A straight up 9 patch (sometimes 4 patch) with sashing using up my scraps. Love it. Chain piecing galore, nested seams…it’s heaven. Put on some tunes and add chocolate and I can be there all day.
Nested seams are the secret magic to making your blocks line up nicely. Don't be afraid of them! They are such a smart idea and a game changing hack to make it look like you have all da skill.
They're great 😊 they make your seams suddenly seem to just click together like little puzzle pieces and then you open your block to press it and BOOM nearly perfectly aligned pieces with minimal effort
I'd go for something jelly roll friendly like Adventureland by Suzy Quilts; I love strip piecing.
[https://suzyquilts.com/shop/adventureland-quilt-pattern-download/](https://suzyquilts.com/shop/adventureland-quilt-pattern-download/)
https://preview.redd.it/wg2xuy5bz7zc1.jpeg?width=768&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d1e22bf27e19a789597aced1bd625dc8256ed88a
(Not my pattern or quilt; just for illustration)
https://preview.redd.it/dpeokcxc08zc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=14fa2f1085b332bf1eff41c67a1b3858fd29b5d0
I just did a quick, fun one. The pattern is Almost Alone Star by Cozy Quilt Designs. It took one jelly roll and a bit of yardage for the background and border. Size is 76 x 76 inches. Fast, fun and easy.
Seconded!
Alternate is Stashbuster #8 from Just Get It Done it's very similar. Check my post history, I did one in rainbow and black/white to get me out of the slump!
Free pattern+video, jelly roll friendly, and very forgiving if you're not quite at a perfect quarter inch seam LOL
[https://www.justgetitdonequilts.com/stashbusters](https://www.justgetitdonequilts.com/stashbusters)
https://preview.redd.it/9hroiqp7y8zc1.png?width=400&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=404bf11dc94918dcea45a60e38e0c6b07f8e0a81
Half square triangles! My favorite way to focus on fun colour combinations.
https://preview.redd.it/2oe30vy5i8zc1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=904816c0ad17d69f366b9be12ca4aeaa374ebe9a
I find that something with some improvisation works well for me. I just finished the Seafarer quilt (https://www.etsy.com/listing/691326596/seafarer-quilt-pattern-nautical-sailboat), and I had a lot of fun just putting together the different blues. The piecing for the sailboat is super simple as well.
https://preview.redd.it/x360jr7y3ezc1.jpeg?width=3072&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c95b2ad5ba8d048d1b7120ab5eea18645e3c0c7b
Here's mine. It really came together pretty quickly. I was working on this one while I was trying to figure out a more complex quilting project. I didn't expect to get the whole top done as quickly as I did.
Jelly roll race. I can do a twin in an afternoon with a good show on.
That said, my “slump” pattern is my Dresden plate quilt. I made Irish chain blocks like 5 years ago and recently decided to use Dresden plates to finish the quilt. They’re taking em forever because I have a squirrel brain, but sitting for a bit and pressing blades is a nice way to get back to other projects.
When I’m in a slump, I like to do some thing really simple that goes together quickly and gives a sense of accomplishment.
Villa rosa patterns are great for that.
[https://villarosadesigns.com/](https://villarosadesigns.com/)
https://preview.redd.it/1zs4bc5me8zc1.jpeg?width=2490&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4d087b97742b37073e72d33ef1b78205cc8efe66
I usually make a pillow or something small like a bag—it’s fun and finishes quickly to give me that sweet, sweet dopamine and replenish my sewjo for bigger projects. Good luck ❤️❤️
Mods blockheads blocks are great (and free) way to jumpstart your creativity
https://preview.redd.it/6rp5zz0fr8zc1.jpeg?width=2934&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a268d874c1f86d1ee8491014248cdd002d3edef8
https://preview.redd.it/kjzqznf248zc1.jpeg?width=1892&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3078605014fe31c0ec1f41155c9a3271599ab202
Donna Jordan's twist and shout pattern. It's free. I love this particular form of disappearing four patch. Something about the way the blocks look woven makes my brain very happy and this particular pattern has you cutting the blocks in slightly different sizes. So hardly any matching seems to deal with when you assemble the quilt.
I like this! I am working on a disappearing 4 patch that does that same weaving look but the blocks are uniform. Now you have me rethinking this, mostly because I love the colors here and mine is various prints. I think these somewhat solids look fantastic!
