Moda Blockheads 6: Block 5 – Dew Drops by Chelsi Stratton

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This week’s Moda Blockheads 6 block comes with a breath of fresh morning air—introducing Dew Drops, a quilt block by the ever-talented Chelsi Stratton of Chelsi Stratton Designs.

If you’ve been quilting along, you know each week brings a new surprise, and a new voice—and Chelsi’s block is sure to impress. It’s the kind of block that is intriguing and may challenge your piecing skills, so take your time. It is well worth it.

Dew Drops – A Gentle Start to the Day

The Dew Drops Block combines half-square triangles, quarter-square triangles, and a central four-patch unit to create a design that is structured, yet intricate. The layout mesmerizing with shapes that gently lead your eye from the center outward.

I love my color palette this week, and want to make more of these blocks, wait, did I say that last time?
I think I say that every time, so forgive my obsessive desire to make more and more quilts! Blues, creamy neutrals, and reds added warmth and helped me stay in that vintage-faded look. I really enjoyed piecing this one—it went together smoothly, and I am happy how my points lined up.
Since I like to do things scrappy, I pieced lots of 3″ half square triangles using It’s Sew Emma’s triangle papers. This way I have an assortment ready. I cut off what I need and trim down to the size needed for each block.

Meet the Designer: Chelsi Stratton

If you’ve been in the quilting world for even a short while, you’ve likely come across Chelsi Stratton’s work. She’s a designer known for timeless patterns, warm palettes, and fabric collections she creates alongside her mother, Sherri McConnell, for Moda Fabrics.

Chelsi brings a lovely mix of tradition and fresh perspective to every design. Her patterns are approachable yet polished—perfect for both newer quilters and seasoned stitchers looking for something classic with a twist. She also shares her creative process, design tips, and quilting life across multiple platforms. Be sure to follow her and stay inspired!

Give her a follow—you’ll love the glimpse into her quilting world, family life, and her collaborations with Sherri.

Watch & Stitch Along

Head over to the Moda Blog to read more about Chelsi’s inspiration behind Dew Drops, and don’t miss the how-to video tutorial for this week’s block. Whether you’re cutting into your favorite prints or sticking with solids, there’s plenty of room to make this block your own.

Let the Dew Drops Fall

This is the kind of block that looks different with every color combo—soft and subtle, bold and graphic, or somewhere in between. Be sure to share your version using #ModaBlockheads and #ModaBlockheads6, and don’t forget to tag @modafabrics and @chelsistratton so we can all admire your work!

There’s something truly special about how this quilt is coming together—one block at a time, one stitch at a time, yet I still haven’t decided on my setting. I need to get to work on that very soon!

Until next week, happy sewing.

Details about this program, click here.

Follow each of the designers listed below.
Chelsi Stratton- This week’s designer

Robin Pickens

Joanna Figueroa

Sherri McConnell

Barb Groves

Janet Clare

Lisa Bongean

Corey Yoder

Betsy Chutchian

Camille Roskelley

Crystal Manning

Debbie Maddy

Jessica Rose

Heather Briggs

Jackie MacDonald

Jenelle Kent

Vanessa Goertzen

Stacy Iest Hsu

Laura Muir

Sarah Thomas

Vanessa Christenson – Download the pattern here.

Lynne Hagmeier -Download the pattern here.

Anne Sutton  -Download the pattern here.

Kiley Ferons-Download the pattern here.

If you are not a member of the Blockheads 6 Facebook group, you can join here.

I can’t wait to see your progress each week.

-Modalissa

Blast from the past

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Moda / United Notions is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year- 2025. I thought I would throw out some of the blog posts from the past. Some I had published, some I have not. This one if from 2018 so disregard my quality of pictures, not that I have improved. Some of the names and faces have retired or moved on but have been a special part of the history here. My own personal blog and opinions!!

