Create A Wedding Ring Quilt: Step-By-Step Guide

how do you make a wedding ring quilt

Wedding ring quilts are a popular quilting project. They can be made in a variety of sizes, from queen-sized quilts to single blocks that can be used as table mats. There are many ways to assemble a wedding ring quilt, and several templates available for quilters to use. Some templates are better suited for those who prefer to have more straight edges than curved ones, as they are easier to sew and cut. The Matilda's Own template, for example, has only two basic arc shapes, with four pieces of similar size and shape. The Creative Grid Rulers template is another option, but it requires foundation paper piecing for the patchwork arc version.

Characteristics and Values of a Wedding Ring Quilt

Characteristics Values
Difficulty Some claim that it is not as hard as it seems, while others say it is very difficult.
Techniques Set-in seams, chain piecing, paper piecing, patchwork, quilt-as-you-go
Tools Sewing machine, portable design board, Accuquilt die, templates (e.g., Matilda's Own, Creative Grid Rulers)
Shapes Arcs, C-shapes, melons, curvy hourglass
Symmetry Requires attention to symmetry and the number of pieces
Size Can be made in various sizes, from a single block to queen-size

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Choose a template: opt for simplicity and more straight edges than curves

Wedding ring quilts can be intimidating to make due to their intricate design, but with the right template, the process can be much simpler. When choosing a template, opt for simplicity and templates with more straight edges than curves. This will make it much easier to sew and cut the pieces together.

One popular template that follows this principle is Matilda's Own. This template has only two basic arc shapes, with four pieces of similar size and shape. You can add a C shape to all arcs and an E shape to the end of alternating arcs. This will form a full melon, which you can get an idea of by watching this video. Then, you can piece the melons together with the centre curvy hourglass piece. While this part is challenging, it will come together quickly, just like any other straight-piece patchwork.

Another option for a simple template is to use a single block to create a table mat. This is a great option if you're not ready to tackle a full-size quilt. You can also create a queen-size quilt with a single block design, as seen in this example.

By choosing a template with more straight edges and simpler pieces, you can make the process of creating a wedding ring quilt much more approachable and enjoyable.

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Use a design board to lay out pieces in rows

Using a design board is a great way to visualise your wedding ring quilt before sewing the pieces together. This method allows you to lay out the pieces in rows and plan the design and colour scheme of your quilt.

First, cut out all the pieces according to your chosen template. You can then place them on your design board in the order you plan to sew them together. This will help you to chain piece as you go, making the sewing process more efficient.

When laying out the pieces, consider the symmetries and the number of pieces in each row. You may choose to alternate the colours or patterns of the pieces to create a particular design. For example, you could place pieces with light-coloured arcs on the right side in the first row and then place pieces with light-coloured arcs on the left side in the second row.

Using a design board ensures that you are happy with the layout of your quilt before you start sewing the pieces together. It allows you to make any necessary adjustments to the design and ensures that your quilt will come together as planned.

Overall, using a design board to lay out the pieces in rows is a helpful step in creating a wedding ring quilt. It allows you to visualise the design, plan the colour scheme, and chain piece the rows together efficiently.

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Sew arcs to two sides of each block

Sewing arcs to two sides of each block is a crucial step in assembling a wedding ring quilt. This process involves attaching curved pieces of fabric, known as arcs, to the sides of the quilt blocks to create a circular or ring-like shape. Here's a detailed guide on how to approach this step:

Fabric Selection and Preparation

Before sewing the arcs to the sides of the blocks, it is essential to choose the right fabric and prepare the pieces. Select fabrics that complement each other and create the desired colour scheme for your quilt. Cut the fabric into strips or pieces that will form the arcs. If you're using a template, follow its instructions to cut the fabric accurately. Some templates, like Matilda's Own, offer simplicity with only two basic arc shapes, making the cutting process more accessible.

Sewing Technique

When sewing arcs to two sides of each block, it's important to maintain consistency and precision. Sew the arcs to the blocks using a sewing machine or by hand. Ensure that the seams are straight and even, as this will impact the overall appearance of the quilt. Take your time and work carefully, especially when dealing with curved seams, as they can be more challenging to sew than straight edges.

