What Is The Best Material To Make A Crib Size Rag Quilt
Cotton Fabrics Make A Great Rag Quilt of Any Size
Learning how to make a crib size rag quilt is much easier when you keep these 5 key tips in mind. Fabrics that fray along cut edges make the best rag quilts. The three fabrics I use and recommend are quilting cotton, cotton flannel and denim because they fray very well. Quilting cotton fabrics work great and offer the most color and pattern variety. Use your stash or scrap quilting fabrics leftover from previous projects as a terrific way to use it up. That’s great incentive to create a beautiful rag quilt.
Tip 1: Always use cotton fabrics that will fray when cut and washed for a soft, fuzzy touch.
Click to Download your Free PDF Interactive Rag Quilt Tips List
Cotton Flannel Makes A Great Crib Rag Quilt
My personal favorites are flannels because they make such a cuddly soft rag quilt. Not only does flannel fray really well but the rag edges feel like a cotton ball. Denim works very well and makes a much heavier quilt. Therefore you’ll find lots of possibilities working with denim. Definitely stay away from knits or synthetic fabrics as they won’t fray along the cut edges to get that rag look you’re going for. Stick with cottons for the best results.
Want to Learn More About Rag Quilts?
Be sure to sign up for my Free Rag Quilt eCourse. I’ll send you a daily email for a week that outlines everything you need to know about rag quilting. It’s a great way to learn some new & helpful rag quilt tips & techniques!
How Many Layers Do You Need For A Crib Size Rag Quilt
Traditional Rag Quilts Have Batting
Traditionally rag quilts have three layers, the top fabric, bottom fabric and quilt batting in the middle. I’ve constructed all my rag quilts this way. As with any creative plan, there are many ways to alter projects to your personal taste. Take as much artistic license as you want and see what works best for you.
Can You Make A Rag Quilt Without Batting
Try making a light weight rag quilt leaving the batting out. Use just two layers of fabric, with cotton quilt fabric on top and cotton flannel on the bottom. This rag quilting method will result in a lightweight quilt and still have the nice fuzzy edges that make rag quilts so special.
Even better is to add a second layer of flannel in the middle. This will add a bit more weight and will keep those rag edges nice and fluffy. Cut the middle flannel squares the same size as the top and bottom blocks. Do you already see how much easier this is?
Since all three layers of fabric will be sewn into the seams, there is no need to sew and ‘X’ across the center of the square. All three layers will be held in place securely by the seams. this is a huge time saver. Not only eliminating the extra cutting of smaller batting squares, but no quilting either. This could become my new favorite rag quilting method.
What Size Is A Crib Rag Quilt
Determining What Size Crib Quilt to Make
There is no right or wrong answer here. Considering that a crib mattress measures about 28” x 52”, you have quite a bit of leeway since most quilts will be use outside the crib when baby first comes home. Instead make your baby quilt the best size for the new little one.
Consider Function First
Keep in mind that most baby quilts function as a floor covering for babies to lay and play on. A 40” x 50” makes a very nice size that will get lots of use. For example, this blue flannel baby quilt measures 45” x 45”. It’ll be perfect to give plenty of room for baby to stretch and roll across.
Once the new baby grows a bit, they’ll love snuggling into their quilt. So consider making it long enough to keep them covered when sleeping. Find more free quilt patterns at Fat Quarter Shop.
Are Quilts Safe for Babies
Keep in mind that the American Association of Pediatrics recommends not to use quilts or blankets within the crib for infant safety. Therefore, while your crib quilt may drape over the side when not in use, its actual size isn’t really important. Whatever the size, it’ll get lots of use and love for a very long time.
What Are The Best Size Squares For A Crib Size Rag Quilt
Are Small or Large Blocks Better
My rag quilts have varied from 5” to 9” cut squares. Proportionately it works best to use smaller squares for smaller rag quilts, and larger squares for larger rag quilts. This baby rag quilt was made with 5” cut squares which ends up being a 4” square once the quilt is pieced. Check out How to Make A Rag Quilt for detailed instructions on making your own rag quilt. I made this baby quilt 45” x 45” for a nice size that can be used by baby for a good while.
Are There Other Options
Of course, there are always opportunities for artistic liberties. Make your rag quilt the way you feel inspired to create it. Whatever the size block, remember to allow enough seam allowance for assembly and fraying. I sew all my rag quilts with a ½” seam which means you need to add a full inch to your finished block size.