Seworities of Moda Fabrics

The salesforce of moda fabrics arrived at the Dallas offices for meetings before Quilt Market began. The sales force was divided into 3 SEWORITES. Well that is where the fun and games began. This is quite a competitive crew and we did not know what the sewority moms Amy Matheny, Kathy Bauer and Debbie Duckworth had in store. It was no time at all when the Beta Omega Ombres (BOO) pulled out of their bags “Togas” made from moda muslin or the hotel sheets. Couldn’t tell for sure. This left the two other seworites with some work to do. The Lambda Lambda Wools tried to remain above it all, but we soon saw signs all over the offices and warehouse BAAAAHHH! The Delta Delta Dotties (DDD) as know in their college days were a feisty bunch. However, BOO quickly took over any innocent bystander. Our fearless leader, Mark Dunn had been toga-ed by the Ombres. He took their shenanigans all in stride.

 

The salesforce had a day full of classes just like we do when we have a moda U retreat for shop owners. The highlight was the sales team sewing their Sweet Treat Bags. Several of the office staff demoed the newest notions and gadgets. They also had classes on many of the continuing advances in technology. Angela Yosten showed everyone all the added patterns and fabrics on Fabricmatcher. Pranks for each of the groups happened throughout the day. This was just day 1 of the meetings. They had not even seen all the new moda fabrics, quilts, books, patterns, and notions.

Al Lamborn and Ed Wilson study their instructions before they start sewing on their Purse. Later named, MEURSE (Man-Purse) Thank you to Mary Ann Yeager for supplying all the featherweight machines for the reps to sew on. I have heard through the grapevine that one of the reps has since taken up quilting. (Don’t worry John your secret is safe with me)

Pat Roberts and Angela Worrell demo some of the new notions for Tom&Cindy Williams.

Ron Wiggins and Jospeh Galza learn about Learn to Sew kits and paper hexagons from Jen McLean and Alison Scully.

Did I say I have the greatest job in the world? I do!

Blockheads 6 – Block 4 Kiley Ferons

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Moda Blockheads 6: Block 4 – Cat’s Cradle by Kiley Ferons

It’s Blockheads Wednesday again, and we’ve got a fresh face joining the circle—say hello to Kiley Ferons, the designer behind this week’s block: Cat’s Cradle.

Now back to Blockheads…If you love blocks with movement and a modern twist, you’re in for a treat. Kiley’s Cat’s Cradle is playful and sharp all at once—a clever composition of half-square triangles and half-rectangle triangles that criss-cross like the string game we all played as kids. It’s balanced but dynamic, and every seam adds depth and direction.

A Playful Block with Purpose

The Cat’s Cradle block combines clean geometry with a sense of motion—those angles really do feel like loops of string pulled tight between careful fingers. The HSTs and HRTs dance with each other in a design that’s both structured and lively, perfect for adding visual interest to your quilt layout.

For mine, I leaned into soft geometrics to let the block take on a vintage feel. I’m still building my faded vintage palette, and this block was a great reminder that even subtle colors can create big movement with the right design. I can’t get enough dots, stripes and retro shirtings.

And yes, I may have stared at the finished block longer than usual… there’s something mesmerizing about how the shapes nest together, like a quilted puzzle.

Meet Kiley Ferons of Kiley’s Quilt Room

Let’s talk about the creative force behind this block—Kiley Ferons, a newer face in the Moda designer family but already a standout in the quilting world. Kiley is known for her approachable patterns, fresh aesthetic, and passion for helping quilters of all skill levels build confidence through intentional design. Kiley’s debut fabric line, Potted will be in stores October 2025.

Based in Utah, Kiley is not only a quilt pattern designer, but also a tech-savvy creative who, along with her husband created MY QUILTS APP..  that help quilters map out their projects digitally—hello, organized layouts and easy fabric planning! Keep track of, journal, and organize all your quilt projects!

You can explore more of her work and connect with her here:

Give her a follow—you’ll find tons of inspiration, helpful tips, and maybe even your next favorite pattern.

Cat’s Cradle – Tips & Tutorial

As always, Moda’s got you covered with a video tutorial walking through this week’s block. If you’re new to half-rectangle triangles or just need a refresher, it’s a great resource to have on hand. The TRI-RECS Ruler 8823753A was huge help in piecing the half rectangles. ( be sure and check out my friend Alison Dale in the video)

And don’t forget to hop over to Moda’s blog to read all things blockheads each Wednesday. it’s always fun to compare interpretations and find new ideas for your own version.