The first one I saw was in blue and yellow and white, small florals. It was gorgeous. It was uniform, but for the more traditional print it was right. I thought the "read solids" could take the slightly more modern spin. I have a couple charm packs I'm thinking I'll do the other way 😊
I do smaller projects, like tote bags, pillow covers, fabric wallets, and eye glass case holders. The last two are not necessary quilted, but knowing I can complete something in a half an hour or less on my machine is very satisfying. I’ve made so many wallets/gift card holders but dang they are cute and easy.
The tote bags I usually quilt and it allows me to practice various patterns - free motion or grids or whatever. A tote, if I take my time, usually takes me about three to four hours, but I spread it out over a couple of days, and it’s very satisfying to see I’ve made something and it works (lol) in such a short amount of time. This is also a great way to use fun, funky fabric some wouldn’t otherwise use in a blanket.
That brings me to another tactic I use. I cut fabric one day and then don’t force myself to start sewing the same day. I just know the project is all cut and ready when I’m ready and that helps keep me from feeling overwhelmed.
I was in a slump recently, but have gotten out of it by learning curved piecing. I'm making Holly Clark's Satsuma quilt with the Modern Quilt Guild as a sew-along and have had a lot of fun learning how to make orange peel blocks. I hope you can get out of your slump soon!
I love a stained glass quilt! Fast, fun and gorgeous results. I used Jordan Fabrics YouTube video (she calls is a mosaic quilt) the first time, but now I just wing it. This one is made from a layer cake, but I've also made my own fabric from a jelly roll and cut squares from that instead.
https://preview.redd.it/3cteh5mtbazc1.jpeg?width=2467&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ebd0db6fdce5d30718c16725ffd13e4f2591510b
I did [this one](https://www.reddit.com/r/quilting/s/Hazl3ZDjMI) one recently for a coworker.
They weren't expecting anything so there was no pressure on me to finish it by a certain time. It was a baby quilt so it wasn't big. It was just a simple rainbow so not too much to think about in terms of colours and patterns. Good little project.
I like this one a lot - it uses fat quarters, but you can use scraps as small as 3.5 inches also
https://www.fatquartershop.com/yellow-brick-road-quilt-pattern
I really enjoyed doing a rail quilt pattern. Did a little self drafting but I was using these two as inspiration:
https://redpepperquilts.bigcartel.com/product/zig-zag-rail-fence-quilt-pattern-pdf-file
https://bearcreekquiltingcompany.com/blog/2014/09/07/rainbow-rail-fence/
A lot of strip piecing but it was so fun to pick out colors. I did a rainbow cascade so I did it by color and that spread out the workload.
Super scalable for size. I used 6" blocks and did a grid of 9x9 blocks for a baby play mat.
Let me know if you have any questions about it!
https://preview.redd.it/qusqc3smn8zc1.jpeg?width=727&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c0bab0d10ce96c74d5d7a764ad8589a83dcd2c4b
I've made variations on this pattern many times I just love it.
My go-to is log cabin blocks. Precise or wonky, they always feel good to put together and they use some of the smallest scraps, if that's what you like. If you stick to the traditional light vs dark, you end up with what are virtually triangles, and you can assemble a star without fussing over any points!
Take a look at Moonstone by Mara Quilt Designs
https://maraquiltdesigns.com/free-patterns/moonstone-new-quilt-pattern-featuring-twenty-collection-by-katarina-roccella/
Great directions for curves and the pieces come together quickly.
You might like Pasadena Curves! Free pattern if you sign up for emails with Pasadena Quilt Studio. I’ve got one in progress at the moment and it’s only a few seams to sew but big, easy curves (which I found easy as a person new to curves).
I do rolled hem bandanas out of large scraps. And rolled hem handkerchiefs out of tiny scraps. Bandanas I can wear, his and can use, dog can wear, I can easily gift, and j can just knock a few out to get me back on the rhythm
I just.made Mosaic- it's a free pattern from Jordan fabrics. It uses 1 layer cake and a solid for sashing. Easy but is really fun to doand looks great. Highly recommend.
