Scrappy Delight: Creative Low Volume Quilt with Raw Edge Appliqué
Scrappy Low Volume Quilts with Raw Edge Applique
Transform your scrap pile into a creative low volume quilt with the added art of raw edge appliqué. Here’s a guide on how to create a scrappy low volume quilt using this technique. Then you may choose to add a bit of flair with some raw edge applique.
Do you have a pile of fabric scraps that you don’t know what to do with? Have you ever considered turning them into a beautiful low volume quilt? You’ll see how to turn those scraps into a stunning, scrappy low volume quilt.
Let me guide you through every step of the process. Beginning with your scrap pile, discover the hidden treasure of low volume fabric you may likely already have. Learn to identify low volume fabrics and how to choose the right ones for your quilt. Discover the many ways to combine low volume fabrics for a fantastic quilt design. Once you understand what low volume fabrics are and how to use them, you’ll be turning your scrap pile into beautiful quilts that you can treasure for years to come.
Understanding Low Volume Fabrics: A Guide
What Are Low Volume Fabrics
A creative low volume quilt is all about the fabric used. The right mix of fabrics can make a stunning design. So, it’s important to understand what low volume fabrics are and how they differ from traditional quilting fabrics.
Low volume fabrics are often described as soft, muted, or neutral in color, with a low contrast between the pattern and background. These fabrics are perfect for creating a subtle, understated effect in your quilt, which is why they’re so popular in modern quilting.
What exactly are low volume fabrics? Essentially, these are fabrics that have a neutral or light-colored background with a subtle pattern or texture. They can be solid or have a print, but the key is that the print is not too bold or overwhelming. The idea is to create a soft, subtle look that flows across your quilt in a soothing wave of gently color. A low volume quilt can stand alone beautifully or for a bit more color consider adding some raw edge appliqué accents as shown below.
Identify Low Volume Fabrics
One of the easiest ways to identify low volume fabrics is to look for white, cream, or light gray fabrics with prints in similar colors. It’s almost a monochromatic color scheme.
Also look for low contrast text prints. The text may be either printed words or script messages. Sometimes you’ll find text combined with assorted decorative elements creating a collage style pattern.
Many low volume fabrics may feature small, repeating forms like dots, stripes, or florals, with a light or white background. Other popular prints include tone-on-tone fabrics with understated designs on a plain or lightly textured background. The intention is that the overall print is not a strong contrast against the background.
If you want a bit more color in your quilt then just take it a step further and select small, color prints. You still want the same neutral background, but elect a print that has small quantities of a more saturated color. Bear in mind, if you only include one or two of these fabrics they will stand out from the rest. Balance is important when designing your creative low volume quilt!
Choosing the Right Fabrics for Your Creative Low Volume Quilt
As you begin to choose your low volume fabrics, remember that the key is to create a sense of balance. You want to choose fabrics that work well together and complement each other. You can mix and match solids, prints, and textures, but be sure to step back and evaluate your choices periodically to ensure that your quilt is coming together visually as you intended.
Another consideration is the motif and texture of the fabric. Low volume quilts typically feature low-contrast prints and textures that blend well together. Look for fabrics with small-scale prints, tone-on-tone designs, or subtle textures such as lightweight linen or chambray. Avoid fabrics with large, bold prints or patterns, as these can be distracting and take away from the overall aesthetic of the quilt.
It’s important to consider the scale of your fabric prints. While a small-scale print commonly used in low volume quilts will create a more subdued effect, a larger-scale print will be bolder and more eye-catching. Think about the overall look you want to achieve and choose your fabrics accordingly. This is an ideal opportunity to showcase some favorite fabrics that may fit into your low volume design very well. Remember, it’s about balance.
With these tips in mind, you’re ready to start choosing your fabrics for your creative low volume quilt. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new combinations – the beauty of scrappy quilts is in their unique and personalized look.,
So, where do you find low volume fabrics? First check your scrap pile! You may be surprised at how many low volume fabrics you already have. Look for neutrals and light-colored prints with subtle patterns, such as tone-on-tone prints, small polka dots, or stripes. An easy option is to look for curated low volume fabric bundles at your local quilt shop or online.