Show Us Your Cradle

Have you made your Cat’s Cradle block yet? Did you go classic, colorful, or modern? Share your version using #ModaBlockheads and #ModaBlockheads6 and be sure to tag @modafabrics and @kileysquiltroom—let’s give Kiley a big Blockheads welcome!

This sew-along is turning into such a thoughtful blend of tradition and innovation, and I’m loving every block. See you next week with another design and another opportunity to stitch something beautiful.

Follow each of the designers listed below.

Kiley Ferons- This weeks feature
Chelsi Stratton

Robin Pickens

Joanna Figueroa

Sherri McConnell

Barb Groves

Janet Clare

Lisa Bongean

Corey Yoder

Betsy Chutchian

Camille Roskelley

Crystal Manning

Debbie Maddy

Jessica Rose

Heather Briggs

Jackie MacDonald

Jenelle Kent

Vanessa Goertzen

Stacy Iest Hsu

Laura Muir

Sarah Thomas

Vanessa Christenson – Download the pattern here.   

Lynne Hagmeier– Download the pattern here.  

Anne Sutton– Download the pattern here.  

If you are not a member of the Blockheads 6 Facebook group, you can join here.

I can’t wait to see your progress each week.

-modalissa

 

Modavation: Inspiration, Friendship, and Maybe a Few Too Many Cookies

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Modavation 2025 pajama party
Josh Dunn, Mark Dunn and Brian Dunn

I’m still riding the high from Modavation—Moda’s big event for quilt shop owners—and if I’m being honest, maybe still recovering a bit too. Seeing so many of you in one place, sharing ideas, stories, and snacks (so many snacks!), filled my cup in every possible way. Everyone was amazed at the space and many set records for daily steps.

There’s just something magical about gathering with people who get it. From the early-morning coffee chats to the late-afternoon belly laughs during game time, the room buzzed with creativity and connection. I got to meet shop owners from all over, each with their own spin on this crazy, wonderful quilting world—and every conversation left me more energized than the last. Can you imagine pasta bars including a mac and cheese bar! I am craving this days later.

Our designers knocked it out of the park, too. From exclusive projects to sneak peeks at upcoming collections, the inspiration was overflowing. I loved seeing how each designer brought their own personality and expertise to the table—whether it was teaching a new technique, helping you reimagine a classic precut, or just chatting over lunch like old friends.

Vanessa Goertzen of Lella Boutique and Heather Briggs of My Sew Quilty Life.

Shown just a few of the many designers and vendors that participated in this event.

Paper Pieces and Olfa
modalissa and Chrissy from Sew Lux
Karen from Aurifil and Mr. Dunn

And let’s talk about the fun—games, giveaways, and more than a few laugh-out-loud moments. I think some of you might be too good at fabric-themed trivia (you know who you are). Every break seemed to turn into a celebration, and the only thing more generous than the spirit in the room was the prize table. its of late night impromptu how to’s.

Sarah Thomas of Saraditty hosting a late night paper foundation tutorial.
Some of the Marketing team with Mr. Dunn…

Of course, no Moda gathering is complete without amazing food. The grazing boards, the desserts and donuts, the warm meals—it was all delicious, and yes… I had seconds. And maybe thirds. Diet starts this week, promise.

To everyone who attended: thank you for showing up with open hearts, brilliant ideas, and a shared love for what we do. It was a joy to host you including some of our international shops.

I also had a surprise guest that wanted to check it all out. He had to get his picture taken especially since it was right by the snack carts.

Alison in her charm pack patchwork skirt.

Here’s to full notebooks, full bellies, and full hearts. Until next time—let’s keep the Modavation going.

-Modalissa

Blockheads 6- Block 3- Bunny Hill

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Moda Blockheads 6: Block 3 – Sunday’s Best by Anne Sutton

Blockheads, it’s time to roll out the tablecloth, fluff the cushions, and polish the silver—it’s week three, and we’re sewing Sunday Best!

This elegant block is brought to us by the ever-gracious Anne Sutton of Bunny Hill Designs, whose soft, classic style always brings a touch of timeless charm. Sunday Best is exactly the kind of block that makes you want to slow down and enjoy the process.

A Block with Sunday Charm

The Sunday Best block pairs crisp flying geese with four-patch units, all arranged in a way that feels thoughtful and intentional—kind of like setting the table for a big family meal. The shapes are clean and balanced, but the layout has a quiet movement that keeps your eye dancing across the block.

