Crocheting A Double Wedding Ring Quilt: Step-By-Step Guide

The Double Wedding Ring Quilt is a daunting project, even for experienced quilters. It is not a quilt for beginners, as it involves sewing many curves and only the most confident quilters would attempt to make a bed-sized quilt. However, the finish is so worth it and it will surely become a family heirloom. There are many templates available to buy online, and some quilters have created video tutorials to guide you through the process.

Choosing a template

Skill Level:

Firstly, consider your skill level and choose a template that is suitable for beginners or experienced quilters. Some templates are more complex than others, so it's important to select one that you feel confident in completing. The double wedding ring quilt pattern is often labelled as 'advanced', so it's important to be aware of the level of challenge before you begin.

Size:

Consider the size of the quilt you want to make. Different templates will produce different-sized quilts, so choose one that fits your desired dimensions. For example, if you're making a quilt for a king-size bed, you'll need a template that produces a larger quilt, such as a 6 x 6 ring layout.

Shape:

Templates can also vary in the shape of the quilt blocks. Some templates produce blocks with curved edges, while others have square corners. Consider whether you want the traditional curved edges of a wedding ring quilt or prefer the ease of binding straight edges. You might also consider a template that produces square blocks with curved elements, such as the "Metro Rings" pattern by Sew Kind of Wonderful, which several quilters have reported enjoying working with.

Availability of Materials:

Before settling on a template, ensure that you have access to all the required materials and tools. Some templates may require specific rulers or dies, such as the Accuquilt die, or foundation paper piecing. If you're looking for a template that requires minimal additional tools, consider the "Matilda's Own" template, which only requires two shapes for the basic arc.

Sewing Technique:

Different templates may also require different sewing techniques. For example, some templates may require foundation paper piecing, while others may be sewn directly onto fabric. If you have a preference for a particular sewing technique, make sure the template you choose is compatible.

Personal Preference:

Lastly, choose a template that you find aesthetically pleasing. The double wedding ring quilt is a beautiful and classic pattern, so select a template that you feel excited about and that aligns with your personal style.

Remember to take your time when choosing a template and consider all the factors involved. By selecting the right template for your needs and skill level, you'll set yourself up for a successful and enjoyable quilting experience.

Sewing the pieces together

Firstly, arrange the blocks in rows. If you are making a bed runner quilt with two blocks in each row, place the blocks with light-coloured arcs on the right side in the first row and those with light-coloured arcs on the left side in the second row. For quilts with more blocks per row, the arrangement will be different.

Next, sew the remaining two sides to one of the blocks. This will be the bottom block on the right side of the quilt and the only block with all four arcs sewn to it before joining them. Sew a third arc section to each of the block centres located at the edges of the quilt. Then, sew the blocks into vertical columns, creating a gently curving seam.

After that, sew the columns together with one long seam from top to bottom, ensuring that the centres of each block and the pieced arc centres match up. This will result in a four-patch block created by sewing the dark-ended arcs to the top and bottom and the light-ended arcs to the sides of the block.

While sewing the pieces together, it is important to ensure that the seams are correctly aligned. It is recommended to use match points on both Template A and the pieced arc unit. Mark the match points on the wrong side of the corners and the centre of each piece, using a see-through acrylic ruler to make crosshairs.

Finally, continue sewing the rows together, following the specific instructions for your chosen pattern and template.

Quilting techniques

Firstly, you will need to decide on a template and pattern for your quilt. There are various templates available, such as the Matilda's Own template, which involves fewer curves and more straight edges, making it easier to sew and cut the pieces. Other templates include the Creative Grid Rulers template, which requires foundation paper piecing, and the Michele Martenelli template, which does not feature square corners.

Once you have chosen your template, you can start cutting and sewing. One method is to cut and sew "melons" or "football shapes" first, and then piece them together with the centre curvy hourglass piece. This can be a challenging part of the process, but it will come together quickly once you get the hang of it.

When arranging the blocks, it is recommended to sew the remaining two sides to one block, 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 joined with the other blocks. Then, sew the blocks into vertical columns, matching the centres of each patch and the pieced arc centres.

For binding the quilt, it is recommended to use lots of pins and stitch slowly to ease the binding in the curves. Bias binding can be used, and while it may seem intimidating, it is actually quite easy to cut and sew.

