Wednesday, December 30, 2020

Masterpiece Quilting's Top 5 Patterns of 2020

As 2020 is winding down, even with all the craziness the year has brought, I am taking some time to reflect on the good things that have happened.  I've sold more patterns than ever - especially pdf digital download patterns.  And the thanks goes to each of you who have purchased.  

I've been moved to tears some days when I get the unexpected DM with a photo of the quilt you made using my pattern.  Nothing makes my heart happier! 

So in true year-end countdown style, I present my Top 5 patterns for 2020 - in no particular order.  

Barn Raised Birds - If you are looking for a stash-busting quilt pattern, look no further!  This delightfully fun design uses just one block made in a variety of scrappy tones. 

PDF Digital Download Pattern

Print Pattern (shipping included) 

Oh Christmas Tree - This stunning wall hanging is the perfect compliment for your seasonal decor.  Who says you can't hang a tree on the wall?  

Print Pattern (shipping included) 

Peacock Proud - Newly released in 2020 using Island Batik's Peacock Galore collection, this quilt uses a roll of precut 2-1/2" strips and coordinating yardage to create a super stunning and surprisingly easy large throw.  



PDF Digital Download Pattern

Print Pattern (shipping included) 

Sunburst Strips & Squares - This perennial favorite has been one of my top sellers since it was released.  Just grab a roll of precut 2-1/2" strips and some coordinating yardage and you are ready to stitch. 

The cover quilt was made using Tonga Batiks from Timeless Treasures but regardless your fabric selection, this quilt looks stunning.  


PDF Digital Download Pattern

Print Pattern (shipping included) 

Lonesome Heart - This pattern just released in early December and was designed using Island Batik's new Heart to Heart collection which is arriving in stores now.  Be sure to look for the pattern and fabric at your local quilt shop or pick up the patterns in my Etsy shop.  

Finished wall hanging or small throw measures 48" square. 


I hope you have enjoyed my Top 5 Countdown.  If you aren't already on my mailing, I'd love to send you my weekly Masterpiece Quilting Studio News.  It's a quick read of new pattern releases and quilting tips.  You can subscribe here.   


Happy New Year! 

Monday, December 28, 2020

Quick and Easy Patterns for Relaxed Quilting

Are you ready for some sewing time when you can create without worrying about every stitch being exactly perfect?  Many times quilters think that patterns have to be complex to look great and that is so far from the truth. With all the rush of the holidays I know I'm ready for some simple yet stunning quilt making.    

I have 3 patterns to recommend that are perfect for relaxed and easy piecing.  All feature straight seams which makes the assembly amazingly simple.  

These quilt designs are also great if you are helping someone learn how to quilt or improve their quilting skills and confidence.  


Peacock Proud has been a popular pattern this year.  My version is made with Island Batik fabrics.  It uses a roll of precut 2-1/2" strips and some coordinating yardage.  

The pattern is available as both print (shipping included) and pdf digital download versions.


Black & White Express is the perfect pattern for showcasing pretty fabrics.  From the photos you can see how the look of the quilt changes as the fabric changes.  I made this scrappy version using Island Batik fabrics. 


The original version is more contemporary in black, grays and red.  Pick your favorite colorway and stitch away. 

The pattern is available in both print (shipping included) and pdf digital download versions. 

Stacked Deck is designed for precut 10" squares so it has both a scrappy yet coordinated look.  My version is made using Island Batik fabrics and captures the winter sky so beautifully. 


The pattern is available in both print (shipping included) and pdf digital download version for your convenience. 


I'd love to see the version you make.  When sharing on social media, be sure include #masterpiecequilting 

I'd love to send you my weekly newsletter full of quilting tips, techniques and latest releases.  Don't worry, it's a quick read and your email address is safe with me.  Here is the link to subscribe. 

Sunday, December 6, 2020

The Luck of the Irish - New Pattern Release

I'm super excited to share a new pattern release.  This is a quilt that has been made for a few years but I'm just releasing the pattern.  It comes from back in my days of designing and quilting competition quilts.  it's called the Luck of the Irish.  The PDF digital download pattern is available in my Etsy shop.  Print pattern will be available soon. 


This queen sized single Irish chain design is the perfect modern traditional quilt. 

I'm waiting for the weather to cooperate (clouds, clouds please go away) to get some better photos but here are a few I've taken on the bed. 


Since this was a former competition quilt, it is quilted heavily with feather motifs and free motion echo quilting to fill the white background. 


The extra wide borders are perfect for showing off a continuous formal feather quilting design.  And of course, Ruby thought the quilt would look best with her laying on it! 



Friday, December 4, 2020

Christmas Quilt Show - Part 3

It's been a quick minute!  Back in November I shared Part 1 of my Christmas Quilt Show.  In case you missed it, here's a direct link to the eye candy and quilty goodness!  And Part 2 came out the next week - here's the direct link to it.  And then apparently I took a nap and I'm just now sharing Part 3!  This post has 4 more Christmas quilts that I've designed.  There is no particular order - so just sit back and enjoy! 

Peppermint Candies

This is a super fun quilt that was on the cover of McCall's Quick Quilts a year ago.  I have now have the pattern available in my Etsy shop in both print and pdf digital download versions.

I had some fun taking photos of this quilt with the big lighted Christmas tree in a neighboring town.  Huge thanks to hubby for being my quilt holder. 



Lonesome Heart

This is a brand new pattern - yes, you are seeing it first!  It features Island Batik's new Heart to Heart fabric collection which is arriving in quilt shops right now.  This contemporary color version of the traditional lone star design is so stunning! 


Both print and pdf digital download versions of the pattern are available.  This pattern is rated as an Intermediate skill level but it's so worth the extra effort to make it.  Since this pattern is a bit more challenging, I have been thinking about doing a video class showing how to make it.  Leave me a comment if you would be interested in it.  Thanks!

Poinsettia Bed Runner & Pillow

This is the perfect duo for when overnight guests are coming and you haven't thought about decorating the guest bedroom!  Just add a runner and a pillow and all is good. 


Both print and pdf digital download versions of the pattern are available now. 

Holly Table Topper

Last but not least is my Holly Table Topper.  This fun topper is great for tables of all sizes and the open center area allows you to add a floral arrangement or a serving tray without worry about it covering part of the design. 



Right now I have just the pdf digital download pattern available.  Don't worry, print version will be coming soon :) 

And folks, that's it for the Christmas Quilt Show - blog post style!  Thank you for joining me and thank you for all the kind comments.