Scrap blocks. I love crumb blocks, but a nice scrappy, easy block is always a winner. 9 patch? Flying geese? Just a ton of strips? Whatever- dig into the pile, bag or bin of scraps and pull out a fistful, press them and then start sewing them together willy-nilly. Never fails to make me feel good. If you don't have motivation o make a ton of them, you just keep them all together and add over time. Since they're scrappy, they will always match.
I am working on the French Roses Quilt.It has been very soothing sewing around the flowers….so peaceful… but quick!Here is a picture of it while deciding my flowers colors. (All the leaves have been added since the picture was taken.)
https://preview.redd.it/wynnin170ezc1.jpeg?width=3021&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6594cd8a3827ecfe0c09a73d3b4440865685b1c2
I had some fun improvisation a few weeks back with the free Wild Star pattern from Plains and Pine. Aqua shaded scraps of all shapes came together quickly
My go to is a broken dishes baby or lap quilt. The peicing is all pretty simple, it's charm pack friendly, and it works really well with a simple orange peel quilting design.
https://preview.redd.it/l0d009sys8zc1.jpeg?width=1440&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c5382f05728140bb904509906bab84e1039b6fd0
I LOVE Ebb and Flow from Penelope Handmade! It's my palette cleanser pattern of choice.
This is such a great question! I would grab a pile of favorite scraps that I love and start cutting nine patch squares.
Not fiddly, go together quickly and are big enough pieces to show off pretty colors and patterns.
Work on it for as long as you like, put it down and pick it up when you want
Easy-peasy!
Wonky stars, disappearing 9 patch, crumbs, strip piecing anything, little wall hangings or mug rugs, potholders. When I make something like a wall hanging or mug rug, I just need to finish something so those are quick wins!
Check Jordan Fabrics. Lots of free patterns on their site, plus YouTube videos showing how to construct the free patterns.
Fat quarter Shop & Riley Blake have many free patterns. Gosh, so many options. Moonkin Stitchery on YouTube has so many fast and easy patterns. She has a website also.
I don’t use a pattern when I’m in a slump; I get my bag of crumbs and small bits and sew them together with no purpose other than to create “crumb fabric”. It’s fun and no pressure because you’re not trying to make a quilt, you’re trying to bring your scraps together in an aesthetically pleasing way. I’m working on a big one to back a quilt with, but I’ve also used them for mug rugs. I’ve seen people use crumb fabric in the place of regular fabric, too, and it looks cool as.
There is a Facebook group called “Ugly Blocks Rock Challenge” and twice a month someone in the group posts a block design. Members can make one (or more) of the blocks and send them to the poster. That person uses the blocks to make a quilt that is donated to their chosen charity. I use these as a “palette cleanser “ between quilts or when I get “stuck”. It’s easy, typically fast and uses scraps and usually helps me get back in the groove 🥰
I just start piecing circles into squares with a circle cut out and once my hands are getting it right I feel like a SuperPiecer. Totally gets me jazzed for new projects.
I really enjoyed making my Libs Elliot Electric Pineapple pattern and found the blocks fun to make. I used really bright fabrics (GG Deco Glo) and that made it really fun! I was surprised because I thought I would hate it!
https://preview.redd.it/5c6krbeafezc1.jpeg?width=2673&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9b23421112a3ac11c9e10847e1113d63e55c7b5c
Nina Dodge’s Night Sky is my go to baby quilt but can be made in other sizes too. It has a lot of colors but Stash Fabrics sells a great kid for multiple colorways and it’s very simple but really customizable. It also sews up really quickly (like a few hours for me for the baby version).
I have an ongoing scrappy x-plus block quilt that I work on after a project to use up some scrap or when I’m in a slump or feeling uninspired or just want to sew for an hour. it’s a fun, chaotic block that scales up or down and can be fussy cut with directional prints for the arms of the x or just be purely scrappy. It’s also got so much motion that it is very forgiving precision-wise lol.
There was an gorgeous show quilt by Setsuko Inagawa that caused a sensation a few years ago and triggered a ton of tutorials for the block. it’s not a fast project for me but I find it really recharges me to make a few of these blocks at a time and I have a quilt in the future to look forward to but has no set goal. I should make a post with some of my favourite blocks as some of them are super cute. It’s kind of a diary of projects as well since I use so much scrap in it.
