Category Archives: Checker Exclusives

New from Cut Loose Press® Patterns

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Many of you already have these top-selling Creative Grids® Tools. Check out these latest patterns that showcase the potential of these tools.

This stunning example of a stained glass quilt uses a technique that is pure genius. Clover Fusible Bias Tape creates the stained glass affect so there are no tiny strips to sew into the blocks! This dramatic look is easy to achieve, even for a beginner.

Since the blocks are cut from twenty, ten-inch squares, rotary cutting is fast and easy so you can move onto the piecing in a matter of minutes.

This pattern requires the Creative Grids® Scrap Crazy 8 template set.


This quilt is a great way to use up leftover 2-1/2-inch strips. Combine them with some solid fat quarters to create blocks that showcase the wonky design. The inserted squares in the border add a modern look to an already striking quilt. The pattern includes cutting instructions for the logs to best utilize the fabric. Since the wonky log cabin blocks finish to 10-inches, you only need to make 12 blocks so you can finish the entire project in an afternoon.

This pattern requires the Creative Grids® 10″ Wonky Log Cabin Trim Tool.


This mini quilt is all about color placement. Reversing the traditional lights and darks in the pineapple block accent the pineapple design. Placing the same fabrics in adjoining blocks creates the pattern. And the white space created when it is all sewn together creates a backdrop to showcase some amazing quilting!
Since the strips are 1-1/4-inches wide, cutting a 2-1/2-inch strip in half vertically is a great way to use up those leftover strips in your collection.

This pattern requires the Creative Grids® Pineapple Mini Tool.

The strips were cut using the white line down the center of a Creative Grids 2 1/2″ wide rectangle.

Everything is in stock so place your orders now.

Welcome Fall with Krista Moser

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I love how Krista’s mind works! How she combines 60 degree angles to make realistic leaf shapes boggles the mind. And don’t get me started on her fabric choices!

Fall in love with 60-degree angles with Krista Moser’s latest pattern, Fall Foliage. This pattern used the Creative Grids® 60-degree Diamond Mini Ruler to cut a variety of shapes including diamonds, triangles, and trapezoids to make these beautiful fall leaves.

There are two main blocks in this quilt, the leaves and the setting triangle units. These are made from simple shapes letting the fabric and shade do the heavy lifting to get the wow factor. This quilt is constructed into blocks first and then rows with no Y seams, making construction a breeze with well-illustrated step-by-step instructions. Finished Size: 57″ X 60.

The pattern is due to arrive later this month so place your orders now!

New from GE Designs

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Exciting News Alert! Gudrun has expanded her enchanting collection with the addition of two “Lil’s” to the line, and they’re stealing our hearts! Crafted with irresistible charm, these patterns are perfect for quilters of all levels. What’s even more delightful? You can create these adorable designs with just a package of 5″ squares, binding, and backing fabric! No fuss, pure joy! Assembling a kit has never been so simple! Whether you’re a teacher introducing students to the magical world of quilting or a seasoned expert, Gudrun’s techniques and rulers make it a breeze. What a fabulous way to dive into creativity and fun!

Saga and Mia can easily be cut with the new Creative Grids Stripology® Quarters Mini ruler that has slits every 1/4″.

Nikki is a great stash buster. Finished sizes include Crib 32in x 48in, Lap 48in x 64in, Twin 64in x 96in, Full 76-1/2in x 102in, Queen 93-1/2in x 102in & King 102in x 102in.

Nikki


Ariel is a stunning strip quilt. Finished sizes include Crib 38in x 38in, Lap 57in x 76in, Full 76in x 95in & Queen/King 95in x 95in.


Supersized Amalie is a great redesign of an old favorite. This new variation has six available sizes including Crib 37-1/2in x 50in, Lap 50in x 75in, Twin 62-1/2in x 87-1/2in, Full 75in x 100in, Queen 87-1/2in x 100in & King 100in x 100in.

These patterns are oh sew easy if the blocks are cut and trimmed with the Stripology® XL or the Stripology® Squared, both by Creative Grids®.


Phoenix works extremely well with the Creative Grids Stripology® XL. It requires just two shades of fabric for a stunning finish.

All of these patterns are due to arrive in August so place your orders now.

Beautiful Bunting Made Easy by Pamela Pereira

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Make your mantle the center stage of every holiday. This mantle is decked out for the patriotic holidays, but seasonal buntings would be just as fun. Shown below is the ‘Celebration Bunting Mantle Scarf’ #CLPPPE003 from Cut Loose Press® by Pamela Pereira.

