Finding Amazing Free Quilting Patterns and Designs
As a quilter with over 20 years of experience, I’ve learned that high-quality quilting patterns can take projects from basic to spectacular. However, quilters on a budget know that patterns and designs can get expensive. I’ve faced situations where I wanted to make a complex new quilt but couldn’t justify spending money on intricate designs.
The good news? There are many amazing free resources for quilting patterns and designs if you know where to look! In this article, I’ll share my top tips on how to find free quilting inspiration without sacrificing style or quality.
Types of Free Quilting Patterns
Before we dive into the resources, let’s review the main types of free quilting patterns available:
- Basic quilting motifs and blocks – These building-block patterns can be repeated and combined to form complex quilt designs. They include classic patches, stars, squares, hexagons, etc.
- Pre-made quilt layouts and templates – These are full quilt designs with a template for you to follow. All you need to do is choose your fabrics and start cutting and sewing!
- Images and drawings to inspire original designs – Many blogs and websites provide images of quilts solely for inspiration. You’ll use them as a jumping-off point to design your own quilt.
The type of free pattern you choose will depend on your skill level and project goals. As a beginner, pre-made layouts require less work to execute. As you advance, you may prefer drafting your own designs based on inspirational images or quilting blocks.
Where to Find Free Quilting Patterns and Designs
From my experience, the best resources for free quilting inspiration are blogs, websites, libraries, and quilting communities. Here are my top 5 go-to places to find patterns, templates, and images without paying a cent:
- Craftsy – This powerhouse site offers high-quality free patterns for quilts, blocks, and more. I’ve discovered amazing templates here for my advanced projects.
- AllPeopleQuilt.com – With both basic and complex layouts, this website by popular magazine is perfect for intermediate quilters looking to try new techniques.
- Instructables – If you like innovative, outside-the-box quilt designs, the user-generated tutorials and patterns here will fuel your creativity.
- Local Library – My local library has a decent collection of quilting books offering templates, layouts, and images to inspire dozens of quilts.
- Quilting communities – Active groups on Facebook and Instagram willingly share free block patterns and quilt designs almost daily. This is by far my #1 resource!
Do some exploring across these options to discover a bounty of free material. To save money, resist buying that expensive pattern and see if you can find something comparable for free first. You might just get lucky!
Tips for Modifying and Using Free Quilting Patterns
While free quilting designs offer versatility and inspiration, some creativity is needed to tailor them to your project vision. From my practice, here are my top 4 tips to make free patterns your own:
- Resize layouts by adding or eliminating repetition of motifs and blocks
- Recolor designs through different fabric choice to match your taste
- Combine layout elements from multiple free patterns into custom medley quilts
- Edit template dimensions to make throw blankets, table runners, pillows and more
Don’t be afraid to start simple by using free fundamental block patterns. Combine 4-5 of these creatively colored, repeated blocks and you’ll have a stunning modern quilt! For a beginner-friendly example, check out my blog post on easy Rail Fence quilts.
Common Questions About Free Quilting Patterns
I often get asked by my quilting students about using free patterns, so here are answers to some most frequently asked questions:
Are free quilt designs lower quality than paid patterns?
Absolutely not! Many talented quilters share high-caliber patterns for free to give back to the quilting community. I’ve made quilts from free templates that look like I paid big bucks for an intricate design.
Can I sell quilts made from free patterns?
You need to double check the terms of use for each pattern, but most can be used commercially. Some ask that you credit the designer if selling quilts made from their free patterns.
As a beginner, should I start with free patterns or buy a book first?
In my opinion starting with free patterns is best to get your feet wet before investing in books or classes. Look for beginner-friendly block layouts and pre-made templates to familiarize yourself with cutting, sewing and finishing.
Start Quilting for Free Today
As you can see quilters, high-quality fabric art doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Websites, communities, books and more offer enough remarkable free quilting inspiration to keep your needle humming for years. Right now, challenge yourself to search for an eye-catching template and make your first free quilt. From my experience, you’ll be thrilled with the results!
Now over to you. What unique free quilt have you designed lately? Are there any go-to free pattern resources I’ve missed? Share your experiences and let’s exchange ideas in the comments!
| Pattern Name | Pattern Type | Difficulty Level | Estimated Time to Complete |
|---|---|---|---|
| Log Cabin Quilt | Patchwork | Beginner | 10-20 hours |
| Double Wedding Ring Quilt | Pieced | Intermediate | 40-60 hours |
| Hexagon Quilt | English Paper Piecing | Beginner | 15-25 hours |
| Trip Around the World Quilt | Strip Pieced | Beginner | 25-35 hours |
| Star Quilt | Pieced | Intermediate | 30-50 hours |
FAQ
What are some good places to find free quilting patterns?
There are tons of websites dedicated to offering free quilting patterns. Some popular sites include AllPeopleQuilt.com, FaveQuilts.com, and CountryLiving.com. Many fabric manufacturers like Moda Fabrics and Robert Kaufman also offer free patterns on their sites to showcase their fabrics.
What types of free quilting patterns are available?
You can find free patterns for quilts of all sizes from throw to king. There are traditional patchwork quilts, applique quilts, baby quilts, wall hangings, table runners, placemats, pillows, bags, and more. Patterns are available for beginners to advanced quilters.
Can I sell quilts made from free patterns?
Most free quilt patterns allow you to sell quilts made from them for personal profit. However, sometimes the terms will prohibit commercial or mass production. Be sure to check the terms of each pattern.
What tools do I need to make quilts from free patterns?
Basic quilting supplies like a sewing machine, rotary cutter, ruler and mat, scissors, pins and needles will get you started. You may also want some basic quilting tools like an iron, cutting board, and quilting clips once you progress.
What fabrics work well with free quilt patterns?
Cotton quilting fabrics are the best choice as they hold up well to washing and wearing. You can use solids, prints, batiks, florals, plaids, etc. Choose fabrics you enjoy working with and that match the style of the quilt.
Can I modify or personalize free quilt patterns?
Most patterns can be customized to suit your individual style, fabrics, and skill level. You may need to adjust the measurements, piece sizes, or number of blocks. Be creative and make it your own!
What tips do you have for success with free patterns?
Read all instructions thoroughly first. Ensure you have the needed supplies. Don’t rush the process. Ask questions of experienced quilters if you need help. And relax and have fun with it!