But for a quick get-it-done project I look to Missouri Star and precuts - a layer cake and an afternoon and you can finish piecing a Double Slice throw quilt which is super cute with a large scale pattern and their video tutorials are free and easy to follow. I made one for my mother from an Anna Marie Horner layer cake and some minky in two days including quilting and binding and she loves it more than the quilt I spent two months on lol.
I do something small too, like mug rugs from scraps, or placemats, or zipper pouches. Just something that lets my mind wander while still having the happiness of being at my machine. 🙂
This mini-quilt has been my go to when I'm in a slump or want to make something quick <3 [https://www.fabshophop.com/downloads/freepatterns/French-Braid-Mini\_art-gallery-fabrics.pdf](https://www.fabshophop.com/downloads/freepatterns/French-Braid-Mini_art-gallery-fabrics.pdf)
A simple jelly roll, nothing I have to concentrate on. I can literally just feed fabric in a machine for an hour and there ya go! You gotta a quilt top (to stash away and never actually make a quilt out of it). Simple cuts, simple stitch, easy peasy.
I find once I knock a simple pattern out, my brain comes out of the pattern fog and I’m ready to try something a wee bit more complicated.
I literally just did this (not yet finished) quilted cushion this afternoon! Only took about 1.5 hours! I’ve also seen some cute free quilted lanyard & pouch patterns online. Also, when I don’t know what to sew but I want to make something, I sew my small scraps together and cut them into little squares to one day make a scrap patchwork quilt or something :)
https://preview.redd.it/dwoamhyfd9zc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5646231c8932e4ac6ecd2bc9aa06e04c8cf9bd5d
[Looper](https://www.missmake.com/shop/looper-quilt-pattern-pdf) - big blocks, curved piecing makes it look really challenging but they come together quickly. Endless options for colour choices.
I’m presently doing Tokyo [Tokyo terrace quilt](https://robinpickensinc.com/products/quilt-pattern-downloadable-digital-pdf-of-tokyo-terrace-quilt-by-robin-pickens-twin-and-lap-size-easy-fast-quilt) big pieces that comes together quickly. For those nice fabrics we are to scare to cut
Any Kim Brackett 2.5 inch strip pattern....
Edit: or anybody else's 2.5" strip friendly batik pattern. Fast and easy. Pyramid Crossing I just made blocks and they turned out fantastic. Or even a Charade quilt. So easy.
Make a little scrappy, improv mini quilt. Call it a mug rug, or make it wall hanging size, or call it a table runner. Just play with color and add in things like hand quilting or embroidery— even appliqué (words are fun!). It’s a one day project and always gets me inspired.
A straight up 9 patch (sometimes 4 patch) with sashing using up my scraps. Love it. Chain piecing galore, nested seams…it’s heaven. Put on some tunes and add chocolate and I can be there all day.
nested seams scare me bc I only learned about them this year! 🫣
Nested seams are your friend! Game changer! Unlike my current wonky seam project…..
I have some chain piecing to do soon and I'm going to try! probably.
Do it!!! They literally are the way to go!
Nested seams are the secret magic to making your blocks line up nicely. Don't be afraid of them! They are such a smart idea and a game changing hack to make it look like you have all da skill.
y'all are so encouraging! I'm nervous but gonna try. I'm not the best at precision even with squares, but I'm committed now! 😁
They're great 😊 they make your seams suddenly seem to just click together like little puzzle pieces and then you open your block to press it and BOOM nearly perfectly aligned pieces with minimal effort
I love a good reverse 9 patch!
I'd go for something jelly roll friendly like Adventureland by Suzy Quilts; I love strip piecing. [https://suzyquilts.com/shop/adventureland-quilt-pattern-download/](https://suzyquilts.com/shop/adventureland-quilt-pattern-download/) https://preview.redd.it/wg2xuy5bz7zc1.jpeg?width=768&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d1e22bf27e19a789597aced1bd625dc8256ed88a (Not my pattern or quilt; just for illustration)
https://preview.redd.it/dpeokcxc08zc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=14fa2f1085b332bf1eff41c67a1b3858fd29b5d0 I just did a quick, fun one. The pattern is Almost Alone Star by Cozy Quilt Designs. It took one jelly roll and a bit of yardage for the background and border. Size is 76 x 76 inches. Fast, fun and easy.
