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

The Double Wedding Ring Quilt is a classic quilt block that has been used for decades as a wedding present. The quilt is made up of interlocking circles, which have been found on pottery as far back as the ancient Roman Empire. The quilt is not for beginners, as it involves sewing many curves and arcs. However, there are several templates and tutorials available online to guide you through the process.

Choose a template and fabric

When it comes to choosing a template for your wedding ring quilt, there are a few options available. You can find templates online, with some sources suggesting Amazon or Australian brand Matilda's Own. These templates will help you cut out the pieces for your quilt, so it is important to choose one that suits your skill level and preferences. For example, some templates have more straight edges than curved ones, which can make them easier to sew and cut.

Once you have chosen your template, it is time to select your fabric. The fabric you choose will depend on your personal preference and the colour scheme you want to create. You will need a variety of fabrics to cover the small pieces and the C shape of the quilt. If you are piecing the arcs, you won't need the F shape, but it can be useful to cut one to use for tips later on. Place the fabric over the appropriate shape on your template and use a cutter to cut out the pieces.

It is important to note that you will need a large amount of fabric to create a wedding ring quilt, so it is recommended to choose something that you can easily acquire more of if needed. Additionally, pre-washing your fabric can help to prevent colour bleeding and shrinkage after the quilt is complete.

Finally, consider the size of your quilt. For a King-size quilt, you will typically need 36 rings for a 6 x 6 layout. However, this may vary depending on the size of your rings and the desired finished size of your quilt.

Cut the fabric

The first step in making a wedding ring quilt is to cut the fabric into the desired shapes. This can be done using a variety of tools such as a rotary cutter, scissors, or a die-cutting machine. It is important to ensure that the fabric is cut accurately and that all the pieces are the correct size.

When cutting the fabric, it is recommended to use a variety of different fabrics to add interest and texture to the quilt. The fabric can be cut into a range of shapes, including circles, arches, melons, and squares. It is important to cut the fabric with precision, as the pieces will need to fit together accurately when sewn.

One popular method for cutting the fabric is to use a template or a die-cutting machine. This helps to ensure that all the pieces are uniform in size and shape. The GO! Double Wedding Ring die is a popular choice, as it includes two dies that can be used to cut the fabric into the necessary shapes.

Another option is to use a ruler and rotary cutter to cut the fabric by hand. This method allows for more flexibility in the size and shape of the pieces. It is important to use a sharp rotary cutter and a self-healing mat to ensure accurate cutting.

Additionally, some quilters choose to foundation piece the rings, which involves sewing the fabric onto a paper foundation. This method can help to stabilize the fabric and ensure accurate piecing.

Once the fabric is cut, it is important to carefully label and organize the pieces to make the assembly process easier. It is also recommended to cut extra pieces, as there may be some trial and error during the sewing process.

Overall, cutting the fabric is a crucial step in making a wedding ring quilt. It is important to take the time to cut the pieces accurately and to use the appropriate tools and techniques to ensure a successful project.

Sew the pieces together

Sewing the pieces together is the most challenging part of making a wedding ring quilt. The following steps will guide you through the process:

Firstly, lay out your pieces for the first arc. Typically, this involves using three middle pieces and two end pieces. Sew each of the pieces together using an accurate 1/4" seam, and press all seams in one direction. It doesn't matter which direction you press, but consistency is key. You should aim to make two of these units.

Next, grab two B-shaped pieces and mark 1/4" points at each corner. Pin these B shapes to each side of one of the arcs you just pieced. Start and stop stitching at the 1/4" markings, and press the seams toward the squares.

Now, take your C shape and mark 1/4" points on it. Pin this shape to the pieced arc without the B squares attached, ensuring you match the 1/4" points and notches. Again, be sure to start and stop sewing at the 1/4" points. Press the seam towards the C shape.

At this stage, you should pin and sew one combined arc with corner squares to a combined arc with a C shape. As before, start and stop stitching at the 1/4" points of the square. Press seams towards the C shape.

Finally, mark 1/4" points on the tips of shape A. Pin and sew one combined arc unit to shape A, matching notches and 1/4" points.

Once you have mastered sewing these arcs, you can begin to piece together the rows of your quilt. This can be done by manipulating the "blocks" so that they fit together, with one block having an "inny" and the next having an "outy". Sew the blocks into vertical columns, and then sew the columns together with one long seam from top to bottom in a gentle curve.

Remember, this quilt is challenging, so take your time and don't be afraid to refer back to tutorials or ask for help if you get stuck!

Press the seams

Pressing seams is an important step in the quilt-making process, and there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the best results. First, always press seams in one direction, and it doesn't matter which direction you choose as long as you are consistent throughout. This will help to ensure your seams lie flat and your quilt top comes together smoothly.

When pressing seams, use an accurate 1/4" seam allowance, and be sure to stop and start stitching at the 1/4" markings. This will ensure your seams are the correct size and help your quilt blocks lie flat. Additionally, pressing seams towards the squares or the C shape, as instructed in your pattern, will create a neat and tidy finish.

For the double wedding ring quilt, it is important to note that you will not be pressing seams as frequently as you usually would. This is because pressing too much can make the pieces less flexible, which is not ideal for this quilt pattern. Instead, try to press seams only when necessary and follow the specific instructions provided in your chosen pattern.

Finally, when pressing seams, always use an iron that is set to the appropriate temperature for the fabrics you are using. Refer to the fabric care instructions if you are unsure, as using too high of a temperature can damage your fabric.

Assemble the quilt

Once you have cut your fabrics and sewn your pieces together, it's time to assemble your quilt.

Firstly, arrange your blocks into rows. If you are using light and dark fabrics, you may wish to alternate these as you lay out your pattern. You will need to decide whether you want to piece your rows together horizontally or vertically. One quilter recommends sewing your blocks into vertical columns, as this will result in one gently curving seam. Sew the columns together with one long seam that goes from top to bottom in a gentle curve.

If you are sewing your blocks into rows, you will need to match up the centres of each block as you sew. One quilter recommends not pressing your seams until the quilt top is finished, as this will make your fabric less flexible and more difficult to work with. Another quilter recommends pressing your seams in one direction (it doesn't matter which) but being consistent.

If you are using a combination of squares and arches, you will need to match the centres of each as you sew. Mark 1/4" points on the squares and match these to the centres of the arches. Be sure to stop and start sewing at the 1/4" points. Press the seams towards the squares.

If you are using a sewing machine, you may find it helpful to use a dual feed foot to quilt your pieces together.

Frequently asked questions