Not Just A Pattern, It’s Art!

Art is something very personal to me. Anything I put on the walls or display is something that is a reflection or description of me or somewhere I’ve been. I’ve been following Art East Quilting Company for a few years now. The patterns are so whimsical and fun that when I make one of them, they actually become a reflection of things that I love and I consider it art that I am adding to my home.

Take this one for example. Tail Wags.

I have three dogs, two of whom are puppies. This quilt sums up my life right now. Puppies needing their bellies rubbed and constantly wanting to play. With fabrics that represent my own dogs and balls that match their play balls, I have a wonderful piece of art to put in their shared bed in the living room.

Imagine my delight when I saw two NEW patterns from Art East Quilting Co. that also reflect my life in some way. I am a nature lover and would choose to be outside any day- even in the cold winter months. So here comes Folk Sampler.

So many things that I love! Critters, birds, flowers, mushrooms! I can hardly wait to put my stamp on this one in the way of fabric choices. The Folk Sampler is more than just a quilt pattern; it’s an invitation to dive into a creative journey, one beautiful block at a time. This pattern features 21 unique and charming block designs that come together to create a stunning 66-½” square quilt. Designed with a classic two-color scheme, the added sashing of each block allows for incredible flexibility. You can easily incorporate a variety of fabrics throughout the quilt without disrupting the overall design. Choose fabrics that resonate with you and craft a quilt that’s genuinely your own!

Lastly, this might be my favorite Alice In Wonderland quilt EVER. Called Mad Quilt Party, it was inspired by Lewis Carroll’s timeless tale. This quilt is a fantastical journey through a patchwork dreamscape. Featuring beloved characters like Alice, the White Rabbit, the Mad Hatter, and the Queen of Hearts, alongside iconic symbols like pocket watches, teacups, and playing cards, this quilt is a visual feast for any Wonderland enthusiast.

I am verklemt. I can write no more. Visit Art East Quilting patterns on our Checker Distributors website. You might be as overwhelmed with excitement as I am.

Go Modern with Sewing Party

My Courtyard is offered in two sizes 40″ x 40″ & 80″ x 80″. The designer, Eunsoo Kang, calls this a modern, loose interpretation of a log cabin. I looked at it as a variation of a plaid. However you look at it, it is stunning! This pattern is best suited to an Intermediate level quilter since seam allowance accuracy is key to lining up seams. I love that it is also available in two sizes.


Rose Garden is a modern interpretation of roses. I immediately thought of my Kaffe collection when I saw this. Wouldn’t it be stunning??? The wall hanging size can be completed using a Fat Quarter Bundle. Once again, it is available in two sizes: 44″ x 42″ and 88″ x 84″.

Dancing Donuts is a block based design that looks difficult but is simplified by machine appliquéing the donuts. This pattern includes three sizes 47.5″ x 57″, 57″ x 66.5″, 76″ x 85.5″. It has great instructions for getting a consistent, quality appliquéd finished project. Dancing Donuts works with Layer Cakes, Fat Quarter and Fat Eighth Bundles.


This Barn Star Quilt Pattern offers three sizes 46″ x 46″, 68″ x 68″, & 90″ x 90″. Barn Star has a unique design in the background that elevates what at first glance seems like a simple pattern to a sophisticated and pleasing quilt pattern.

All of these patterns will be available later this month so let your local quilt shop know you are interested!

Wedding Ring Quilts Should Be Easy Because the Marriage Probably Won’t Be

A wedding ring quilt, particularly the double wedding ring pattern, symbolizes love, commitment and the intertwining of two lives. The interlocking rings in the pattern represent marriage. Those interlocking rings shouldn’t be as hard to manage as marriage can be!

I’m just being honest. I don’t care how great your marriage is, it hasn’t always been easy. Two different people raised in two different homes working to create their own symbiosis. That is a challenge. So lets make their wedding ring quilt a simple and beautiful symbol of peace and enjoyment, shall we? Let me show you a few different methods and you can decide which looks easier for you.

This one from Quiltworx by Judy and Brad Niemeyer is foundation paper pieced. You wouldn’t have to add the flowers to the corners, although they are beautiful. You can also keep building it out if you need more size. As a bonus, Creative Grids® has a template (CGRDWR) that perfectly trims each arc and center after they have been pieced. I love the idea of the scrappy arcs in this ombre affect.

