There are few events that get quilters more excited than news of a new baby coming. We start thinking of themes, colors, styles and have so many different ways to go.
Do the parents want a specific character or theme? Bright colors, neutrals, or black and white? A traditional pattern, something modern, a panel? SO many choices.
Now that quilts are not advised for use in cribs for babies, they can instead be play mats for tummy time or even wall decor, as well as loose covers for car seat or strollers. Another way this change may affect use is that polyester batting can be used more since it’s not covering new babies while they sleep. Poly batting can seem lighter weight and the look of fluffy loft is appealing.
I have to confess that if I don’t have a pre selected parental preference I tend to use bright, clear colors because it’s MY favorite and I am convinced that babies prefer those. I’m sure this might become apparent as you view these examples.
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This is a quilt I made for my oldest grandson. His mom picked a cowboy theme and I used a pattern that utilized sections that contained assorted size pieces. I supplemented with fabrics I had that coordinated and used a lightweight denim to tie it together.
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This sweet little floral was made by a friend and quilted by me. As you can see, it’s made with lovely fabrics in 9 inch blocks with a border to finish the edge.
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Another more traditional pattern is this railroad tie for my cute great nephew. I used a fabric that my sister purchased for another quilt that didn’t work and I used it for one stripe in these blocks as a surprise to give back to her in some way.
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These are a couple that I made using printed panels. The first one was for my second grandson, whose mother wanted an owl themed room. The outside border of quilting resembles stylized owls.
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This adorable panel was part of a fabric collection and included the mermaid piece as well. Most of the outside was part of the group, but I found the very pink polka dot for the border and backing.
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The last example is the result of using up scraps for a quick request. The chickens were leftover from another quilt from 15 years ago or more. I cut them apart, added the two black and white blocks, sashed and bordered in primary colors and added a striped bias binding. The puffier batting adds a lot of definition to the quilting.
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There’s obviously no limit to the fun possibilities for quilts that
little ones will treasure!
— Queen Bee
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Today’s Tip - Baby Quilts
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Designing and quilting baby quilts can be a fun and rewarding project. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Choose Simple Patterns - If you are a beginner, start with simple patterns for a small quilt.
- Consider the baby's needs - Consider using soft and durable fabrics that are gentle on the baby's skin.
- Use baby-themed fabrics - This can add a playful and whimsical touch to your quilt.
- Experiment with color, patterns, and textures - Baby quilts are a great opportunity to play with bright and cheerful colors and unique fabrics like Minky, corduroy, washable velvet, or even seersucker.
- Finish with Care - You can choose to quilt it by hand, machine quilt, or hand-tie it. If tied, be sure to secure the ties with square knots.
Remember, designing and quilting baby quilts is a creative process, so feel free to experiment and have fun with it. Happy Quilting!
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Either of these two would make cute gifts for a new baby.
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