In this week’s craft preview, we’re taking advantage of the growing popularity of patchwork.
We have a great project for you – a pieced quilt designed by Stuart Hillard of “The Great British Sewing Bee” fame. He also designed the fabrics you’ll use.
The quilt is created using half hexagons throughout.
“To create the illusion of full hexagons, cut your shapes in pairs of the same fabrics,” Stuart explains.
“For my quilt, I have used 144 half hexagons in nine vertical columns of sixteen, with alternate columns starting with a single half hexagon in a different colour.”
This quilt is completely machine-sewn, but you could add hand-sewn elements is you prefer.
Find the prospect of a full quilt daunting? Why not use fewer hexagons and make a cushion or lap quilt?
Image by Rachel Whiting.
This design comes from Stuart’s new book, “Simple Shapes Stunning Quilts”, published by Pavilion. It is available online or in good craft and book stores for £22.50.
If you want to replicate the quilt exactly, you’ll find the Stuart Hillard Bumble Bee fabric collection in many fabric and haberdashery shops.
You can also order it from www.doughtysonline.co.uk.
We’re sure this is just the thing to get you buzzing about patchwork again!
For more craft hints, tips and inspiration, click here.
If this craft preview has inspired you, we’re sure you’ll enjoy the fantastic projects available in every issue of “The People’s Friend”.
Make sure not to miss a single one by subscribing here.
Liz O’Rourke I am part of the Features Team and my hobbies include knitting and crafts, reading and foreign travel – which are also my main responsibilities on the “Friend”. If you walk into the office you will soon spot my desk, it’s the one piled high with knitwear and balls of yarn!
