How to Make a Bargello Quilt: A Complete Guide

» Blog » Design and Pattern Ideas » How to Make a Bargello Quilt: A Complete Guide

Making a Bargello quilt is an exciting and rewarding craft project that can be enjoyed by quilting newbies and experienced quilters alike. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to make a bargello quilt, from gathering supplies to finishing touches. We’ll discuss the basics of design selection, fabric cutting, piecing the quilt top, and more. With this guide in hand, you’ll be able to make a beautiful bargello quilt that will be enjoyed for many years to come.

What is a Bargello Quilt?

What Is A Bargello Quilt?

A Bargello quilt is a type of quilt that is created by stitching together strips of fabric in a wave or flame pattern. This type of quilt is often used to make large wall hangings, bed quilts, and table runners.

It is created by cutting strips of fabric into specific shapes and sizes, then sewing them together to form a pattern. The pattern is usually created from a series of repeating shapes, such as diamonds, arcs, waves, and zig-zags. The strips of fabric can be arranged in a variety of ways to create different patterns.

Quilt Type Features
Bargello Quilt Created by stitching together strips of fabric in a wave or flame pattern. Created by cutting strips of fabric into specific shapes and sizes and sewing them together to form a pattern.

Bargello quilts have a unique and vibrant look that is perfect for making a statement in any room. They can be created in many different colors and patterns, making them a great choice for any quilter looking to make something special.

How to Make a Bargello Quilt

How To Make A Bargello Quilt

Gather Materials

For a bargello quilt, you will need a variety of fabrics, a cutting mat, rotary cutter and ruler, pins, and thread. Choose fabrics in a variety of colors and textures to create the desired effect in your bargello quilt.

Cut the Fabric

Using the rotary cutter, ruler, and cutting mat, cut the fabric into strips of the desired width. Depending on the desired pattern, you will need to decide how many strips of each color and pattern you will need.

Create the Pattern

Once you have the strips cut you can begin to assemble the pattern. Place the strips side by side and arrange them in the desired order. Play around with different patterns until you create the look you want.

Sew the Strips

Once you have the pattern arranged, begin sewing the strips together. Use a ¼ inch seam allowance to keep all of the pieces even.

Make the Quilt Top

After the strips are all sewn together, lay them out on the quilt top and arrange them in the desired pattern. Pin the strips in place and then sew them together.

Add Layers

Once the quilt top is finished, you can add the layers of batting and backing fabric. Pin the layers together with safety pins and then baste the layers together with a running stitch.

Quilt and Bind the Quilt

Quilt the layers together using a walking foot and stitching in the ditch. Once the quilting is finished, bind the edges of the quilt with a coordinating fabric.

Once you have completed these steps, your bargello quilt is finished and ready to be enjoyed.

How Much Material is Needed for a Small Bargello Quilt?

How Much Material Is Needed For A Small Bargello Quilt?

A small Bargello quilt requires 1 yard of background fabric and 7/8 yard of each of four or five colors of fabric. To achieve a larger quilt, additional fabric may be necessary. Additionally, you will need batting, thread, and backing fabric. When selecting fabric, cotton is a good option because it is easy to sew and durable. For a medium-sized Bargello quilt (60″ x 72″), you will need 1 1/3 yards of background fabric and 1 yard of each of four or five different colors of fabric. For a large Bargello quilt (84″ x 96″), you will need 2 1/4 yards of background fabric and 1 1/4 yards of each of four or five different colors of fabric.

How Many Different Fabrics Can Be Used in a Bargello Quilt?

How Many Different Fabrics Can Be Used In A Bargello Quilt?

A Bargello quilt is a type of quilt that is made up of strips of fabric sewn together to create a unique and intricate design. While the quilt is traditionally made with a single color of fabric, you can also use multiple fabrics to create a more interesting quilt. Here are some of the different fabrics you can use to make a Bargello quilt:

  • Cotton prints:
  • Cotton prints are a great option for creating a Bargello quilt. Cotton prints come in a variety of colors and designs, so you can easily find fabrics that will match the colors and patterns you want in your quilt.

  • Linen: Linen is another great option for a Bargello quilt. It is a lightweight fabric that is easy to work with and will give your quilt a luxurious feel.

  • Silk: Silk is a beautiful fabric to use in a Bargello quilt. Silk is lightweight and has a sheen that will add a special touch to your quilt.

  • Velvet: Velvet is a luxurious fabric that can add texture and depth to your quilt. It is also easy to work with and can be used to create a unique and beautiful quilt.

  • Fleece: Fleece is a soft and cozy fabric that can be used in a Bargello quilt. It is lightweight and easy to work with, so it is a great option for a quilt.

You can use any of these fabrics to make a Bargello quilt. However, keep in mind that you will need to purchase enough fabric to cover the size of your quilt. You will also need to purchase batting and backing fabrics, so make sure to factor those into your fabric calculations.

How Hard is a Bargello Quilt Pattern?

How Hard Is A Bargello Quilt Pattern?

Creating a Bargello Quilt pattern isn’t as hard as it may seem at first. With some basic sewing skills, a few hours of work, and the right materials, you can create a beautiful quilt that will bring years of enjoyment.

