New Product! Add-on EQ8 Block Library: AccuQuilt BOB SET 5

New BOB Blocks are here! This new Add-on EQ8 Block Library for AccuQuilt contains the 9 BOB blocks and variations that were released in 2023. BOB die blocks enable you to create an entire block with one die board.  Every piece needed for the block is on the design board. You can design your quilt with EQ8 and then use your AccuQuilt GO! cutter to cut it out.

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This file contains SET 5 of the BOB block designs which includes 9 blocks.  The blocks vary in size as indicated to match the actual size of the BOB die block. I have included the size of the block by the name reference.

The ONLY designs included in this set are:

• GO! Canning Jar 8” (55614)
• GO! Fractured Tumbler 6” (55627)
• GO! Friendship Chain 10” (55441)
• GO! Full Blown Tulip 8” (55616)
• GO! Joseph’s Coat 11” (55622)
• GO! Lotus Block 10” (55609)
• GO! Palm 8” (55193)
• GO! Signature Circles 6” (55624)
• GO! Turkey in the Straw 10” (55628)

Required: A running copy of EQ8 Quilt Design Software from The Electric Quilt Company.

Required: You will need the Accuquilt BOB die set in the size that matches the EQ8 library file in order to cut out these block designs with the Accuquilt GO! Cutter.  Make sure your cutter is the right size for the BOB die.

This is a downloadable digital file that you will place into your personal block library.  Once you place the block file in your library, you will be able to use it immediately to draw and design quilts.  I have included all of the instructions to add the files to your EQ8 Design Software.  You will receive the EQ8 Block library, a block reference guide and an instruction document.  The blocks are all labeled to match the reference guide.

Now you can use the power of EQ8 to recolor and combine blocks to design beautiful quilts.

Once you have designed your quilt, you can use your Accuquilt GO! Cutter to make it.  I have also included tips and suggestions for determining what dies to use and how to determine fabric requirements.

I hope you enjoy these files as you create your BOB design quilts.

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Happy designing with your AccuQuilt Block on Board Set 5 library blocks in EQ8!

If you liked the new Add-on EQ8 Block Library files for AccuQuilt BOB Set 5, check out my other available Add-on Block libraries for EQ8 that work with AccuQuilt in my shop.

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I appreciate your feedback and suggestions on this product. Please tag me on Facebook or Instagram @lorimillerdesigns with your designs, I would love to see them.

New Product! Add-on EQ8 Block Library: AccuQuilt BOB SET 4

New BOB Blocks are here! This new Add-on EQ8 Block Library for AccuQuilt contains 16 gorgeous BOB blocks that were released in 2022. BOB die blocks enable you to create an entire block with one die board.  Every piece needed for the block is on the design board. You can design your quilt with EQ8 and then use your AccuQuilt GO! cutter to cut it out.

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This file contains SET 4 of the BOB block designs which includes 16 blocks.  The blocks vary in size as indicated to match the actual size of the BOB die block. I have included the size of the block by the name reference.

The ONLY designs included in this set are:

• GO! Alabama Beauty 10” (55597)
• GO! Butterfly Pieced 9” (55598)
• GO! Chinese Lanterns 8” (55599)
• GO! Goose Tracks 9” (55536)
• GO! Grandmother’s Fan 9” (55537)
• GO! Lucky Star 10” (55600)
• GO! Mill and Stars 8” (55601)
• GO! Mosaic #4 10” (55608)
• GO! North Carolina Star 12” (55605)
• GO! Plaited Block 12” (55606)
• GO! Priscilla Stripe 6” (55607)
• GO! Road to Fortune 9” (55586)
• GO! Star of the East 9” (55587)
• GO! Tree of Life 14” (55588)
• GO! Washington’s Puzzle 4” (55602)
• GO! Whirling Star 12” (55603)

Required: A running copy of EQ8 Quilt Design Software from The Electric Quilt Company.

Required: You will need the Accuquilt BOB die set in the size that matches the EQ8 library file in order to cut out these block designs with the Accuquilt GO! Cutter.  Make sure your cutter is the right size for the BOB die.

This is a downloadable digital file that you will place into your personal block library.  Once you place the block file in your library, you will be able to use it immediately to draw and design quilts.  I have included all of the instructions to add the files to your EQ8 Design Software.  You will receive the EQ8 Block library, a block reference guide and an instruction document.  The blocks are all labeled to match the reference guide.

Now you can use the power of EQ8 to recolor and combine blocks to design beautiful quilts.

Once you have designed your quilt, you can use your Accuquilt GO! Cutter to make it.  I have also included tips and suggestions for determining what dies to use and how to determine fabric requirements.

I hope you enjoy these files as you create your BOB design quilts.

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Happy designing with your Accuquilt Block on Board Set 4 library blocks in EQ8!

If you liked the new Add-on EQ8 Block Library files for AccuQuilt BOB Set 4, check out my other available Add-on Block libraries for EQ8 that work with AccuQuilt in my shop.

Visit Shop

I appreciate your feedback and suggestions on this product. Please tag me on Facebook or Instagram @lorimillerdesigns with your designs, I would love to see them.

New Product! Add-on EQ8 Block Library: AccuQuilt BOB SET 3

You have been asking for them and they are finally here! This Add-on EQ8 Block Library for AccuQuilt contains another 15 lovely BOB blocks. BOB die blocks enable you to create an entire block with one die board.  Every piece needed for the block is on the design board. You can design your quilt with EQ8 and then use your AccuQuilt GO! cutter to cut it out.

This file contains SET 3 of the BOB block designs which includes 15 blocks.  The blocks vary in size as indicated to match the BOB die. I have included the size of the block by the name reference.

