Design Resource Center

Design Resource Center

a.k.a. "The Box Under The Bed....."

Feathered Design Stencil

When the top is done I get anxious to start the quilting process. While working on the top, many hours have already been spent thinking about the quilting designs. Now is the time to go through my "box under the bed" for quilting design reference material.

I have collected many designs over the years from quilting magazines and books. Here are some suggestions for starting your own design resource :

From time to time I discard old quilt magazines. Before they're thrown out I tear out pages with quilting designs I like, well photographed quilts that show good relief, or applique designs that could be adapted for quilting. I don't necessarily have to "like" the design. It may be just the right inspiration for a future quilt. These pages are kept in a 3-ring binder.
Quilt books often contain a few ideas for quilting. If you trace these patterns and keep them in a box you will have a concentration of designs without having to page through your entire library.
Many times, to save space, only 1/4 of the design is printed. It is good therapy to take the time to trace the full design. I am often surprised to see the finished size.
In order to "fill the space" a group of patterns can be used. Make several copies including mirror images if the designs are not symmetrical. Lay out the components and create new designs of your own.
Don't forget about background quilting. I also keep ideas for backgrounds, drawn on graph paper, in my "box under the bed".
There are times when a mindless activity is just what you need to relieve stress. Get out the tracing paper and add to your collection!

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