Since the striped wedges are pieced from units cut with the Creative Grids® 22-½ degree ruler, this goes together very quickly. The half and quarter-circle units are then quilted and bound so hanging is a breeze.

The Creative Grids® 22 1/2 degree triangle is required. (There is a shorter version but you need the length of this one to cut the wider wedges on the outside.)

Sew together 8 of these wedges to create the center, half bunting; and two sets of 4 to create the outer quarter-circles.

Since the banners are quilted and bound after piecing, they hang beautifully. Can’t you picture Christmas fabrics with a village or Santa collection on display? Or Halloween fabrics with pumpkins??? The holidays and options are endless.

Instant Gratification by Cut Loose Press® Patterns

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Looking for a quick project that can be finished in a few hours? None of these projects are quilted so it will be complete from start to finish. What great projects to teach a child to sew this summer. Here are just a few of my favorites.

These little purses are so darn cute! Whether you choose a dog, cat, or owl, you will be thrilled with the results – and frankly, will probably want to make all 3! These are great opportunities to teach how to sew in a zipper, sew on button eyes, and even simple embroidery stitches to embellish the faces. All you need is a couple of fat quarters of fabric! They could use it to store their sewing supplies!


A yard of fabric, a kitchen towel, and ribbon or twill tape for the ties are all you need to make this apron in the afternoon. And, yes, those are pockets – a must-have at any age!
There are so many darling towels available now. Why not make some for a baking or canning session after it is done?

It is not a holiday dinner unless sparkling grape juice is served so everyone can participate in the toast! One 20-inch x 28-inch tea towel makes TWO bags. Save one for yourself and give one to a friend (but only if she is willing to share what’s inside.) Since the towel is already hemmed, half of the work is done for you. Showcase a cut print on a tea towel or embroider your favorite 4-inch design. Easy peasy!


Why not keep a dozen of these on hand for gifts? It is the perfect addition to any household with children who love to play in the snow! Use wonder clips to attach those mittens, scarves, and gloves and they will be dry in no time – and ready the next time someone wants to build a snowman! But, for those of us who would rather watch from the window, it is a great space saver – and can be used to store belts and scarves! This pattern is fat-quarter-friendly as well!

Want to teach some simple quilting techniques? This Easy Patriotic Table Topper is oh so easy! In fact, you can finish the whole thing in a few hours! At approximately 18” square, you could use Insul-Bright instead of batting so you could sit hot dishes on it – plenty of room for a 9 x 13 pan!

Why not set up a time to sew with friends or the littles in your life every week? They could even start holiday gifts to give to family, teachers, and friends! All of the patterns are available and in stock now since they are Cut Loose Press® so place your orders now!

New from Cut Loose Press®

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Want to add a touch of class to your décor or make a gift in less than two hours? This set of placemats uses the pre-cut Bosal placemat forms as a base which adds the body and crisp shape to your creations.

The side pocket provides a place for silverware and a napkin – perfect for a windy day picnic. Wouldn’t these be the perfect hostess gift for a pool party or buffet? What a great addition to a make it/take it series of classes. Or include it in a mother/daughter class over summer break – a fun, easy project!

One pack of the placemat forms includes four placemats.

Since these placemat forms are fusible, an applique sheet is required. It protects your work surface from the fusible while working on one side.

Shindig fro Cut Loose Press® is made from 80 ten-inch squares. You can choose to use one pack of forty and use the same contrast fabric. Or use two packs and mix and match to your heart’s content! Picking the fabrics for each set of four blocks is half the fun.

This is the perfect group or beginner quilt. Since the blocks are all trimmed to the same size AFTER the angled seam is sewn, all the blocks are the same size. And since none of those angled seams meet, it goes together like a dream.

This pattern requires the Creative Grids® Straight Out Of Line Tool designed by Karla Alexander.

Create swirling wonky log cabin blocks simply by controlling the fabric placements. An added bonus? It also accentuates the wonkiness of the blocks. With just 3 fabrics, it is easy to kit and can be made in an afternoon. What a great class project!


This pattern The Wonky Waves Table Runner features the 10-inch Wonky Log Cabin Trim Tool by Creative Grids®. This one is designed to work with 2-1/2in strips for both the logs and center squares making it precut-friendly. After adding each round of logs, place the appropriate centering square on the ruler over the center square of the block and trim. Since each round is trimmed before adding the next one, your final trim squares up the block making it ready to be used in your project.

Everything is in stock and ready to order for your next class!