The ONLY designs included in this set are:

• GO! Basket of Lilies 12” Finished (55530)
• GO! Carpenter’s Wheel 18” Finished (55531)
• GO! Cornucopia 10” Finished (55532)
• GO! Crossroads 9” Finished (55533)
• GO! Drunkards Path 3.5” Finished (55070)
• GO! Drunkards Path 4” Finished (55338)
• GO! Drunkards Path 7” Finished (55034)
• GO! Feather Star 16” Finished (55535)
• GO! Goose Tracks 9” Finished (55536)
• GO! Pickle Dish 10” Finished (55539)
• GO! Prairie Star 14” Finished (55540
• GO! Rising Star 10” Finished (55541)
• GO! Schoolhouse 9” Finished (55542)
• GO! Tangled Star 10” Finished (55543)
• GO! Weathervane 8” Finished (55544)

Required: A running copy of EQ8 Quilt Design Software from The Electric Quilt Company.

Required: You will need the Accuquilt BOB die set in the size that matches the EQ8 library file in order to cut out these block designs with the Accuquilt GO! Cutter.  Make sure your cutter is the right size for the BOB die.

This is a downloadable digital file that you will place into your personal block library.  Once you place the block file in your library, you will be able to use it immediately to draw and design quilts.  I have included all of the instructions to add the files to your EQ8 Design Software.  You will receive the EQ8 Block library, a block reference guide and an instruction document.  The blocks are all labeled to match the reference guide.

Now you can use the power of EQ8 to recolor and combine blocks to design beautiful quilts.

Once you have designed your quilt, you can use your Accuquilt GO! Cutter to make it.  I have also included tips and suggestions for determining what dies to use and how to determine fabric requirements.

I hope you enjoy these files as you create your BOB design quilts.

Shop Now

Happy designing with your Accuquilt Block on Board Set 3 library blocks in EQ8!

If you liked the new Add-on EQ8 Block Library files for AccuQuilt BOB Set 3, check out my other available Add-on Block libraries for EQ8 that work with AccuQuilt in my shop.

Visit Shop

I appreciate your feedback and suggestions on this product. Please tag me on Facebook or Instagram @lorimillerdesigns with your designs, I would love to see them.

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Published – Cool Waters Quilt

Used with permission from American Patchwork & Quilting magazine. Copyright 2021 Meredith Corporation All rights reserved

I am pleased to share my Cool Waters Quilt that is published in the January 2021 issue of American Patchwork and Quilting Magazine.  This throw size quilt is a block full of triangles.  It is easy to piece and I love the calming color way.

This is the cover of the January issue to look for.  It is packed with great projects to sew this winter.

Used with permission from American Patchwork & Quilting magazine. Copyright 2021 Meredith Corporation. All rights reserved.

Here is the full Cool Waters quilt in all its glory.  I loved the way a secondary pattern appeared in the design as the blocks were sewn together.  By limiting the fabric choices, I think it seems crisper and simpler even with all those triangles.

I designed my quilt with EQ8 Quilt Design Software.  It is a regular pieced quilt block. It makes it so easy to try different fabrics and combinations of colors.  I could add or remove blocks until I got the size of quilt that I wanted.

Here are all my stacks of pieces.  EQ8 gave me a handy rotary cutting guide to help cut all the patch shapes.  I print it out and scribble all over it as I cut things out and take notes.

I Pieced the larger triangle modules first to make it easier to assemble.

This is a common scene when I am in the middle of a project.  Pieces of fabric and notions everywhere!

 

I used free motion quilting to quilt a paisley  all over design on this quilt to finish it off.  I usually quilt on a Bernina domestic machine.

Please tag me on instagram @lorimillerdesigns or on facebook @lorimillerdesigns.  I would love to see your version!

Happy Stitching!

Published – Welcome Neighbor Table Topper

Used with permission from American Patchwork & Quilting®. ©2020 Meredith Corporation. All rights Reserved.

In the August 2020 issue of American Patchwork and Quilting Magazine, you will find my latest design. It is a table topper of little rainbow paper pieced houses.  I used a linen background and colorful fabrics from my stash to make this little cutie.  It is a great gift idea to celebrate a new home, welcome new friends or just spiff up your own table.

Here is the cover of the August issue to look for, there are lots of fun projects in this issue just in time for summer sewing.

I designed my topper in EQ8 Quilt Design Software.  It is a foundation paper pieced design that would be great for an intermediate quilter or a dedicated beginner.  I find starting on paper pieced projects that are smaller is a great way to try out this technique.

I played with a lot of different color ideas, EQ8 Quilt design software makes it easy to do that, try on different fabrics and styles.  Here is another color way that I played with in EQ8.

 

I used foundation patterns created with #EQ8 to make each of the eight sections of the quilt.  This section is the top of the house.

i just took my time carefully pressing and trimming.  I did not want to handle too much to keep the linen edges from fraying.

I always think it is a little weird to sew upside down and backwards, lol, but the precise stitching lines it creates are so worth it.

 

Here is one of the 8 little house wedges all put together.  Ignore my well used ironing board cover.  I will have to make a new cover one of these days.

I did assembly line sewing for each section.  I just love how they take shape.

I stitch the wedges into pairs aligning the seams.  Then I sew the four sections of the block together to make half of the table topper.  I then sew the two half together and press seams open.

Used with permission from American Patchwork & Quilting®. ©2020 Meredith Corporation. All rights Reserved.

I used a combination of walking foot quilting and free motion quilting on the topper.  It is small enough that you can experiment with some detail to get the lovely texture.

I would love to see your version, just tag me on facebook or instagram @lorimillerdesigns

I love a good table topper.  Check out my other designs on these posts.

Welcome Home Pineapple Topper information can be found HERE.

If you are new to paper piecing, you might like to try my Stardrop Table Topper first.  I have a free tutorial HERE.

Please tag me on instagram @lorimillerdesigns or on facebook @lorimillerdesigns.  I would love to see your version!