What is the Correct Size to Cut the Batting for a Rag Quilt
Since you will attach your blocks with a ½“seam allowance, cut your batting 1” smaller than your quilt block. This way, when you sew your ½“seam, the batting is enclosed inside the quilt. You don’t want bits of fuzzy batting finding their way out of the seams between your blocks.
Tip 2: Cut the batting 1” smaller than the block size
Rag Quilts Are Incredibly Forgiving
Rag quilts are quick, easy projects that make a wonderful gift for a new baby. They are small, so buying fabric is less costly. You may even have enough fabric stashed away someplace close by that you can use. Since batting is cut into individual squares, it’s very easy to use up scraps left from other projects. The best part is that with all the frayed edges, imperfect seams will never even be noticed.
Tip 3: Don’t omit quilting each block with a large “X” from corner to corner to hold the batting in place or you won’t be happy with your results when the batting bunches up in the corners.
How To Quilt A Rag Quilt
Quilting each block with an ‘X’ from corner to corner before sewing them together is a must. Without this stitching to stabilize your block, the batting isn’t being held in place. You don’t want to find your batting rolled up into the corner after the quilt gets some use. The last thing you want is for your quilt to become a lumpy mess after all that work. Yes, that’s personal experience talking!
How to Finish A Crib Size Rag Quilt
How To Sew A Crib Size Rag Quilt Together
With all your blocks quilted, decide how you want to lay them out. Piecing them into small units which are then assembled into larger sections makes the assembly process much easier.
Tip 4: Sharp scissors are a must!
Lots Of Clipping Results In A Great Rag Quilt
The frayed edges of a rag quilt result from clipping each seam every 1/2″. This is a big project if done all at once when the sewing is finished, therefore as you complete piecing your small units, clip your seams before the final assembly.
Use the Best Tools
Use the sharpest scissors you have or your hands will tire quickly. Once you begin attaching more blocks, clip those seams too. Complete all the clipping before adding the border if you choose to add one. Clipping your border will be the final step and you will definitely appreciate all the previous clipping you already did!
After making your first rag quilt you will really appreciate these Rag Quilt Spring Snippers! Clipping with these snippers is so much easier than using conventional scissors. I received mine as a gift and keep them handy all the time. The spring provides the tension to release the blades as you cut. That means your hand isn’t doing all that work. The difference is amazing!
This crib size rag quilt was first assembled into 4-patch blocks which were then sewn into the finished crib quilt. Check out How to make a rag quilt for other rag quilt ideas.
How To Finish Edges Of A Rag Quilt
Do Rag Quilts Need A Border
A border isn’t necessary for any rag quilt, which makes them so easy to make. Although after lots of use the edge seams may begin to come loose. Adding a border to your rag quilt strengthens the outer edge through lots of use and many washings.
By adding a border around the edge, your new rag quilt looks nicely finished. Most importantly, you don’t have to worry about your edge blocks coming loose because the border strengthens all that work you did.
Tip 5: Add a 2” border strip to secure the outer quilt edge.
What Size Border Should Be Added To A Rag Quilt
My borders widths vary depending on the size of the blocks used. The 4” finished squares of this baby rag quilt has a 2” finished border. Each piece measures 3” wide by the length of each side. Layer your border pieces with batting in between. Instead of sewing an ‘X’ to stabilize the batting, simply sew from one end to the other. My quilt has two lines of stitching about an inch apart.
How To Sew A Border To A Rag Quilt
First use a ½” seam allowance when sewing the border to the quilt . After sewing all four sides to the quilt, sew a ½” in from the outside edge all around your quilt. This edge will also be clipped for the final finish of your crib size rag quilt.
Learn How to Make a Rag Quilt Corner Rosette
Add Corner Rosettes to Your Next Rag Quilt
Learn how to make a 5” square rosette block. Your rosette block may be adjusted to any size to fit your quilt. This baby quilt has a rosette in each corner. These corner rosettes were cut at 2” to fit in the 2” border on each side. Since they are so small, there is only one extra layer of fabric. But notice how full the rosette is with just that extra layer.
Cut & Sew Rosette Squares
Step 1: Cut two 5”x5” fabric squares. With wrong sides together, insert a 4” piece of batting between the two layers of fabric. On the top of all three layers, sew diagonally from corner to corner. Do the same on the other corner so you have a large “X” stitched on your square.
Cut two each of three more squares to layer your rosette. The smaller squares should measure 4”x4”, 3”x3”, and 2”x2”. Layer them wrong sides together.
Stack & Sew Rosette Squares Together
Step 2: Center the pair of 4”x4” squares on top of your 5” sewn block. It will fit inside the previously sewn block. Sew a square ½” from the outside edge.