Combining Low Volume Fabrics
As you delve into creating your low volume quilt, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is combining the right fabrics. With so many options available, it’s easy to become overwhelmed, but don’t let that stop you from experimenting and trying new combinations. Start with your favorite fabric and add others that complement and work well as a group, while also keeping a balanced look when mixed.
One approach is to mix and match solids, prints, and textures. You might choose a mix of delicate prints that add depth and interest to the quilt without overpowering it. Another approach is to use solid fabrics in varying shades of the same color to create a cohesive, monochromatic look. You can also use different textures to add dimension and create visual interest.
Throughout the process, step back and evaluate your choices periodically. This will help you ensure that your quilt is coming together visually as you intended.
Understanding low volume fabrics and how to combine the right ones for your quilting project is key to creating a beautiful, cohesive quilt. Experiment with different prints and textures to find the ones that work best for you and have fun creating your one-of-a-kind scrappy delight.
Take It to The Next Level
Raw edge applique
Have you made a low volume quilt and are thinking about how to take your next one up a notch? Do you see a low volume quilt as the perfect background for a spectacular design? Now that you’ve selected your low volume fabrics, it’s time to bring them to life with raw edge appliqué. It’s a fun way to add some pizazz! Adding raw edge appliqué motifs for some bright pops of color is a perfect option. This technique involves attaching fabric pieces to a base fabric with the raw edge exposed, producing a textured and unique look. It adds even more visual interest to your creative low volume quilt.
Creating a Stunning Rose Garden Quilt Block
To add a touch of elegance to your scrappy low volume quilt, consider creating a stunning rose garden scattered across your quilt using raw edge appliqué. Here I’m using the familiar French Rose pattern. You can see more in my Vintage French Rose Quilt Pillow post.
What is Raw Edge Applique
Raw edge applique is a popular method in quilting that adds texture and depth to your project. It involves attaching fabric pieces to a base fabric by sewing along the edges without any folding. While this technique may seem simple, there are a few tips and tricks to ensure that your raw edge applique turns out beautifully.
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Raw Edge Applique Techniques and Tips
Fabric choice is important for your applique pieces. Woven fabrics work best as the raw edges can easily fray for the fuller look we want. It’s also important to consider the color and pattern of your fabric pieces and how they will work in conjunction with your low volume quilt. When selecting fabrics for the appliqué pieces, consider using prints and textures that complement the low volume fabrics. Mixing and matching different prints can create a beautiful visual contrast and add depth to your quilt.
One important tip to keep in mind is to use a stabilizer to prevent the base fabric from puckering or distorting during the appliqué process. Attaching surface pieces creates extra weight on your quilt top and may cause strain on the fabrics. Adding a stabilizer to the wrong side of your quilt will strengthen the areas supporting the applique. If you have a large design across the entire quilt, consider applying a dissolvable stabilizer that washes away. Alternatively, you may apply a light feather weight interfacing for support.
Practice Makes Perfect!
Before starting to sew your applique pieces, it’s helpful to practice on scrap fabric to determine your machine’s tension, stitch length, and stitch type. A zigzag stitch or blanket stitch are popular choices for raw edge applique and can create a decorative finish in addition to securing the fabric pieces. Using a walking foot will keep all those layers of fabric under control.
When sewing your applique pieces, be sure to keep the edges from rolling up or stretching out of shape. This can be achieved by gently holding the fabric in place while sewing and making small adjustments as needed. Additionally, using a fusible web or fabric glue can help secure your pieces in place before stitching.
With these techniques and tips in mind, you can confidently add raw edge applique to your low volume quilt for a unique and eye-catching finish. Now, let’s move on to creating a stunning Rose Garden quilt block.
Frayed or Un-frayed?
If you want frayed edges on your appliqued designs, you’re ready to get started. On the other hand, to create a smooth and even appliqué, it’s recommended to use a fusible web, such as Steam-a-Seam 2, to help the fabric pieces adhere securely to the base fabric and prevent fraying. It’s a personal choice that also depends on the final quilt design you’re planning. Keep in mind that all raw edge applique will have some fraying over time.
