.5" Purple Square blocks
• (3) 4.5" x 4.5" White Square blocks

To construct the block, sew each piece in the top row together piece by piece, adding on to the row from right to left. Then sew each row together moving from top to bottom.

And you're done! Enjoy your beautiful blocks by either framing them as wall art, or create more to make a wall hanging, table runner, or even decorative pillows.

By: Wendy Chow

Freshen up your home décor this spring with Wendy Chow of The Weekend Quilter. The use of bright and floral prints in the version she has created brings life to the living room and pops of color. And the best things about these florals are, they don’t ever die or trigger spring allergies.

The Weekend Quilter will show you how to make this throw cushion using her latest quilt block pattern, Garden Tile. The block is a FREE download from her website. The Garden Tile quilt block is derived from the traditional spool quilt block, and is arranged to form a star in a cross design. Collectively, the blocks are inspired by repeating painted garden tiles.

Throughout March 2022, National Quilting Month, The Weekend Quilter will be sharing a series of three blog posts on fabric.com. Each post shows different variations of the Garden Tile quilt block and how to incorporate it into other smaller quilted projects including, a table runner, throw cushion and tote bag. Follow fabric.com and The Weekend Quilter on Instagram and subscribe to their newsletters for the latest updates on the different applications.

Now, what are you waiting for? Scroll down to learn more about how to put this throw cushion together. The following tutorial makes one throw cushion.

Throw Cushion

Finished project measures – 18" x 18"

Skill Level

Advanced Beginner

Fabric Requirements

Fabric quantities are based on 42" WOF (width of fabric). All fabrics in the project are by Art Gallery Fabrics and available at fabric.com.

* A fat eighth (FE) is an eighth of a yard of fabric that measures approximately 9" x 21".

**A fat quarter (FQ) is a quarter of a yard of fabric that measures approximately 18" x 21". It is made by cutting a yard of fabric in half lengthwise and vertically.

Other Tools and Materials Required

• Download The Weekend Quilter’s Garden Tile quilt block for FREE here
• Basic sewing machine
• Rotary cutter
• Quilting rulers – preferably in 6" x 24", 12" x 6" and at least one with 45-degree angle mark.
• Cutting mat
• Fabric scissors
• Batting – There needs to be at least 4" overhang on each side of the cushion top and two cushion back panels. Thereby the minimum batting requirement required for this project is, one 26" square and two 19" x 26" rectangles.
• Sewing pins
• Coordinating thread, 50wt cotton – for piecing squares and rectangles together and decorative quilting stitches.
• Iron
• Basting spray (if spray basting) or safety pins (if pin basting)
• Hera marker or blunt butter knife
• Walking foot or dual feed dog (optional)
• Machine-washable fabric pen or pencil
• One throw cushion insert – approximately 18" x 18"

Cutting Directions

In addition to cutting fabrics for one Garden Tile quilt block (download the block pattern here), you will also need to cut the following fabric quantities:

Read through all the directions before you start, sew all right sides together with ¼" seam allowance, unless specified.

Block Assembly

Step 1

Download The Weekend Quilter’s Garden Tile quilt block for FREE here.

Step 2

Create 1 Garden Tile quilt block. Set block aside for Cushion Top Assembly, Step 1.

Half-Square Triangle (HST) Units

Step 1

With right sides together, place 1 Fabric A 6¼" square on top of 1 Fabric B 6¼" square to create 1 HST Set.

Step 2

Sew a ¼" from all four edges of the HST Set as shown in the example (refer to the blue lines).

Step 3

On the reverse side of the HST Set, draw two diagonal guidelines*, cut on them and press the seams open or to the dark side to create a total of 4 Fabric A/B HST units.

*Note: If you’re feeling confident, skip drawing the diagonal guidelines and jump straight to cutting and pressing.

Step 4

Trim each Fabric A/B HST unit to a 3½" square. Set unit aside for Quick-Corner Units, Step 2.