It evokes that feeling of calm you get on a slow Sunday afternoon—everything in its place, sunlight coming through the window, and something sweet baking in the kitchen. There’s a sense of preparation and celebration built into this design. And honestly? I really like how mine turned out. So much so that I didn’t stop at just one—I made a few! And then ready for a Sunday afternoon nap!

Keeping the Vintage Vision

As I mentioned in earlier posts, I’m going for a faded, vintage look with my Blockheads 6 quilt. The soft tones I added last week are really starting to come together in a gentle wash of light. For Sunday Best, I continued with that theme—working in the reds and blues with touches of mediums. I used strips and dots to continue to work on the vintage feel.

The repeat blocks let me play with subtle shifts in color, keeping things cohesive but not too matchy. I’m not sure yet how many of them will end up in the final layout, but I love the idea of sprinkling a few throughout.

Get Inspired & Get Stitching

Anne has shared her version of Sunday Best over on the BunnyHill Blog, and you’ll definitely want to see her take on the block—it’s graceful and polished, just like her entire Bunny Hill aesthetic.

Need a little help assembling those flying geese and four-patch units? This week is my turn to do a video on the how to make the block. Check out the step-by-step video tutorial  staring ME!! to guide you through the block construction. Whether you’re sewing along at your own pace or keeping up week by week, the resources are there to make this journey joyful.

Sew Along with the Blockheads

 Are you going classic, scrappy, or experimenting like me? Be sure to post your blocks on social using #ModaBlockheads and #ModaBlockheads6—and tag @modafabrics and your favorite designers too! You can tag me also if you want. #modalissa

Every stitch we make is part of a bigger story, and I love seeing how each of you interpret these blocks through your own fabric choices and styles.

Let’s keep sewing together—one beautiful block at a time.

Details about this program, click here.

Follow each of the designers listed below.

Anne Sutton

Kiley Ferons
Chelsi Stratton

Robin Pickens

Joanna Figueroa

Sherri McConnell

Barb Groves

Janet Clare

Lisa Bongean

Corey Yoder

Betsy Chutchian

Camille Roskelley

Crystal Manning

Debbie Maddy

Jessica Rose

Heather Briggs

Jackie MacDonald

Jenelle Kent

Vanessa Goertzen

Stacy Iest Hsu

Laura Muir

Sarah Thomas

Vanessa Christenson – Download the pattern here.

Lynne Hagmeier

Block #3 and I made 3. I could make an entire quilt of just this block. Yes I do say that about all the blocks!

If you are not a member of the Blockheads 6 Facebook group, you can join here.

I can’t wait to see your progress each week.

 

 

BH6-Block 2 Kansas Troubles

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Are you ready for Block 2 of Moda Blockheads 6?

I am diving into the next chapter of this journey with a block that’s full of meaning, nostalgia, and possibility. While this quilt design was originally rooted in the My Favorite Color is Moda 2 pattern, part of the magic of Blockheads is the freedom to make it your own. There will be all kinds of layout options by the time we reach the end—and truth be told, I haven’t decided if I’ll follow a Moda designer layout or create my own path. Oh the pressure to decide….What I do know is this: I’m chasing a very faded, vintage feel, soft and worn, like a favorite quilt pulled from a cedar chest.

A Soft Shift in Color

Last week, I mentioned that my fabric pull was leaning a bit heavy into reds and blues—rich, classic, bold. But sometimes a quilt starts to whisper what it wants to be, and I’ve been listening. For this month’s block, I softened the palette by pulling in pale pinks and soft blues, aiming for a look that feels sun-washed and timeworn. I stitched up the entire block using all lights—a surprising choice, maybe, but part of the fun is embracing the unknown. I’m not entirely sure how these lighter blocks will fit into the final layout… but isn’t that the joy of the process?

Meet Block 2: Crossroads

This week’s block comes from none other than Lynne Hagmeier of Kansas Troubles Quilters, and it’s called Crossroads—a name that couldn’t be more fitting.