Step 3: Center the pair of 3”x3” squares on top of your sewn block and sew in the same manner as above.
Step 4: Center the pair of 2”x2” squares on top of your sewn block and sew in the same manner as above. Sew a small “X” from corner to corner to secure all the layers.
Step 5: The back will show each row of stitching ½” apart.
Clip & Finish Rosette Squares
Step 6: Clip each row of squares ½” apart to get the rag effect when the piece is washed.
Step 7: Wash and rinse well to remove all the small strings to reveal your beautiful rosette.
Making a crib size rag quilt is a great first project of this type of quilting. It’s small enough to finish quickly, yet will produce a wonderful quilt for a new baby. Give it a try and add your project photos to IG #createmorebeautyinyourlifeeveryday.
Hi, thank you for all of your rag quilt videos. I have read some quilters snip the blocks before sewing the blocks into rows. What are your thoughts?
Thanks!
Debbie
You absolutely can snip your seams before sewing. Keep in mind you may want to stop snipping about 2″ from the edge so you can sew the seams without catching any snipped fabric. Thanks for your comment! Happy Quilting,
Lea Louise
Two questions…
1. What are your thoughts on staggering the seams?
2. Do you use a walking foot when sewing the blocks together and do you increase the stitch length?
Thank you!
Your questions are perfect Christa! I just completed a rag quilt last month with offset seams. It’s definitely my preferred assembly method because it makes the quilt top so much easier to sew. You can also see a recent rag quilt pillow post that explains the how and why of using a walking foot. It makes sewing all those layers so much easier and does a great job keeping the fabrics aligned. A common problem when not using a walking foot is the uneven edges at the end of each row. It’s hard to avoid using a regular foot. Another suggestion is to use spring clippers to clip all those seams. You’ll be amazed how much easier they are on your hands.
Thanks for your questions and enjoy making your rag quilt!
Lea
As a veteran of many rage quilts and someone who has arthritis, the spring clippers are a MUST!
Thanks for the endorsement Patty! I just wish I discovered them sooner.
Lea Louise
Talk to quilters who have their quilts quilted by longarm quilters — they have tons of extra batting strips from the sides that can be used for the batting and they’ll gladly give it to you for free!! Also, I’ve used different kinds of battings in one quilt and it doesn’t seem to make a difference as they don’t seem to shrink.
Arlene, that’s a fantastic idea. If you don’t know a longarm quilter, check with your local quilt shop or guild. Quilters love to share!
Thanks for the great tip,
Lea
How much flannel should I buy to make the crib quilt..5 in. Squares.
Hi Dee, this is a quick quilt that is a perfect size for a baby or toddler. The top and bottom layer each require 2 1/2 yards of fabric which includes 100 -5″ squares and borders cut @ 3″. You may choose to just make this a two-layer rag quilt if you want it to be lighter weight. Alternatively, you can add a middle layer too. Your choice is to cut 100 -4″ batting squares and quilt each block before assembly. My favorite method is to buy a third layer of flannel for the middle to replace the batting. It’s cut exactly the same as the top and bottom and simply sewn in with the regular seams. You may still choose to quilt the traditional ‘X’ in the middle of each block but it is unnecessary. The seams will hold the middle layer of flannel in place so there won’t be any shifting like you’ll see with batting.
Have fun making your quilt and please send me a photo, I’d love to share with everyone!
Lea
What was the size of the finished crib quilt? Just curious. Did it include the sides of the mattress? Or, does it lay on top exactly the width and length of the mattress? Appreaciate any advice you can give me. I want to make one for my granddaughters, one in a crib the other is moving up to a twin bed, soon I think.
Hi Cheryl,
This rag quilt measures 45″ x 45″ including the narrow borders. Keep in mind that quilts are not recommended to be used in the crib with infants as they may easily get tangled. The baby quilts I make are intended for infants to play and roll on. Once they are older and can turn themselves around a quilt may be used. With that said, sizing it to the mattress would be best. As it’s difficult to tuck a quilt in between the mattress and crib sides. Have fun making the girls their quilts – I’m sure they will love them!
Lea
Hello Lea! Love your quilts and advice! I too love rag quilts but I have a hard time with the flannel pilling! I do use a fabric shaver but thinking of only using the flannel in the middle to avoid this? Any suggestions? Thanks in advance! Kathy
Thanks for you kind words Kathy! You’re right that flannel can get a bit messy but it is a rag quilt. I have tried a number of different options that have all worked out well. First is cotton on top with two layers of flannel as the backing and batting. Still some pilling because the flannel surface holds onto everything! I’ve actually make a couple with cotton on the top and bottom with flannel in the middle. Not quite as full a frayed seam but still looks very nice. There are no hard and fast rules, so try what works best for you!