Quick-Corner Units

Step 1

On the wrong side of 8 Fabric D 2" squares and 4 Fabric D 1½" squares, draw a diagonal guideline.

Step 2

Noting the placement and orientation of the marked squares from the previous step, with right sides together, sew on the guidelines:

Place 2 marked Fabric D 2" squares on the top left and right corners 1 Fabric E 3½" x 12½" rectangle to create 1 Quick-Corner A unit.

Place 1 marked Fabric D 1½" square on the Fabric B half of 1 Fabric A/B HST unit to create 1 Quick-Corner B unit

Repeat this step to create a total of:

• 4 Quick-Corner A units
• 4 Quick-Corner B units

Step 4

Trim a ¼" seam allowance to the outside of all the sewn lines. Press the seams open or to the dark side to complete the Quick-Corner units.

Cushion Top Assembly

Step 1

Complete the Cushion Top by laying out 4 Quick-Corner A units, 4 Quick-Corner B units and 1 Garden Tile Block. Then sew the units to form 3 rows and sew the 3 rows together. Press the seams open or to the dark side as you go.

Basting and Quilting

Step 1

Cushion sandwiches are made up of three layers – the cushion top or cushion back (Fabric G), batting and cushion lining (Fabric F). The cushion lining goes down on the basting surface first, right side down. Followed by batting and the Cushion Top or lining (Fabric F), wrong side touching the batting.

For this project, you need to create a total of 3 cushion sandwiches: 1 Cushion Top Sandwich and 2 Cushion Back Sandwiches. Each cushion sandwich consists of the following layers:

• Cushion Top Sandwich
• Cushion top (from the previous step)
• Batting 26" square
• Lining (Fabric F) 26" square
• Cushion Back Sandwich
• Cushion back (Fabric G) 11" x 18½" rectangle
• Batting 26" x 19" rectangle
• Lining (Fabric F) 26" x 19" rectangle

Spray or pin baste the three layers together, and quilt as desired.

Step 2

Trim excess batting and lining fabrics, and square up all cushion sandwiches. Take extra care when square up. Each cushion sandwich must measure:

• Cushion Top Sandwich: 18½" square
• Cushion Back Sandwich: 11" x 18½" rectangle

Set Cushion Top Sandwich aside for Cushion Assembly, Step 1 and set Cushion Back Sandwich aside for Cushion Trim, Step 2.

Cushion Trim

Step 1

Start with 2 Fabric H 2" x 21" rectangles. Fold each Fabric H rectangle in half lengthwise and press to create 2 Trim units.

Step 2

With the wrong side of 1 Cushion Back Sandwich facing up, align the raw edge of 1 Trim unit with the longer raw edge of the quilt sandwich. Sew ¼" away from the raw edge. Remember to backstitch the start and end of the seam.

Step 3

Fold the finished edge of the Trim over to Fabric G of the Cushion Back Sandwich. Use a coordinating thread and sew to secure the Trim. Backstitch the start and end of the seam.

Step 4

Use a ruler and rotary cutter or a pair of fabric scissors to remove excess Trim.

Step 5

Repeat Steps 1-4 with the second Cushion Back Sandwich.

Cushion Assembly

Step 1

With right sides together, lay 1 Cushion Back Sandwich on top of Cushion Top Sandwich.

Then with right sides together lay the second Cushion Back Sandwich on top of the Cushion Top Sandwich and pin, as shown. Ensure the Trims on the Cushion Back Sandwiches are positioned away from the outer edges of the cushion.

It is fine that the 2 Cushion Back Sandwiches are partially on top of each other – this is intentional.

Step 2

Sew all the way around the outer edge with a ¼" Seam allowance backstitching at the beginning and end.

Step 3

Use an overlock sewing machine or zig zag stitch to cover the raw edges to prevent them from fraying.

Step 4

Carefully clip the corners without cutting into the seam. Turn the cushion right way out, poking out the corners to create a crisp and flat finish. Trim loose threads and insert a cushion insert to complete the project.

