Tag Archives: free tutorial

Free Tutorial – Updated Silverware Rolls

Posted in Finished Projects, Gift Ideas, Home Accessories, Tutorial by

I first introduced these handy little silverware rolls back in 2015. They are such a great project that I have revisited the pattern and updated the design. They are still great for picnics, family reunions and bbq’s, or just throw them in the car when you grab some take out and go to the park.

They are sized perfectly to fit plastic or regular silverware and a napkin. Make one or tuck in a paper napkin, they all work well.

These stitch up so fast that you will want to make several and give some away. My quilt guild used to hold holiday potlucks and these made perfect gifts for my quilty friends for those dinners. I love that you can just wash them up, refill and use again and again.

Materials Needed:

This will make 4 silverware rolls.

  • 5/8 yd red print fabric for outside and pocket
  • 3/8 yd blue print fabric for lining
  • 3/8 yd of batting
  • 1/4 yd Medium Weight iron-on interfacing
  • 3-4 yards of coordinating ribbon
  • Coordinating thread

Directions:

Cut

For each silverware roll (Make 4)

  • 1 — 9″ x 10″ rectangle of red print fabric for outside
  • 1 — 9″ x 10″ rectangle of batting
  • 1 — 9″ x 10″ rectangle of blue print fabric for lining
  • 1 — 10″ x 10″ rectangle of red print fabric for pocket
  • 1 – 4 1/2″ x 10″ rectangle of interfacing
  • 22″ of ribbon for the tie

Stitch

  1. Take the 10″ x 10″ pocket and fold in half and press flat.
  2. Place the strip of interfacing inside and press.
  3. Top stitch the top of the pocket at the fold stitching two lines, 1/8″ and 3/8″ away from the fold.



  4. Layer the batting, the lining and the pocket all facing up as shown.



  5. From the left side of the pocket, measure 2 inches, 3 1/2″ and 5″ at the top and bottom of the pocket.  These will mark the stitch lines to make the channels for the silverware.
  6. Stitch down from the markings on the pocket to make the silverware channels.  You will have three stitch lines.  Do a couple of back stitches at the top to secure the channels.



  7. Next, take your 22 inch ribbon and fold almost in half leaving one end about one inch longer than the other.  Pin the ribbon flat on the right side of the pocket about halfway down the side of the roll.  Make sure that you will catch the ribbon when you stitch the side seam.  Tuck the ends out of the way so that you do not catch them in the side seams.


  8. Layer the rectangle from the print fabric over the pocket, right sides together and pin in place.
  9. With a 1/4″ seam, stitch all the way around the roll leaving an opening for turning on the bottom.  Clip corners.

  10. Turn the roll right side out and tuck in the raw edges on the opening.  Iron the silverware roll flat.


  11. Top stitch close to the edge of the roll all the way around being sure to catch the edges of the opening and sew them shut.


  12. Your first silverware roll is completed, now just make three more!  These really do stitch up fast, sew them assembly line style! To store, just roll them up and tie with the ribbon.

Free Tutorial – Goose Trot Quilt designed in EQ8, Cut with AccuQuilt

Posted in accuquilt, EQ8, Finished Projects, Gift Ideas, Home Accessories by

This is my son Colin’s quilt.  It is called Goose Trot.  I wanted something to give him for his tiny house to make it a bit cozier.  I also knew I wanted to try my new AccuQuilt GO! 12″ Qube dies with my AccuQuilt GO! Cutter and use some fabrics from my stash to make it scrappy.  This is the design that I came up with and I really think he will like it.

It is made with this simple four patch block I designed.  I just rotated the block to create the overall design.

Here is the full design of the quilt.  If you want to design it with EQ8, you can find a design tutorial on my EQ8 Lessons with Lori Blog post over at Electric Quilt HERE

Goose Trot Quilt

Finished size is 51″ x 60″

Finished block size is 12″

Materials

  • 2 yd assorted blue and gray fabrics for geese
  • 1/2 yd light blue solid
  • 1 3/4 yd light gray print for vertical strips
  • 1/2 yd for binding
  • 4 yd Backing
  • 4 yd Batting

Directions

Please note:  This assumes you will be using your AccuQuilt GO! 12″ Qube and die cutter to cut out the quilt.  There is enough fabric to cut the traditional method.  See tip at end of tutorial.

Dies used in this design:

  • GO! Square-6 1/2″ (6″ Finished) (55000)
  • GO! Quarter Square Triangle-6″ Finished Square (55726)
  • GO! Half Square Triangle-3″ Finished Square (55703)
  • GO! Strip Cutter – 2 1/4″ (1 3/4 ” Finished) (55053)

Cut Fabric:

Assorted blue and gray fabrics.  I mixed half and half blue and grey fabrics, using light and darks for interest.   I wanted to use up a bunch of scraps and this was the perfect way to do that.  You just have to count as you go so you have enough pieces of each shape.

Using 7 3/4″ strips of fabrics to cut Number 4 shape (6″ finished Quarter Square Triangle), CUT

  • 30 – Assorted blue Number 4’s
  • 30 – Assorted Gray Number 4’s

Using 4 3/4″ strips of fabrics to cut Number 5 shape (3″ finished Half Square Triangle), CUT

  • 60 – Assorted blue Number 5’s
  • 60 – Assorted Gray Number 5’s

Light Blue Solid

  • Using 2 – 7″ x WOF strips of fabric to cut Number 1 shape (6″ Square), CUT
    • 10 –  Number 1’s

Light Grey Print

  • 3 — 9 1/2 ” x 60 ” strips

Binding

  • 6 — 2 1/4″ x  WOF strips for binding

Assemble the blocks

Begin by making 60 sets of Flying Geese.  I alternated using the greys and blues.

Then join two geese together and make 30 sets of these.

Then arrange your flying geese blocks with your light solid blue squares into a 12 ” block.  I actually arranged the whole strip before I assembled the blocks to make sure they were scrappy and to spread around the different prints.  There are five complete 12″ blocks in a strip.

Assemble the Quilt

Once you have your blocks together and arranged, add your light grey print strips to complete the quilt top.

Finish the Quilt

  1. Create a quilt sandwich with the backing, batting and pieced quilt top.
  2. Baste the quilt layers together.  Quilt as desired.
  3. Add binding and finish.

Here is my quilt sandwich, pin basted and ready for quilting.  Notice my helper, Cookie cat in the window seat.

I like to hand bind my quilts most of the time.  I just watch a little TV and stitch away.  I used the solid light blue for my binding.

For traditional cutting, you can try these charts.

NEW PRODUCTS for EQ8 and ACCUQUILT GO! QUBE

If you like designing quilts with EQ8 and then cutting them out with your Accuquilt GO! Qube, you might want to check out my new EQ8 block libraries for Accuquilt.

I have created EQ8 Block Library files for each of the 216 blocks shared by AccuQuilt to go with their GO! Qube dies and companion dies.  There are currently available in all the block sizes. 

Learn More

You can find a variety of EQ8 Block Library files and my original patterns in my Shop.

Shop Now

Were you inspired to try this quilt?  Be sure to let me know your thoughts in the comments and share pictures with me on social media on Facebook or  Instagram.  Be sure to hashtag #LoriMillerDesigns so I see it!  And don’t forget to sign up for my blog updates to you get ideas like these right to your inbox.

Looking for the EQ8 Design Instructions?  You can find them HERE

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ8, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ8 Lessons with Lori.

For more information on EQ8, go to Electric Quilt 8 Software.

Free Tutorial – Make an Envelope Back for your Pillow

Posted in Finished Projects, Gift Ideas, Home Accessories by

I really enjoy making throw pillow covers that I can remove and easily wash.  You will find a lot of seasonal quilted pillow covers in my house, they are a quick project and I get to see something from my efforts pretty quickly.  I have found that an envelope style back allows me to slip them on the pillow forms without any buttons or velcro.

