Decorative Stitches for Modern Quilting Pt. 2

*As I am trying to update this new blog of mine, I'm bringing some content I wrote previously on the Art Gallery Fabrics' blog. This post was written on May 1st, 2012.

Hey everybody!

In the 1st installment I've talked about how straight lines or geometric quilting create more impact and how that can be complemented with thread color as well. I also showed you how to do this block step by step here.

In this installment I'll show about different decorative stitches and how the stitch can portray a certain style. By altering the combinations between stitch and color you can create infinite moods with the same elements. In the following blocks I will demonstrate exactly what I mean:

The first of our decorative stitches is what I call the Triple X-Cross Hemstitch. This could be an easy transition for the craftier quilter going into the modern quilting trend. The pattern of the stitch adds an element of the “homemade” style while the freshness of the fabric colors highlights the contemporary elements in this block. If you like this crafty, heavy stitching look, this one is for you!

This is what the finished block looks like...

The second block displays a Rick-Rack Stitch. In fact, this is a triple zig-zag stitch. It is the solid example of how a simple change in the density of the stitch can make the quilting motif more special and interesting. When combined with uncommon color groups, the stitch adds to create a more cultural block.

Here is how the block looks when finished...

The third stitch is the Tribal Hemstitch (shown below) merges modernity in the geometric stitch and in the background it works with a classic yet refreshing palette. Its tribal-looking quilting motif brings in an ethnic air that makes this block an eclectic one; catering to many different styles. If your machine has this stitch, go for it because it's really fun!

Ohhh look at how nice it is coming out....

And this is the final result...

On this fourth block you can see a Ladder Stitch. This intricate yet geometrically simple stitch is very modern. Its straight and enclosed angles provide a depth within the block; almost providing a 3D effect that earns this block an award for “The Most Modern”.

This is the finished block...

The final stitch is the Single-Diamond Overcast Stitch. This stitch provides subtlety against the greens and blues chosen for this block, and it offers a soft approach toward the modern world of quilting. It’s a simple transition that will go a long way.

I love the look of this block...

These are the first set of examples of how a change of stitch can unwrap an infinity of styles, and create a greater impact when used instead of the regular straight stitch. If you have all these stitches in your sewing machine, it's time to put them to good use... don't you think?

I love this kind of tutorials and I hope you like them too!! If you have any questions or comments, please let me know, I love to read your comments :)

Stay tuned for the final set of examples and I'll teach you a trick on how to hide the threads that remain when you are quilting blocks individually.
  
XO,
Pat