Happy Stitching!

 

Published – Welcome Home Pineapple Table Topper

 

In the May 2020 issue of American Quilter Magazine, you will find my latest design. It is a stunning table topper made with Princess Palette Batik by Mirah.  This palette of batiks acts like blenders and is the perfect combination of colors for the design.  This sunny Pineapple represents warm welcomes, celebration and hospitality and is perfect to welcome guests or gift to a friend.

I designed my topper in EQ8 Quilt Design Software.  It is a foundation paper pieced design that would be great for an intermediate quilter or a dedicated beginner.  I find starting on paper pieced projects that are smaller is a great way to try out this technique.

I was able to import the Princess Palette Batik fabrics right into EQ8 to mock up a realistic picture of my design.  I could try different colors before I had to cut into that precious fabric.  Batik by Mirah generously provided all of the fabrics.  They have some beautiful fabrics that you should definitely consider for your next project.  Batik by Mirah

 

I used foundation patterns created with #EQ8 to make each of the eight sections of the quilt.

It is a lot of stitching, pressing and cutting, but the result really starts to take shape.

Here, I am trimming the sewn foundation.

Then I stitched the four sections of the block together.

The individual blocks  come together to create one pineapple.  There are 8 blocks needed to make the topper.

 

I sewed four blocks together to make half the topper and then stitched the two halves together.

I use a water soluble pen to mark the quilting designs on the topper.  I wanted to stitch little feathers in the background.

Then I stitched cross hatching in the pineapples.

Here is a closeup of the quilting after it was finished and washed.  I love that crinkly texture!

I would love to see your version, just tag me on facebook or instagram @lorimillerdesigns

Happy Stitching!

 

Free Tutorial – Make an Envelope Back for your Pillow

I really enjoy making throw pillow covers that I can remove and easily wash.  You will find a lot of seasonal quilted pillow covers in my house, they are a quick project and I get to see something from my efforts pretty quickly.  I have found that an envelope style back allows me to slip them on the pillow forms without any buttons or velcro.

The fronts of the pillows are pieced and quilted with a binding finish.

It doesn’t matter the size of the pillow, I make an envelope back.  The shots above are from my Nautical Bench pillow.

Flip them over to the back and you can see has the overlapping envelope back.

Here are my recent pillows for my son’s tiny house.  The envelope back means he can just pull them off and wash them.

This is just a great way to brighten up your decor by just changing out your pillow or cushion covers.

Here is how I create my Envelope backs.

I have found that there are two ways to make your pillow cover with the envelope back.  My favorite style is to finish the edges of the pillow with a binding.  The other style just involves sewing around the front and back with a seam on the inside of the pillow.  The pictures I have show mostly the binding edge style.  For the envelope back, I like to overlap top to bottom and my diagrams will reflect that.  You mix it up however you like them.

Determine how large to make the pieces for the Envelope.

1. Measure your pillow’s width and length to start.
   • We are going to cut two pieces and use one for each side of the envelope.  I use a piece of fabric folded in half.  Here is how to figure out what size of rectangle is needed for the two envelope pieces.  This assumes we are overlapping top to bottom.  I like it to overlap at least 2 – 2.5″ on each side of the center and that is why we are adding the extra 5″.
2. For the width of the two pieces, use the width of your pillow + 1″
3. For the length of the envelope, use the length of your pillow + 5″.
4. For example, we will use 18″ x 18″ pillow.
   • For the width, use  18″ + 1″ = 19″
   • For the length, use 18″ + 5″ = 23″
5. You will then cut two rectangle pieces 19″ x 23″.

Prepare the Pillow Envelope backs

1. Fold the envelope rectangles in half crosswise, wrong sides facing, keeping the width and press.
2. Add interfacing inside the fold.
   • I like to take a 1 inch strip of medium weight interfacing and nestle it into the fold and press it in.
3. Topstitch about 3/8″  to 1/2″ away from the fold to hold it in place.
   • This will help keep this edge from wrinkling in the wash.
4. Overlap the pressed folded edges making a square the same size as the pillow top.
   • Make sure they are overlapped top to bottom how you want them to show on the outside of the pillow.
5. Baste the overlapped edges to hold in place about 1/8″ from the edges of the overlap.

Finish the Pillow Cover

Style 1 – Bind the Edges of the Cover

1. Place the quilted pillow top and the overlapped backing together with wrong sides facing.  Baste around the pillow top 1/8: from the outer edge.
2. Stitch your binding in place and complete binding using your favorite method.
3. Slip your pillow form inside.

Style 2 – Sew Seam inside the Pillow Cover

1. Place the quilted pillow top and the overlapped backing together with right sides facing.
2. Stitch around the outer edge with 1/4″ seam allowance.
3. Turn the Cover right side out using the opening in the overlapped envelope back.
4. Slip your pillow form inside.

I hope these directions help you make lots of fun quilted pillow covers!

Tag me on Facebook or Instagram @lorimillerdesigns, I would love to see what you have created.

Free EQ8 Applique – Kitchen Stand Mixer

Homemade gifts are the best.  I wanted to make something fun and useful for my sister and since she enjoys cooking so I decided to make her an apron.  I thought this fun retro style mixer would be the perfect motif to set it off.   I designed the applique motifs using EQ8 quilt design software from The Electric Quilt Company.  Here is how I put it together.

I started out making a picture of my own kitchenaid Stand Mixer.  I got this as a Christmas gift recently, I had been wanting one for years.  Ii takes all the work out of mixing up a batch of cookies or brownies and looks beautiful on my counter.  I have always liked to draw so that is a gift I like to use.
I used my picture to trace the drawing in EQ8.  First, I scanned my drawing and imported it into the quilt design software.  Then I traced and edited the shapes to create the overall Applique motifs.  Electric Quilt allows you to print and mirror the templates so they are perfect for tracing onto fusible applique paper.