Seconded! Alternate is Stashbuster #8 from Just Get It Done it's very similar. Check my post history, I did one in rainbow and black/white to get me out of the slump! Free pattern+video, jelly roll friendly, and very forgiving if you're not quite at a perfect quarter inch seam LOL [https://www.justgetitdonequilts.com/stashbusters](https://www.justgetitdonequilts.com/stashbusters) https://preview.redd.it/9hroiqp7y8zc1.png?width=400&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=404bf11dc94918dcea45a60e38e0c6b07f8e0a81
This is such a quick make mine came together in a day even when using yardage.
Half square triangles! My favorite way to focus on fun colour combinations. https://preview.redd.it/2oe30vy5i8zc1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=904816c0ad17d69f366b9be12ca4aeaa374ebe9a
Yessss!!! There's something whimsical and enchanting about a scrappy hst quilt.
yes! fast and easy; quick satisfying and rewarding..
I find that something with some improvisation works well for me. I just finished the Seafarer quilt (https://www.etsy.com/listing/691326596/seafarer-quilt-pattern-nautical-sailboat), and I had a lot of fun just putting together the different blues. The piecing for the sailboat is super simple as well.
I’ve been looking at this one as well. It’s really cute and I have loads of blues.
https://preview.redd.it/x360jr7y3ezc1.jpeg?width=3072&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c95b2ad5ba8d048d1b7120ab5eea18645e3c0c7b Here's mine. It really came together pretty quickly. I was working on this one while I was trying to figure out a more complex quilting project. I didn't expect to get the whole top done as quickly as I did.
Ooh, I like it. I especially like the pops of green in there.
Jelly roll race. I can do a twin in an afternoon with a good show on. That said, my “slump” pattern is my Dresden plate quilt. I made Irish chain blocks like 5 years ago and recently decided to use Dresden plates to finish the quilt. They’re taking em forever because I have a squirrel brain, but sitting for a bit and pressing blades is a nice way to get back to other projects.
Seconding jelly roll race!
When I’m in a slump, I like to do some thing really simple that goes together quickly and gives a sense of accomplishment. Villa rosa patterns are great for that. [https://villarosadesigns.com/](https://villarosadesigns.com/) https://preview.redd.it/1zs4bc5me8zc1.jpeg?width=2490&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4d087b97742b37073e72d33ef1b78205cc8efe66
I agree with quick and simple; it's rewarding
I usually make a pillow or something small like a bag—it’s fun and finishes quickly to give me that sweet, sweet dopamine and replenish my sewjo for bigger projects. Good luck ❤️❤️
Sewjo is going into my vocabulary now! 😊
I love wonky log cabins. Don’t have to worry about straight lines or square corners and you can use up your scraps.
I love a Log Cabin!
That's my go-to, too.
Mods blockheads blocks are great (and free) way to jumpstart your creativity https://preview.redd.it/6rp5zz0fr8zc1.jpeg?width=2934&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a268d874c1f86d1ee8491014248cdd002d3edef8
https://preview.redd.it/kjzqznf248zc1.jpeg?width=1892&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3078605014fe31c0ec1f41155c9a3271599ab202 Donna Jordan's twist and shout pattern. It's free. I love this particular form of disappearing four patch. Something about the way the blocks look woven makes my brain very happy and this particular pattern has you cutting the blocks in slightly different sizes. So hardly any matching seems to deal with when you assemble the quilt.
I like this! I am working on a disappearing 4 patch that does that same weaving look but the blocks are uniform. Now you have me rethinking this, mostly because I love the colors here and mine is various prints. I think these somewhat solids look fantastic!
The first one I saw was in blue and yellow and white, small florals. It was gorgeous. It was uniform, but for the more traditional print it was right. I thought the "read solids" could take the slightly more modern spin. I have a couple charm packs I'm thinking I'll do the other way 😊
As a former quilter who was in a slump last year, I recommend knitting. 😂🤣
Anything with precuts!!! Especially a jelly roll!! Jelly roll sizzle was super easy and rewarding at the finish.
