Scrap Quilt – Scrappy 4-Patch Variation
This scrap quilt pattern is what happens when I play with simple units. The 4-Patch is a simple block but can give dramatic results depending on what it is paired with. I don’t often say I would love to make a pattern again, but this pattern is one of them. A dark scrappy background with bright scrappy colors would look completely different from what I did: a butter-yellow background with a variety of batik scrappy colors. It would also look great with a muslin background, which is a great way to use the leftovers from muslin backings when I am done quilting.
You will find this pattern here; scroll down to find the download link.
Scrappy Colors
It would be hard to go wrong with this quilt. If your background is widely different from your scrappy colors, it will turn out great. I can envision it with a muslin background and reproduction prints or Civil War prints. It would also work with a black or very dark background and novelty prints. So many options.
Getting Started with Your Scrap Quilt
My favorite part is picking out the fabrics. With this quilt, I started with the background. I could have gone scrappy with it, but I had almost enough of one fabric. I say almost because I was lacking an 8 1/2″ piece. Digging through my stash, I found a fabric that would work. It isn’t exactly the same color/pattern, but it is so close that it will be difficult to find it once the quilt is done.
Then, I get to play in my tote of scrappy fabrics. The majority of fabrics are batiks, but there are a few other prints thrown in. The great part is I don’t have to be concerned with what fabric goes with what. This is a no-stress quilt if you let it be.
Creating the 4-Patch Variation Blocks
This quilt utilizes a variation on the 4-patch block. Two blocks are simple scrappy squares; the other two use a smaller scrappy square with the background square and rectangle. In the photo, you can see the block. This is a great pattern for using up your leftover fabrics. If you are using the same background, keep it with the project and create blocks as you have time!
You could stop at this point, but you will lose that extra sparkle the sashings and cornerstones provide.
Sashings and Cornerstones
I love adding sashings and cornerstones to patterns. It creates an opportunity to strengthen an emerging pattern. Once again, there is no stress when it comes to scrappy fabrics. But let me add that the more variety you have, the less stress there is. The only thing I think about is making sure the same fabrics and/or colors aren’t touching.
These sashings are pieced, and when added to the cornerstones, stars will emerge. You can change the type of star, for example, by creating a Friendship Star instead. You would add a larger square to the end of the sashing instead of two smaller squares. Use graph paper and draw it out. This will help to determine which direction you want the Friendship Stars to spin.
Almost Complete with my scrap quilt
I am finishing my sashings right now, so by the time I can get back to my sewing room, it will be the end of the weekend. My next decision will be what I can substitute for the first border, which is the background – and I have no more. Let’s see if there is enough of the fabric I substituted for what I was lacking above; otherwise, I am going with another fabric completely.
Next, I will need to find the outside border fabric. I have one that I think will work, but I will have to audition it first.
Additional Options
There are other options for doing the star sashings instead of the stars. The picture to the right shows the sashings with Square-in-a-Square (SIAS) blocks and a background cornerstone. I like it, but it is too busy. I also did an example with a dark background. The dark background doesn’t seem as busy.
If you have another idea for the sashing, send me a message. I can do an example for everyone to see.
Do you have a scrappy go-to quilt that you enjoy making? Or is there one on your to-do list? I love checking out other patterns – although they usually add to my to-do list.
If you are looking for scrap quilt ideas, check out this page for more. You can also share ideas. If you have a pattern you would like to see added to the page, send me a message. You can subscribe to the website below. You will be notified when new posts are added. Join the Quilting With Tamara Facebook page.
Until next time.
Love this pattern!❣️
Thank you!