This pattern by Eunsoo Kang is a modern take on the traditional double wedding ring. In the traditional version, there are many different colored rings on one background color. This version has a variety of colors for the background and the rings are all the same color, making it easy to see the shapes of both the rings and the squares. Instead of using curved piecing to create the wedding rings, this pattern uses the technique of machine applique’. thus making it easier for cutting and sewing.

Double Rings by Sew Kind of Wonderful is another wonderfully modern pattern. Color choices and placement are all it takes to make a traditional quilt look more mod. This one utilizes a ruler (Quick Curve Ruler- SKW100) that cuts the curves after strips have been sewn together. It makes the sewing quick and the cutting easy.

If you’ve never used a Quiltsmart pre-printed interfacing, you’re missing out. I LOVE this method. You iron your fabric onto the fusible interfacing in the order you want, and then sew the seams. It comes out perfectly just about every time. It’s great if you want to use scraps and even if you choose one fabric for each arc. The interfacing keeps the curves from stretching out of place.

There is one last method that I can think of. Paper templates. Edyta Sitar and Laundry Basket Quilts has a beautiful pattern that comes with paper templates that you can trace onto template plastic, or use as is.

I find this to be the most difficult method, but some of you like the challenge. The slow, steady cutting, and the mindful piecing are relaxing for some. I’ve seen such amazing work by the Laundry Basket Quilt followers.

I hope I have helped you out a little if you have a wedding to attend and you need a gift. Check one of these patterns out and put all of your love and support into the making of it for a special couple. Make sure they know the prayers for them that have gone into each stitch and that they will be wrapped in peace, joy, and comfort each time they end the day. They will undoubtedly need it on occasion.

Two Steppin’ in Style from Sassafras Lane

These new patterns by Sassafras Lane will sell like hotcakes!

Cowboy boots never looked so good. Saddle up for some stitching fun with the Boot Tapping Boulevard quilt! This energetic design features a parade of bold, appliquéd cowboy boots — each one uniquely styled with playful patterns, stars, hearts, and wild west flair. The boots march across the quilt in rows or dance between vibrant checkerboard blocks that add movement and contrast. This pattern is fat-quarter friendly and includes three quilt sizes — Wall/Crib 40in x 54in, Throw 60in x 72 and Bed 80in x 90in.


I blew up the pic for Karma Court so you could see the detail in each row of blocks. This newest Block (or Row) of the Month pattern features 12 unique quilt blocks that create rows of cascading color. Each month you create 5 paper-pieced blocks that become a row. The pattern book includes full size foundations, simple construction, step-by-step foundation paper-piecing instructions, designs options and more! The finished quilt measures 70in x 84in.

Tulip Terrace is a sweet and cheerful quilt featuring Dutch-inspired tulip appliqué blocks. The bold, blooming tulips are easy to make with your favorite fabrics—perfect for solids, prints, or a mix of both. This pattern includes three sizes: Wall Hanging, Throw, and a Table Runner / Placemat set. It’s great for confident beginners and up, with instructions for fusible appliqué. Whether you go bright and modern or soft and traditional, Tulip Terrace brings fresh floral charm to any space.


Perpetual Plaza is a bright, cheerful quilt made with fun patchwork blocks arranged in a playful grid. Inspired by colorful city plazas, this pattern is full of energy and movement—perfect for showing off your favorite prints and bold colors. It’s fat-quarter friendly, so it’s easy to dive into your stash or pick up a bundle you love. With four size options (Baby, Throw, Twin, and Queen), it’s great for any project—from gifts to full-size bed quilts. Simple shapes and clear instructions make this pattern beginner-friendly, but still fun for experienced quilters looking to play with color.

These patterns are due to arrive in stores next month. Ask your local shop to order your favorites.

Quilt Jackets! Need I Say More?

I have been making quilt jackets for over a year now and they are ALWAYS noticed by people everywhere I go. Even my kids requested and received them. They are in their 20’s. There are so many different patterns and styles out there- a couple of Instagrammers have been selling them for $1000! Even if you have never sewn garments, most of the jackets are ‘sew’ easy to make and they are usually oversized so that fit isn’t a huge issue. Remember that you can go to Instagram and #hashtag the pattern you are considering, and you will likely see a lot of pictures of that jacket made in many different ways. It will give you a good idea of whether you like it or not. One of my favorites is the Tamarack Jacket from Grainline Studio. There are sizes from 0-30 so you will surely find your size.

