Double Wedding Ring Quilt Pattern – Tutorial

The Double Wedding Ring quilt pattern is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of quilters for generations.

Known for its intricate design and symbolism of love and unity, this quilt pattern makes for a beautiful addition to any home or a special gift for a loved one.

In this comprehensive tutorial, we will explore the history, necessary materials, cutting measurements, and step-by-step instructions for creating your very own Double Wedding Ring quilt.

History of the Double Wedding Ring Quilt

The Double Wedding Ring quilt pattern has roots dating back to the 1920s and is often associated with marriage and union. It features interlocking rings, symbolizing the intertwined lives of a couple. Traditionally, these quilts were made as wedding gifts, serving as a sentimental piece that would be cherished for years to come.

The design is characterized by its curved piecing, which can be a challenge for beginners but is rewarding for seasoned quilters. The pattern has evolved over the years, with modern quilters experimenting with colors and fabrics, making it a versatile option for various styles.

In recent years, the Double Wedding Ring quilt has seen a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to quilting blogs and social media platforms. The accessibility of quilting tutorials online has encouraged many to take on this beautiful project, bridging the gap between traditional and contemporary quilt-making.

Materials Needed

Before diving into the quilting process, it’s essential to gather all the necessary materials. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need to create your Double Wedding Ring quilt:

1. Fabrics:
   • For the rings: 3 to 4 different fabrics (cotton recommended) in contrasting colors (around 1 yard each).
   • For the background: 2 to 3 yards of a solid fabric.
   • For the borders: 1 to 2 yards of a coordinating fabric.
2. Batting: Choose a cotton or polyester batting that suits your preference (at least 90” x 90” for a full-sized quilt).
3. Backing Fabric: 3 to 4 yards of fabric that complements the top of your quilt.
4. Sewing Tools:
   • Sewing machine
   • Rotary cutter and mat
   • Quilting ruler
   • Iron and ironing board
   • Safety pins or quilting clips
   • Thread that matches your fabric colors

With all your materials ready, you can confidently start your quilting journey!

Cutting Your Fabrics

Cutting your fabrics accurately is crucial for the success of your Double Wedding Ring quilt. Here’s how to do it step by step:

1. Cut the Background Fabric: Start by cutting your background fabric into squares measuring 4.5” x 4.5”. You will need about 36 squares for a standard-sized quilt. These will serve as the foundation for your rings.
2. Cut the Ring Fabrics: For the rings, cut your contrasting fabrics into the following shapes:
   • Crescent Pieces: Cut 4.5” x 8.5” rectangles. You will need 72 pieces, which will be sewn into curves.
   • Corner Pieces: Cut 2.5” x 2.5” squares. You will need 36 squares.
3. Cutting the Borders: For the borders, cut strips measuring 5” in width. The length will depend on your final quilt size, but you’ll need approximately 4 strips for a standard quilt.

Take your time during this cutting phase to ensure precision, as accurate cuts will make the piecing process much smoother.

Sewing the Rings Together

Once all your pieces are cut, it’s time to start sewing the rings together. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Creating the Curved Pieces: Take one crescent piece and one square background piece. With right sides together, align the curved edge of the crescent with one edge of the square. Pin in place, then sew along the edge using a 1/4” seam allowance. Repeat this step for all pieces.
2. Forming the Rings: Once you have sewn the curved pieces to the background squares, it’s time to join them. Take two of the background squares that now have crescent pieces attached and place them right sides together, matching the edges. Pin and sew along the curved edges, ensuring to keep the seams even.
3. Pressing the Seams: After you’ve sewn the pieces together, carefully press the seams. For curved seams, it’s essential to press the seams towards the background fabric to help maintain the shape. This will give your quilt a clean and professional look.

Assembling the Quilt Top

Now that the rings are sewn, you’re ready to assemble the quilt top. This stage brings your hard work together into a beautiful design:

1. Arranging the Rings: Lay out your completed rings on a large, flat surface. Experiment with different arrangements until you find a layout that appeals to you. Remember, the beauty of a Double Wedding Ring quilt often lies in the contrast between the fabrics.
2. Sewing the Rows: Once you are satisfied with the layout, start sewing the rows together. Begin with the top row, sewing the first two rings together. Continue this process row by row, ensuring that the seams align properly. Press the seams as you go.
3. Joining the Rows: After all the rows are completed, it’s time to join them. Align the rows with right sides together, matching the seams where the rings meet. Pin in place and sew along the edge, making sure to maintain accuracy.

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Adding Borders

Borders can elevate your quilt design, framing it beautifully. Here’s how to add them effectively:

1. Attaching the Side Borders: Take your border strips and measure the length of your quilt top. Cut two border strips to this measurement and sew them to the left and right sides of the quilt. Press the seams towards the borders.
2. Attaching the Top and Bottom Borders: Measure the width of your quilt after adding the side borders. Cut two more strips to this measurement and sew them to the top and bottom of the quilt. This creates a finished look and provides extra stability.
3. Final Pressing: After attaching the borders, give your entire quilt top a final pressing. This will help smooth out any wrinkles and prepare it for the quilting stage.

Layering the Quilt

With the quilt top complete, it’s time to prepare for quilting. Proper layering is crucial for a successful finish:

1. Prepare the Backing: Lay your backing fabric right side down on a large, flat surface. Smooth out any wrinkles to ensure an even surface for quilting.
2. Add the Batting: Place your batting on top of the backing fabric, centering it carefully. Smooth it out to eliminate any creases.
3. Layer the Quilt Top: Finally, place your quilt top right side up over the batting. Make sure all layers are aligned and smooth. Pin or use quilting clips to secure all three layers together, ensuring they stay in place while you quilt.

Quilting the Layers

Now comes the exciting part: quilting! This is where you can get creative with your design:

1. Choosing a Quilting Pattern: Decide on a quilting pattern that complements your Double Wedding Ring quilt. You might choose to stitch in the ditch, create echo quilting around the rings, or even incorporate free-motion quilting designs.
2. Starting the Quilting Process: Begin quilting from the center of the quilt and work your way outward. This helps to keep the layers flat and minimizes shifting. Use your walking foot or free-motion foot depending on your chosen design.
3. Finishing the Quilting: Continue quilting until you have covered the entire quilt. After finishing, trim any excess batting and backing fabric to match the quilt top.

Binding Your Quilt

Binding is the final step that gives your quilt a polished look. Here’s how to do it:

1. Cutting the Binding Strips: Cut strips of fabric measuring 2.5” wide. You’ll need enough strips to go around the entire quilt, typically about 6 to 8 strips depending on the size of your quilt.
2. Joining the Strips: Sew the strips together end to end to create one long strip of binding. Press the seams open and fold the strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, pressing it flat.
3. Attaching the Binding: Starting at the center of one side, align the raw edge of the binding with the edge of the quilt. Pin in place and sew with a 1/4” seam allowance. Miter the corners for a clean finish, and once you reach the starting point, sew the ends together. Finally, fold the binding over to the back and hand-stitch it in place.

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Final Thoughts

Creating a Double Wedding Ring quilt is a labor of love that can be enjoyed by quilters of all skill levels. While it may seem intricate at first, the steps outlined in this tutorial will guide you through the process with ease. Not only will you have a stunning quilt to showcase, but you’ll also gain valuable skills along the way. Whether you’re making it as a wedding gift or a personal keepsake, the Double Wedding Ring quilt pattern is sure to bring warmth and joy to your life. Happy quilting!