Binding the quilt

First, trim your excess batting. You can trim right to the quilt's edge using a long quilter's ruler and a rotary blade.

Next, you will need to cut your binding fabric. You will need enough fabric strips to cover the perimeter of your quilt, with about 10 inches or 25 cm extra. For a double fold binding, cut 2 or 2 1/4" wide strips of fabric along the width of the fabric. If you are using striped, checked, or geometric fabric, take note of the lines on the fabric and where you are cutting so that the fabric design is printed correctly on the straight grain of the fabric.

Then, join your strips together. The strips are usually joined on the diagonal to reduce bulk in the seam when it's folded over the quilt edge. Place two strips with right sides together and perpendicular to each other, overlapping the fabric edges a little. With an erasable marker, draw a diagonal line from the edge of one strip to the other strip. Pin the fabric together and sew along this line. Trim the corner off the join, leaving about a 1/4" seam allowance. Open this seam and press it flat. Continue this process until you have the required length of joined fabric strips. Fold the fabric in half lengthwise and press to make the binding.

Now you are ready to attach the binding to the quilt. Start at the centre of the bottom edge of the quilt. Create a point at one end of the binding by folding the right corner down to meet the left-hand edge. Press well, then fold the binding back again and press again. Lay the binding along the bottom edge of the quilt, ensuring the raw edges of the binding and quilt line up. Pin in place. Sew the binding down, starting your stitching about 6" from the tip of the binding point. When you reach the corner, stop sewing 1/4" from the fabric edge. Pivot your needle and sew directly into the corner of the quilt. Trim your threads and remove the quilt from the machine.

Mitre the corner by folding the binding straight up so that it makes a diagonal fold over the diagonal stitch you placed in the corner. Finger press the fold. Now fold the binding back down so that the top fold sits flush with the edge of the quilt and the raw edges of the binding are placed ready to start sewing the next side. Pin the binding in place down this side of the quilt edge. Sew the binding down on this side, starting 1/4" from the top. Repeat the same mitring process at the next corner and continue sewing until you are back to the side where you started.

Now, join the binding strips. Cut an extra piece of binding 2.5" long for a spacer guide. Trim off the excess binding on each end so that they overlap by 2.5" using the guide. Unfold the ends and lay one on top of the other with right sides together. Make sure the edges lay at a 90-degree angle and line up straight. Pin the ends together so they lay nice and flat, with edges even. Sew in a straight seam to join the binding strips. Trim excess fabric to a 1/4" beyond the seam. Finger press the seam open, then fold it in half to form the binding. Lay it flat on the quilt edge with the raw edges matching. Finish sewing the quilt binding in a 1/4" seam.

Finally, fold the binding over to the back of the quilt and pin or clip in place, carefully folding the mitred corners. You can now hand stitch or machine stitch the binding in place.

Finishing touches

Once you have pieced together your double wedding ring quilt, you can add your own finishing touches. Here are some ideas to consider:

Binding

Binding a quilt with round edges can be a challenge, but it is not impossible. One approach is to use bias binding, which can be created by cutting your first strip at a 45-degree angle and then cutting the rest of your strips as you would for straight binding. Another option is to use a scalloped or curved binding technique, which can be found on YouTube. Pinning every inch of your binding and stitching slowly can help ease the binding into the curves.

Quilting

For quilting, you may want to consider sending your quilt to a long armer, especially if it is a large quilt. This can add a special touch to your quilt and help create a cherished heirloom. If you plan to quilt it yourself, consider using a dual feed foot to machine quilt with gentle curves and straight lines.

Fabric

The fabric you choose for your quilt can make a big difference in the final look and feel. Consider using a variety of fabrics, such as cotton, linen, or flannel, to add texture and interest. You can also use fabric with sentimental value, such as old shirts or dresses, to make your quilt even more special.

Embroidery

Embroidery can be a lovely way to add a personal touch to your quilt. You can embroider the couple's names, their wedding date, or a special message on the quilt. You can also embroider decorative elements, such as flowers or other designs, to enhance the overall aesthetic of the quilt.

Presentation

Finally, consider how you will present your quilt as a gift. You can simply tie a ribbon around it or go a step further and package it in a beautiful box or bag. Adding a handwritten note with the story of the quilt and care instructions can also be a thoughtful touch.

Frequently asked questions