Quilting is a craft passed down through generations. It’s a cosy blend of art and history; every stitch tells a story. It’s a timeless tradition that combines creativity with practicality, resulting in beautiful patterns that have stood the test of time.
Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or picking up needlework for the first time, we’ve curated a list of 20 traditional quilt patterns that will inspire your next quilting project.
Contents
- 1 20 Traditional Quilt Patterns You’ll Love
- 1.1 1. Log Cabin
- 1.2 2. Bear Paw
- 1.3 3. Double Wedding Ring
- 1.4 4. Dresden Plate
- 1.5 5. Grandmother’s Flower Garden
- 1.6 6. Pinwheel
- 1.7 7. Ohio Star
- 1.8 8. Mariner’s Compass
- 1.9 9. Lone Star
- 1.10 10. Storm at Sea
- 1.11 11. Basket
- 1.12 12. Churn Dash
- 1.13 13. Sunbonnet Sue
- 1.14 14. Irish Chain
- 1.15 15. Orange Peel
- 1.16 16. Tumbling Blocks
- 1.17 17. Drunkard’s Path
- 1.18 18. Baltimore Album
- 1.19 19. Rail Fence
- 1.20 20. Flying Geese
20 Traditional Quilt Patterns You’ll Love
1. Log Cabin
A classic design that represents the home, with a central square symbolising the hearth and strips around it representing the walls.
2. Bear Paw
Resembling the paw prints of a bear, this pattern is a nod to nature and the wilderness.
3. Double Wedding Ring
Interlocking rings symbolise love and commitment, making this pattern a popular gift for couples.
4. Dresden Plate
A floral design that radiates from the center, often using various fabric scraps for a vibrant look.
5. Grandmother’s Flower Garden
Hexagons pieced together to resemble a charming flower garden.
6. Pinwheel
Simple and playful, this pattern uses triangles to create the illusion of spinning motion.
7. Ohio Star
A block with a star at its centre, surrounded by squares and triangles, representing the night sky.
8. Mariner’s Compass
Pointed stars and circular shapes evoke the navigational instrument used by sailors.
9. Lone Star
A large, multicoloured star that stands out as the centrepiece of the quilt.
10. Storm at Sea
A complex pattern of squares and diamonds that creates a dynamic, wavy effect.
11. Basket
Weaved strips form a basket shape, often filled with floral designs.
12. Churn Dash
A simple geometric pattern that resembles a butter churn, reflecting the pioneer days.
13. Sunbonnet Sue
A character appliqué that features a bonneted girl, often engaged in everyday activities.
14. Irish Chain
Diagonal lines form chains across the quilt, a pattern that can range from simple to intricate.
15. Orange Peel
Interlocking shapes that resemble the peel of an orange, often set against a contrasting background.
16. Tumbling Blocks
Three-dimensional cubes that appear to tumble across the quilt surface.
17. Drunkard’s Path
Curved piecing creates a sense of movement, with a name that hints at a meandering journey.
18. Baltimore Album
Appliquéd blocks each tell a story, often with floral, animal, or traditional motifs.
19. Rail Fence
Strips of fabric are arranged to resemble a wooden rail fence, often in a zigzag pattern.
20. Flying Geese
Triangles in formation, symbolising birds in flight and the change of seasons.
Whether you’re a veteran quilter or just dipping your toes into the craft, these 20 traditional quilt patterns offer a wonderful starting point for your next project. These patterns aren’t just for quilts; you can adapt them for table runners, wall hangings, and more. Each one carries a story and a beauty both ancient and ever-new. All it needs is your personal touch!