Scrappy Bargello Quilt – A Stunning Quilt for Scrap Lovers
The Scrappy Bargello Quilt is a vibrant and dynamic quilt design that uses fabric scraps to create a flowing, wave-like pattern. Inspired by traditional Bargello needlepoint, this quilt is perfect for showcasing a variety of colors and prints while making excellent use of leftover fabric. With its mesmerizing design and straightforward construction, it’s a rewarding project for quilters of all levels.
Why Make a Scrappy Bargello Quilt?
This quilt offers an excellent opportunity to declutter your scrap bin while creating a visually stunning piece. The repetitive strip-piecing technique makes it beginner-friendly, yet the results look intricate and sophisticated.
Features of the Scrappy Bargello Quilt:
- Scrap-Friendly: Uses fabric leftovers, making it an eco-friendly project.
- Dynamic Design: The wave effect is created through strategic fabric placement.
- Customizable: Easily adjusted for size, color palette, and pattern complexity.
Materials Needed
- Fabric Scraps: Strips of various colors and prints, typically cut into uniform widths (e.g., 2.5 inches). Pre-cut strips (like jelly rolls) also work well.
- Batting: For the quilt’s middle layer.
- Backing Fabric: A coordinating fabric for the underside of the quilt.
- Thread: Neutral or coordinating thread for piecing and quilting.
- Tools: Rotary cutter, cutting mat, quilting ruler, sewing machine, and pins or clips.
Steps to Make the Scrappy Bargello Quilt
1. Prepare Your Fabric:
- Sort your fabric scraps by color or value (light to dark). This helps create the gradient effect.
- Cut the scraps into strips of equal width, typically 2.5 inches.
2. Create Strip Sets:
- Sew the fabric strips together along their long edges to form strip sets. Aim for a random or gradient arrangement.
- Press the seams open or to one side for a neat finish.
3. Form a Tube:
- Sew the first and last strips of each strip set together to create a fabric tube.
4. Cut Sub-Strips:
- Using a rotary cutter, slice the tube into sub-strips of equal width (e.g., 2.5 inches).
5. Unpick and Arrange:
- Unpick a seam in each sub-strip at different points to create a staggered effect.
- Arrange the strips on your design wall or workspace to create the desired wave pattern.
6. Sew the Strips Together:
- Sew the sub-strips together in order, matching seams carefully to maintain the pattern.
- Continue until the quilt top is complete.
7. Assemble the Quilt Sandwich:
- Layer the quilt top, batting, and backing fabric.
- Baste the layers together using safety pins, basting spray, or hand stitching.
8. Quilt the Layers:
- Quilt along the seams (stitch-in-the-ditch) or use free-motion quilting to enhance the wave effect.
- Alternatively, straight-line quilting can add a modern touch.
9. Bind the Quilt:
- Attach binding strips to the edges of the quilt. Fold over and sew in place to finish.
Tips for Success
- Keep Strips Organized: Use numbered labels or lay strips out in order to avoid confusion during assembly.
- Play with Color: Experiment with light and dark placement for dramatic effects.
- Precision Cutting: Ensure all strips and sub-strips are cut evenly for seamless piecing.
- Practice Layouts: Use a design wall or flat surface to visualize the wave pattern before sewing.
Customization Options
- Vary Strip Widths: Use strips of different widths for a more organic look.
- Change the Size: Add or reduce the number of strips to create anything from a table runner to a bed-sized quilt.
- Use Solids or Prints: Mix solids with prints for a balanced and harmonious design.
Where to Find the Pattern
Free Scrappy Bargello Quilt patterns and tutorials can be found on quilting blogs, YouTube channels, and websites like AllPeopleQuilt or Moda Fabrics.
Conclusion
The Scrappy Bargello Quilt is a stunning and satisfying project that transforms fabric scraps into a masterpiece. With its flowing wave design and endless color possibilities, this quilt is sure to captivate both makers and admirers. Dive into your scrap bin, grab your sewing machine, and start crafting your Scrappy Bargello Quilt today! 🌈✨