I have a super cute Apron pattern with multiple sizes.  It is called More Retro Aprons by Cindy Taylor Oates.  I just love her patterns, she always does a great job and I have a lot of them.  I made the A version of the apron which is the one on the right.

I had these lovely vintage prints from Grandma’s stash to use.

I placed my shapes in order and pressed them on with the fusible backing.  Then I did a straight stitch around each shape.  For this one, I left off the back edge of the mixer and added a little heart.  i just liked the look better.

Here is the top of the Apron, those ruffles are too cute!

There is even a ruffle detail on the bottom.

The whole apron.  There is a cute crisscross way to tie it up on the back as well.  The applique just added that fun retro vibe of the kitchenaid mixer and my sister simply loved it.

Kitchen Stand Mixer Applique

Here are the Applique Motifs for you to download.  I have included a page with a key for the order to lay down the individual motifs.  They go in alphabetical order.

INCLUDES 8″ and 6′ block templates and a key block.

Kitchen Stand Mixer templates

This cute applique would look great on a tea towel or even on a kitchen wall hanging.  What will you make?

Share pictures of your Kitchen Stand Mixer Applique.  Tag me on Facebook or Instagram @lorimillerdesigns

Looking for the EQ8 Design Instructions?  You can find them HERE!

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ8, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ8 Lessons with Lori.

For more information on EQ8, go to Electric Quilt 8 Software.

I teach EQ8!  I would be happy to teach at your event or Quilt Shop.  Check out my classes page.

Free Tutorial – DIY Wrapping Paper or Fabric

Most of you know, I am an EQ8 fanatic and this time I used the quilt design software to create my own wrapping paper and my own fabric with the EQ Printable fabric sheets.   EQ allows you to export blocks and motifs as an image that you can then edit and print using the Photo Layout on the Image Worktable.  Don’t worry if you dont have EQ8, I will include PDF files of my homemade wrapping paper that you can use too.  In addition to the wrapping paper, I used the printed fabric to create a little drawstring bag.

I edited a block with a Vintage Sewing Machine, added some holly, and scaled it onto a sheet of paper and printed it out.

It is an 8 1/2″ x 11′ sheet of paper, but you can wrap some cute small gifts with it.

I also colored a block called Evergreen that was a mod looking pine tree and printed it out.

For this gift, I wrapped the main gift in white tissue paper.  Then I trimmed my diy wrapping paper and cut it in half.

Then I just matched up the print and taped them together in a long strip.

I used the strip and wrapped it around the package like an embellishement sleeve and then just added a coordinating bow on top.  This is a good way to use your cute designs when you are limited to your printer paper size.

Here are the PDF Files that you can use to print that I designed with EQ8.

LMD Holiday Vintage Sewing Machine

LMD Mod Evergreen

Next, I printed my cute holiday vintage sewing machines onto EQ Printable fabric sheets.  I printed two of them and then used them as fabric to create this cute drawstring bag.

DIY Fabric Drawstring Bag

Finished size is approx 6″ x 3″ x 7″

Note: Read through directions first before sewing.  Unless otherwise noted, use 1/4″ seam.

Materials

• 2 —  8 1/2″ x 11″ printed fabric sheets
• 2 —  8 1/2″ x 11″ fabric for lining
• 2 —  2 1/2″ x 8 1/2″ strips of fabric for casing
• 2 —  26″ pieces of ribbon for drawstring  (1/2″ or less)

Directions

Sew Casing

1. Make a 1/4″ double rolled hem on each of the short ends of the casings.
2. Fold wrong sides together and stitch.
   
3. Roll the seam to the back so it will be hidden on the back side of the casings and press.
   
4. Measure down 1 1/2″ from top of printed fabric and pin the casing down.  Stitch very closely on the top and bottom to secure the casing.  Backstitch at the beginning and end of your seam.  Sew both casings.

Sew Bag

 

1. With right sides together, stitch the sides and bottom of the bag.
   
2. Cut a 1 1/2″ square from each bottom corner of the bag.
   
3. Pinch the bag together to box the corner and stitch across.
4. Place the lining  pieces right sides together. Stitch the sides and bottom of the lining leaving a 2-3 inch opening in the bottom of the lining for turning.
   
5. Box the corners of the lining in the same way as the outer bag.
   
6. Leaving the lining the wrong side out, slip it over the bag aligning the top edges and seams.
   
7. Stitch around the top.  Pull the whole bag right side out through the opening in the lining.  Stitch the hole in the lining closed.
   
8. Tuck the lining into the bag.  Top stitch around the top of the bag.
   
9. Thread the ribbon through both casings.  Start one from one side and the other from the opposite side.  Knot the end of the ribbons to hold them.
10. Pull the drawstring to close the bag.

I used EQ Printables Inkjet Fabric Sheets.  There are several types of fabric sheets to choose from.  I really like them and I use them a lot for quilt labels.  The fabric holds the color very well and is pretty soft to the touch when you wash it.  You can get more information about them HERE.

Share pictures of your own DIY Wall Paper or Fabric!  Tag me on Facebook or Instagram @lorimillerdesigns

Looking for the EQ8 Design Instructions?  You can find them HERE!

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ8, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ8 Lessons with Lori.

For more information on EQ8, go to Electric Quilt 8 Software.

Free Tutorial – Pop Art Wall Quilt

Greetings!  I am making this quilt for my son for the holiday, it is a picture of his cat, Oreo.  Being a 20 something young man, I wanted something a little more grown up but still fun.  This quilt is made by taking a picture of Oreo and editing it using EQ8 Quilt Design Software.  The edited pictures are then printed on EQ Printable Inkjet Fabric Sheets.  You can use the general tutorial with any picture of the same size but what makes it so much fun, is the ability to edit the picture to black and white and then add different background colors.  It makes this quilt reminiscent of the visual art created by Andy Warhol.  If you have not tried using the photo editing functions of the Image Worktable in EQ8, here is your chance.  Let’s make a Pop Art Wall Quilt.