I’m making my first rag quilt for my new grand daughter due in December. Instead of squares, I want to make strips of different widths. As I won’t be making x’s in the squares, do you sew a seam down the middle of the strips? They will range in finished widths of 3″ to 7″.
Hi Connie, I usually like to sew down the center of my strips if they are over 5″ wide. Check out this strip rag quilt that I recently posted. I think it may be just what you’re looking for.
Enjoy making your quilt!
Lea
Is the back of the quilt just flat seams ?
Yes Julia, the back seam allowance is brought to the front when the rag seam is sewn. All you see on the back are the flat seam lines which is quite comfortable to snuggle into. Hope you get a chance to make your own rag quilt!
Lea
I found your rag quilt information very informative. I really enjoy making rag quilts, the last 2, I made I used fleece instead of batting it was much cheaper and very warm. I think I might try your idea of flannel this time. I have a question? Is it possible to make a rag quilt with flannel combined with minky for a baby quilt? I don’t find any information on this. I have a baby quilt to make soon.
Margaret
Flannel can be combined with most any other fabirc, Margaret. I’ve not used minky but don’t see why it wouldn’t work. It can be slippery, so basting or pinning might be helpful. You mentioned how warm fleece is for a rag quilt and what a price savings it offers. There are two different methods I’ve used with flannel. First was with flannel as the middle layer in place of batting, and regular cotton on top. It finished great with the extra layer of flannel making the frayed edges nice an full. Then next quilt was with all three layers of flannel. It turned out great, but so very heavy. More suited for north of the Arctic Circle! The rag quilts with just two layers of flannel are my favorite. They are light weight and so soft. Omitting batting offers so many choices we might not have otherwise thought about. That’s what makes collaborating so much fun. We all are learning together!
Lea
Hi Lea, I love your instructions for the crib rag quilt. I’m making my first one for my first grand baby. My question is, if I’m using the 5” squares, how many do I cut & how many in each row & column? Thanks for the help.
How exciting Debbie, that you’ll be making this for such a special occasion! This quilt measures apx 45″x 45″. Using 5″ squares, there are 10 rows x 10 rows for a total of 100 squares for the top. You’ll also need 100 squares for the backing. Plus on my quilt I added a 2″ border all around. Remember with a 1/2″ seam allowance that your finished block will be 4″. If you’ll be using batting, it will be cut into 4″ squares. It’s a quick quilt and is so adorable. Be sure to send me a picture of your finished quilt,
Lea
Hi, I run a chapter of Project Linus and received a donation of 2 tubs full of 5″ fleece squares. Can I make infant rag quilts using them?? What steps do I omit since it wont need batting?? Do I need a backing or just sewing the squares together and then make the fringe?? Thank you and can’t wait to get started.
What a great project Cathy, and for such a wonderful cause! Since you are using fleece, you can make this very easily with a single layer. You’ll still clip the seams but instead of the frayed edge, it’ll be more of a fringe look. It’s a perfect option since it’ll go together so quickly. These will make beautiful quilts. Enjoy the project,
Lea
If I used flannel for my batting, and cut it the same size as the blocks, so all 3 layers 5”, do I have to sew the X? Flannel wouldn’t bunch up like batting and the middle layer would be sewn in place with the seams, right? I don’t know why I don’t like the X’s in the middle, something about them not being all symmetrical.☺️
You are absolutely right Andrea! No more ‘X’s in the middle. I’m with you and don’t like them at all. Using flannel is how I’ve made my most recent rag quilt and love it. I’ll be making a new one to update this post with the change. Check out either of my posts ‘Adorable Quilts’ or ‘Easy Baby Quilts’ with the flannel explanation. I actually used flannel in a rag quilt when I was out of batting and it worked like a charm. So much easier too!
Have fun quilting!
Lea
I love making rag quilts for babies and animal shelters! My problem is the final stage when you must wash them to get the clipped seams tp fluff up! They shed terribly and are playing havic with my dryer. I feel like I need to wash and dry them several times to get all tje tint off the quilt. I’m making so many animal quilts right now that I’m thinking of taking them to a laundry mat. What has your experience been? Any suggestions?