This one fits a little closer than others, so you might want to size up. Although it’s shown here in a solid quilted fabric, it can be made using a quilt- just cut the pieces, sew,  and bind. No need for a separate lining because your quilt is already lined!

I haven’t made the Laura Jacket by Melly and Me yet, but I sure like the simple design. It is similar to the ones I have made, but mine are closer to waist length, and they have a hood. Both are easy adjustments to this jacket.

To make comfy, fashionable living even more fun, make a mommy and me match for a little one. Melly and Me has also designed this Tic Tac Toe pattern for children in sizes from 3-8.

You must have a quilt or two that you don’t use, or don’t love, that you could turn into a jacket. Make it useful. You’ll be surprised at how much you love it.

You might think that we could leave the men out of this discussion, BUT NO! I am here to tell you that I have gotten more compliments from stylish young men (20 something’s) than anyone. Weird right? The more colorful the better. So why not make a man in your life the Beachcomber Jacket from Friday Pattern Company? You would have to make some adjustments to this one if using an already finished quilt but MAN! You would be a superstar. I’m pretty sure this will be my next make.

Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

 In the meantime, here are some examples of Men’s Quilted Jackets. It takes a special man.

Perfect Family Craft Day Projects

Summer means quality time with family and friends and the perfect time to introduce them to your favorite hobby! All of these projects can easily be “kitted” and the perfect activity for a rainy day at the beach.

FABRIC PUMPKINS

This beginner-friendly fabric pumpkin adds a charming handmade touch to your home! The pattern includes four sizes, and you can easily create more by enlarging the templates.
These eco-friendly pumpkins bring cozy, seasonal vibes and can be enjoyed year-round—creating your own fabric pumpkin patch at home! Warning: Once you make one, you won’t be able to stop—you’ll want to make more for your loved ones ( or teach them how to make their own!

CRISS CROSS POUCH SET

Store your favorite essentials in style with this versatile bag, available in FOUR sizes!

This patchwork lover friendly project is a great way to use up your favorite fabric scraps and can be finished in an evening. The pattern includes clear instructions, full-color step-by-step photos, and a bag template. Plus, a YouTube video QR code is included for extra guidance!

WEEKEND SLING BAG

You can never have too many sling bags, and this Flying Geese Sling Bag will be your perfect companion wherever you go! Learn Minki Kim’s Quilt As You Go flying geese method or use your favorite technique to make it your own. And, yes, there is a YouTube video to make it oh sew easy!

Check out these and other patterns by Minki Kim. Her newest releases will be arriving in shops the beginning of June, just in time for Summer fun!

New from Lo & Behold

Retro Blossoms is a modern take on pieced curves with a nod to the past. This vintage floral-inspired quilt has a mix-and-match-style color palette and three different kinds of traditionally pieced curves. The pattern includes three pages of templates (6 templates total).

Pattern includes 7 sizes: Pillow (20″ x 20″), Wall Hanging (20″ x 33″), Baby (47″ x 47″), Table Runner (20″ x 88″), Square Throw (61″ x 61″), Large Throw (61” x 74″) and Bed (88″ x 88″).

Shades of Citrus 2.0 is an updated version of one of Lo & Behold Stitchery’s most beloved original patterns. This new version keeps the heart of the design intact, while also adding several extras including seven quilt sizes, easy-to-follow construction, quilting ideas, a project planner, labels, and new color inspiration!

Pattern includes two templates and 7 sizes: Wall Hanging (24″ x 36″), Baby (36″ x 36″), Square Throw (60″ x 60″), Large Throw (60” x 72″), Twin (72″ x 84″), Queen (96″ x 96″) and King (108″ x 108″).

Valley Song is a “choose your own adventure” pattern with 3 layout options, helpful diagrams, thorough instructions, color inspiration, and quilting ideas! As well as coloring pages, a bonus two-color option, and a quilt planner to keep your project organized.

The pattern includes 5 sizes: Baby (36″ x 47″), Throw (60″ x 73″), Twin (70″ x 91″), Queen (90” x 91″) and King (100″ x 104″).