The fronts of the pillows are pieced and quilted with a binding finish.

It doesn’t matter the size of the pillow, I make an envelope back.  The shots above are from my Nautical Bench pillow.

Flip them over to the back and you can see has the overlapping envelope back.

Here are my recent pillows for my son’s tiny house.  The envelope back means he can just pull them off and wash them.

This is just a great way to brighten up your decor by just changing out your pillow or cushion covers.

Here is how I create my Envelope backs.

I have found that there are two ways to make your pillow cover with the envelope back.  My favorite style is to finish the edges of the pillow with a binding.  The other style just involves sewing around the front and back with a seam on the inside of the pillow.  The pictures I have show mostly the binding edge style.  For the envelope back, I like to overlap top to bottom and my diagrams will reflect that.  You mix it up however you like them.

Determine how large to make the pieces for the Envelope.

  1. Measure your pillow’s width and length to start.
    • We are going to cut two pieces and use one for each side of the envelope.  I use a piece of fabric folded in half.  Here is how to figure out what size of rectangle is needed for the two envelope pieces.  This assumes we are overlapping top to bottom.  I like it to overlap at least 2 – 2.5″ on each side of the center and that is why we are adding the extra 5″.
  2. For the width of the two pieces, use the width of your pillow + 1″
  3. For the length of the envelope, use the length of your pillow + 5″.
  4. For example, we will use 18″ x 18″ pillow.
    • For the width, use  18″ + 1″ = 19″
    • For the length, use 18″ + 5″ = 23″
  5. You will then cut two rectangle pieces 19″ x 23″.

Prepare the Pillow Envelope backs

  1. Fold the envelope rectangles in half crosswise, wrong sides facing, keeping the width and press.
  2. Add interfacing inside the fold.
    • I like to take a 1 inch strip of medium weight interfacing and nestle it into the fold and press it in.
  3. Topstitch about 3/8″  to 1/2″ away from the fold to hold it in place.
    • This will help keep this edge from wrinkling in the wash.pillow-back
  4. Overlap the pressed folded edges making a square the same size as the pillow top.
    • Make sure they are overlapped top to bottom how you want them to show on the outside of the pillow.
  5. Baste the overlapped edges to hold in place about 1/8″ from the edges of the overlap.

Finish the Pillow Cover

Style 1 – Bind the Edges of the Cover

  1. Place the quilted pillow top and the overlapped backing together with wrong sides facing.  Baste around the pillow top 1/8: from the outer edge.
  2. Stitch your binding in place and complete binding using your favorite method.
  3. Slip your pillow form inside.

Style 2 – Sew Seam inside the Pillow Cover

  1. Place the quilted pillow top and the overlapped backing together with right sides facing.
  2. Stitch around the outer edge with 1/4″ seam allowance.
  3. Turn the Cover right side out using the opening in the overlapped envelope back.
  4. Slip your pillow form inside.

I hope these directions help you make lots of fun quilted pillow covers!

Tag me on Facebook or Instagram @lorimillerdesigns, I would love to see what you have created.

Free Tutorial – Anchor’s Away Quilt

Posted in Uncategorized by

Summer’s not over yet!  Make this fun nautical themed throw for your lake house, cottage or just to get in the summer livin’ frame of mind!  This is another design made with EQ8.  For this quilt, you can create those 45 degree diamonds in the interesting inset with a template or with careful rotary cutting OR you can use your Accuquilt GO and the 2 1/2″ strip cutter to whip them out in a flash.

Dies used in this design:

Anchors Away Quilt

Finished size is 48 1/2″ by 60 1/2″”

Materials

  • 2 yd Blue solid
  • 1 yd Red fabric for Anchor and binding
  • 7/8 yd White fabric
  • 1 yd Blue scraps (or use 4 fat quarters or 8 fat eighths)
  • 3 yd Backing fabric
  • 56″ x 68″ piece of batting
  • 1 – 14″ x 14′ light double sided fusible for Anchor applique
  • Anchor and Diamond Applique Templates

Directions

Cut Fabric:

Blue Solid

NOTE: Cut using the length of the 2 yards

  • 1 — 8 1/2″ X 60 1/2″ strip
  • 2 — 20 1/2″ x 60 1/2″ strips

Red Solid

  • 6 — 2 1/2″ X WOF strips for binding
  • 1 — 12 1/2″ square for Anchor applique

White Fabric

  • 100 — 2 1/2″ X 3 1/2′ 45 degree diamonds

Blue Fabrics

  • 100 — 2 1/2″ X 3 1/2′ 45 degree diamonds

Cutting the Diamonds

You can use the template provided to draw around and cut out the diamonds

OR

You can cut 2 1/2″ strips with a rotary cutter and then measure 3 1/2″ on the sides and use your 45 degree angle on your ruler to cut the diamonds

OR

You can use your GO! fabric cutter!

Dies used in this design:

This is the fastest and easiest way to get this done in a jiffy.  Let me show you how.

I have the Accuquilt Ready Set GO! Cutting System generously provided to me by Accuquilt.  I am an Accuquilt Go Getter and I write articles for their blog about quilting and die cutting.  You can see the system in the background of this picture.  I just pulled some blues from my stash to use in the cutter.

I like to press my fabric first for the die cutter so it is nice and smooth so i get more accurate cuts.

Next I fold or cut my fabric to best fit the die I am using, in this case, it is the GO! Strip Cutter-2½” (2″ Finished) 3 Strips Die (55014 or 55017).  When you place your fabric, make sure it is extending beyond the die cutting points.

Once your fabric is arranged, please the cutting mat over the die and fabric and insert into the machine.

Crank the handle to cut your fabric.

You get perfectly cut 2 1/2″ strips.  I used two layers of fabric, so I have six strips.  You can cut up to six layers of cotton fabric so this will work well.

Find your 45 degree line and carefully line up your strips.

When you line them up, make sure that you have the strip beyond the cutting line.

Now your diamonds are cut.  They measure 2 1/2′ x 3 1/2″.  Continue to cut your blue and white fabrics until you have the number of diamonds that you need.

This goes so fast, you will be ready to sit down and sew in no time.  Cookie Cat is helping out.  He likes to sleep in the top of my rolling cart and keep me company.

Assemble the Quilt top:

Start by sewing your diamond inset panel.

Keep in mind which way the diamonds are going for the strip, right or left.  The width of the row will be 2″ finished.  Alternate your blue fabrics with the white fabrics to assemble the striped rope inserts.  There will be nine rows of inserts.

   

In our EQ8 design, we had a repeating block showing 1/2 diamond blocks at the top and bottom. But when we combine the blocks, we can see how a full diamond is formed by the combined blocks.  We will sew using the full diamond shapes where those form.

I just string pieced the diamonds together until I had the columns completed.

I thought I would share the view out of my studio.  It is a gorgeous sunny day as I sew.

Be sure to align the points, the accurate diamonds really helps keep these together.  You will need to stitch nine columns of diamonds.  You should have 21 diamonds in a column or enough to measure 60 1/2″.  Press flat.

Once you have the diamond inset column together , sew the 8 1/2″ x 60 1/2′ blue panel strip to the left side of the insert.

Sew the 20 1/2″ x 60 1/2″ blue panel strip to the right side of the insert.

Prepare the Anchor applique.  Draw the anchor applique on the paper side of the double sided fusible.  you will need to fold it in half to match the template.  Press the fusible to the wrong side of the red fabric and cut out the Anchor.

Arrange the Anchor where you like it and then press it onto the quilt.

Using a close zig zag stitch, sew around the raw edges of the Anchor applique to secure it.

Finish the Quilt

  1. Create a quilt sandwich with the backing, batting and pieced quilt top.
  2. Baste the quilt layers together.  Quilt as desired.
  3. Add binding and finish.

