Joanna Makes . . . A Baby Quilt
I'm absolutely thrilled to share the delightful news that a family member is expecting a precious baby later this summer, and the excitement has me buzzing with joy! I recently stumbled upon the most adorable baby fabric that’s just perfect for the Layer Cake Loop pattern. The softened colors and sweet prints are simply ideal for creating a charming quilt that will keep the little one cozy and warm as summer turns to fall. I can't wait to dive into this wonderful project and craft something truly special to celebrate this new bundle of joy and love that is on the way!
I’ve made the Layer Cake Loop pattern from Fat Quarter Shop before, and it sews up really quickly! This pattern is perfect for showcasing a delightful mix of prints and colors, resulting in a beautiful quilt that feels spontaneous. The assembly is straightforward, allowing me to dive into the creative process without getting bogged down in complicated steps. Each layer cake piece works beautifully, creating a charming randomness that adds character to the finished project. It's an ideal way to whip up something fun in no time!
Normally, I utilize the “stack ‘n’ whack” method when cutting this pattern out. But with only 5 colors (gray, white, 2 hues of blue, and green), I wanted to make sure each of the blocks was unique and didn’t repeat any fabrics if possible. I was extra mindful of color and pattern placement, taking my time to ensure as few repeats as I could.
Once the sorting and planning was done, it was time to dive into the sewing, where creativity danced with fabric! The rhythm of the machine hummed a cheerful tune as my thread whipped through the layers of cloth, transforming flat pieces into something delightful. Each stitch felt like a playful leap forward, and before I knew it, an array of vibrant creations began to take shape. With each pass of the presser foot, the project unfolded quickly and effortlessly, making the entire experience feel like a joyous race towards completion. The excitement was palpable, and in no time, I was surrounded by whimsical designs just waiting to be showcased!
Once the blocks were sewn, it was time to layout the top. Placement took longer than planning the initial blocks. Each piece needed to tell a story, and the right arrangement could turn a simple quilt into a captivating masterpiece.
I spread the blocks across the floor, stepping back to assess the colors and patterns. The playful blues danced with cheerful greens, while muted grays tempered the vibrancy. I shuffled the pieces like a puzzle, tweaking here and there, ensuring that every block complemented its neighbors.
As I played with the arrangement, I considered the flow of the design—diagonal lines, a pop of contrast, and an overall balance that would draw the eye across the quilt. The process felt almost meditative, each decision echoing the hours spent stitching and crafting those individual pieces.
After what felt like an eternity, I finally settled on a layout that felt just right. The joy of seeing everything come together pushed the weariness of the placement journey aside. With a final nod to my masterpiece in the making, I secured the blocks in their new home, ready to sew the top together. The real magic was about to begin!
Sewing the quilt top didn’t take too long, once the block placement was completed. I ran into a few hiccups from one of my furry feline helpers - Kat decided to take a rest on one of the finished rows - but that was short-lived and we were back on schedule shortly after. The final quilt came together nicely. I ordered backing and binding fabric this weekend, and hopefully it arrives by the end of the week.
Finished quilt top. Pattern: Layer Cake Loop. Fabric: Safari Lullaby by Deane Beesley for Wilmington Prints.
The layer cake I purchased to make this darling quilt had 42 10-inch squares, but I only used 36 in the quilt top. Not thinking of anything I could use 6 random baby-themed elephant prints for in the future, I decided to make 3 additional blocks (I had to pull a white dot on white 10-inch square from my stash) to make a matching pillow. I had an extra 12-inch pillow form laying around from a project I made in February, so I got to work.
Normally, I like to do an envelope back for pillows. And normally, you would fold your envelope flaps in half so the fabric is doubled up on both sides of the casing. Unfortunately, in this case, I didn’t have enough to fold the envelope flaps entirely in half. I improvised, but I think it still turned out great.
The pillow form filled out the pillow cover nicely, creating a plump and inviting addition to any cozy space. The delightful patterns and colors in the cover pop against the soft texture, making it a perfect match for the quilt that’s brewing in the sewing room. Once that quilt is finished, this adorable pillow will be the cherry on top, bringing everything together in a playful, snuggly embrace.
To my family member: Snuggling up with your new baby, wrapped in the warm, cozy quilt, is going to be pure bliss. Imagine the soft texture against your skin, as the gentle rise and fall of your baby's breaths lulls you into a peaceful moment, inviting you to lean in and enjoy this tender time together. Each stitch in your quilt tells a story of love and care, wrapping you both in comfort and warmth. Whether it's nap time or just a quiet cuddle, this is the epitome of cozy contentment.