Knitted Blooms is a fun, retro-inspired pattern that uses strip piecing and thoughtful construction to create a bold and modern design. Resembling traditional knitted flowers, Knitted Blooms is a sister pattern to one of Lo & Behold Stitchery’s most popular patterns, Knitted Star. Choose from 9 sizes ranging from Pillow to King. This pattern also includes three colorway options for each quilt size, helpful diagrams, thorough instructions, quilting ideas, coloring pages, and a quilt planner to keep your project organized.

The 9 sizes include: Two Pillows (19″ x 19″ each), Wall Art (19″ x 38″), Baby (38″ x 38″), Small Throw (57″ x 57″), Throw (57″ x 76″), Large Throw (76″ x 76″), Twin (76″ x 95″), Queen (95” x 95″) and King (106″ x 106″). Note: The Traditional colorway option includes sashing and increases the size of most quilts. See the back page for exact measurements. These patterns are due to arrive early next month, so place your orders now!

New from Zen Chic

Sometimes the fabric choices turn a quilt into a work of art and that is definitely the case here!

Cosmo finishes at 65″ x 69″ so it would make a great wall hanging or lap quilt – the perfect choice for a beginner. This simple design meets impactful geometry, easily crafted from versatile fat eighths.

This quilt is a generous 73″ square.The magical interplay of curved seams crafted from two layer cakes creates a captivating, cozy complexity: enchantingly intricate, yet invitingly warm. This pattern would be for a more experienced quilter.


At 71” square, this quilt is also the perfect over-sized throw or wall hanging. But, it would be easy to add or subtract rows to make it the size that fits perfectly into your home. Architectural simplicity shines in this pattern, reminiscent of a building’s unique windows. Each piece offers a distinct, yet harmonious, glimpse into modern quilting design.


A modern variation of the classic double wedding ring. Blocks with their scrappy fabric play make for a stylish quilt with a striking look. The black background adds drama as well.

Simple, fast and perfect for beginners: create a stunning modern quilt with ease. Make it your go-to pattern for quick, stylish results.


Traditional block piecing meets modern style: bold, symmetrical design, perfect for contemporary quilters. Elevate your space with elegance.


Experience effortless elegance with the breeze quilt pattern: modern, airy and dynamic, perfect for adding a fresh touch to any space.

All of these patterns are due to arrive next month, so place your orders now.

Quiltmania Magazine

If you haven’t experienced Quiltmania yet, you should. It is just that – an experience! This magazine was started over 20 years ago in France and is published in English as well so we can savor every single word!

Quiltmania Magazine 138 Jul/Aug 2020

The English version includes pattern instructions in inches and 1/4″ seams so there is no conversion required. Not only are the projects stunning, the photography is so good you feel like you are visiting the quilts in their own locale.

Quiltmania Magazine 139 Sept/Oct 2020

The magazine is published six times a year and can be ordered in advance. Why not order some copies and start subscriptions for your customers today? This is an opportunity for your customers to view quilts that are a little quirky and fun. Who doesn’t love to see a new set of eyes step out of the box with traditional blocks?

Quiltmania Magazine 140 Nov/Dec 2020

For those customers who love Modern Quilts, Quiltmania publishes a quarterly magazine with them in mind – same beautiful photography and eye for detail with a modern twist.

Quarterly Simply Modern Magazine 21

Simply Vintage is also available quarterly and focuses more on smaller projects and handwork. Wool and embroidery take center stage – as well as wonderful home dec ideas.

Quarterly Simply Vintage Magazine 36

Why not order an assortment of all three and let your customers choose their favorites?

Zen Chic Blues

The true test of a designer is someone who has their own sense of style. As soon as you see the quilt, you know who did it without even looking at the name. Brigitte Heitland of Zen Chic is such a designer. And, her designs cross generations.

Case in point – Stitched Denim! This 65 inch square quilt is a perfect throw size and who doesn’t love 50 shades of blue???

London Blues reminds me of the subway tiles that are so popular now. What a dramatic statement – with plenty of room to show off some machine quilting! I can’t wait to see it at Market!



Blue Labyrinth is a stunning take on a half log cabin block. By making the “logs” different widths, it almost gives the illusion of curves.

And then there is Groovin’ – a modern take on the arcs of a traditional wedding ring.

She has also written two booklets – The Basic Series. Each one has a variety of projects that focus on a specific technique. Log Cabin Fun explores her take on this oh so traditional block!

All of these are due to arrive later this month so order them now!