Were you inspired to try this quilt?  Be sure to let me know your thoughts in the comments and share pictures with me on social media on Facebook or  Instagram.  Be sure to hashtag #LoriMillerDesigns so I see it!  And don’t forget to sign up for my blog updates to you get ideas like these right to your inbox.

Looking for the EQ8 Design Instructions?  You can find them HERE.

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ8, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ8 Lessons with Lori.

For more information on EQ8, go to Electric Quilt 8 Software.

Free tutorial – Easy St. Patrick’s Day table runner and napkins

Posted in Finished Projects, Gift Ideas, Home Accessories by

Here is a super easy to make table runner and matching napkins to celebrate St. Patrick’s day.  This easy project can be made in any fun novelty fabric.  Grab 1 ½ yards of a St Patrick’s day print and stitch this up in time for your corned beef and cabbage dinner.  This is a great practical gift idea and a perfect beginner’s project!  You will learn to sew a simple hem and stitch straight lines for the table runner and 4 napkins.

Materials:

  • 1 ½ yards of a St. Patricks day cotton print (42-45 inches wide)
  • Matching thread
  • Sewing machine
  • Pins
  • Iron and Ironing Board
  • Measuring tape or sewing gauge

Prepare the Fabric:

Prewash and dry the fabric. I threw mine in the washer on warm with a smidgen of detergent and dried it in the dryer.  This will help to pre-shrink the fabric before you sew it together and I think it washes better after use.

Next, iron any wrinkles out of the fabric so that it will lay flat to cut out your pieces.

Cut the fabric:

There is a selvage on each side of the fabric which needs to be cut off.  Evenly trim the selvages off the sides.  I usually take ½ to 1 inch off to get all of the selvage.

 

Cut the table runner 16 inches wide and the length of the fabric(approximately 54 inches).

For the napkins, cut 4 squares 13 x 13 inches.

Sew the table runner:

Starting with the ends of the runner, sew a ½ inch double hem.  Here is how:

Fold the material over, wrong sides together ½ inch.

Then fold it over ½ inch again to fold the raw edge into the inside of the fabric.  Pin the hem in place.

Place your presser foot about 1/8 inch from the edge of the fabric and carefully stitch down the hem.

Topstitch the hem with your sewing machine.  Sew as straight as you can.  I used a stitch length of 2.5mm.  I use my hands like this to guide the fabric to keep the edge of the hem next to the presser foot.  Pull the pins out as you go so you don’t have to stitch over them.  Trim your threads.

Iron the END hems flat

Now, sew a ½ inch double hem on the long sides of the table runner.

Follow the same steps as you did for the ends of the table runner, only this time you will be pinning the long sides to sew.

On these ends, backstitch 2-3 stitches when you start and end the sides to secure the thread.

Finishing the table runner

Top stitch again around the entire table runner stitching 1/8 inch away from your initial stitch line towards the outside of the table runner.

When you get to the corner, take two stitches past the intersecting stitch line and turn.  If your stitch length is 2.5 mm, it should be about the right position away from you original line again.  Stitch all the way around. Trim your threads.

Sew the napkins

Now that you have mastered the double hem, you get to try a smaller double hem on the napkins.

On opposite sides of a napkin, sew a ¼ inch double hem.  Here is how:

Fold the material over, wrong sides together 1/4 inch.

Then fold it over 1/4 inch again to fold the raw edge into the inside of the fabric. Pin the hem in place.

Place your presser foot so that you are stitching right down the middle of your folded hem.

Carefully stitch the hem with your sewing machine.  Sew as straight as you can.  I used a stitch length of 2.5mm.  Pull the pins out as you go so you don’t have to stitch over them.  Iron the end hems flat

Now, finish by sewing a 1/4 inch double hem on the remaining sides of the napkins. Follow the same steps as you did for the first two sides.

On these ends, backstitch 2-3 stitches when you start and end the sides to secure the thread.  Trim your threads.

Fold the napkin in half and then in half again and iron.  Finish the hems on the remaining napkins.

That is it, you have created a beautiful table runner and napkins all by yourself!

You will have some fabric left over, you may be able to make additional napkins or save it in your stash for another project.

Variations:  Use any holiday print or just a fun fabric design to create your table runners and napkins.  Mix and match coordinating fabric for the table runner and napkins.  Play with some decorative stitches on your sewing machine instead of just sewing a straight line for your hems.  Have some fun and see what you can create.

Happy sewing!

Free Tutorial – Pop Art Wall Quilt

Posted in EQ8, Finished Projects, Gift Ideas by

Greetings!  I am making this quilt for my son for the holiday, it is a picture of his cat, Oreo.  Being a 20 something young man, I wanted something a little more grown up but still fun.  This quilt is made by taking a picture of Oreo and editing it using EQ8 Quilt Design Software.  The edited pictures are then printed on EQ Printable Inkjet Fabric Sheets.  You can use the general tutorial with any picture of the same size but what makes it so much fun, is the ability to edit the picture to black and white and then add different background colors.  It makes this quilt reminiscent of the visual art created by Andy Warhol.  If you have not tried using the photo editing functions of the Image Worktable in EQ8, here is your chance.  Let’s make a Pop Art Wall Quilt.

Pop Art Wall Quilt

Finished size is 24″ x 30″

Materials

  • 9 —  8 1/2″ x 10 1/2″ printed fabric pictures
  • 1/4 yd black fabric for binding
  • 1 yd backing
  • 1 yd batting

Directions

Cut Fabric:

Black

  • 4 — 2 1/4″ strips

Print your edited  8″ x 10″ pictures onto Printable Fabric.  (Link for quilt design and photo editing at the end of post)  Be sure to follow manufacturer’s directions when printing.  I used EQ Printables Inkjet Fabric Sheets.  There are several types of fabric sheets to choose from.  I really like them and I use them a lot for quilt labels.  The fabric holds the color very well and is pretty soft to the touch when you wash it.  You can get more information about them HERE.

These are the sheets that I printed.  Then I trimmed them to 8 1/2″ x 10 1/2″ with a seam allowance.

I pieced them into a nine patch.  Arrange the colors how you like.

Quilt the Wall Quilt

 

 

Layer quilt top with the backing, batting and kitties quilt top.

Pin baste the quilt layers together.

Quilt as desired.  I used painters tape to mark horizontal lines and then I quilted about 1/2″ apart with my walking foot with a dark gray thread.

Then I pieced the black binding strips together and bound the quilt.  I need to make a hanging sleeve, but it is finished.

Here is a sneak peek at my work area.  As you can see, my new studio is still in progress but I just had to sew, it has been months of moving and unpacking.

Here is my original design from EQ8.  The colors are not quite as vivid when you print them on the fabric, but they are still eyecatching!

And here is the original picture of Oreo.  He had an issue with his ear, so he always has that rakish, debonair look.

Share pictures of your Pop Art Quilt!  Tag me on Facebook or Instagram @lorimillerdesigns

Looking for the EQ8 Design Instructions?  You can find them HERE!

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ8, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ8 Lessons with Lori.

For more information on EQ8, go to Electric Quilt 8 Software.

Free Tutorial – Shipmates Bench Pillow

Posted in EQ8, Finished Projects, Gift Ideas, Home Accessories by

Ahoy!  It is summer and that means sewing projects that are fun, easy and quick to stitch up.  That leaves you plenty of time to soak up the sun and play in the outdoors.  This nautical themed pillow is designed to sit on an outdoor bench or decorate a bench in your home.  It was designed with Electric Quilt 8 using a Horizontal Strip quilt layout.  With some very easy shortcut piecing and machine applique, you can make this pillow up in an afternoon.  Enjoy!