The Bargello Quilt is composed of vertical columns of fabric strips which are arranged in a wave-like pattern. The pattern is created by the vertical columns of fabric strips and the horizontal waves of fabric strips. Each vertical column consists of two or more different fabrics, and each horizontal wave consists of two or more different fabrics.

The complexity of the pattern increases with the number of colors and fabrics used. To create a Bargello Quilt pattern, you will need to cut the fabric strips in the correct sizes and arrange them in the correct order. This requires some basic knowledge of geometry and an understanding of the pattern’s design.

Once the pieces are cut and sewn together, the finishing touches of quilting and binding will make your quilt ready to be enjoyed. With the help of free online tutorials, you can learn how to make a Bargello Quilt pattern and create a beautiful quilt that will last for years.

Free Resources for How to Make a Bargello Quilt

  • A Bargello quilt is an Italian-inspired quilt that consists of strips of fabric sewn together in a wave-like pattern.
  • A Bargello quilt pattern is a beginner-friendly quilt pattern that uses a few simple techniques to create a unique and eye-catching design.
  • The most basic Bargello quilt pattern consists of strips of fabric that are sewn together in a wave-like pattern and quilted together in a series of vertical lines.
  • The wave-like design is created by sewing strips of fabric in different directions and can be used to create a wide variety of patterns and designs.
  • The quilting process is often done by hand, but can also be done by machine.
  • There are many free resources available online for how to make a Bargello quilt, including tutorials, videos, and free quilt patterns.
  • The difficulty of making a Bargello quilt depends on the complexity of the pattern, but the techniques are simple enough for even beginners to understand.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Tools and Materials Do I Need to Make a Bargello Quilt?

Fabric: Choose fabrics that are all the same weight, such as quilting cotton. You will need 5 to 7 fat quarters in different colors or a variety of scraps in corresponding colors.

Rotary Cutter, Cutting Mat and Ruler: These are essential for accurate cutting.

Sewing Machine: You will need a sewing machine to assemble the quilt.

Iron and Ironing Board: You will need to press the seams open as you work.

Thread: Choose a thread in a color that matches your fabrics.

Basting Spray: This will help you keep the quilt layers together before quilting.

Quilting Needle: Choose a quilting needle that is suitable for the type of fabric you are using.

Quilting Thread: Choose a thread that is suitable for the type of fabric you are using.

Is a Bargello Quilt Suitable for a Beginner Quilt-Maker?

Yes! A Bargello quilt is an ideal project for a beginner quilt-maker due to its simple design and straightforward construction. Here are some of the reasons why it’s great for beginners:

  • It doesn’t require a lot of intricate piecing or complicated blocks.
  • It doesn’t require a lot of fabric, making it an affordable project.
  • It’s easy to design, as you can use any combination of colors and fabric prints.
  • It’s easy to construct, as the strips are simply sewn together in strips.
  • It’s a beautiful quilt that will look great in any room.

So if you’re looking for an easy, beautiful quilt to make, consider making a Bargello quilt. With its simple design and straightforward construction, it’s perfect for a beginner quilt-maker.

How Do I Select the Right Fabrics for a Bargello Quilt?

When selecting fabrics for a bargello quilt, it is important to consider factors such as the quilt’s purpose and size, the desired color scheme, and the desired texture. High-contrast fabrics will create a more vibrant quilt, while low-contrast fabrics will create a more subtle quilt. Additionally, the size of the quilt should be taken into account when selecting fabrics; for example, smaller quilts may require smaller-scale prints. Finally, the desired texture should be considered – quilts made with thicker fabrics such as cottons or linens will have a more substantial feel than quilts made with thinner fabrics such as silks or satins.

How do I determine the size of the quilt I want to make?

When deciding the size of your quilt, consider the size of your bed or where the quilt will be displayed. Measure the space and add a few inches to the width and length so the quilt hangs nicely over the edges. Multiply the two measurements to calculate the size of the quilt, then add extra inches to the perimeter of your quilt to account for the borders and quilting.

What is the Best Way to Quilt a Bargello Quilt?

1. Choose a Quilting Pattern that Works for the Design: Consider the quilt design when selecting a quilting pattern. Choose a pattern that complements the design, such as a walking foot quilting pattern that mimics the lines of the bargello design.

2. Quilt with Neutral Thread: Select a neutral thread color that will not stand out too much, such as cream, white, or taupe, so it does not detract from the quilt’s design.

3. Utilize a Walking Foot: A walking foot helps create even tension and lines while quilting.

4. Use a Longarm Machine: Using a longarm machine makes it easier to quilt large quilts, and it eliminates the need for pins.

5. Quilt in Sections: Quilting in sections helps create a smoother quilt. Divide the quilt into sections and quilt each section separately before quilting the entire quilt.

6. Use a Stitch Regulator: Utilizing a stitch regulator helps create even stitches and consistent tension.

7. Avoid Excessive Quilting: Too much quilting will detract from the quilt’s design, so avoid quilting too much. Quilt just enough to secure the quilt and enhance the design.

Conclusion

Creating a Bargello quilt is an enjoyable process that requires careful attention to detail. With a simple design, minimal materials, and the right technique, you can make a beautiful quilt that will be admired by your friends and family. With practice, you can even become an expert quilter and create intricate designs.

References