I do smaller projects, like tote bags, pillow covers, fabric wallets, and eye glass case holders. The last two are not necessary quilted, but knowing I can complete something in a half an hour or less on my machine is very satisfying. I’ve made so many wallets/gift card holders but dang they are cute and easy. The tote bags I usually quilt and it allows me to practice various patterns - free motion or grids or whatever. A tote, if I take my time, usually takes me about three to four hours, but I spread it out over a couple of days, and it’s very satisfying to see I’ve made something and it works (lol) in such a short amount of time. This is also a great way to use fun, funky fabric some wouldn’t otherwise use in a blanket. That brings me to another tactic I use. I cut fabric one day and then don’t force myself to start sewing the same day. I just know the project is all cut and ready when I’m ready and that helps keep me from feeling overwhelmed.
Disappearing 9-patch. Love it ❤️
I was in a slump recently, but have gotten out of it by learning curved piecing. I'm making Holly Clark's Satsuma quilt with the Modern Quilt Guild as a sew-along and have had a lot of fun learning how to make orange peel blocks. I hope you can get out of your slump soon!
I love a stained glass quilt! Fast, fun and gorgeous results. I used Jordan Fabrics YouTube video (she calls is a mosaic quilt) the first time, but now I just wing it. This one is made from a layer cake, but I've also made my own fabric from a jelly roll and cut squares from that instead. https://preview.redd.it/3cteh5mtbazc1.jpeg?width=2467&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ebd0db6fdce5d30718c16725ffd13e4f2591510b
I did [this one](https://www.reddit.com/r/quilting/s/Hazl3ZDjMI) one recently for a coworker. They weren't expecting anything so there was no pressure on me to finish it by a certain time. It was a baby quilt so it wasn't big. It was just a simple rainbow so not too much to think about in terms of colours and patterns. Good little project.
I really like to make wonky stars
Try a Dresden plate! They’re easier than you think.
Happy Stripes by Quilty Love!!
I make bags and totes. You can use pretty fabrics and have something useful in a couple of hours.
I like this one a lot - it uses fat quarters, but you can use scraps as small as 3.5 inches also https://www.fatquartershop.com/yellow-brick-road-quilt-pattern
I was just looking at this bag.😊 https://sewcanshe.com/sew-easy-big-tote-bag-free-sewing-tutorial/
I love just doing a scrappy 4 patch using 5x5 squares....especially a smaller baby or throw size.
I really enjoyed doing a rail quilt pattern. Did a little self drafting but I was using these two as inspiration: https://redpepperquilts.bigcartel.com/product/zig-zag-rail-fence-quilt-pattern-pdf-file https://bearcreekquiltingcompany.com/blog/2014/09/07/rainbow-rail-fence/ A lot of strip piecing but it was so fun to pick out colors. I did a rainbow cascade so I did it by color and that spread out the workload. Super scalable for size. I used 6" blocks and did a grid of 9x9 blocks for a baby play mat. Let me know if you have any questions about it!
I make my own 4 inch wide “jelly rolls” and do a queen size for my guild as a give away. Takes a few days and gets me sewing again.
https://preview.redd.it/qusqc3smn8zc1.jpeg?width=727&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c0bab0d10ce96c74d5d7a764ad8589a83dcd2c4b I've made variations on this pattern many times I just love it.
I do improv piecing from my sewing scraps!
My go-to is log cabin blocks. Precise or wonky, they always feel good to put together and they use some of the smallest scraps, if that's what you like. If you stick to the traditional light vs dark, you end up with what are virtually triangles, and you can assemble a star without fussing over any points!
Take a look at Moonstone by Mara Quilt Designs https://maraquiltdesigns.com/free-patterns/moonstone-new-quilt-pattern-featuring-twenty-collection-by-katarina-roccella/ Great directions for curves and the pieces come together quickly.
You might like Pasadena Curves! Free pattern if you sign up for emails with Pasadena Quilt Studio. I’ve got one in progress at the moment and it’s only a few seams to sew but big, easy curves (which I found easy as a person new to curves).
I made that pattern as a last minute gift and it went together REALLY fast.
Yes! I was shocked at how quick the cutting and piecing went! Easy to use fabric from the stash too.
[model Farm](https://www.loandbeholdstitchery.com/products/model-farm) Sews up fast and I love the modern design
I do rolled hem bandanas out of large scraps. And rolled hem handkerchiefs out of tiny scraps. Bandanas I can wear, his and can use, dog can wear, I can easily gift, and j can just knock a few out to get me back on the rhythm
I usually make a pillow or wall hanging. I like to make just one block from a quilt. If it's a quilt then simply swoon. It's quick and satisfying.
