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Are you bored with your current quilt projects? Looking for a way to add some interest to your quilting? Panel quilts are a great way to do that! In this article, we’ll show you how to add interest to your panel quilt with some simple techniques. Keep reading to learn more!
Incorporate panel patterns.
Panel quilt patterns are a great way to use up fabric scraps, and they can be very interesting to look at. You can add interest to your panel quilt by changing the pattern of the panels. For example, you could make all of the panels in a quilt square or rectangle, or you could alternate different shapes for each panel. You could also try using different fabrics for each panel or even using different colors within each panel.
Create movement in your quilt top.
To add interest to your panel quilt, you can use movement. Movement is created by changing the direction of the seams in your quilt top. You can add movement in any direction, but vertical and horizontal movements are the most common. To create vertical movement, sew a seam that angles up or down from one side of your quilt top to the other. To create horizontal movement, sew a seam that angles from one edge of your quilt top to the other. You can also combine vertical and horizontal seams to create more complex movement patterns.
Make a fabric yo-yo flower for your panel quilt.
Adding interest to your panel quilt can be as easy as adding a fabric yo-yo flower. Fabric yo-yos are simple circles of fabric that are gathered together and sewn into a flower shape. They can be used to add a pop of color or to add interest to a plain panel.
To make a fabric yo-yo flower, you will need:
- Fabric scraps in various colors and prints
- Thread
- Sewing needle
- Scissors
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Iron (optional)
- Pins (optional)
Cut a circle out of each piece of fabric using a ruler or measuring tape and scissors. The circles should be about 2 inches in diameter. If you want, you can also cut out a smaller center circle for the middle of your flower.
To gather the edges of the circle, fold the fabric in half towards the wrong side and then in half again towards the wrong side so that the folded edge is now in the center of the circle. Pin if desired.
Use a needle and thread to sew around the edge of the folded fabric, making sure to catch all layers of fabric as you go. Leave about 1/4 inch unsewn at the end so that you can gather it closed later on.
Tie off the ends of the thread and trim any excess fabric away close to the knotting point. Do not cut through the knot!
Now it’s time for some fun shaping! Gently pull on both threads until the yo-yo begins to form into a petal shape. You can continue pulling until it forms into your desired shape – just be careful not to overwork it, or else you may lose some gathers along the way! Secure knots when done shaping petals. Repeat with all circles.
Experiment with color blocking.
Color blocking is a technique where you create panels of color in your quilt. You can use solid fabrics or prints, but it’s important to choose fabrics that have the same value (lightness or darkness). This will help the quilt look unified.
To create a panel, first cut a square of fabric. Then, cut the square into quarters. Finally, cut each quarter into thirds. You should now have twelve small squares.
Next, choose two colors and place them side by side on one of the small squares. Pin them in place and sew them together using a 1/4″ seam allowance. Repeat this process with the other eleven small squares.
Now it’s time to piece your quilt top together! Arrange the twelve panels in any order you like. Sew them together, making sure to match up the seams properly.
Finally, add some borders to your quilt top if desired.
Use a variety of textures in your panel quilt.
One sure way to add interest to your panel quilt is by using a variety of textures. This can be done by incorporating different fabrics into the quilt, as well as using different stitching techniques. You can also experiment with adding embellishments, such as buttons, beads, or charms. By using a variety of textures, you’ll create a quilt that is visually appealing and unique.
In a nutshell, adding interest to your panel quilt can be done with a variety of techniques and is a great way to make it more visually appealing.