Ideas for a Cathedral Window Quilt Block

A cathedral window quilt is often made of sheer fabrics in vivid colors.

A cathedral window quilt is inspired by the beautiful stained glass windows of a church or cathedral. It often takes the shape of a diamond pattern inside a circular "window." The central portion is usually made of light, airy, colorful fabrics to mimic the translucence of a stained glass window, and the circular "frame" is made of heavier cotton or muslin. A cathedral window quilt usually has no quilting or batting; it is a quilted top with edging, according to the Quilting 101 website. A cathedral window quilt block can be used to make many beautiful craft projects.

Table, Holiday and Bed Linens

Transform a cathedral window quilt block into a pillow, pillow sham, seat cover, table runner, place mat, fabric coaster, trivet or napkin ring. If you make it with holiday colors, use it to make a Christmas tree skirt, cloth wreath, Christmas stocking or Christmas ornaments.

Throws and Wall Hangings

You can mount a dramatic, vibrant cathedral window quilt block on rods and display it as textile art in the form of a wall hanging. If you have one that isn't quite large enough for a quilt, make it into a lap blanket or sofa throw. You could use a long horizontal block as a curtain valance in a nursery, or in a room with a country decor.

Clothing and Accessories

Use a cathedral window quilt block to adorn a vest back, as jeans or jean jacket patches, as a fun addition to quilted pajamas or a housecoat, for an eyeglass or sunglasses case, a purse or shopping bag, a diaper bag, a cosmetic bag, a wedding favor or gift bags. Additionally, make cloth wallets, cell phone or laptop carriers, or covers for Bibles, books or photo albums.

Children's Gifts

Use a cathedral window quilt block to make a shower gift in either the form of a baby's quilt or a quilted stuffed toy. Use it for a child's quilt, or as gifts for children, such as doll dresses or dollhouse quilts. Or, make church dresses for babies or little girls.

References

• Quilting 101: Cathedral Quilt Patterns
• Designs in Stitches: Cathedral Window Quilt Blocks

Resources

• Hyena in Petticoats: Cathedral Window Quilt Tutorial