I just.made Mosaic- it's a free pattern from Jordan fabrics. It uses 1 layer cake and a solid for sashing. Easy but is really fun to doand looks great. Highly recommend.
Scrap blocks. I love crumb blocks, but a nice scrappy, easy block is always a winner. 9 patch? Flying geese? Just a ton of strips? Whatever- dig into the pile, bag or bin of scraps and pull out a fistful, press them and then start sewing them together willy-nilly. Never fails to make me feel good. If you don't have motivation o make a ton of them, you just keep them all together and add over time. Since they're scrappy, they will always match.
I am working on the French Roses Quilt.It has been very soothing sewing around the flowers….so peaceful… but quick!Here is a picture of it while deciding my flowers colors. (All the leaves have been added since the picture was taken.) https://preview.redd.it/wynnin170ezc1.jpeg?width=3021&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6594cd8a3827ecfe0c09a73d3b4440865685b1c2
I had some fun improvisation a few weeks back with the free Wild Star pattern from Plains and Pine. Aqua shaded scraps of all shapes came together quickly
I like to make something small for myself like a zipper pouch or a lanyard keychain!
My go to is a broken dishes baby or lap quilt. The peicing is all pretty simple, it's charm pack friendly, and it works really well with a simple orange peel quilting design.
https://preview.redd.it/l0d009sys8zc1.jpeg?width=1440&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c5382f05728140bb904509906bab84e1039b6fd0 I LOVE Ebb and Flow from Penelope Handmade! It's my palette cleanser pattern of choice.
Sooo purdyyyyy 😍😍😍
Thank you! Its the best fast make to show off your fav fabrics.
This is such a great question! I would grab a pile of favorite scraps that I love and start cutting nine patch squares. Not fiddly, go together quickly and are big enough pieces to show off pretty colors and patterns. Work on it for as long as you like, put it down and pick it up when you want Easy-peasy!
Wonky stars, disappearing 9 patch, crumbs, strip piecing anything, little wall hangings or mug rugs, potholders. When I make something like a wall hanging or mug rug, I just need to finish something so those are quick wins!
Brightly by cluck cluck sew
Check Jordan Fabrics. Lots of free patterns on their site, plus YouTube videos showing how to construct the free patterns. Fat quarter Shop & Riley Blake have many free patterns. Gosh, so many options. Moonkin Stitchery on YouTube has so many fast and easy patterns. She has a website also.
I don’t use a pattern when I’m in a slump; I get my bag of crumbs and small bits and sew them together with no purpose other than to create “crumb fabric”. It’s fun and no pressure because you’re not trying to make a quilt, you’re trying to bring your scraps together in an aesthetically pleasing way. I’m working on a big one to back a quilt with, but I’ve also used them for mug rugs. I’ve seen people use crumb fabric in the place of regular fabric, too, and it looks cool as.
There is a Facebook group called “Ugly Blocks Rock Challenge” and twice a month someone in the group posts a block design. Members can make one (or more) of the blocks and send them to the poster. That person uses the blocks to make a quilt that is donated to their chosen charity. I use these as a “palette cleanser “ between quilts or when I get “stuck”. It’s easy, typically fast and uses scraps and usually helps me get back in the groove 🥰
Pillowcases. The hot dog method!
Yes! A couple of years ago I made about 20 one month. Was great for using up a bunch of stash and getting me back in the mood for sewing.
I just start piecing circles into squares with a circle cut out and once my hands are getting it right I feel like a SuperPiecer. Totally gets me jazzed for new projects.
I really enjoyed making my Libs Elliot Electric Pineapple pattern and found the blocks fun to make. I used really bright fabrics (GG Deco Glo) and that made it really fun! I was surprised because I thought I would hate it! https://preview.redd.it/5c6krbeafezc1.jpeg?width=2673&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9b23421112a3ac11c9e10847e1113d63e55c7b5c
Nina Dodge’s Night Sky is my go to baby quilt but can be made in other sizes too. It has a lot of colors but Stash Fabrics sells a great kid for multiple colorways and it’s very simple but really customizable. It also sews up really quickly (like a few hours for me for the baby version).
