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Quilts for Toddlers

1/29/2024

But What About the Children?
Last month I talked about making baby quilts. As much fun as that is, the time comes when that cuddly baby grows up to be a rambunctious toddler and a new “big boy/girl” bed is in order and the darling baby quilt is too small.
 
Let’s look at some options for a big kid who has a distinct personality.

My oldest grandson didn’t just like trains, he LOVED trains! He was obsessed with Thomas the Tank Engine and everything else trains.

 

I searched for a train pattern for a while and finally found a Block of the Month pattern on this website.

 

I loved finding the fabrics and fussy cutting some of the details and features for these 12” blocks. I even found a print with tiny faces that I fussy cut for the passenger car windows. This quilt was a feature in his room for many years.
 

This more traditional quilt for my granddaughter was made to match a little chair we put in her bedroom with her fancy wire bed.


I was lucky to find a fabric that was divided into 4 coordinated prints and I used those for the 9 patch blocks and the butterflies. The off white is unbleached muslin. The keyboard border was the perfect finish.
 

My shark loving grandson just requested “sharks” so I was excited to find some Riley Blake coordinates with sharks and nautical motifs. I used the sharks for the large feature blocks and filled in with anchors, buoys, waves and anything else that seemed to fit.
 

And last, for my Mickey Mouse loving grandson, a panel I purchased and filled the patchwork border with black, white and red fabrics I either had or found that had the right kind of whimsy for the Main Attraction. I even used pieces of a cloth bag that came containing a sheet set for his bed. I finished it with a thin diagonally striped border, a wider black border and the diagonal stripe for binding. This one still makes me smile.
 

Here is the lucky recipient on Christmas. He stayed that way for a
large part of the day.

I really love designing quilts for kids when they are a little older and you know their personalities better. Even if you don’t get their input, you are aware of their obsessions, favorite shows or movies, or colors. And now, with all the custom printing options available, the sky’s the limit on what you can do to surprise and delight them.

— Queen Bee

Today’s Tip - Quilts for Toddlers

Designing quilts for toddlers can be both a fun and rewarding project. Here are five tips to consider when creating a quilt for a young child:

  1. Choose Soft, Durable Fabrics: Toddlers are known for their active and sometimes messy nature, so it's essential to select fabrics that are both soft and durable. Cotton is a great choice as it's gentle on the skin and can withstand frequent washing. Avoid delicate fabrics that may tear easily or are difficult to clean.
  2. Safety First: Ensure that all materials used are safe for toddlers. Avoid small embellishments like buttons or beads that could be choking hazards. If you're adding any appliqué or decorative elements, make sure they're securely attached. Also, use non-toxic, baby-safe batting and thread.
  3. Bright and Engaging Colors: Toddlers are attracted to bright, vivid colors and high-contrast patterns. These not only captivate their attention but can also be beneficial for their visual development. Consider using a mix of bold colors and fun patterns that are visually stimulating.
  4. Interactive Elements: Adding interactive elements to the quilt can make it more engaging for a toddler. This could include features like different textures to explore, flaps to lift, or simple shapes to recognize. These elements can provide sensory experiences and help in the development of fine motor skills.
  5. Size and Versatility: Consider the size of the quilt. It should be large enough for a toddler to use comfortably but not so large that it becomes cumbersome. A versatile size allows the quilt to be used for various purposes, like a play mat, a comforter in a toddler bed, or a cozy blanket for cuddle time.

Remember, the best quilts for toddlers are those that can withstand the rigors of toddlerhood while being a source of comfort and joy for the child.

Fun Suggestion - Create a "Storytime Quilt"

Personalize the quilt with fabric squares that each represent a part of a favorite story or nursery rhyme. This not only makes the quilt visually appealing and educational but also interactive. During bedtime or quiet time, the child can point to different squares while you tell the story or sing the rhyme. This approach encourages imaginative play, early literacy skills, and makes the quilt a multifunctional item – a cozy blanket and a storytelling aid.

This storytime quilt becomes a unique and cherished item that offers more than warmth; it becomes a tool for learning and creativity.

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