Block Arrangement

After sewing the arcs to two sides of each block, it's time to arrange them into rows. This step is crucial in determining the overall design and colour pattern of your quilt. Place the blocks with light-coloured arcs on one side in the first row and those with light-coloured arcs on the opposite side in the second row. This arrangement may seem unusual, but it contributes to the unique pattern of the wedding ring quilt.

Finalising the Blocks

Once the blocks with arcs on two sides are arranged, it's time to sew the remaining two sides. This step involves sewing the arcs to the adjacent blocks, connecting them and creating a continuous pattern. After finalising the blocks, they should be ready for further assembly, following the specific quilt pattern you are using.

Creating a wedding ring quilt requires patience, precision, and attention to detail. Sewing arcs to two sides of each block is a significant step in achieving the distinctive ring or circular design. Remember to refer to tutorials, videos, or quilting resources for additional guidance if needed.

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Arrange blocks into rows, alternating arc placement

Arranging the blocks into rows is the next step after sewing arcs to two sides of the Double Wedding Ring blocks. This step involves placing the blocks with light-colored arcs on the right side in the first row and those with light-colored arcs on the left side in the second row. This may seem like an odd arrangement, but it ensures a consistent pattern across the quilt.

It is important to pay attention to the symmetries and the number of pieces when arranging the blocks. Using a template can help guide the placement of the arcs. For example, the Matilda's Own template features two basic arc shapes, with four pieces of similar size and shape using template D. By adding a C shape to all arcs and an E for the end of the alternating arc, you can create a visually appealing pattern.

When arranging the rows, consider the length and size of each row. You can choose to piece the rows on point, creating various-sized rows with the longest one spanning from one corner of the quilt to the other. This adds visual interest and movement to the quilt design.

Finally, sew the remaining two sides to one of the blocks, which will become the bottom block on the right side of the quilt. This block will have all four arcs sewn to it before being attached to the other blocks, completing the row arrangement.

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Sew remaining sides of blocks together

When sewing together a wedding ring quilt, it is easier to sew and cut pieces if they have more straight edges than curved ones. Using a template can help with this process. For example, the Matilda's Own template has only two shapes for the basic arc, with four pieces of a similar size and shape. You can then add a C shape to all arcs and an E for the end of the alternating arc. You will only need to make one long arc with end pieces, as they will share this end piece and form a full melon.

Once you have cut out all the pieces, you can start sewing the blocks together. The quilt is made up of individual blocks, each with four arcs. Begin by sewing two arcs to one block, and then sew the remaining two sides to another block. This will become the bottom right block of the quilt and is the only block that has all four arcs sewn to it before being sewn to the other blocks.

After you have sewn the arcs to the first two blocks, you can start arranging the blocks into rows. Place the blocks with the light-colored arcs on the right side in the first row and the ones with the light-colored arcs on the left side in the second row. This will create a pattern in the quilt. Once you have arranged the blocks, you can sew the remaining sides of the blocks together.

Start by sewing the blocks together in each row, sewing the left side of one block to the right side of the next block. Continue this process until all the blocks in each row are sewn together. Then, sew the rows together, connecting the blocks vertically. This will create the quilt top, with all the blocks sewn together to form a complete pattern.

Finally, you can sew the quilt top to the backing and batting to finish your wedding ring quilt. This process may vary depending on the specific pattern and template you are using, but the basic idea is to sew the remaining sides of the blocks together to create the quilt top.

Frequently asked questions

The easiest way to assemble a wedding ring quilt is to use a template with more straight edges than curved ones. This makes it easier to sew and cut the pieces.

There are several templates available for a wedding ring quilt. One option is the Matilda's Own template, which has only two shapes for the basic arc. Another option is the Creative Grid Rulers template, but this requires foundation paper piecing for the patchwork arc version.

After cutting out the pieces using a template, arrange them in rows on a portable design board. Sew the pieces together, starting with the arcs. Sew the arcs to two sides of each block, then arrange the blocks into rows. Sew the remaining two sides of the blocks to each other.

Yes, you can make a wedding ring quilt in any size. If you're not confident in making a large quilt, you can start with a single block to use as a table mat.

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