Share your progress and completed cushion on social media by tagging: #gardentilecushion #theweekendquilter @the.weekendquilter

About the Author

Wendy Chow is an Aussie modern quilter and designer based in New York City. The founder of The Weekend Quilter and author of Urban Quilting, she aims to bring a timeless and fresh perspective to one of the oldest forms of needlework with her bold and distinct modern quilt designs.

Welcome to week two of the 2022 National Quilting Month Block Party! During this exciting series, we’ll have 6 free beginner-friendly quilt block patterns right here on the blog created by some of our amazing staff members. Featuring only half-square triangles and square pieces, they have each designed simple but fun quilt blocks - perfect for new and experienced quilters.

Last time, we created the 8-Pointed Star and Pine Tree Quilt Blocks with Nikki. Next up, we have 2 beautiful new blocks by Elizabeth R.!

Here's What You'll Need

• 1/4 yard of quilting cotton (Elizabeth used Kona Cotton Jet Black and Capri)
• 1/4 yard of quilting cotton in an different color or pattern (Elizabeth used Kona Cotton Snow)
• Ruler
• Rotary Cutter
• Coordinating Thread
• Sewing Machine

Making Your Half-Square Triangles

For each of these blocks, you will need to construct a certain amount of 'half-square triangles' or 'HSTs'. They are an essential building block used in many quilt and quilt block designs. Depending on how many you need, you can cut fabric and construct them in a multitude of ways. If you are new to sewing HSTs, or would just like to learn about more efficient ways to make them, check out our blog post Sewing 101: 4 Half Square Triangle Methods.

For all of our block party blocks we created our blocks using 10" squares of fabric to produce 5" HSTs (before trimming). Then we trimmed each HST down to 4.5" each. Sewing each piece together using a standard 1/4" seam allowance created finished blocks of 16" x 16". Feel free to adjust your HST and square block pieces up or down though for your desired finished block size.

Block 1: Double Pinwheel

Create this adorable double-pinwheel quilt block by rotating 16 half-square triangles and sewing them together. This simple shape creates both a large blocky 'X' and a pinwheel inside. Make multiple and sew together for an adorable, modern baby sized or full-sized quilt.

For this block you will need:

• (16) 4.5" x 4.5" Half Square triangles (trimmed)

To construct the block, sew each piece in the top row together piece by piece, adding on to the row from right to left - or however you'd like to work. Then sew each row together moving from top to bottom.

Block 2: Peeping Cats

This very simple but very cute quilt block was inspired by our furry friends. We think this would be adorable as a cute pillow top or even framed wall art. Elizabeth added a final, special touch by embroidering cute little whiskers on her block.

For this block you will need:

• (5) 4.5" x 4.5" Half Square triangles (trimmed)
• (2) 4.5" x 4.5" Black Square blocks
• (9) 4.5" x 4.5" White Square blocks

To construct the block, sew each piece in the top row together piece by piece, adding on to the row from right to left. Then sew each row together moving from top to bottom.

And you're done! Enjoy your beautiful blocks by either framing them as wall art, or create more to make a quilt top, table runner, or even decorative pillows.

By: Wendy Chow

It is hard to believe we are nearing the end of February already, and the signs of spring around the corner have begun – longer hours of daylight, birds calling, pops of color blooming. To bring some of the best things about spring into your home, Wendy Chow of The Weekend Quilter, has put together a table runner tutorial in this blog post using her latest quilt block pattern, Garden Tile. The block is a FREE download from her website. The Garden Tile quilt block is derived from the traditional spool quilt block, and is arranged to form a star in a cross design. Collectively, the blocks are inspired by repeating painted garden tiles.

Throughout March 2022, National Quilting Month, The Weekend Quilter will be sharing a series of three blog posts on fabric.com. Each post shows different variations of the Garden Tile quilt block and how to incorporate it into other smaller quilted projects including, a table runner, throw cushion and tote bag. Follow fabric.com and The Weekend Quilter on Instagram and subscribe to their newsletters for the latest updates on the different applications.