Flutterby Frolic: A Captivating Quilt Design by Krista Moser

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Up your quilting game with this charming pattern! Flutterby Frolic will give you a complicated look without tedious piecing. Gain confidence with angles and color placement. This quilt is constructed of four main blocks: the flowers, the butterflies, the leaf blocks, and the background hexagons. Each one utilizes a different technique that will be a valuable addition to your quilting skills library.

The quilting world never ceases to amaze with its boundless creativity, and Flutterby Frolic by Krista Moser is a perfect example of this. An established name in quilting, Krista Moser, the creative force behind The Quilted Life, has once again hit a home run with this brilliant, butterfly-inspired pattern that embodies the joy and freedom of nature in textile form.

The Flutterby Frolic quilt pattern is a perfect blend of whimsical charm and intricate design, striking a harmonious balance that makes it accessible for beginners while also being interesting for experienced quilters. It’s one of those patterns that can be approached at any skill level, offering a delightful project for everyone who enjoys quilting.

Use varying shades of fabric for an ombre look, or use scraps from your stash for an eclectic look! This pattern comes with three size layouts: twin/full, wall/baby, and a table runner.

This table runner would be a great class to teach all of the different techniques. At the end of class, they will have the confidence to make the larger quilt!

Techniques and Tools Involved

Crafting a Flutterby Frolic quilt involves the use of a few specialized techniques, offering both a challenge and a learning opportunity for quilters of all skill levels. The pattern makes extensive use of HSTs and diamond shapes, requiring meticulous cutting and piecing.

An essential tool in the creation of this quilt is the Creative Grids® 60 Degree Diamond Ruler, designed by Moser. This specially designed ruler simplifies the process of cutting the precise shapes required for the quilt, making the creation process more accessible to beginners, while also ensuring accuracy and speed for more experienced quilters.

Additionally, the Flutterby Frolic quilt pattern provides an excellent canvas for free-motion quilting. The expansive background areas offer an opportunity for quilters to showcase their skills and add personal flourishes.

The ruler is in stock now. The pattern is due to arrive later this month!

Krista Moser’s Flutterby Frolic is more than a quilt pattern; it is a vibrant celebration of color, life, and the uncontained beauty of nature. With its intricate design and dynamic visual appeal, it offers a fulfilling quilting journey that bridges the gap between artistic vision and technical execution.

Whether you’re seeking a challenging new project, wishing to create a beautiful piece that symbolizes the whimsical charm of butterflies, or eager to utilize the precise Creative Grids® 60 Degree Diamond Ruler, Flutterby Frolic awaits to unfurl its wings in your creative hands. Embark on this quilting journey, and watch as your fabric butterflies take flight! Happy quilting!

The Newest Member of the Stripology® Family

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The Creative Grids Stripology® Quarters Mini is one of the smallest rulers in the Stripology® series of rulers. Designed to work with units up to 6-1/4 inches, you can cut 1/4 inch and 1/8 inch increments as well.

This ruler features:

• Easy to read black and white markings.
• Whole-inch, half-inch, quarter-inch, and eighth-inch increments are included.
• Markings for 1/4 inch and 3/4 inch cuts are included with cutting slots every 1/4 inch.
• Turn the ruler around and use the black and white squares to square up blocks in 1/4 inch increments up to 6-1/4 inches.
• Use the 45-degree lines to trim flying geese units down to 1/4-inch increments.
• 1-1/2 inch cuts are highlighted with black stars.
• Great for fussy cutting and trimming embroidered blocks. The flexibility of the ruler adjusts for the thickness of the embroidery giving you an accurate trim.
• Comes with fully illustrated step-by-step instructions.
• Scan the QR Code printed on the instructions to view a how-to video of these features and to see the patterns that can be made with this ruler.
• The ruler slides easily over the fabric until pressure is applied. Then exclusive Creative Grids grip holds the fabric in place while cutting, eliminating slipping and miss-cuts.

Ever wish that the charts, videos, and support documentation for all of the Stripology rulers were available in one place? This is the book for every Stripology® ruler user. Take your Stripology® rulers beyond just cutting strips, squares, and rectangles. The book contains all the resources, techniques, and charts to cut 1/4-inch and 1/8-inch increments, diamonds, triangles and parallelograms, and more. It shows your effort and time-saving techniques to make half-square triangles, quarter-square triangles, and flying geese plus some simple patterns to try the techniques. The book provides the tools to Stripologize any project you are working on with charts and illustrations along with videos at your fingertips. Scanning the QR codes featured all throughout the book will take you to videos demonstrating that particular technique.

These four patterns are included in the book.

Both are due to arrive in July so place your Pre-Orders now.

All You Need is a Tea Towel

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We hope this newsletter finds you well, as we bring you two exciting projects from Cut Loose Press® by Merry May. This month, Merry has come up with a fantastic idea for a quick and easy gift bag using tea towels!