Pop Art Wall Quilt

Finished size is 24″ x 30″

Materials

• 9 —  8 1/2″ x 10 1/2″ printed fabric pictures
• 1/4 yd black fabric for binding
• 1 yd backing
• 1 yd batting

Directions

Cut Fabric:

Black

• 4 — 2 1/4″ strips

Print your edited  8″ x 10″ pictures onto Printable Fabric.  (Link for quilt design and photo editing at the end of post)  Be sure to follow manufacturer’s directions when printing.  I used EQ Printables Inkjet Fabric Sheets.  There are several types of fabric sheets to choose from.  I really like them and I use them a lot for quilt labels.  The fabric holds the color very well and is pretty soft to the touch when you wash it.  You can get more information about them HERE.

These are the sheets that I printed.  Then I trimmed them to 8 1/2″ x 10 1/2″ with a seam allowance.

I pieced them into a nine patch.  Arrange the colors how you like.

Quilt the Wall Quilt

 

 

Layer quilt top with the backing, batting and kitties quilt top.

Pin baste the quilt layers together.

Quilt as desired.  I used painters tape to mark horizontal lines and then I quilted about 1/2″ apart with my walking foot with a dark gray thread.

Then I pieced the black binding strips together and bound the quilt.  I need to make a hanging sleeve, but it is finished.

Here is a sneak peek at my work area.  As you can see, my new studio is still in progress but I just had to sew, it has been months of moving and unpacking.

Here is my original design from EQ8.  The colors are not quite as vivid when you print them on the fabric, but they are still eyecatching!

And here is the original picture of Oreo.  He had an issue with his ear, so he always has that rakish, debonair look.

Share pictures of your Pop Art Quilt!  Tag me on Facebook or Instagram @lorimillerdesigns

Looking for the EQ8 Design Instructions?  You can find them HERE!

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ8, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ8 Lessons with Lori.

For more information on EQ8, go to Electric Quilt 8 Software.

Free Tutorial – Shipmates Bench Pillow

Ahoy!  It is summer and that means sewing projects that are fun, easy and quick to stitch up.  That leaves you plenty of time to soak up the sun and play in the outdoors.  This nautical themed pillow is designed to sit on an outdoor bench or decorate a bench in your home.  It was designed with Electric Quilt 8 using a Horizontal Strip quilt layout.  With some very easy shortcut piecing and machine applique, you can make this pillow up in an afternoon.  Enjoy!

Shipmates Bench Pillow

Finished size is 16″ x 28″

Materials

• 1/2 yd light blue fabric
• 1/8 yd navy blue fabric
• 1/2 white fabric
• 1 yd backing print
• 1/4 yd red fabric for binding
• 1/2 yd muslin
• 1/2 yd batting or 20″ x 32″ piece

Directions

Cut Fabric:

Light Blue

• 1 — 16 1/2″ square
• 2 — 4 1/2″ x 16 1/2″ rectangles

Navy Blue

• 2 — 6 ” squares

White

• 2 — 6 ” squares
• 1 — 16 ” square

Red

• 3 — 2 1/4″ x  WOF strips for binding

Printed Backing

• 2 — 18″ x 33″ rectangles

Muslin

• 1 — 18″ x 30″ rectangle

Batting

• 1 — 18″ x 30″ rectangle

Water Soluble Marker or Pencil

1 — 16″ square of double sided fusible web

Anchor Template

 

 

Piece the Pillow Top

1. Make the half square triangles to resemble a rope design.  Take the two white 6″ squares and  mark them from corner to corner.
2. Place the white square right sides together with the navy blue 6″ squares.  Stitch 1/4″ away from each side of the diagonal marked lines.
3. Carefully cut the squares on the diagonal lines and then in half both ways as in diagram above.  This will create 8 half square triangles for each square for a total of 16.
   
4. Press the seams to the darker fabric.  Trim the blocks to 2 1/2″ square.
   
5. Stitch the half square triangles together in groups of two to start, then piece them all together to form the rope strips.  I stitched both in the same directions.  Set aside.
6. Next, print out  the anchor template and tape it together using the guidelines.  Using a light box or a window, trace the anchor outline to one side of the fusible web.  Press the fusible web according to the manufacturers instructions to the wrong side of the white fabric 16″ square.  Carefully cut out your anchor applique.  Peel off any backing.
7. Position the anchor in the center of the 16 1/2″ light blue square.  One you have it where you like it, press the anchor onto the center of the pillow.
8. Now applique around the outside edge of your anchor to finish the applique.  You may need to use some stabilizer underneath the design as you stitch so that the background fabric does not pucker.  Use a light tear away or other stabilizer of your choice.  I used  a zig zag stitch that was a little bit larger than a satin stitch.  For the points, I taper the stitch down before I turn.
   
9. Next assemble all of the strips to create the pillow top.

Quilt the pillow top

1. Layer pillow top with the muslin, batting and pillow top, right side up.
2. Pin baste the quilt layers together.
3. Quilt as desired.  I used painters tape to mark diagonal lines and then I quilted straight lines diagonally.  Trim the pillow top to 16 1/2″ x 28 1/2″.  It might be slightly smaller depending on how much quilting you did. 

Finish the Pillow

1. Fold each 18 ” x 33″ background print rectangle in half, wrong sides together, to form two 18″ x 16 1/2″ rectangles. Press.
2. Top stitch along the folded edge of the pillow about 1/2″ away from the fold.
3. Place the quilted pillow top, right side down.
4. Place two folded rectangles over each pillow, overlapping the folded edges in the center by about 4″.
5.  Baste 1/8″ along the outside of the layers.  Trim.  Don’t you love this cute print that matches the applique so perfectly?  I found it in my stash.
6.  Bind with the red binding strips.
7.  Finish by inserting a pillow form through the opening.

