Quilting and Patchwork

Making an Easy Denim Quilt

by Mary Emma Allen on June 7th, 2005

Simply cut squares of the desired size from denim jeans, skirts, and dresses. Try to get them all of about the same weight. For instance, it’s best not to mix heavy jeans fabric with lightweight fabric from a skirt. The lighter weight generally won’t hold up as well as the heavier.

If you’re just starting to quilt, I’d recommend cutting 7-inch squares. The smaller the square, the longer it will take you to make the quilt. However, it’s your choice.

As you lay out your 7-inch template (these can be purchased or you can make them from cardboard), see if there are interesting designs on the fabric. Including pockets, fancy stitching, and embellishments adds interest to your quilt.

Then arrange the squares on a table, bed, or the floor until you have the desired size for your quilt. If you have fabrics that are more faded than others, see if you can make an interesting pattern or design.

Next sew your squares together in rows, right sides together. Pin and stitch these rows or strips together. Once you have the top the size you’d like, coordinate or contrast it with a backing. You can fill the quilt with polyester batting or a flannel sheet. (The latter my grandmother used in her quilts.)

Cut the backing slightly larger than the top. Lay the batting on it (cut to the same size as the top). Then place the top over this. Fold up the backing over the top and pin in place to make a binding. Stitch with either plain or fancy stitching. Generally you’d tie this type of quilt instead of quilting it.

Enjoy! And let me know about your denim projects.

©2005 Mary Emma Allen

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POSTED IN: Free Quilting / Patchwork Patterns