The Tea Towel Wine Bag from Cut Loose Press® is a simple project that can be completed in just a matter of minutes. This is perfect for those who need to create a last-minute gift bag but don’t have the time to spend hours on a complicated project.

To get started on this project, you will need just a few supplies, including:

  • Two coordinating tea towels
  • Sewing machine
  • Coordinating thread
  • Ruler
  • Rotary cutter or scissors
  • Cutting mat

Once you have your supplies ready, simply follow the easy-to-follow instructions provided in the Cut Loose Press® pattern to create your tea towel wine bag. This project is perfect for beginners, as it requires only basic sewing skills and can be completed in just a few minutes.

Not only is the Tea Towel Wine Bag a great way to wrap a bottle of wine or other beverage, but it can also be used as a reusable gift bag for other items. Plus, it’s an environmentally friendly option as it reduces waste from disposable gift bags.

Next, this project is another fantastic creation from Cut Loose Press® by Merry May, which uses tea towels to make a stylish and functional tote bag. With this pattern, you can easily create a tote bag that is perfect for carrying your essentials, whether it’s for a trip to the beach or a quick run to the store.

To make this project, you will need two coordinating tea towels, a sewing machine, a coordinating thread, and basic sewing supplies such as a rotary cutter, a cutting mat, and a ruler. This project is perfect for beginners and can be completed in just a few hours.

The Tea Towel Tote Bag is not only practical, but it’s also an eco-friendly alternative to disposable shopping bags. You can also customize the tote bag by using different tea towel designs or adding embellishments such as embroidery or applique.

So why not give the Tea Towel Tote Bag a try and make your own stylish and practical tote bag today?

Finally, this pattern, #CLPRAN001 from Cut Loose Press®, is a great way to turn your favorite tea towel into a fun and functional apron.

With just one tea towel, some coordinating fabric for the waistband and ties, and basic sewing supplies, you can create a stylish and practical apron in no time. This project is perfect for beginners and can be completed in just a few hours.

The Tea Towel Apron from Cut loose Press® is not only a great addition to your own kitchen but also makes a wonderful gift for any foodie or cooking enthusiast in your life. You can personalize the apron by choosing a tea towel with a design or pattern that matches the recipient’s style or interests.

We hope you give the Tea Towel Apron a try and discover how easy and fun it is to create your own unique and functional apron.

Since these are Cut Loose Press patterns, they are always in stock. Visit our website www.checkerdist.com to see hundreds of towel options!

Jean Ann Wright is on a Roll

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Combine timeless, classic quilts with modern fabrics! Roll with the Classics is a beautiful collection of quilting patterns for those who love tradition with a contemporary touch.

Roll with the Classics 14 Popular Quilt Patterns Made Easy with Jelly Rolls

Featuring 14 jelly roll quilt patterns that are beginner-friendly and use a selection of today’s pre-cut strips, alleviate the stress and just get quilting! With helpful opening sections on the quilting and jelly roll basics, you’ll then discover a dozen classic quilt projects featuring beloved designs – from flying geese and half hexies to lone star, pyramids, and more. Most quilts are made using a variety of Creative Grids® rulers and quilting tools many that were designed by Jean Ann Wright herself!.

Creative Grids Hexagon Trim Tool Quilt Ruler

Short cuts for cutting and piecing are also provided, all of which make the process easier and more rewarding. With Roll with the Classics, you’ll quilt beloved, classic designs while taking the guesswork out of selecting and combining fabrics and opt for modern pre-cut jelly roll fabrics.

Creative Grids 12in Skinny Pineapple Trim Tool
Creative Grids 10in Wonky Log Cabin Trim Tool
Creative Grids 4in Log Cabin Trim Tool Quilt Ruler
Creative Grids Pineapple Trim Tool for 6, 8 or 10in Finished Blocks
Creative Grids 60 Degree Triangle 8-1/2in Quilt Ruler
Creative Grids Triangle Squared Ruler 9-1/2in Quilt Ruler
Creative Grids Half-Square 4-in-1 Triangle Quilt Ruler

Here are just a few of the featured projects.

Roll with the Classics 14 Popular Quilt Patterns Made Easy with Jelly Rolls
Roll with the Classics 14 Popular Quilt Patterns Made Easy with Jelly Rolls

There are also several mini projects to use any 2 1/2″ strips leftover! Why not use the book as a basis for a series of classes? Each month you could feature a different tool and mini project. Once they learn how versatile the tools are, they will want to make the larger projects so have plenty of rolls on hand!