 

I would love to see pictures of your Shipmates pillows!  Tag me on Facebook or Instagram @lorimillerdesigns

Looking for the EQ8 Design Instructions?  You can find them HERE!

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ8, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ8 Lessons with Lori.

For more information on EQ8, go to Electric Quilt 8 Software.

Free Tutorial: Stardrop Table Topper

This fun Octagon shaped Stardrop Table Topper was designed with EQ8 Quilt Design Software by The Electric Quilt Company .  This tutorial takes that design and gives you the information to make it yourself.  This is a very easy beginner foundation pieced mini quilt but it is helpful to have some basic knowledge of paper piecing.  you will assemble eight units to combine to create the top of this little quilt.  I made this with gradations of aqua and teal solid cotton fabrics and the background is a lovely linen.  This is the perfect base for your table centerpiece.

Stardrop Table Topper

Finished size is approximately 24″ x 24″

Materials

• 1/8 yd of light aqua cotton
• 1/8 yd of medium aqua cotton
• 1/8 yd of teal cotton
• 1 yd for background, backing and binding
• 28″ square piece of batting
• Stardrop Template 1 Updated 2022
• Stardrop Template 2
• 16 sheets of Foundation Paper or Quilters Newsprint

Directions

Cut Fabric:

From light aqua, cut:

• 8 — 4 1/2 ” x 5″ rectangles

From medium aqua, cut:

• 8 — 5″ x 7″ rectangles

From dark teal, cut:

• 8 — 5″ x 10″ rectangles

From the dark linen, cut:

• 1 – 28″ square for the backing
• 16 — 2 1/2″ x 6″ rectangles for top template background
• 16 — 3″ x 7″ rectangles for bottom template background
• 8 — 2″ x 11″ strips for bottom template background
• 95″ x 2 1/4″ strips for binding (can be pieced together)

Paperpiecing

1. Use a pencil to trace the foundation pattern once onto a lightweight copy or foundation piecing paper of your choice.  I used EQ Printables Foundation sheets for this project generously provided by EQ.

2. Use a very short machine stitch, I use 1.8 mm so the paper will tear off easily later.

3. To foundation paper piece, stitch fabric pieces to a foundation paper with the marked side of the paper facing up and the fabric pieces layered underneath. The resulting pieced unit is a mirror image of the foundation paper.

4. Using the larger template and starting in the number order, place the first two fabric pieces, RST, on the back side of the foundation paper with the edges of the fabrics extending ¼” beyond the first stitching line. The first stitching line is between section A1 and A2.

1. Holding the pieces in place, stitch from the top side on the line between the two areas, starting and stopping just past the seam allowances.
2. Above,  you see the back side of the pieces we just stitched.
3. Flip the piece back over and fold the paper back on the line you just sewed.
4. Using a ruler, trim the seam to 1/4″. Be careful not to cut through your paper template.
5. Fold the paper back and flip it over again.
6. Open out the piece and press the seam. The right sides of the fabrics will show on the back side of the paper template.
7. Continue to add pieces in order step by step until you have finished the bottom template.
8. Trim the bottom template around the outside seam allowance on the paper.
9. Use the same method to sew the top template pieces.
10. Carefully sew the top and bottom foundation templates together.  You should have a total of 8 triangle shapes.
    
11. Sew together the paper pieced shapes, two at a time, aligning seams and points.
12. Then stitch together the pieces to form two halves.  Now you can sew together the two halves, aligning the center points and seams.
13. Carefully tear off the foundation pattern when you have finished the block

Assemble the Stardrop Table Topper

1. Make a quilt sandwich with the quilt top, batting and backing.
2. Baste the quilt layers together.
3. Quilt as desired.  I used some free motion feathers and leafy motifs in the triangles.
4. Sew the 2 1/4″ strips together for the binding and add to the quilt.  You are finished!

I would love to see your Stardrop Table Topper Quilt, tag me on instagram @lorimillerdesigns.

Looking for the EQ8 Design Instructions?  This quilt was designed in two parts, follow the links below:

EQ8 Stardropper Table Topper Design – Part 1

EQ8 Stardropper Table Topper Design – Part 2

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ8, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ8 Lessons with Lori.

For more information on EQ8, go to Electric Quilt 8 Software.

Free Tutorial – Scrappy Toddler Tumbler Quilt

This tutorial is an adorable toddler quilt designed with EQ8 Software by The Electric Quilt Company .  Running about 45″ square, it’s a One Block quilt using the Tumbler shape.  I was able to use my Sizzix Bigz L Die Tumbler that is 5″ x 5″ to make my blocks but I also include templates if you don’t have a die cutter machine.

The super cute woodland animal print I had is the feature fabric and then I used fabric from my stash to give it that scrappy look.

This quilt was designed with the new updated Electric Quilt 8 design software.  This version is more intuitive and easy to use and still has all the great things you expect from Electric Quilt.

 

When I designed this little quilt, I used the one block design from Electric Quilt and it allowed me to edit the Tumbler shape and size in my design so it matched the tumbler blocks I die cut with my Sizzix cutter.  You can cut a lot of very accurate blocks in a short amount of time with a die cut machine.  Don’t worry, if you don’t have a machine, I also provide templates for you to use.