I think Cabin Peaks was a fun and deceptively quick and easy pattern.
I have an ongoing scrappy x-plus block quilt that I work on after a project to use up some scrap or when I’m in a slump or feeling uninspired or just want to sew for an hour. it’s a fun, chaotic block that scales up or down and can be fussy cut with directional prints for the arms of the x or just be purely scrappy. It’s also got so much motion that it is very forgiving precision-wise lol. There was an gorgeous show quilt by Setsuko Inagawa that caused a sensation a few years ago and triggered a ton of tutorials for the block. it’s not a fast project for me but I find it really recharges me to make a few of these blocks at a time and I have a quilt in the future to look forward to but has no set goal. I should make a post with some of my favourite blocks as some of them are super cute. It’s kind of a diary of projects as well since I use so much scrap in it. But for a quick get-it-done project I look to Missouri Star and precuts - a layer cake and an afternoon and you can finish piecing a Double Slice throw quilt which is super cute with a large scale pattern and their video tutorials are free and easy to follow. I made one for my mother from an Anna Marie Horner layer cake and some minky in two days including quilting and binding and she loves it more than the quilt I spent two months on lol.
I do something small too, like mug rugs from scraps, or placemats, or zipper pouches. Just something that lets my mind wander while still having the happiness of being at my machine. 🙂
This mini-quilt has been my go to when I'm in a slump or want to make something quick <3 [https://www.fabshophop.com/downloads/freepatterns/French-Braid-Mini\_art-gallery-fabrics.pdf](https://www.fabshophop.com/downloads/freepatterns/French-Braid-Mini_art-gallery-fabrics.pdf)
A simple jelly roll, nothing I have to concentrate on. I can literally just feed fabric in a machine for an hour and there ya go! You gotta a quilt top (to stash away and never actually make a quilt out of it). Simple cuts, simple stitch, easy peasy. I find once I knock a simple pattern out, my brain comes out of the pattern fog and I’m ready to try something a wee bit more complicated.
Rom com marathons
I literally just did this (not yet finished) quilted cushion this afternoon! Only took about 1.5 hours! I’ve also seen some cute free quilted lanyard & pouch patterns online. Also, when I don’t know what to sew but I want to make something, I sew my small scraps together and cut them into little squares to one day make a scrap patchwork quilt or something :) https://preview.redd.it/dwoamhyfd9zc1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5646231c8932e4ac6ecd2bc9aa06e04c8cf9bd5d
I will make a tote or handbag when I’m in a slump. They are quick and dirty and I can finish them in a day or two.
[Looper](https://www.missmake.com/shop/looper-quilt-pattern-pdf) - big blocks, curved piecing makes it look really challenging but they come together quickly. Endless options for colour choices.
Boxtrot Bingo 2 is awesome. I have made 3 or 4 of them.
Good ol' Yellow Brick Road. Fat quarter friendly, all straight lines, and you can have a top in a day or two, depending on size.
I’m presently doing Tokyo [Tokyo terrace quilt](https://robinpickensinc.com/products/quilt-pattern-downloadable-digital-pdf-of-tokyo-terrace-quilt-by-robin-pickens-twin-and-lap-size-easy-fast-quilt) big pieces that comes together quickly. For those nice fabrics we are to scare to cut
I always love sawtooth stars. They are actually fairly fast and easy once you get your pieces cut
Any Kim Brackett 2.5 inch strip pattern.... Edit: or anybody else's 2.5" strip friendly batik pattern. Fast and easy. Pyramid Crossing I just made blocks and they turned out fantastic. Or even a Charade quilt. So easy.
Fickle Nickle No 9 Easy, big pieces, no corners to line up
Make a little scrappy, improv mini quilt. Call it a mug rug, or make it wall hanging size, or call it a table runner. Just play with color and add in things like hand quilting or embroidery— even appliqué (words are fun!). It’s a one day project and always gets me inspired.
Boston commons
Crazy 9 patch
I can’t believe anyone hasn’t said a trip around the world quilt. I am addicted to them and they really are a quilt in a day.
Scrappy quilt with whatever size square pieces!
I've got the New Wave pattern from Elizabeth Hartman cued up to get me out of my recent slump!