The block itself is a blend of half-square triangles, quarter-square triangles, and pieced units, coming together in a structured but fluid design. It’s like a quilted map of intersecting paths—some planned, some unexpected—each meeting point holding its own little story. The name Crossroads conjures images of travel, turning points, and the places where old trails meet new ones. I especially love Lynne’s description of the block as having a well-worn feel. That phrase speaks to me—it’s how I want this quilt to look… and maybe how I feel myself some days!

More from Lynne + How-To Help

Don’t forget to hop over to the Moda Blog to see Lynne’s version of Crossroads in her signature Kansas Troubles style. Her take on color and layout always offers a fresh perspective, especially if you’re toying with more traditional prints.

Need a little extra guidance assembling the block? Moda’s got you covered with a video tutorial walking you through every step. Whether you’re new to piecing or just need a refresher, it’s a great way to feel confident before diving in.

Details about this program, click here.

Follow each of the designers listed below.

Lynne Hagmeier- this weeks featured designer

Anne Sutton

Kiley Ferons
Chelsi Stratton

Robin Pickens

Joanna Figueroa

Sherri McConnell

Barb Groves

Janet Clare

Lisa Bongean

Corey Yoder

Betsy Chutchian

Camille Roskelley

Crystal Manning

Debbie Maddy

Jessica Rose

Heather Briggs

Jackie MacDonald

Jenelle Kent

Vanessa Goertzen

Stacy Iest Hsu

Laura Muir

Sarah Thomas

Vanessa Christenson – Download the pattern here.

Block #2 and I am still on schedule. It is the little things.

If you are not a member of the Blockheads 6 Facebook group, you can join here.

I can’t wait to see your progress each week.

If you are interested in My Favorite Color is Moda 2. Ask for this pattern at your favorite quilt or specialty retailer. 5 different basic color options included.

-modalissa

 

Blockheads 6- V and Co.

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Yippee Hooray! Today is the first block from Moda’s Blockhead 6 series. I am going to do my best to keep up and post each week my progress. My fabric pull is red white and blue. In my mind the final quilt will be very vintage so I already know I am going to need to add some more pinks and light blues to achieve what is in my head!

Beginning of Fabric pull for Blockheads 6

 

For all the 9″ blocks, you will have the choice of making 2 blocks in different colors. You can make them both the same fabrics or play around with different colorations.

 

I keep all my patterns and extra fabrics in a binder along with the blocks as I make them. I am not sure on my layout yet, but as I take a look at each blocks I can look at the past blocks to make sure the colors are spread throughout the blocks.

Each Wednesday check out Moda’s Blog- Inspiration and Resources where you will find a link to the pattern, a video how to along with any tips or tricks suggested along the way.

This is the line up of designers and there will be all kinds of surprises along the way. Please check out the designers social channels blogs, etc for their version of the blocks and any additional tips. I have included links to their sites below.

Vanessa Christenson – Download the pattern here.

Lynne Hagmeier

Anne Sutton

Kiley Ferons
Chelsi Stratton

Robin Pickens

Joanna Figueroa

Sherri McConnell

Barb Groves

Janet Clare

Lisa Bongean

Corey Yoder

Betsy Chutchian

Camille Roskelley

Crystal Manning

Debbie Maddy

Jessica Rose

Heather Briggs

Jackie MacDonald

Jenelle Kent

Vanessa Goertzen

Stacy Iest Hsu

Laura Muir

Sarah Thomas

Help hold me accountable to get my blocks done and do a blog post each week.

If you are not a member of the Blockheads 6 Facebook group, you can join here.

I can’t wait to see your progress each week.

-modalissa

 

Blockheads 6- coming soon!

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ChatGPT said:

Ready, Set, Sew! A Look Back at Blockheads 5 & What’s Coming for Blockheads 6

If you’ve ever joined in on a Moda Blockheads adventure, you know it’s more than just a quilt-along—it’s a full-blown fabric-fueled phenomenon. As we wrap up our fifth season and look ahead to Blockheads 6, we’re stitching together our favorite memories and giving you a sneak peek of what’s coming next.

Blockheads 5

 Blockheads 5: A Beautiful Patchwork of Creativity

Blockheads 5 was nothing short of spectacular. With 28 talented Moda designers at the helm, each week delivered a new block full of inspiration, challenge, and charm. Whether you followed along faithfully or jumped in here and there, we loved seeing how quilters across the world made these blocks their own.