Shipmates Bench Pillow

Finished size is 16″ x 28″

Materials

  • 1/2 yd light blue fabric
  • 1/8 yd navy blue fabric
  • 1/2 white fabric
  • 1 yd backing print
  • 1/4 yd red fabric for binding
  • 1/2 yd muslin
  • 1/2 yd batting or 20″ x 32″ piece

Directions

Cut Fabric:

Light Blue

  • 1 — 16 1/2″ square
  • 2 — 4 1/2″ x 16 1/2″ rectangles

Navy Blue

  • 2 — 6 ” squares

White

  • 2 — 6 ” squares
  • 1 — 16 ” square

Red

  • 3 — 2 1/4″ x  WOF strips for binding

Printed Backing

  • 2 — 18″ x 33″ rectangles

Muslin

  • 1 — 18″ x 30″ rectangle

Batting

  • 1 — 18″ x 30″ rectangle

Water Soluble Marker or Pencil

1 — 16″ square of double sided fusible web

Anchor Template

 

 

Piece the Pillow Top

  1. Make the half square triangles to resemble a rope design.  Take the two white 6″ squares and  mark them from corner to corner.
  2. Place the white square right sides together with the navy blue 6″ squares.  Stitch 1/4″ away from each side of the diagonal marked lines.
  3. Carefully cut the squares on the diagonal lines and then in half both ways as in diagram above.  This will create 8 half square triangles for each square for a total of 16.
  4. Press the seams to the darker fabric.  Trim the blocks to 2 1/2″ square.
  5. Stitch the half square triangles together in groups of two to start, then piece them all together to form the rope strips.  I stitched both in the same directions.  Set aside.
  6. Next, print out  the anchor template and tape it together using the guidelines.  Using a light box or a window, trace the anchor outline to one side of the fusible web.  Press the fusible web according to the manufacturers instructions to the wrong side of the white fabric 16″ square.  Carefully cut out your anchor applique.  Peel off any backing.
  7. Position the anchor in the center of the 16 1/2″ light blue square.  One you have it where you like it, press the anchor onto the center of the pillow.
  8. Now applique around the outside edge of your anchor to finish the applique.  You may need to use some stabilizer underneath the design as you stitch so that the background fabric does not pucker.  Use a light tear away or other stabilizer of your choice.  I used  a zig zag stitch that was a little bit larger than a satin stitch.  For the points, I taper the stitch down before I turn.
  9. Next assemble all of the strips to create the pillow top.

Quilt the pillow top

  1. Layer pillow top with the muslin, batting and pillow top, right side up.
  2. Pin baste the quilt layers together.
  3. Quilt as desired.  I used painters tape to mark diagonal lines and then I quilted straight lines diagonally.  Trim the pillow top to 16 1/2″ x 28 1/2″.  It might be slightly smaller depending on how much quilting you did. 

Finish the Pillow

  1. Fold each 18 ” x 33″ background print rectangle in half, wrong sides together, to form two 18″ x 16 1/2″ rectangles. Press.
  2. Top stitch along the folded edge of the pillow about 1/2″ away from the fold.
  3. Place the quilted pillow top, right side down.pillow-back
  4. Place two folded rectangles over each pillow, overlapping the folded edges in the center by about 4″.
  5.  Baste 1/8″ along the outside of the layers.  Trim.  Don’t you love this cute print that matches the applique so perfectly?  I found it in my stash.
  6.  Bind with the red binding strips.
  7.  Finish by inserting a pillow form through the opening.

 

I would love to see pictures of your Shipmates pillows!  Tag me on Facebook or Instagram @lorimillerdesigns

Looking for the EQ8 Design Instructions?  You can find them HERE!

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ8, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ8 Lessons with Lori.

For more information on EQ8, go to Electric Quilt 8 Software.

Free Tutorial: Stardrop Table Topper

Posted in EQ8, Finished Projects, Home Accessories by

This fun Octagon shaped Stardrop Table Topper was designed with EQ8 Quilt Design Software by The Electric Quilt Company .  This tutorial takes that design and gives you the information to make it yourself.  This is a very easy beginner foundation pieced mini quilt but it is helpful to have some basic knowledge of paper piecing.  you will assemble eight units to combine to create the top of this little quilt.  I made this with gradations of aqua and teal solid cotton fabrics and the background is a lovely linen.  This is the perfect base for your table centerpiece.

Stardrop Table Topper

Finished size is approximately 24″ x 24″

Materials

  • 1/8 yd of light aqua cotton
  • 1/8 yd of medium aqua cotton
  • 1/8 yd of teal cotton
  • 1 yd for background, backing and binding
  • 28″ square piece of batting
  • Stardrop Template 1 Updated 2022
  • Stardrop Template 2
  • 16 sheets of Foundation Paper or Quilters Newsprint

Directions

Cut Fabric:

From light aqua, cut:

  • 8 — 4 1/2 ” x 5″ rectangles

From medium aqua, cut:

  • 8 — 5″ x 7″ rectangles

From dark teal, cut:

  • 8 — 5″ x 10″ rectangles

From the dark linen, cut:

  • 1 – 28″ square for the backing
  • 16 — 2 1/2″ x 6″ rectangles for top template background
  • 16 — 3″ x 7″ rectangles for bottom template background
  • 8 — 2″ x 11″ strips for bottom template background
  • 95″ x 2 1/4″ strips for binding (can be pieced together)

Paperpiecing

  1. Use a pencil to trace the foundation pattern once onto a lightweight copy or foundation piecing paper of your choice.  I used EQ Printables Foundation sheets for this project generously provided by EQ.
  1. Use a very short machine stitch, I use 1.8 mm so the paper will tear off easily later.
  1. To foundation paper piece, stitch fabric pieces to a foundation paper with the marked side of the paper facing up and the fabric pieces layered underneath. The resulting pieced unit is a mirror image of the foundation paper.

  1. Using the larger template and starting in the number order, place the first two fabric pieces, RST, on the back side of the foundation paper with the edges of the fabrics extending ¼” beyond the first stitching line. The first stitching line is between section A1 and A2.
  1. Holding the pieces in place, stitch from the top side on the line between the two areas, starting and stopping just past the seam allowances.
  2. Above,  you see the back side of the pieces we just stitched.
  3. Flip the piece back over and fold the paper back on the line you just sewed.
  4. Using a ruler, trim the seam to 1/4″. Be careful not to cut through your paper template.
  5. Fold the paper back and flip it over again.
  6. Open out the piece and press the seam. The right sides of the fabrics will show on the back side of the paper template.
  7. Continue to add pieces in order step by step until you have finished the bottom template.
  8. Trim the bottom template around the outside seam allowance on the paper.
  9. Use the same method to sew the top template pieces.
  10. Carefully sew the top and bottom foundation templates together.  You should have a total of 8 triangle shapes.
  11. Sew together the paper pieced shapes, two at a time, aligning seams and points.
  12. Then stitch together the pieces to form two halves.  Now you can sew together the two halves, aligning the center points and seams.
  13. Carefully tear off the foundation pattern when you have finished the block

Assemble the Stardrop Table Topper

  1. Make a quilt sandwich with the quilt top, batting and backing.
  2. Baste the quilt layers together.
  3. Quilt as desired.  I used some free motion feathers and leafy motifs in the triangles.
  4. Sew the 2 1/4″ strips together for the binding and add to the quilt.  You are finished!

I would love to see your Stardrop Table Topper Quilt, tag me on instagram @lorimillerdesigns.

Looking for the EQ8 Design Instructions?  This quilt was designed in two parts, follow the links below:

EQ8 Stardropper Table Topper Design – Part 1

EQ8 Stardropper Table Topper Design – Part 2

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ8, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ8 Lessons with Lori.

For more information on EQ8, go to Electric Quilt 8 Software.