Without further ado, let’s jump into the quilty fun!

**Be sure to read through all the directions before you start. Sew all right sides together with ¼" seam allowance, unless specified.

Table Runner Size

Finished project measures – 12" x 60"

Skill Level

Advanced Beginner

Fabric Requirements

Fabric quantities are based on 42" WOF (width of fabric). All fabrics in the project are by Art Gallery Fabrics and available from fabric.com.

*A fat quarter (FQ) is a quarter of a yard of fabric that measures approximately 18" x 21". It is made by cutting a yard of fabric in half lengthwise and vertically.

Other Tools and Materials Required

• Basic sewing machine
• Rotary cutter
• Quilting rulers – preferably in 6" x 24", 12" x 6" and at least one with 45-degree angle mark.
• Cutting mat
• Fabric scissors
• Batting – There needs to be at least 4" overhang on each side of the table runner top. Thereby the minimum wadding requirement required for the project is 20" x 68" rectangle (12" x 60" table runner finished size).
• Sewing pins
• Coordinating thread, 50wt cotton – for piecing squares and rectangles together and decorative quilting stitches.
• Iron
• Basting spray (if spray basting) or safety pins (if pin basting)
• Hera marker or blunt butter knife
• Walking foot or dual feed dog (optional)
• Machine-washable fabric pen or pencil
• The Weekend Quilter’s Garden Tile quilt block pattern - download for FREE here.

Cutting Directions

In addition to cutting fabrics for five Garden Tile quilt blocks (download the block pattern here), you will also need to cut the following fabric quantities.

*Increase seam allowance from ¼" to ½" and press the seams open when piecing 2 Fabric E 20" x WOF rectangles (refer to photo below). Incorporating these two steps in preparing your table runner backing fabric will reduce seam bulk and strengthen the table runner back long-term.

Table Runner Top Assembly

Step 1

Download The Weekend Quilter’s Garden Tile quilt block for FREE here.

Step 2

Create a total of 5 Garden Tile quilt blocks. Set blocks aside for Step 4.

Step 3

On the wrong side of 20 Fabric D 1½" squares draw a diagonal guideline.

Step 4

As shown in the example, with right sides together and noting the orientation of each marked Fabric D 1½" square (refer to the blue lines in the photo), place 1 square at each corner of 1 Garden Tile quilt block.

Step 5

Sew on all the marked guidelines.

Step 6

Trim a ¼" seam allowance to the outside of all the sewn lines. Press the seams open or to the dark side to complete Garden Tile quilt block for table runner.

Step 7

Repeat steps 4-6 on all 5 Garden Tile quilt blocks.

Step 8

Layout 1 row of 5 Garden Tile quilt blocks. Sew the blocks right sides together to create Table Runner Top. Press the seams open or to the dark side as you go.

Basting and Quilting

Step 1:

Place Fabric E (Quilt Back) right side down on your basting surface, followed by batting and Table Runner Top wrong side touching the batting. Spray or pin baste three layers together, and quilt as desired.

Step 2

Trim off excess batting and Fabric E (Quilt Back), and square up table runner. Squared up table runner should measure 12½" x 60½".

Binding

Step 1

Join all the binding strips with diagonal seams to form one long binding strip. Press the seams open to reduce seam bulk.

Step 2

Fold the binding in half lengthwise with wrong sides together and press.

Step 3

Line up raw edges of binding with table runner. Sew ¼" away from the raw edge.

Step 4

Fold binding over to the other side of the table runner. Machine or whipstitch the binding to complete the table runner.

Share your progress and completed table runner on social media by tagging: #gardentiletablerunner #theweekendquilter @the.weekendquilter

About the Author:

Wendy Chow is an Aussie modern quilter and designer based in New York City. The founder of The Weekend Quilter and author of Urban Quilting, she aims to bring a timeless and fresh perspective to one of the oldest forms of needlework with her bold and distinct modern quilt designs.