Creating a “Trip Around the World” quilt is a rewarding project that can add color and warmth to any home.
This classic quilt pattern is known for its beautiful, layered design that resembles a patchwork of squares radiating outward from a central point.
In this tutorial, we will walk you through the steps necessary to create your own stunning quilt, including fabric selection, cutting instructions, and assembly tips.
Understanding the Trip Around the World Quilt Pattern
The Trip Around the World quilt pattern is a traditional design that consists of squares sewn together in a specific order to create a mesmerizing effect. The pattern typically features a variety of colors, making it visually striking and versatile for any decor. To successfully create this quilt, it’s important to understand the layout and the arrangement of the squares.
The design is formed by assembling squares in concentric rows. The central square serves as the focal point, surrounded by progressively larger layers of different colored squares. This technique allows quilters to play with color combinations and fabric types, resulting in unique and personal creations.
Before diving into the project, it’s crucial to decide on your color palette. Choose colors that complement each other and reflect your personal style. Many quilters opt for a combination of contrasting and harmonious colors, which enhances the overall effect of the quilt.
Materials Needed for Your Quilt
To start your “Trip Around the World” quilt, gather the following materials:
- Fabrics: Choose at least five different fabrics in various colors and patterns. Each fabric will represent a different layer of the quilt.
- Batting: Purchase enough batting to fit your quilt size. Cotton batting is a popular choice for its softness and durability.
- Backing Fabric: Select a backing fabric that complements your quilt top.
- Quilt Ruler and Rotary Cutter: These tools will help you achieve precise cuts.
- Sewing Machine: Ensure your sewing machine is in good working order for smooth sewing.
Once you have all your materials ready, you can move on to the cutting stage. Having a well-organized workspace will make the process more efficient and enjoyable.
Cutting Your Fabric Squares
The first step in creating your quilt is cutting your fabric into squares. The size of your squares will depend on the final dimensions of your quilt. A common size for a “Trip Around the World” quilt is 5 inches for each square, but you can adjust this based on your preferences.
Step 1: Determine the Quilt Size
Decide on the final size of your quilt. For a throw-sized quilt, aim for a finished size of approximately 60 inches by 70 inches. This size usually requires around 120 squares, arranged in a 12×10 grid. Adjust the number of squares and their sizes according to your design.
Step 2: Cut Your Squares
Using a rotary cutter and quilt ruler, cut your chosen fabrics into 5-inch squares. If you have five different fabrics, you might want to cut 24 squares from each to ensure a good mix. Label each stack to keep track of which squares belong to which fabric.
Step 3: Organize Your Squares
Once you’ve cut all your squares, lay them out on a flat surface to visualize your design. This is a crucial step as it allows you to play with color placement before sewing. You can arrange the squares in a pattern that feels balanced and visually appealing.
Sewing the Quilt Top Together
With your squares cut and organized, it’s time to start sewing. This process involves joining the squares into rows, which will then be assembled into the quilt top.
Step 1: Assemble Rows
Start by sewing together squares to create rows. Take the first four squares from your selected arrangement and sew them together along one edge using a ¼ inch seam allowance. Press the seams open or to one side, depending on your preference. Repeat this process until you have all your rows completed.
Step 2: Join Rows Together
Once all your rows are assembled, it’s time to join them to form the quilt top. Align the rows carefully, ensuring that the squares match up correctly. Sew the rows together, taking care to maintain a consistent seam allowance. After joining all the rows, press the seams again for a flat finish.
Step 3: Final Adjustments
After the quilt top is assembled, check for any uneven edges or misaligned squares. Trim any excess fabric to ensure your quilt top is uniform. At this point, you can also add borders if desired, which can frame your quilt and add an extra touch of design.
Preparing the Quilt Sandwich
Before you can finish your quilt, you need to prepare the quilt sandwich, which consists of the quilt top, batting, and backing fabric. This layering is crucial for creating a well-structured and warm quilt.
Step 1: Cut the Batting and Backing
Cut your batting and backing fabric to the same size as your quilt top, adding an extra 2-3 inches on each side for ease of handling. This extra fabric will help you when you’re quilting and trimming the edges later.
Step 2: Layer the Components
Lay your backing fabric right side down on a flat surface. Place the batting on top, and then position your quilt top right side up on the batting. Smooth out any wrinkles and ensure everything is aligned correctly.
Step 3: Pin or Baste the Layers
To secure the layers together, use safety pins or a basting spray. Start from the center and work your way out to avoid puckering. Pinning will keep the layers stable while you quilt, preventing any shifting.
Quilting Your Quilt
Now that your quilt sandwich is ready, it’s time to quilt. This process involves sewing through all three layers to hold them together and add texture to your quilt.
Step 1: Choose Your Quilting Method
Decide on a quilting method that suits your skill level and the design of your quilt. Common methods include straight-line quilting, free-motion quilting, or using a walking foot for more intricate patterns. Each method will yield different results, so choose one that complements your “Trip Around the World” design.
Step 2: Start Quilting
Begin quilting from the center of the quilt and work your way outward. This helps to avoid any bunching or pulling of the fabric. If using straight-line quilting, mark your lines with a fabric marker for accuracy. For free-motion quilting, practice on a scrap piece of fabric to build your confidence.
Step 3: Finishing the Quilting
Once you’ve finished quilting, trim any excess batting and backing fabric from the edges. Ensure that the quilt edges are even and straight, which will make the binding process easier.
Adding the Binding
The final step in creating your “Trip Around the World” quilt is adding the binding. This will provide a polished finish and secure the edges of your quilt.
Step 1: Cut Binding Strips
Cut strips of fabric for the binding, typically 2.5 inches wide. The length will depend on the perimeter of your quilt. As a general rule, you will need about 200-300 inches of binding for a throw-sized quilt.
Step 2: Join Binding Strips
Sew the binding strips together end-to-end to create one long strip. Press the seams open and then fold the strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. This creates a finished edge for your binding.
Step 3: Attach the Binding
Start attaching the binding to the quilt by aligning the raw edges of the binding with the edge of the quilt top. Use a ¼ inch seam allowance to sew it in place. When you reach the corners, miter the binding for a neat finish. Once all the binding is attached, fold it over to the back side and hand-stitch it in place for a clean look.
Conclusion
Creating a “Trip Around the World” quilt is a fulfilling project that allows you to express your creativity through color and design. By following this step-by-step tutorial, you can create a beautiful quilt that will be cherished for years to come. Whether you’re an experienced quilter or a beginner, this project offers endless possibilities for personalization and creativity. Happy quilting!
