My Experience With Using Fat Quarters To Make A Queen Size Quilt

As a beginner quilter, I was always intimidated by the idea of making a queen size quilt. The sheer size of it seemed daunting, not to mention the cost of buying all that fabric. That’s when I discovered the concept of using fat quarters to make a quilt.

What are Fat Quarters?

For those who may not know, fat quarters are pre-cut pieces of fabric that measure 18 inches by 22 inches. They are typically sold in bundles of coordinating colors and patterns, making them a popular choice for quilters.

How Many Fat Quarters Do You Need for a Queen Size Quilt?

The answer to this question depends on a few factors, such as the desired finished size of the quilt and the width of the fabric you are using. A standard queen size quilt measures approximately 90 inches by 108 inches. To make a quilt this size using fat quarters, you will need around 50-60 fat quarters.

Step by Step Guide for Using Fat Quarters to Make a Queen Size Quilt

1. Choose your fat quarter bundle: Look for a bundle that has enough coordinating fabrics to achieve the desired look for your quilt.

2. Decide on a quilt pattern: There are many patterns that can be made using fat quarters, so choose one that you like and that is appropriate for a queen size quilt.

3. Cut your fabric: Depending on the pattern, you may need to cut your fat quarters into smaller pieces. Follow the pattern instructions carefully.

4. Sew your pieces together: Once your fabric is cut, sew the pieces together according to your chosen pattern.

5. Add batting and backing: Once your quilt top is complete, add batting and a backing fabric. You can choose to quilt it yourself or send it to a professional for quilting.

6. Bind your quilt: Finish off your quilt by adding a binding around the edges.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Using Fat Quarters to Make a Queen Size Quilt

1. Choose a fat quarter bundle with a variety of colors and patterns to add interest to your quilt.

2. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different fat quarter bundles to create a unique look.

3. Use a design wall to help arrange your fabric pieces before sewing them together.

4. Consider using a solid fabric or a fabric with a small print as a background to help the other fabrics pop.

5. Use a quilt pattern that is designed specifically for fat quarters to ensure that you have enough fabric.

6. Consider cutting your fabric into larger pieces to create a more modern or minimalist look.

7. Don’t forget to pre-wash your fabric to prevent any shrinkage or bleeding of colors.

8. Use a rotary cutter and cutting mat to ensure accurate cuts.

9. Consider adding sashing between your fabric pieces to create a more structured look.

10. Have fun and experiment with different color and pattern combinations!

Pros and Cons of Using Fat Quarters to Make a Queen Size Quilt

Some of the pros of using fat quarters to make a quilt include:

They are pre-cut, which saves time and eliminates the need for measuring and cutting.
They are sold in coordinating bundles, which makes it easy to choose fabrics that go well together.
They are affordable, as you can often find bundles on sale or use coupons to save money.

Some of the cons of using fat quarters to make a quilt include:

You may need to buy multiple bundles to have enough fabric for a larger quilt, which can be expensive.
Some patterns may require more or less fabric than what is included in a standard fat quarter bundle.
You may have more fabric waste than if you were to buy yardage and cut it to size.

My Personal Review and Suggestion for Using Fat Quarters to Make a Queen Size Quilt

Overall, I found using fat quarters to make a queen size quilt to be a great option for beginners or those on a budget. It was easy to choose coordinating fabrics, and I loved the variety of colors and patterns that were available. However, I did find that I needed to buy multiple bundles to have enough fabric, which added to the cost. My suggestion would be to carefully choose a pattern that is designed specifically for fat quarters to ensure that you have enough fabric and minimize waste.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fat quarters to make other size quilts?

A: Yes, fat quarters can be used to make quilts of any size. You will just need to adjust the number of fat quarters you use based on the desired finished size of the quilt.

Q: Do I need to pre-wash my fat quarters?

A: It is recommended to pre-wash your fabric to prevent any shrinkage or bleeding of colors. However, some quilters choose not to pre-wash their fabric to maintain the sizing and stiffness of the fabric.

Q: Can I mix and match different fat quarter bundles?

A: Absolutely! Mixing and matching different fat quarter bundles can create a unique and interesting look for your quilt.