Hi Judy,
You are correct that lots of threads wash out of the cut seams which is what creates the frayed edges. I don’t know of any other way to achieve these rag edges. When I wash my rag quilts for the first time, I also do a second rinse which helps. There is still a lot of thread and lint that also gets caught in the dryer as well. If you are washing quite a few at a time, the laundromat sounds like a great option. Since you make so many rag quilts, do you have any advice on speedy clipping? That can be a chore for as many quilts as you are making. Keep up the great work!
Lea
Thanks for getting back to me! I am going to go to the laundromat;when i have lots of “shelter” quilts made. I do have a good cllipper tool that I use; and always do it while I’m watching TV. The fact that they are not very large helps! I’m woring on using larger squares; so there will be less seams to clip. The animal prints I use are very fun; and I love putting thrm together! It’s my way of helping all the homeless animals.
Judy, it’s wonderful that you have found such a great reason to make and give your quilts! After you get your ‘shelter’ pile washed, send me a picture. I love to share your quilts with other to see. Keep up the great work!
Lea
I wash them in a king size pillow case and dry it that way. Just make a knot at the opening. Then shake it out. When it is almost dry I take it out of the pillow case. And let it finish on wrinkle release.
That’s a great idea Dolores! Thanks for the tip.
Lea
Wash your quilt in a duvet cover. The duvet cover will collect any lindt. Hang it outside to dry (inside out) and there you can save your machine and your beautiful handiwork.
Fantastic ideas Coral! I appreciate you input,
Lea
Lea,
In regards to your comment about the threads in the washing machine. I had an older lady at the fabric shop pass along a tip which has helped tremendously . She takes the rag quilt and bastes/ sews it into an old sheet . The sheet contains most of the threads during the wash cycle thus preventing the “clogging” of the washer. Thought I would pass her tip along. Hope it helps others in their quilting journeys!
That’s a great idea Renee! Thanks for the helpful tip. It could certainly help me keep all those threads off my laundry room floor!
Lea
Hi,
I’m not seeing what to do with the Rosettes once you make them. Do you use one in each corner of the quilt.
Thank you, Debbie
Hi Debbie,
Yes, that’s exactly right. I sewed both side borders on first. Next, I added the rosettes to each end of the last two borders. Then you just sew them on and your rosettes are right where you want them. I thought about making a row of rosettes for a border but just haven’t tried it yet. I think it would be a fun look. You might also check out the ruffled rag quilt border post, too.
Let me know if you have any other questions,
Lea
How do you clip at the corner intersections?
I always find this a little daunting..lol
Thanks!
Hi Jacque, yes it can be a bit tricky. I come at the intersections from every angle and have even tried cutting diagonally. Here’s what works best for me. The first clip I make is right next to where the seam is. That means where all four blocks come together with four seams, I cut right next to each of the seams on each side. From there I work to the middle of the block. What I’ve found is by making those seam cuts in the corners first, it allows me to hold up the rest of the seam allowance for easier cutting. Otherwise the seam is holding the allowance in place making it harder to clip. I hope this helps. Let me know if I can answer any more questions.
Thx,
Lea
Thanks for the information, I’m thinking about making a rag quilt using cuddle cloth and flannel, do you think I should add batting to the center. Also I was considering using the cuddle cloth, flannel and fleece. I know fleece won’t fray but it will curl. Thanks for the information.
Hi Terry,
I haven’t worked with cuddle cloth, but any fabric will work. Like you said, you may not have the traditional ragged edge,but you’ll get the curls. Plus the flannel makes a nice ragged edge and it should all work well together. Glad you liked the post. Thank you for your input,
Lea
I was helping my sister make a rag quilt for her granddaughter (who is heading off to college). We used one of those cutters and used the eight inch block and four inch block. It should have been easy. sewing 4 four inch blocks together to make an eight inch block. We then sewed a row of a 4 inch block then 8 inch then 4 inch etc. Soooooo, we figured 8 blocks across would be 64 inches. 8×8=64…. Did not happen. turns out we needed to use 10 across…. Not sure what went wrong…. BTW the cutter blocks stated that they are 8 inch finished…. therefor it really cut 9 inch…We should have measured the blocks after cutting….
Then, I figured about half a yard of fabric for each color. She used 8 colors for the 4 square and the same 1 color for the 8 square. My math said 8 colors at half yard each made 4 yards… She had to buy another half yard of each to make the quilt….Mathematician I am NOT….. Lesson learned….