From traditional to modern, beginner-friendly to advanced—there was something for everyone. We saw bold color palettes, unexpected fabric combinations, and oh, the fussy-cutting! Y’all showed off your creativity in the best way possible. Blockheads 5 was one of my favorite quilts I have ever made so the pressure is on for Blockheads 6. Setting layout I used can be found in this book.

Our Facebook group buzzed with energy, support, and a whole lot of fabric talk. It reminded us why we started this journey in the first place: to build a community that celebrates quilting together, one block at a time.

What’s Next: Blockheads 6 Begins Mid-May!

Mark your calendars and prep your fabric stashes—Blockheads 6 kicks off in mid-May and we have sew many exciting things planned. Just in case you are wondering I am not making mine blue and green. I made 3 different quilts using that color combination last year. If you know me you won’t be surprised on my color way for 2026.

Here’s what you can expect:

  • Weekly Blocks from your favorite Moda designers (and maybe a few surprise guests ).

  • Free patterns available on Moda’s blog and linked in the Blockheads Facebook group.

  • Video tutorials to help you stitch with confidence will be on Moda’s YouTube Channel so be sure and subscribe.

  • Tips, tools & inspiration to keep you motivated and having fun every step of the way.

Whether you’re a seasoned Blockhead or a first-time joiner, we’ve made sure Blockheads 6 will be your favorite yet. Think fresh designs, a community of thousands cheering you on, and weekly fabric therapy—what’s not to love?

Join the Movement

If you haven’t already, hop into the Moda Blockheads Facebook Group where all the magic happens. Ask questions, share your progress, and get inspired by others stitching along. And don’t forget to follow @modafabrics on Instagram and Facebook to stay in the loop.

We can’t wait to see your fabric pulls, your first stitches, and your beautiful blocks. Here’s to another season of stitching stories into quilts with the best community in quilting. Bring on Blockheads 6!

Check out info on Moda’s blog.

Enjoy,

-modalissa

Stardust QAL

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Sewing for Wishes: Join the Stardust Charity Quilt Along

There’s something extraordinary about the quilting community. When we come together, we don’t just create beautiful quilts — we also create hope. I’m so excited to be participating in the Fat Quarter Shop’s 2025 Charity Quilt Along, featuring the dazzling Stardust Quilt and benefitting Make-A-Wish Central & South Central Texas.

photo courtesy of Fat Quarter Shop

This year’s quilt is called Stardust, and it’s every bit as magical as the name suggests. With radiant patchwork and starry motifs, it’s a quilt that shines — both visually and symbolically. Each pattern and donation helps us get closer to helping grant heartfelt wishes for children with critical illnesses. This one is going to be an easy project with two installments of patterns launching May 2nd and June 6th. There will be a quilt raffle in July if you want to contribute and not make the quilt.

My Version: Bella Solids Shine Bright

For my own version of Stardust, I’ll be working entirely in Bella Solids. I love the crisp contrast and timeless feel of solids — and they really let the shapes and negative space shine. Or so I hope. I have always wanted one of the Pendleton wool camp blankets but wasn’t willing to pay the price and wool doesn’t make that much sense in Texas. My color choices were inspired from the blanket. I have it planned in my head but anxious to see how it plays out. Currently I have the fabrics all starched and hanging outside to dry.

As always, I’ll be sharing monthly progress updates here on the blog and over on Instagram @modalissa. I might even throw in a few tips and tricks I’ve learned along the way — because what’s a quilt along without a little creative camaraderie?

Speaking of camaraderie, be sure and follow some of the gals that will be quilting along.
Pat Sloan
Melissa Corey
Melanie Call
Sherri McConnell
and Nancy Lane

Here’s How It Works:

  • 2 Block Releases: Free Patterns on May 2nd and June 6th at Fat Quarter Shop blog.

  • No Cost to Join: All block patterns are free — simply consider making a donation to Make-A-Wish Central & South Texas.

  • Big Impact: Fat Quarter Shop aims to raise $100,000, and between FQS and MODA fabrics will match up to $30,000 in donations!

  • Quilt Along Community: Share your progress and see others’ creations with the hashtag #StardustQAL.