Free Tutorial – Fiesta Quilt

Posted in EQ Mini, Finished Projects, Home Accessories by

Lets have a party before summer ends with this fun and cheery Fiesta Quilt!  My next tutorial is a quilt designed with EQ  Software by The Electric Quilt Company .  It uses a simple Horizontal layout with only one block.  The large 12 inch block shows off some lovely Joel Dewberry prints that I picked up from Crimson Tate at Quiltcon this year.  If you have a stack of fat quarters that you have been wanting to use, this quilt makes two blocks from each fat quarter with a single background color.  All of the varied colors give a scrappy look, so you could certainly use whatever fun fabrics you have on hand.

eqmini-nohole-sm-226x300

EQ Mini is a scaled down, simpler version of EQ7 quilt design software.  This program was created for quilters who are just getting started using software for quilt design.  EQ Mini will help you create, edit, share, and print patterns and yardage for your quilt designs.

When I designed this little quilt, I used a simple horizontal layout using just one block called the Economy Block.  I wanted a large block to show off the fabric prints that I had so I made the blocks 12 inches square.  It worked out that I could get two blocks made from each fat quarter with a little to spare.  I kept playing with the sizes of the blocks in the software to try and use as much of a fat quarter as I could.  The software lets you print how much fabric is required for a block so you can play with the sizes until it matches what fabric you have on hand.

Fiesta Quilt

Finished size is approximately 48″ x 72″

Materials

  • 12 pack of coordinating fat quarters
  • 2  1/8 yds  white fabric for the background
  • 3 yds for backing
  • 1/2 yd  blue solid for binding
  • 54″ x 80″ piece of batting

Directions

Cut Fabric:

From white background, cut:

  • 96 — 3 1/2″ squares
  • 24 — 7 1/4″ squares

From each fat quarter, cut:

  • 2 — 6 1/2″ squares
  • 8 — 3 7/8″ squares

From the binding fabric, cut:

  • 6 — 2 1/4″ strips x WOF

Make the Economy Block

  1. This block contains 4 flying geese components and there is a great way to make 4 matching flying geese.
  2. On the back side of each 3 7/8″ print square, mark a line diagonally through the center of opposite corners.
  3. Place two print squares diagonally, right sides together (RST) over one of the 7 1/4″ white background squares.  The print squares will slightly overlap. Stitch 1/4″ away from each side of the marked center line.
  4. Carefully cut between the two lines of stitching.
  5. Press towards the small print squares.
  6. Place two 3 7/8″ print squares, RST, over the two triangle units.  Stitch 1/4″ away from each side of the marked center line.
  7. Carefully cut between the two lines of stitching.
  8. Press towards the small print squares.  You will have 4 identical flying geese.

  9. Once the geese are assembled, layout all of the pieces of the block.
  10. Stitch together in rows.
  11. Trim the blocks carefully to 12 1/2″ x 12 1/2″ square.

Assemble the Fiesta Quilt top

  1. Layout your blocks in a pleasing arrangement.  You have two of each block but you can randomly lay them out.  I used this fancy design wall, ok, well it is really my bed up at the cottage.
  2. I sewed them in group of four and then put them all together.
  3. Piece together the backing so that it is about 4 inches larger than the quilt top all around.
  4. Make a quilt sandwich with the quilt top, batting and backing.
  5. Pin baste the quilt layers together.
  6. Quilt as desired.  I used an all over swirly pattern.
  7. Sew the 2 1/4″ strips together for the binding and add to the quilt.  You are finished! Time to Fiesta!


Use that fat quarter bundle from your stash or cut up some colorful scraps for this quilt.   I would love to see your Fiesta Quilt, tag me on instagram @lorimillerdesigns.

Looking for the EQ Mini Design Instructions?  You can find them HERE!

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ Mini, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ Mini Friday Fun.

For more information on EQ Mini software, go to EQ Mini.

Free Tutorial – Summer Flora Quilted Tote

Posted in EQ Mini, Finished Projects, Gift Ideas by

Its July and summer is in full swing.  I couldn’t resist making this bright and cheery Summer Flora Tote.  It’s perfect to take to the beach, fill  up with a sewing project to work on or just tote all of your goodies in style.  This Summer Flora Tote was designed with EQ Mini Software by The Electric Quilt Company .  It uses a simple Horizontal strip layout with a couple of applique quilt block designs that will end up as the feature on each side of the tote.  Stitched in lots of bright summer colors, it reminds me of all of the flowers blooming this time of year.  Finish up this simple design with simple quilting and a fun handle.

eqmini-nohole-sm-226x300

EQ Mini is a scaled down, simpler version of EQ7 quilt design software.  This program was created for quilters who are just getting started using software for quilt design.  EQ Mini will help you create, edit, share, and print patterns and yardage for your quilt designs.

When I designed this little quilt, I used a simple horizontal strip layout with borders.  I just added two quilt blocks that when assembled would become the sides of the tote.

Summer Flora Quilted Tote

Finished size is approximately 14″ W x 14 1/2″ T x 5″ D

Materials

  • 1 pack of 5″ charm squares or at least 28 – 5″ squares (I used some Bali Snaps by Hoffman Fabrics)
  • 1/8 yd of bright green solid
  • 1  1/4 yd Grey Linen
  • 1  1/4 yd of coordinating print for lining
  • 1  1/2 yd of  muslin for backing
  • 1 1/2 yd of Fusible Web (like Pellon 805 Wonder Under or Pellon Lite EZ Steam II)
  • 20″ x 49″ piece of Pellon FF77 Flex Foam
  • 4 – 1″ D rings
  • 2 handles with lobster clips
  • Summer Flora Tote Templates

Directions

Cut Fabric:

From bright green solid, cut a 6″ x 10″ rectangle

From Grey Linen, cut:

  • 1 — 5 1/2″ x 14 1/2″ strip
  • 2 — 3 1/2″ x 33 1/2″ strips
  • 2 — 14 1/2″ x 14 1/2″ squares
  • 2 — 3 1/2″ x 19 1/2″ strips
  • 4 – 2″ x 4″ strips for handle tabs

From lining fabric

  • 1 — 18 1/2″  x 36″ rectangle

From fusible web, cut:

  • 28 — 4 1/2″ squares
  • 1 — 5 1/2″ x 9 1/2″ rectangle

Make the Applique Blocks

  1. Download and print out the Summer Flora Tote Templates.  If you plan on machine appliqueing the stems and leaves, you can cut off the outside seam allowance before tracing the templates.
  2. Press the large piece of fusible web to the wrong side of the bright green stem rectangle.
  3. Using the stem template A, trace and cut out 8 stems.
  4. Press the 4 1/2″ fusible web to the wrong side of 28 – 5″ charm squares.
  5. Using the leaf template B, trace 2 leaves onto each charm square and cut them out.
  6. Using the block diagram as a visual guide, arrange the stems and leaves on each of the 14 1/2″ linen squares.
  7. I folded and pressed the squares diagonally to get guidelines to use.
  8. Once you have the arranged the leaves and have the design how you like it, set aside the leaves at the top of the stems and press the remaining stems and leaves onto the linen square.
  9. Using a small zigzag stitch, applique around the stems and leaves.  I used a length of .9 mm and a stitch width of 2.5 mm.
  10. Hint, when you are machine applique stitching the points of the leaves, narrow the stitch width to 2.0 mm just at the points.
  11. Once you have appliqued the stems and leaves, arrange the leaves on the top of the stems and press down.
  12. Machine applique the remaining leaves.