Wow, that IS a lesson learned. I’ve not used cutter blocks so no experience, but another consideration is always seam allowances. Most blocks are configured with a 1/4″ seams allowance where rag quilts are always 1/2″. Another factor is the fabric and how much it may stretch. When multiple layers are sewn together, there is some shifting and slipping…funny things can happen inside a seam allowance! I’m sure your granddaughter’s quilt turned out beautiful and she loved it. Don’t be discouraged from trying another rag quilt, you’re experienced now!
I appreciate your input,
Lea
I saw a picture of a Christmas tree rag quilt throw how would you make the half squares if you use 5 inch blocks?
Hi Kathy, You’ll need to make your HST blocks one inch larger to accommodate for the extra diagonal seam. I might turn out to be about 5-1/8″ depending on your seam allowance, but that little bit won’t be a problem with a rag quilt. They are so very forgiving! Have fun with your quilt!
Lea
Hello could you please tell me how many 5 inch blocks I need for a rag quilt I’m making for my niece I’m doing 5 blocks across and 6down I for the life of me can’t figure it out for both sides of course just spinning my wheels I’m desperate thank you itsy first quilt.
Deirdri, I absolutely understand. I can’t figure out fabric requirements without pencil and paper…a pencil with a good eraser I might add!
Here’s how I figure out fabric quantity. 5 x 6 blocks is a total of 30 for the top and 30 more for the bottom. After sewing your seams, that will give you a 20″ x 24″ quilt. Then you’ll need some border fabric. Each width of fabric (WOF) measuring 40″ – 42″ will give you 8 blocks. So for a total of 60 blocks, you’ll need 30″ which is just shy of a yard. Double that for 2 yards of fabric to for both sides. The extra fabric you’ll have left over by purchasing 2 yards will be just enough for your borders. I know you niece will love it!
You’ve got this!
Lea
Hi and thanks for the instructions! Quick question… when cutting a border, do you also cut it one inch smaller as you do the blocks, so that the batting doesn’t clipped? Thanks!
Hi Lisa,
You are absolutely correct! It’s a bit narrow but sews up easily. Check out my recent article on ruffled rag quilt borders. It’s a fun idea that uses flannel instead of batting. That way everything get cuts the same size. I love simple!
Enjoy making your border,
Lea
After I get my three layers together, I press them, which keeps the layers from shifting when I sew them together with an x.
Hi Arlene,
Thanks for the tip! I’ve never tried that before but I bet it works great. If you check out my Ruffled Rag Quilt Borders article, you’ll see I skipped that whole step entirely by using flannel as the center layer. Invariably I always had a bit of batting poking out here and there so substituting flannel instead worked wonderfully for me! That’s the beauty of quilting, finding the creative path that works best for each of us.
Enjoy your rag quilting and check out some ruffled borders,
Lea
Do you have a picture of the completed quilt you can share? I am trying to get a feel for layout of fabrics. Also, you mentioned the quilt measures 45×45 so did you do 10- 5” squares across and down plus 2” border. Complete novice here.. I am sure my questions gave that away! 😀 thank you!
Hi Jill, You are doing great and figured out the measurements perfectly! This quilt is made with 5″ blocks. It’s 10 blocks in each direction plus the 2″ border. Sorry I don’t have a picture of the full quilt, but will add one soon.
Enjoy your quilt!
Lea
I use flannel as my batting and cut the piece the same size as the outside pieces. That way it frays too and the fuzzy seams are fluffier.
Hi Tere,
That’s a great suggestion to get an extra full frayed edge. When I make chenille pillows, I use multiple layers to get nice fluffy edges and that would work very well here.
Thanks,
Lea
Do you wash your flannel first?
Hi Elizabeth,
Generally I don’t wash my quilting fabric before sewing with it. Since flannel frays a lot when it’s washed, I think it would be very difficult to sew with those ragged edges. You’d probably have to press it well and even trim up the edges before sewing. Without pre-washing any shrinkage would be taken up in the seams very easily. The cross quilting also holds everything in place very well. I’ve never had any problems. It’s amazing how durable a flannel rag quilt is. Have fun making yours!
Lea
How do you sew the squares together? Do you just flip the ends up and do it the regular way to connect?
Hi Nicole,
Yes, that’s exactly right. Place the wrong sides together and sew a 1/2″ seam from end to end. It’s easiest for me to sew them in rows first, then sew the rows together.
Take a look at the photo with the 4-patch block layout and you can see the 1/2″ seams on the top side. Also look at the rosette photos closer to the bottom and there are some examples you may be able to see better. Enjoy making your quilt and let mw know how it goes. Thanks, Lea