Learn more, download the pattern and even make a donation here:

Why I Quilt for a Cause

Over the years, I’ve seen how powerful quilts can be — not just for comfort, but for connection and care. Make-A-Wish gives children something extraordinary to look forward to, and being able to support that mission with fabric and thread is a true honor.

Whether you’re using the kit, pulling from your stash, your quilt is a star in this galaxy of giving.

And I completely forgot, there is also a Cross Stitch option.

Let’s make some wishes come true — and have fun doing it.

-modalissa

Countdown to Christmas

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How to Manage Your Time Like a Pro Quilter: Christmas Countdown Edition

The holiday season is here, and if you’re like me, you’ve got a list of quilted gifts to finish before Christmas Day sneaks up on you! Whether it’s a cozy throw for your best friend, a set of placemats for your neighbor, or that intricate quilt top for your family’s holiday gathering, the race is on! But don’t panic just yet. With a bit of planning and a dash of quilter’s magic, you can manage your time and still enjoy the season.

Here’s how to balance holiday quilting with everything else on your to-do list:

Double Take

1. Prioritize  Prioritize, Prioritize Your Projects

First things first: not all projects are created equal. Take a moment to list out everything you want to finish before Christmas. Then, assign them in order of priority. Start with those that have firm deadlines, like the family gift exchange or that quilt you promised your sister (she’ll never forget!). Gifts with flexible timelines or smaller projects like fabric ornaments can come later.

Pro Tip: Group similar projects together. If you have multiple smaller items like potholders or table runners, tackle those assembly-line style! This helps you stay in the groove and saves time.

2. Break It Down: Set Weekly Goals

Once you’ve prioritized, it’s time to set realistic weekly goals. Quilts, like the holidays, come together piece by piece. Break your projects into manageable chunks, and plan how much time you’ll need each week to get those pieces done.

For example, Week 1 might be all about cutting your fabric and preparing your patterns. Week 2? Focus on piecing the quilt tops. Week 3 is for quilting and binding. Week 4 gives you wiggle room for any last-minute changes. Be sure and reserve a time slot with your long armer if you need professional services. They are under the gun to finish gifts for many and that is not including their own projects.

Pro Tip: Use a timer! Set aside 30-minute pockets of time for each task. You’d be amazed at how much you can accomplish when you’re laser-focused.

3. Delegate Non-Crafting Tasks

You don’t have to do it all. The holidays are busy, so if possible, delegate non-crafting tasks like cooking, cleaning, or decorating to family or friends. This frees up time for you to focus on the fun part—quilting!

Need to bake cookies? Delegate it to the kids or swap with a friend who might need help with gift wrapping. That way, you can quilt guilt-free while someone else is prepping the treats.

4. Use Your Stash Wisely

Instead of running out for new fabric or supplies, look at your stash first! Christmas is the perfect time to “shop” your own collection of holiday fabrics, scraps, and leftover batting. Bonus points for repurposing those fabrics into new projects—it saves time and money!

Moda Jelly Rolls

My favorite is to consider pre-cut fabrics like charm packs, Jelly Rolls, or layer cakes. These can significantly reduce your cutting time and allow you to focus on getting right to work.

5. Embrace “Good Enough”

Let’s be real—sometimes, perfection isn’t realistic when you’re on a deadline. Embrace the “good enough” mentality for certain projects. Not every quilt has to be a showpiece for the ages. Your loved ones will appreciate a handmade gift, even if the corners aren’t 100% perfect. I have to admit, I have even gifted a quilt top with the promise of completing it after the holidays.

Remember, the joy of gifting comes from the heart you put into the quilt, not the flawless execution. So, if a few stitches are wonky, that’s just a part of the charm.

Christmas piecing

6. What is Done?

In all the hustle of making gifts, don’t forget to take a look at your completed projects.. I often let family members pick their own gift from an assortment of treasures that are already completed. Just like using your fabric stash to make room for new, the same is true for quilts going to live at a new home.

 

This holiday season, remember: quilting is a labor of love, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. With careful planning and a few strategic shortcuts, you’ll be able to enjoy the Christmas countdown while still giving heartfelt handmade gifts.

What’s on your holiday quilting list this year? I’d love to hear how you’re managing your projects. Happy stitching and Merry Christmas!