Toddler Tumbler Quilt

Finished size is approximately 40″ x 40″

WOF – Width of Fabric

Materials

• 1 yd of main print fabric
• 3/8 yd of Seven coordinating fabrics
• 2   yds  Background print for binding, backing and some tumblers
• 50″ x 50″ piece of batting
• Sizzix Die Cutter
• Sizzix Bigz L Tumbler Die 5″x 5″ unfinished, 4 1/2″ x 4 1/2″ finished
• Or you can use this Tumbler Template

Directions

Cut Fabric:

From background fabric, cut:

• 1 — 54″ x WOF Rectangle for pieced backing
• 1— 54″ x WOF Rectangle for pieced backing, subcut into:
  • 1 – 12″ x 54″ strip for pieced backing
  • 4 – 2 1/2″ x 54″ strips for binding
  • Use remaining to cut approximately 14 tumbler blocks

From each of the seven coordinating prints, cut:

• 14 Tumbler blocks

Assemble the Toddler Tumbler Quilt top

1. Layout your tumbler blocks in a pleasing arrangement.  There are extra blocks so you can play with the placement until you like it.  There are 9 blocks in a row and 11 rows of blocks.
2. Sew the tumbler pieces together in rows so the angled sides are on the left and right of the block.  I pressed the seams open.
   
3. Then sew the rows together.  Press the seams open.
4. Piece together the backing so that it is at least 4 inches larger than the quilt top all around.
5. Make a quilt sandwich with the quilt top, batting and backing.
6. Pin baste the quilt layers together.
   
7. Quilt as desired.  I just straight line quilted about 1/2″ away from the seams.
8. Sew the 2 1/2″ strips together for the binding and add to the quilt.  The angled sides are pretty gentle so you can just ease the binding around.  You are finished!

I would love to see your Toddler Tumbler Quilt, tag me on instagram @lorimillerdesigns.

Looking for the EQ8 Design Instructions?  You can find them HERE.

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ8, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ8 Lessons with Lori.

For more information on EQ8, go to Electric Quilt 8 Software.

Free Tutorial – Fiesta Quilt

Lets have a party before summer ends with this fun and cheery Fiesta Quilt!  My next tutorial is a quilt designed with EQ  Software by The Electric Quilt Company .  It uses a simple Horizontal layout with only one block.  The large 12 inch block shows off some lovely Joel Dewberry prints that I picked up from Crimson Tate at Quiltcon this year.  If you have a stack of fat quarters that you have been wanting to use, this quilt makes two blocks from each fat quarter with a single background color.  All of the varied colors give a scrappy look, so you could certainly use whatever fun fabrics you have on hand.

EQ Mini is a scaled down, simpler version of EQ7 quilt design software.  This program was created for quilters who are just getting started using software for quilt design.  EQ Mini will help you create, edit, share, and print patterns and yardage for your quilt designs.

When I designed this little quilt, I used a simple horizontal layout using just one block called the Economy Block.  I wanted a large block to show off the fabric prints that I had so I made the blocks 12 inches square.  It worked out that I could get two blocks made from each fat quarter with a little to spare.  I kept playing with the sizes of the blocks in the software to try and use as much of a fat quarter as I could.  The software lets you print how much fabric is required for a block so you can play with the sizes until it matches what fabric you have on hand.

Fiesta Quilt

Finished size is approximately 48″ x 72″

Materials

• 12 pack of coordinating fat quarters
• 2  1/8 yds  white fabric for the background
• 3 yds for backing
• 1/2 yd  blue solid for binding
• 54″ x 80″ piece of batting

Directions

Cut Fabric:

From white background, cut:

• 96 — 3 1/2″ squares
• 24 — 7 1/4″ squares

From each fat quarter, cut:

• 2 — 6 1/2″ squares
• 8 — 3 7/8″ squares

From the binding fabric, cut:

• 6 — 2 1/4″ strips x WOF

Make the Economy Block

1. This block contains 4 flying geese components and there is a great way to make 4 matching flying geese.
2. On the back side of each 3 7/8″ print square, mark a line diagonally through the center of opposite corners.
   
3. Place two print squares diagonally, right sides together (RST) over one of the 7 1/4″ white background squares.  The print squares will slightly overlap. Stitch 1/4″ away from each side of the marked center line.
   
4. Carefully cut between the two lines of stitching.
   
5. Press towards the small print squares.
   
6. Place two 3 7/8″ print squares, RST, over the two triangle units.  Stitch 1/4″ away from each side of the marked center line.
   
7. Carefully cut between the two lines of stitching.
   
8. Press towards the small print squares.  You will have 4 identical flying geese.
   
   
9. Once the geese are assembled, layout all of the pieces of the block.
10. Stitch together in rows.
11. Trim the blocks carefully to 12 1/2″ x 12 1/2″ square.

Assemble the Fiesta Quilt top

1. Layout your blocks in a pleasing arrangement.  You have two of each block but you can randomly lay them out.  I used this fancy design wall, ok, well it is really my bed up at the cottage.
   
2. I sewed them in group of four and then put them all together.
3. Piece together the backing so that it is about 4 inches larger than the quilt top all around.
4. Make a quilt sandwich with the quilt top, batting and backing.
   
5. Pin baste the quilt layers together.
   
6. Quilt as desired.  I used an all over swirly pattern.
7. Sew the 2 1/4″ strips together for the binding and add to the quilt.  You are finished! Time to Fiesta!

Use that fat quarter bundle from your stash or cut up some colorful scraps for this quilt.   I would love to see your Fiesta Quilt, tag me on instagram @lorimillerdesigns.

Looking for the EQ Mini Design Instructions?  You can find them HERE!

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ Mini, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ Mini Friday Fun.

For more information on EQ Mini software, go to EQ Mini.

Free Tutorial – Summer Flora Quilted Tote

Its July and summer is in full swing.  I couldn’t resist making this bright and cheery Summer Flora Tote.  It’s perfect to take to the beach, fill  up with a sewing project to work on or just tote all of your goodies in style.  This Summer Flora Tote was designed with EQ Mini Software by The Electric Quilt Company .  It uses a simple Horizontal strip layout with a couple of applique quilt block designs that will end up as the feature on each side of the tote.  Stitched in lots of bright summer colors, it reminds me of all of the flowers blooming this time of year.  Finish up this simple design with simple quilting and a fun handle.

