How to Crazy Quilt
Crazy quilting has been around since the 1800s. There are no real rules, which make this type of quilting so fun. It is a great way to use up fabric pieces. The quilts can be hand or machine sewn. Beginners to advanced quilters can learn these quilting techniques. The end result can be elaborately embellished with bits of beads, buttons, ribbons and various stitches such as embroidery. This quilt style is for everyone.
- Research how to do crazy quilting. Look at other quilter’s work. Get a feel for the artistry and technique.
- Decide whether you want to try a pattern or just let the quilt take shape. For a beginner it is probably better to just patchwork as you go following a simple technique.
- Purchase enough muslin material to make the desired number of squares for your quilt. Most squares are 12 by 12 on up to 20 inches.
- Cut your muslin into the desired size squares. Cut a larger piece of desired backing fabric to match the squares allowing for seam allowances.
- Gather pieces of fabric and begin to work. There are no real rules to crazy quilting. It is best to start with straighter seams. Simply cut fabric pieces so edges line up.
- Put your first piece of fabric down right side up and stitch onto the quilt square.
- Lay next piece of fabric wrong side up over the other piece lining up edges on one side. Sew a straight seam. Seam allowances do not matter much. Just trim the excess fabric.
- Continue adding pieces around the square. Use various types of fabric. Nothing has to match though you may choose to try to blend the colors a bit.
- Keep adding to your fabric in the same fashion working outwards. When the quilt square is covered, you can add decorative touches such as buttons, ribbons or embroidery stitches.
- Begin working the next square. When all squares are finished, sew your quilt together and add backing. Bind the edges as desired.