Quilters Companion

Quilters Companion is the definitive patchwork and quilting magazine. Published since 2001, Quilters Companion provides readers with exciting quilting projects. These projects are accompanied by easy-to follow instructions and accompanying pattern sheets, stunning styled shots and interesting stories about the featured projects. We pride ourselves not just on being an instructional publication — we are a good read as well! Purchase includes the Digital Edition and News Service. Please stay in touch via our Facebook Page.

Editor’s Journal

Quilters Companion

Quilty Treasures

International Quilt Festival

Astro Travel • This is quite a complex pattern that is based on the scrap quilt idea. It uses primarily Half-square Triangle units (HST) and star points with Log Cabin blocks as fillers. Blue and yellow are two of the three primary colours. When placed together they create a vibrant look that makes both colours appear more intense. In the psychology of colour it is said that the optimism of yellow counterbalances the seriousness of blue. The tranquility of blue also tones down the intensity of bright yellow. This balance of colour energies creates an appealing colour palette. So, dig into your blue and yellow stash baskets and create this vibrant quilt.

Balancing Act • This quilt is made using the Disappearing Four-patch block. The block is designed by arranging and sewing together four squares of fabric to create a traditional Four-patch quilt block. The block is then cut four times to create nine pieces that are rearranged to make the original design 'disappear'.

Mulberry Fling • Harvested in autumn in Australia, the mulberry fruit is deep and gorgeous in colour (and delicious to eat!). This quilt is inspired by mulberry-toned fabrics and the swirling appliqué design gives movement to the overall design.

Spring Song • Reminiscent of a spring garden, this quilt is a celebration of the freshness and promise that lie beyond the chill of winter – all burgeoning buds, full-blown blossoms, bluebirds and corner-bursts of brilliant sun colour. Linda has used the needleturn method for her appliqué, but you can adapt the pattern to whatever method is your preference.

Flipped Out • Cat was inspired by a vintage quilt block that she found on Pinterest. It has been modernised by using low-volume fabrics mixed with bright prints. Adding the dark centre and tiny corners gives it a semi-3D effect, like it was almost jumping out. The Cut Glass quilt block is versatile; you can achieve many variations simply by adjusting the colour placement. The block is constructed of simple patches — only squares and half-square triangle units. Be precise in your seam allowances during construction due to the number of cut pieces.

Sandgate Summer • Inspired by the delicious hues of an ice-block, the warmth of sunny days, cherished friendships and the sandy shores, this quilt brings the essence of a perfect summer day right into your home. Simple machine piecing with a small amount of foundation paper construction and lots of bright summery colours.

Domestic MACHINE QUILTING • Freehand quilting is often seen as the epitome of creativity and artistry in machine quilting. However, many quilters shy away from it, feeling intimidated by the idea of quilting without pre-marked lines or templates. That’s where grids come in. Grids provide a structured foundation that gives freehand designs consistency while still allowing for creative freedom. Here we will explore how grids can be used to guide your freehand designs and elevate your quilting skills.

Poppies in Tuscany • Patty was fortunate enough to spend time in Italy celebrating myriad family milestones. She originally planned to make this quilt in a different colour story but returned from her trip inspired by all the yellow, gold and orange poppies! They...