Assemble the Tote top

  1. Sew the 5 1/2″ x 14 1/2″ linen center strip between the two appliqued squares.  Press to one side and top stitch if desired.
  2. Sew the 3 1/2″ x 33 1/2″ strips to each side of the applique unit.  Press to one side and top stitch if desired.
  3. Prepare the loops for the handles.  Fold in half  the long way and press a crease.  Open back up and fold each raw edge to the center.  Topstitch close to the folded edges.  Topstitch on the other side to match.
  4. Slide the d ring over the strip and fold in half.  Position the d ring and strip 6″ from the edge of the tote and baste into the seam.  Repeat for the 3 other loops.
  5. Sew the 3 1/2 ” x 20 1/2″ linen strips to the top and bottom of the applique unit.  Press to one side.  Topstitch close to the seam.
  6. Mark the quilt top if you want to quilt the 2 ” diamond pattern like I did.  I used a washable white marking pen.
  7. Make a quilt sandwich with the muslin, flex foam and the top applique unit.
  8. Pin baste the quilt layers together.
  9. Quilt as desired.

Finish the tote

  1. Trim tote to 19 1/2″ x 39 1/2″.  Only on the top ends of the tote, trim the flex foam to be 1 inch shorter than the outside of the tote.  You will be folding the top of the tote down into the inside over the flex foam.
  2. Fold the tote in half, right sides together (RST) and pin aligning seams.
  3. Stitch the sides and bottom of the tote.
  4. Box each corner and measure up 2 1/2″ from the point and stitch across the tote a 5″ long seam.  Trim seam.
  5. Fold the lining in half, RST and stitch the sides and bottom of the lining leaving an opening for turning on the side of the tote.
  6. Box each corner of the lining by measuring up 2 1/2 inches from the point and stitching across the lining corner with a 5 ” seam.  Turn the lining right side out.
  7. Tuck the lining into the tote with RST.  Pin aligning the seams.  Stitch around the top of the tote.
  8. Pull the tote right side out through the opening in the lining.
  9. Push the lining down into the tote.  The lining is shorter, so the top of the tote should fold down  to the inside of the tote about an inch or so.  Pin in place.  Top stitch along the edge of the top of the tote and again 1/4″ away.
  10. Tack the lining to the bottom sides of the tote from the inside.
  11. Attach your handles.

Use a favorite charm pack or cut up some colorful scraps for this tote.   Choose another favorite applique block or pieced block for the tote sides.  I would love to see your Summer Flora Tote, tag me on instagram @lorimillerdesigns.

Looking for the EQ Mini Design Instructions?  You can find them HERE.

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ Mini, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ Mini Friday Fun.

For more information on EQ Mini software, go to EQ Mini.

Free Tutorial – Americana Placemat

Posted in EQ Mini, Finished Projects, Gift Ideas, Home Accessories by

For this month’s free tutorial project, we are sticking with a mini approach.  This striking design is for a patriotic placemat which certainly qualifies as a mini quilt.  This placemat was designed with EQ Mini Software by The Electric Quilt Company .  It uses a Vertical strip layout and a traditional Ohio Star block to create a winning red, white and blue design.  Stitch up as many as you need for your holiday celebrations or just make one for a cute centerpiece design.

eqmini-nohole-sm-226x300

EQ Mini is a scaled down, simpler version of EQ7 quilt design software.  This program was created for quilters who are just getting started using software for quilt design.  EQ Mini will help you create, edit, share, and print patterns and yardage for your quilt designs.

When I designed this little quilt, I used a vertical strip layout with two strips.  Each strip uses a pieced row of blocks.

Americana Placemat

Finished size is 14″ x 17″.

Materials

This will make one placemat.

  • 1/4 yd Red
  • 1/4  yd White
  • 1/4 yd Blue
  • 1/4 yd for binding
  • 1/2 yd for backing
  • 16″ x 20″  piece of batting

Directions

Cut Fabric:

From red fabric, cut:

  • 3 — 3 1/4″ x 12 1/2″ strips

From white fabric, cut:

  • 2 — 3 1/4″ x 12 1/2″ strips
  • 3 — 2″ squares
  • 6 — 3″ squares

From blue fabric, cut:

  • 12 — 2″ squares
  • 6 — 3″ squares

From binding fabric, cut:

  • 2 — 2 1/4 ” x WOF strips  for binding

From backing fabric, cut:

  • 1 — 16″ x 20″ rectangle

Make Ohio Star Blocks

  1. You will make three Ohio Star blocks for each Americana Placemat.
  2. Start with quarter square triangle units.
  3. Mark a line on the wrong side of the 3″ white fabric squares diagonally from corner to corner.
  4. Place the marked white fabric square right sides together (RST) with a 3″ blue fabric square.
  5. Sew two seams, each 1/4″ away from the center marked diagonal line.
  6. Cut along the marked line to separate the half square triangles.  Press seams to the darker fabric.
  7. Mark a line on the wrong side of one of the half square triangles.
  8. Pair the half square triangles, RST. with opposite fabrics facing each other.
  9. Sew two seams, each 1/4″ away from the center marked diagonal line.
  10. Cut along the marked line to separate the now quarter square triangles.  Press seams open.
  11. Make a total of 12 quarter square triangles.
  12. Trim the quarter square triangles to 2″ square.
  13. Arrange the parts of the Ohio Square block and stitch together.
  14. Sew the three stars together for the left side of the placemat.  Sew the red and white strips together for the right side of the placemat and then join them together.
    Note:  I rounded up some of the numbers to 1/4 inches so you may have to adjust a bit to match up the stars with the stripes.  I did not want you to have to work with sixteenths of inches.
  15. Make a quilt sandwich with the backing face down, then the batting, then your quilt top face up.
  16. Pin baste the quilt layers together.
  17. Quilt as desired.  I stitched some fun loops in the red and white strips.
  18. Sew the 2 1/4″ binding strips together and add to the quilt.
  19. Finish the binding and you are done!

This is a fun placemat to make.  Take your time with the Ohio stars so you can really line up the points.  Share your pictures of the Americana placemat, tag me on instagram @lorimillerdesigns.

Looking for the EQ Mini Design Instructions?  You can find them HERE.

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ Mini, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ Mini Friday Fun.

For more information on EQ Mini software, go to EQ Mini.

Free Tutorial – Lucky Shamrock Pillows

Posted in EQ Mini, Finished Projects, Home Accessories by

I am feeling lucky!  I have two new lovely Shamrock Pillows to decorate for St. Patrick’s Day all designed with EQ Mini Quilt Design Software by The Electric Quilt Company.  For these pillows I used the pieced Shamrock quilt block, but used two different sizes and some sashing.  These pillows finish at 18″ square.  I used my favorite technique which is to quilt the top and use an envelope back and then bind all around the pillow.  Then I just have a bunch of pillow covers that I can change out with my very neutral grey couch.  I love it!

eqmini-nohole-sm-226x300

EQ Mini is the new scaled down, simpler version of EQ7 quilt design software.  This program was created for quilters who are just getting started using software for quilt design.  EQ Mini will help you create, edit, share, and print patterns and yardage for your quilt designs.

Lucky Shamrock Pillows

Finished size is 18″ square

Materials

  • 1/2 yd green plaid
  • 1/2 yd linen for background
  • 1  1/2 yd shamrock print
  • 5/8 yd muslin
  • 5/8 yd batting

Directions

Cut Fabric:

Green Plaid

  • 4 — 7 1/2″ squares (A)
  • 16 — 3 1/2″ x squares (E)
  • 4 — 2 1/2″ x  WOF strips for binding

Linen

  • 12 — 2 1/2″ x squares (B)
  • 5 — 2 1/2″ x 14 1/2″ strips (C)
  • 4 — 2 1/2″ x 18 1/2″ strips (D)
  • 48 — 1 1/2″ squares (F)
  • 2 — 2 1/2″ x 6 1/2″ strips (G)

Shamrock Print

  • 4 — 18 1/2″ x 24″ rectangles

Muslin

  • 2 — 19″ squares

Batting

  •  2 — 19″ squares

 

Piece the large Shamrock Pillow

  1. Place a 2 1/2″ linen square (B) on a corner of a large shamrock leaf (A).  Sew a diagonal corner.  Mark a diagonal line onto the wrong side of the square with a pencil or water soluble marker.  With right sides together (RST), stitch the square onto the leaf on the marked diagonal line. Trim the excess to a 1/4″ seam allowance.  Press seam to the darker fabric side.
  2. Sew a diagonal corner to 3 of the corners on each of the four large shamrock leaves.
  3. Sew the four leaves together to form the shamrock matching the seams.
    large-shamrock
  4. Add the outside border by sewing two 14 1/2″ linen strips (C) to the side of the shamrock.  Sew two 18 1/2″ linen strips (d) to the top and bottom of the shamrock.  Set aside.

