The art of patchwork quilting provides many aspects of experimentation with fabric to enjoy. To add interest to the
surface of a quilt various embellishments can be used including three-dimensional sewing techniques, fabric manipulation,
for example pleating and tucking, or by inserting additional details between the seams such as with the use of piping.
There are many books on this subject and most basic patchwork, appliqué and quilting books are a source of inspiration
and will provide detailed instructions.
Here are just a few examples for you to consider: -
'Piping' – Fabric areas or blocks can be separated with a line of piping in a contrasting colour. The piping can be used as
an additional frame around single blocks or around the whole quilt. When used in this way the quilt is given a crisp and
defined line. Piping is also useful when you want to highlight individual features in the quilt. For example in picture
quilts, by the use of piping, you can highlight doorways, arches and fields.
'Cathedral Windows' – this method uses squares of plain folded fabric as a background to show off small pieces of decorated
or patterned fabric.
'Folded Star' – Here rectangles of fabric folded into small triangles are pieced together to make star medallions. These
can be incorporated into quilts or used as centres for cushions.
'Prairie Points' – These triangular shapes are useful for adding interest and texture to a plain border.
They can also be used in picture quilts to create the effect of details such as roof tiles or feathers.
'Wave Panels' – Here folded strips of fabric are inserted between seams in the background and then
stitched up and down in opposing directions. The wave effect created is not only useful in seascapes but also to define
fields in a landscape or to add texture.
There are many ways of adding interest to your quilt. Create a keepsake quilt with ribbons, buttons and lace, which will
bring back memories every time you look at it. With embellishments the possibilities are endless.