EQ Mini is a scaled down, simpler version of EQ7 quilt design software.  This program was created for quilters who are just getting started using software for quilt design.  EQ Mini will help you create, edit, share, and print patterns and yardage for your quilt designs.

When I designed this little quilt, I used a simple horizontal strip layout with borders.  I just added two quilt blocks that when assembled would become the sides of the tote.

Summer Flora Quilted Tote

Finished size is approximately 14″ W x 14 1/2″ T x 5″ D

Materials

• 1 pack of 5″ charm squares or at least 28 – 5″ squares (I used some Bali Snaps by Hoffman Fabrics)
• 1/8 yd of bright green solid
• 1  1/4 yd Grey Linen
• 1  1/4 yd of coordinating print for lining
• 1  1/2 yd of  muslin for backing
• 1 1/2 yd of Fusible Web (like Pellon 805 Wonder Under or Pellon Lite EZ Steam II)
• 20″ x 49″ piece of Pellon FF77 Flex Foam
• 4 – 1″ D rings
• 2 handles with lobster clips
• Summer Flora Tote Templates

Directions

Cut Fabric:

From bright green solid, cut a 6″ x 10″ rectangle

From Grey Linen, cut:

• 1 — 5 1/2″ x 14 1/2″ strip
• 2 — 3 1/2″ x 33 1/2″ strips
• 2 — 14 1/2″ x 14 1/2″ squares
• 2 — 3 1/2″ x 19 1/2″ strips
• 4 – 2″ x 4″ strips for handle tabs

From lining fabric

• 1 — 18 1/2″  x 36″ rectangle

From fusible web, cut:

• 28 — 4 1/2″ squares
• 1 — 5 1/2″ x 9 1/2″ rectangle

Make the Applique Blocks

1. Download and print out the Summer Flora Tote Templates.  If you plan on machine appliqueing the stems and leaves, you can cut off the outside seam allowance before tracing the templates.
2. Press the large piece of fusible web to the wrong side of the bright green stem rectangle.
3. Using the stem template A, trace and cut out 8 stems.
   
4. Press the 4 1/2″ fusible web to the wrong side of 28 – 5″ charm squares.
   
5. Using the leaf template B, trace 2 leaves onto each charm square and cut them out.
   
6. Using the block diagram as a visual guide, arrange the stems and leaves on each of the 14 1/2″ linen squares.
7. I folded and pressed the squares diagonally to get guidelines to use.
   
8. Once you have the arranged the leaves and have the design how you like it, set aside the leaves at the top of the stems and press the remaining stems and leaves onto the linen square.
   
9. Using a small zigzag stitch, applique around the stems and leaves.  I used a length of .9 mm and a stitch width of 2.5 mm.
   
10. Hint, when you are machine applique stitching the points of the leaves, narrow the stitch width to 2.0 mm just at the points.
11. Once you have appliqued the stems and leaves, arrange the leaves on the top of the stems and press down.
12. Machine applique the remaining leaves.

Assemble the Tote top

1. Sew the 5 1/2″ x 14 1/2″ linen center strip between the two appliqued squares.  Press to one side and top stitch if desired.
2. Sew the 3 1/2″ x 33 1/2″ strips to each side of the applique unit.  Press to one side and top stitch if desired.
3. Prepare the loops for the handles.  Fold in half  the long way and press a crease.  Open back up and fold each raw edge to the center.  Topstitch close to the folded edges.  Topstitch on the other side to match.
   
4. Slide the d ring over the strip and fold in half.  Position the d ring and strip 6″ from the edge of the tote and baste into the seam.  Repeat for the 3 other loops.
5. Sew the 3 1/2 ” x 20 1/2″ linen strips to the top and bottom of the applique unit.  Press to one side.  Topstitch close to the seam.
6. Mark the quilt top if you want to quilt the 2 ” diamond pattern like I did.  I used a washable white marking pen.
7. Make a quilt sandwich with the muslin, flex foam and the top applique unit.
8. Pin baste the quilt layers together.
   
9. Quilt as desired.

Finish the tote

1. Trim tote to 19 1/2″ x 39 1/2″.  Only on the top ends of the tote, trim the flex foam to be 1 inch shorter than the outside of the tote.  You will be folding the top of the tote down into the inside over the flex foam.
2. Fold the tote in half, right sides together (RST) and pin aligning seams.
3. Stitch the sides and bottom of the tote.
4. Box each corner and measure up 2 1/2″ from the point and stitch across the tote a 5″ long seam.  Trim seam.
5. Fold the lining in half, RST and stitch the sides and bottom of the lining leaving an opening for turning on the side of the tote.
6. Box each corner of the lining by measuring up 2 1/2 inches from the point and stitching across the lining corner with a 5 ” seam.  Turn the lining right side out.
7. Tuck the lining into the tote with RST.  Pin aligning the seams.  Stitch around the top of the tote.
8. Pull the tote right side out through the opening in the lining.
   
9. Push the lining down into the tote.  The lining is shorter, so the top of the tote should fold down  to the inside of the tote about an inch or so.  Pin in place.  Top stitch along the edge of the top of the tote and again 1/4″ away.
10. Tack the lining to the bottom sides of the tote from the inside.
    
11. Attach your handles.

Use a favorite charm pack or cut up some colorful scraps for this tote.   Choose another favorite applique block or pieced block for the tote sides.  I would love to see your Summer Flora Tote, tag me on instagram @lorimillerdesigns.

Looking for the EQ Mini Design Instructions?  You can find them HERE.

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ Mini, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ Mini Friday Fun.

For more information on EQ Mini software, go to EQ Mini.