 

Piece the smaller shamrocks pillow

  1. Place a 1 1/2″ linen square (F) on a corner of a small shamrock leaf (E).  Sew a diagonal corner using the same instructions as for the larger shamrock.
  2. Sew a diagonal corner on 3  corners of each small shamrock leaf (16 total leaves)
  3. Sew four leaves together as shown to form a shamrock matching the seams.  Repeat for the other 3 small shamrocks.
    small-shamrock
  4. Sew the sashing.  Stitch a 6 1/2″ linen strip (G) between two small shamrocks.  Repeat for remaining two small shamrocks.
  5. Sew a 14 1/2″ linen strip (C) in the center of the pillow to join the two shamrock panels.  Sew a 14 1/2″ linen strip (C) to each side of the shamrocks.
  6. Sew an 18 1/2″ linen strip (D) to the top and bottom of the pillow.

Hint: If you used linen, baste very close to the outside edge of the pillow top to keep the linen from fraying.

Quilt the top side of the pillows

  1. Layer pillow top with the muslin, batting and pillow top, right side up.
  2. Pin baste the quilt layers together.
  3. Quilt as desired.  Trim quilted pillow top to 18 1/2″ square.

Note:  I found this Celtic Shamrock design for a tattoo on the internet, it had a nice continuous design I could adapt for the quilting.  Inspiration comes from all sorts of places!

Here is the beginning of the design.

Here you can see the design on one of the little shamrocks.

And here is the design on the shamrocks with the detail on the linen as well.  The texture crinkled so well after washing.

Finish the Pillow

  1. Fold each 18 1/2″ x 24″ rectangle in half, wrong sides together, to form four 12″ x 18 1/2″ rectangles. Press.
  2. Top stitch along the folded edge of the pillow about 1/2″ away from the fold.
  3. Place the quilted pillow top, right side down.
    pillow-back
  4. Place two folded rectangles over each pillow, overlapping the folded edges in the center by about 4″.
  5. Baste 1/8″ along the outside of the layers.
  6. Bind with the green plaid binding strips.
  7. Insert a pillow form through the opening.

.shamrock-pillow-2   shamrock-pillow-1

Here are pictures from EQ Mini of my quilt design.

Show me pictures of your lucky pillows!  Tag me on Facebook or Instagram @lorimillerdesigns

Looking for the EQ Mini Design Instructions?  You can find them HERE!

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ Mini, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ Mini Friday Fun.


For more information on EQ Mini software, go to EQ Mini.

Free Tutorial – Sweetheart Quilted Zip Pouch

Posted in EQ Mini, Finished Projects, Gift Ideas by

Love is all around.  The free tutorial for this month designed with EQ Mini Software by The Electric Quilt Company is a lovely, Sweetheart Zip Pouch.  Yes, you can design lots of quilty things with EQ Mini, even a pouch!  This uses a horizontal row quilt as a base but we sized it down to pouch size and added some half drop blocks with a center heart.  The heart block is one of the free blocks that comes with EQ Mini.  This generous pouch is sized 8″ x 11″ and is ready for you to fill with all your Valentine goodies.  A whole bag of chocolate would fit in there! The zipper is super easy to put in too, I promise.

eqmini-nohole-sm-226x300

EQ Mini is the new scaled down, simpler version of EQ7 quilt design software.  This program was created for quilters who are just getting started using software for quilt design.  EQ Mini will help you create, edit, share, and print patterns and yardage for your quilt designs.

Sweetheart Quilted Zip Pouch

Finished size is 8″ x 11″.

Materials

  • 1/4 yd dark pink print
  • 1/8 yd of light pink print
  • 1/4 yd of grey background fabric
  • 3/8 yd Lining fabric
  • 3/8 yd batting
  • 12″ zipper

Directions

Cut Fabric:

Light Pink

  • 2 — 2 1/2″ x 3 3/4″ rectangle (A)
  • 2 — 1 1/2″ x 5 3/4″ strip (C)
  • 2 — 1 ” x 2″ zipper tab pieces

Dark Pink

  • 4 — 1 1/2″ x 5 3/4″ strip (B)
  • 2 — 2″ x 12 1/2″ strips (G)
  • 1 — 6″ x 12 1/2″ rectangle (H)

Grey Background

  • 2 — 5 ” square (D)
  • 2 — 5″ square (E)
  • 4 — 3 1/2″ x 6 1/2″ rectangles (F)

Muslin

  • 1 — 13″ x 21″ rectangle

Lining

  •  2 — 12 1/2″ x 10 1/2″ rectangles

Piece the outside of the pouch

Hint:  Because you need to match seams, be sure to keep an accurate 1/4″ seam allowance.

  1. Subcut the 5″ background squares (D), diagonally into quarters.
  2. Subcut the 3″ background squares (E), diagonally in half.
  3. Sew the quarter (D) Triangle to the right side of the light pink rectangle(A).
  4. Sew the light pink strip (C) in the center of each dark pink strip (B).
  5. Attach the top of the heart to the bottom of the heart keeping the left sides even.
  6. Sew the background triangles (E) to each side of the bottom of the heart.  Be sure to overlap at the bottom point so that you have a 1/4″ seam allowance.
  7. Now sew two of the remaining background triangle (D) pieces to the top right and left sides of the heart.  Start stitching at the top points of the heart. Press.  Discard leftover piece.
  8. Center and trim the heart block to 6 1/2″ square.
  9. Make the second heart block.
    sweetheart-pouch
  10. Sew a background rectangle (f) to each side of the heart.
  11. Sew one dark pink strip (G) to the top of each block.
  12. Sew the dark pink rectangle (H) to the bottom of one heart block.
  13. Sew the bottom of the other heart block to the other side of the dark pink rectangle (H).  One heart is facing up, one is facing down.

Quilt the outside of the Pouch

  1. Make a quilt sandwich with the muslin on the bottom, then the batting, then your pieced pouch top face up.
  2. Pin baste the quilt layers together.
  3. Quilt as desired.  Trim excess batting and muslin.
  4. Carefully cut the quilted piece in half to make two – 12 1/2″ x 10 1/2″ pieces.
  5. From the bottoms of the outside pouch pieces and the lining pieces, cut a square out of each corner that is 1 1/2″ high x 1 1/2″ wide.