You can find various types of fabric stabilizers at your local fabric store or online, depending on the weight and texture of the base fabric.
With your design fabric pieces prepared, pin them onto your quilt top. Now it’s time to stitch them in place. You can use a variety of stitches such as a straight stitch, zigzag stitch, or blanket stitch to achieve different looks. Experiment with different stitch lengths and widths to find the style that works best for your project.
How to Make Shabby French Rose Quilt
Shabby French Rose Quilt Assembly
The Shabby French Rose generally has three or more petal layers. With the layers stacked from large to smallest on top, pin the layers together onto your quilt top. Begin by sewing the bottom layer first. Holding aside the top layers, sew around the petal edges to secure in place. The farther away from the edge you sew, the more your petals will raise up and become frayed. Continue sewing the top layers in the same manner until all layers are secure.
Once attached, rub your fingers across the petals briskly to create a light fraying. I like to clip my petals about 1/4″ along the outer edges to allow even more raveling. Then with my fingers, I rub the edges causing them to fray more and curl around the edges.
Don’t forget about your thread options! Choose a matching, neutral thread to keep the stitching less noticeable. Or, find a bold color, maybe even a variegated thread to add another level of interest to your finished quilt.
With these techniques and tips in mind, you’re ready to create a stunning rose garden quilt block.
Creating a Stunning Rose Garden Quilt
The mini quilt shown can be bound and finished as a wall hanging, or it may become part of a larger quilt. Combining many of these blocks will create a beautiful design. Alternatively, you may choose to add roses randomly across your quilt top.
To take your low volume quilt to the next level, add a raw edge applique rose garden. This design features a large rose in the center with leaves radiating outwards. You can also add leafy vines, smaller blooms, and buds.
To create this block, start by selecting fabrics in shades of pink, red, and green to create the petals, leaves, and stem of the rose. Cut out your applique pieces and arrange them on your low volume background fabric.
Make sure to space them evenly and balance out the colors, placing the petals and leaves in a natural-looking design. Once you’re satisfied with the layout, pin the pieces in place.
With your layout finalized, choose a stitch style, and start sewing around each shape to secure them to the quilt top. A blanket stitch or a zigzag stitch can create a lovely, finished edge that adds a bit of texture to the design.
When finished, the rose garden quilt block can be incorporated into your creative low volume quilt as a focal point or as a charming accent.
Finishing Your Low Volume Scrappy Quilt
Assemble Your Quilt Sandwich
Now it’s time to assemble your low volume scrappy quilt. For the backing fabric, you can choose a low volume print that complements the front or go for a solid color. Alternatively, choose multiple fabrics and create a pieced background. You can get some ideas from my What is Quilt Backing post.
Decide on your preferred batting and cut it to size, placing it between your quilt top and backing. Baste your layers together, adding a pin to each flower to avoid any shifting during the quilt process. Basting your quilt may be done with pins. Spray basting is my favorite way to baste a quilt. It’s fast, quicker than pins, and keeps all the layers together where you want them. To see a demonstration of how spray basting works, check out my How to Spray Baste Your Quilt post.
Choose Your Quilting Method
There are always multiple methods for quilting. You can opt for a simple straight-line quilting for a nice finish or go for a more intricate design such as free-motion quilting to emphasize areas of the quilt design.
Finally, finish your low volume scrappy quilt by binding the edges. Be sure your binding selection adds to your beautiful design! You can use a coordinating fabric or go for a contrasting color for added interest. Once your binding is complete it’s time enjoy the finished product!
Creating a low volume quilt with raw edge applique is the perfect way to turn your scrap pile into a stunning work of art. Remember to choose the right fabrics, master the techniques of raw edge applique, and experiment with your designs to create your very own scrappy delight. There are endless possibilities of quilting with low volume fabrics, so be adventurous! Keep in mind, in the world of quilting, there are no mistakes, only design opportunities!
Your new, beautiful scrappy quilt is sure to impress. By incorporating raw edge applique into your low volume scrappy quilt, you’ve created a one-of-a-kind piece that is both beautiful and personalized. Now it’s time for you to create something beautiful!
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