How to Create Wildlife Quilt Squares
Creating a wildlife quilt square for that naturalist in the family is easier than you might think and is sure to make a charming gift they will never forget. Used it alone as a framed wall hanging or in combination to complete an entire quilt. Wildlife squares capture the beauty of nature in a delicate balance of fine details.
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Things You'll Need
- Fabric scraps
- Unbleached muslin (8 x 8 inches)
- Fusible fabric
- Patterns
- Thread
- Scissors
- Iron
- Sewing machine
Instructions
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1
Look through magazines for ideas for your quilting square. Choose the central focus of the square. it is generally easier to think about the animal you wish to represent first and then concentrate on what the background will be. Look through children's coloring books or picture books for a good outline of the animal. Keep in mind that you will be creating this from fabric, so a simple outline is the best.
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2
Select images and shapes for the background. Simple tree designs can be drawn by hand or copied from children's books or coloring books. You may choose to place wildlife on a square with no background images. This is fine, but keep in mind that background images add depth and interest to your square.
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3
Trace or copy the patterns onto lightweight cardboard or thin plastic to create a template.
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4
Choose fabric for each image for the square. Keep in mind that all colors and textures should complement each other and that the wildlife should be the central focus. Background images should serve to enhance the wildlife and should not overpower it.
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Cut a square of fabric slightly larger than the pattern piece. Fuse the fusible web to the back of the fabric with a warm iron. Trace around the template and mark the pattern onto the fabric. Cut out the marked fabric piece. Remove the paper from the back of the fusible fabric. Repeat until all pieces for the square have been prepared.
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Lay the fabric pieces on the unbleached muslin square and arrange until you have the look and feel you desire. Carefully remove the fabric pieces, being sure to keep them in order. Iron the pieces to the muslin square beginning with the background pieces and working towards the foreground.
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7
Sew around the appliqued pieces with contrasting thread if desired. If you are simply creating a wall hanging, sewing the edges is not necessary.
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Tips & Warnings
Books for bulletin boards and classroom displays provide wonderful black line masters that can be used for applique patterns. You can purchase one wherever educational supplies are sold.