Finish the pouch

  1. Fold each 1″ x 2″ zipper tab in half matching the short ends, with wrong sides together, so the tabs measure 1″ x 1″.  Press.
  2. Move zipper pull to center of zipper.  Using a ruler or cutting mat, align the tabs as shown.
  3. Open the tab and sew on the center fold through the tab and zipper, ensuring the zipper teeth at the open end are aligned together.  Backstitch again across the center through the zipper teeth to secure.  Repeat on the other end of the zipper ensuring the tab placement and measurements.
  4. Trim off any excess zipper leaving 1/4″ seam allowance.  Zipper and fabric tabs should measure 12 1/2″ long.
  5. Open the zipper half way.
  6. Place the zipper face down, right sides together, along the top edge a heart section.  Align the ends and the top of the zipper.
  7. Layer a lining piece, right side down over the zipper and pin all three layers in place.
  8. Using a zipper foot, stitch approximately 1/4″ from the edge of the zipper.  When you get to the zipper pull, stop with the needle down in the fabric.  Lift up the presser foot and gently open or close the zipper to move the zipper pull out of the way to continue sewing across the top of the pouch.
  9. Open the zipper seam and press pouch and lining away from zipper.  Top stitch through all layers of fabric close to the zipper.
  10. Repeat for the other side of the zipper.
  11. Open the zipper all the way so you will be able to turn the pouch right side out.
  12. Open the pouch and match the quilted heart sections and lining sections, right sides together.
  13. Pushing the zipper to the lining side, stitch the sides of the pouch and lining.  Stitch the bottom of the pouch.  Stitch the bottom of the lining leaving a 3-4 inch opening for turning.
  14. Pinch the bag  and lining corners aligning the seams and stitch across the opening to box the corners.
  15. Turn the bag right side out with the lining hanging out.  Tuck in the raw edges and stitch the lining closed.
  16. Tuck the lining inside the bag and you are finished.


Here you can see the fun fabric I used for the inside lining.  It was in the bargain bin off season and I snapped it up.  I think it is perfect for this little zip pouch.

Oreo decided to direct the photo shoot.  He is pretty demanding.

Variation Suggestions

 

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  • Use traditional red and white with a pink accent.
  • Try using sweet valentine seasonal prints and fill them with sweet treats and goodies.

This Sweetheart quilted Zip Pouch is so versatile.  It would certainly make the perfect gift for a dear friend or family member.  I would love to see your Sweetheart Pouch, tag me on instagram @lormillerdesigns.

Looking for the EQ Mini Design Instructions?  You can find them HERE.

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ Mini, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ Mini Friday Fun.

For more information on EQ Mini software, go to EQ Mini.

Tutorial – Holiday Table Runner

Posted in EQ Mini, Finished Projects, Gift Ideas, Home Accessories by

Here is another free tutorial for a project designed with EQ Mini Software by The Electric Quilt Company.  This Holiday Table Runner uses one of the built in blocks colored with traditional Christmas colors to create a lovely item for your home decor.

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EQ Mini is the new scaled down, simpler version of EQ7 quilt design software.  This program was created for quilters who are just getting started using software for quilt design.  EQ Mini will help you create, edit, share, and print patterns and yardage for your quilt designs.

Holiday Table Runner

Finished size is 12 1/2″ x 36 1/2″.

Materials

  • 3/8 yd white cotton
  • 1/8 yd green cotton
  • 5/8 yd red cotton for blocks and binding
  • 1/4 yd burgundy cotton
  • 1/2 yard for backing
  • 1/4 yard batting

Directions

Cut Fabric:

White cotton

  •  24 — 2  7/8 ” squares
  • 3 — 7  1/2 ” squares

Green cotton

  • 12 — 2  7/8 ″ squares

Red cotton

  • 15 — 2  7/8 ″ squares
  • 3 — 2 1/2″ x Width of Fabric strips

Burgundy cotton

  • 3 — 7 1/2 ”  squares

Background fabric

  • 1 — 14 1/2 x 38 1/2″ strip

Create the half square triangles

  • This method will create 8 half square triangles at once.
  • On the wrong side of the white 7 1/2″ square, mark the sewing and cutting lines.  Mark from corner to corner and mark half and half as shown.
  • Stitch 1/4″ away from the diagonal line, on each side of the diagonal line.  You can see the stitching in the X shape in the diagram above.
  • Cut the half square triangles apart on the marked lines.
  • Press the seams open and then square up the half square triangle blocks to measure 2 7/8″ square.

 Sew the block:

Hint:  Because you need to match seams, be sure to keep an accurate 1/4″ seam allowance and make sure blocks are square as you sew them to keep things in alignment.

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  1. Using the diagram above as a guide, arrange the pieces for your quilt block.
  2. Sew the pieces together in rows, then sew the rows together, aligning seams.
  3. Make three quilt blocks.
  4. Sew the three blocks together in a row, aligning seams to finish piecing the top of the holiday table runner.
  5. Make a quilt sandwich with the backing face down, then the batting, then your quilt top face up.
  6. Pin baste the quilt layers together.
  7. Quilt as desired.
  8. Sew the 2 1/2″ binding strips together and add to the quilt.

Variation Suggestions

  • Try some custom quilting like I did on this table runner, the smaller size makes it easy to explore free motion quilting.
    sample-runner-colors
  • Try using holiday prints or even modern colors or even a blue color scheme to really change the look but still use the same block.

This Holiday Table Runner would look great on your table or make several to give as gifts this season.  Why not look through the provided blocks in EQ Mini and find a favorite that you can turn into a table runner?  There are so many possibilities.  I would love to see pictures of your Holiday table runners.  Just tag me on instagram @lormillerdesigns.

Looking for the EQ Mini Design Instructions?  You can find them here: EQ Mini Friday Fun Holiday Table Runner.

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ Mini, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ Mini Friday Fun.

For more information on EQ Mini software, go to EQ Mini.

Stitch up some Tailgate Napkins (free tutorial)

Posted in Finished Projects, Gift Ideas, Home Accessories by
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Are you ready for some tailgating? It is football season, and the crisp air and smell of the brats on the grill are here. A little party with friends and good food is in order before the game, so make it easy and fill these cute DIY napkin pockets with silverware, and set them out for your guests. The napkins are super easy to stitch up. Then you just fold ‘em, stuff ‘em and arrange ‘em in a pretty basket or container. Clean up is a snap — just toss them in the washing machine and they are ready to go for the next game.  Below are directions on how to make the hem and how to fold the napkins to hold that silverware.

Materials required:

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  • 2 yds of a football themed cotton or a mix of your teams colors
  • Coordinating thread

Finished size: 16″ x 16″, 8″ x 8″ folded.  Makes 8 napkins.

Directions:

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  1. Cut 8 – 17 1/2″ x 17 1/2″ squares.
  2. Stitch a 1/4 inch double fold hem all around the fabric to form napkins.  Here is how to make a double fold hem.basics hem 3
  3. Fold the material over 1/4″ with wrong sides together.  Fold it over 1/4″ again to encase the raw edge inside of the hem; pin in place.basics hem 4
  4. Sew the hem about 1/8 inch from the folded edge of the fabric. Backstitch one or two stitches at each end to secure the threads. Pull out  pins as you go, so you don’t sew over them.basics hem 7
  5. Trim your threads.basics hem 8
  6. Iron the hem flat to finish.

 Here is another way that you can sew the corners on your napkins:

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Fold the corner up 1/4 inch twice.

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Then when you fold the sides, it will form a tiny miter that you can sew through.

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Here is the finish of the corner.

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I stitched the top side with red thread for a nice accent.

Here are directions on how to fold your napkins for the tailgate party.

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Iron the napkin flat, wrong side up.

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Fold the napkin in half, with the fold on the bottom.

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Bringing the left edge to the right edge, fold the napkin in half again with a fold on the left.

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The top right of the napkin will have all the corners.

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Taking the top right layer, fold down in half and iron a crease.

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Open back up and fold the corner to the crease.

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Take the folded top edge and fold down to the crease again.

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Fold the whole thing down again.

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Now, take the next top right layer and fold down the corner about an inch or so.

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Fold again two more times until it meets the first folded corner.  Iron it all flat.

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Flip over and fold over each side in thirds to form the pocket on the front side. Iron the napkin flat.

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Flip it back over and you can see the little pocket on the bottom half your napkin.

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Just tuck your silverware  into the bottom pocket. Make sure you get them in the right place or the silverware will slip out.  Pretty nifty, huh?  You can stack them in a basket or bucket for the tailgating party so everyone can grab them as they go!

Happy Tailgating!