Are you looking for a fun, easy way to make a quilt? The Missouri Quilt Company has you covered with their simple tutorial on how to make a pillowcase quilt. With the Missouri Quilt Company’s easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be able to quickly make a beautiful quilt that will be a cherished piece in your home for years to come. Get ready to start quilting with this step-by-step guide on how to make a pillowcase quilt with the Missouri Quilt Company.
Overview of Missouri Quilt Company
The Missouri Quilt Company (MQC) is a family-owned quilting business that has become a leader in the quilting industry. Founded in 2008 and located in Hamilton, Missouri, MQC offers quilting supplies, fabrics, quilt kits, and pattern books. In addition to this, they offer a variety of quilting tutorials and classes, with a particular focus on the Missouri Star Quilt. MQC is renowned for their accurate instructions and helpful customer service.
History
MQC was founded by Jenny Doan in 2008. Jenny had always been fond of quilting, and she wanted to share her passion with the world. With the help of her family, she launched MQC, which quickly grew into an international quilting phenomenon. Today, MQC is a leading supplier of quilting supplies, and their video tutorials have been viewed millions of times.
Quilting Techniques
MQC specializes in the Missouri Star Quilt, a traditional quilt pattern, and offers many tutorials and classes on the technique. To make a pillowcase with the Missouri Star Quilt, start by cutting the fabric into two rectangles. Then, join the two rectangles together by sewing around the edges. Next, sew a series of diagonal lines across the rectangle to create a star pattern. Finally, sew the edges together to complete the pillowcase. With MQC’s step-by-step instructions, anyone can learn how to make a pillowcase with the Missouri Star Quilt.
Materials Needed
- Fabrics: 4 different fabrics, each measuring 18 x 22 inches
- Thread: All-purpose polyester or cotton thread
- Sewing machine: A basic sewing machine with a zipper foot
- Scissors: Fabric scissors for cutting fabric and paper scissors for cutting thread
- Pins: A few straight pins for holding fabric in place
- Iron: An iron and ironing board
- Measuring tape: A flexible measuring tape
- Rotary cutter: A 45mm rotary cutter with a cutting mat
Getting Started
Materials: Fabric, scissors, needle, thread, quilting ruler, straight pins.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Measure and cut two pieces of fabric that are 20 inches wide and 21 inches long.
Step 2: With right sides together, pin the two pieces of fabric together.
Step 3: Sew the two pieces together using a 1/2 inch seam allowance. Make sure to leave a 4 inch opening for turning the pillowcase.
Step 4: Trim the seam allowance and corners.
Step 5: Turn the pillowcase right side out.
Step 6: Fold the raw edges of the opening in and pin it closed.
Step 7: Top stitch around the pillowcase.
Step 8: Quilt the pillowcase as desired.
Step 9: Trim off any excess fabric and threads.
Step 10: Your pillowcase is now finished!
Quilting Tips and Tricks
Fabric Selection: When making a pillowcase quilt, selecting the right fabric is essential. Choose fabrics in complementary colors and patterns that work well together. For a more traditional look, choose a variety of solids and prints, or for a more modern look, opt for coordinating prints.
Layout: Before cutting the fabric, lay it out on a flat surface and arrange the pieces in the order they will be sewn. This will help you keep the fabric from becoming wrinkled or stretched during the sewing process.
Cutting: Using a rotary cutter and ruler, cut the fabric pieces to the desired size for the pillowcase quilt. Be sure to double-check each piece for accuracy before moving on to the next step.
Piecing: Once the fabric pieces are cut, start piecing them together. Use a ¼-inch seam allowance and press the seams open with an iron. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of the seam for added strength.
Basting: To keep the pieces of the quilt in place while they are being quilted, use quilt basting spray or safety pins to baste the layers together. This will help ensure that the quilt stays together while it is being quilted.
Quilting: Now it’s time to quilt! Use a walking foot and quilting thread to quilt the layers of the pillowcase quilt together. Consider using a quilting design to give the quilt added dimension.
Binding: Once the quilting is finished, it’s time to bind the edges of the quilt. Prepare the binding strips by pressing in half lengthwise and then cut the strips to the desired length. Sew the binding strips to the edges of the quilt, making sure to miter the corners.
Finishing: Finally, finish the quilt by hand-stitching the binding strips in place. This will give the pillowcase quilt a polished look. And you’re done!
Finishing Touches
Once your quilt is all sewn together, it’s time to add the finishing touches.
Start by pressing the quilt with a hot iron to help set the seams.
Then, thread your needle with a long length of thread and tie a knot at the end.
Use a running stitch to sew a binding around the edges of the quilt.
When you reach the corners, fold the binding over neatly and stitch it down.
To finish, stitch a label to the back of the quilt with the name of the quilter, the date, and the title of the quilt.
You can also add a few decorative stitches to the quilt top to enhance the look.
Finally, give your quilt a good press to finish the project.
Your pillowcase Missouri quilt is now complete!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Types of Fabric are Best to Use for a Pillowcase Quilt?
Cotton quilting fabric is the best choice for a pillowcase quilt. This type of fabric is lightweight, breathable, and durable enough to be washed and reused. It also comes in a variety of colors and patterns, making it easy to customize the quilt to fit any decor. Consider using a combination of solids and prints for a unique look. For the backing, use a mid-weight cotton fabric or a cotton/polyester blend, as these fabrics are more durable and will hold up better over time.
What type of batting should I use for my pillowcase quilt?
Cotton batting is the best option for a pillowcase quilt. It has a low loft and is lightweight, making it easy to quilt and add texture to the quilt. Cotton batting also offers great breathability, which is important for comfort when sleeping. Polyester batting is also a good option as it is more durable and has a higher loft, which provides more cushioning. Consider the climate of your home when choosing batting and don’t forget to pre-wash it before using.
How Much Fabric Do I Need to Make a Pillowcase Quilt?
- 1 yard of fabric for the backing
- 6 pillowcases for the top of the quilt
- 1/2 yard of fabric for the binding
- Batting for the quilt middle
You will need the above materials to complete the quilt and may need additional fabric for the sashing and borders. Choose your fabrics carefully, and make sure to pre-wash them before starting the project.
Are there any special techniques for quilting a pillowcase quilt?
- Basting: You can use a large safety pin to secure the quilt layers together. This helps to prevent shifting during the quilting process.
- Sewing: When sewing the quilt, use a walking foot or a darning foot to ensure even stitches and avoid shifting.
- Stippling: Stippling is a quilting technique that involves sewing small overlapping circles or lines. This helps to keep the quilt layers together.
- Mitered Corners: When quilting the pillowcase quilt, you can use mitered corners to give the quilt a professional finish.
- Binding: To finish the quilt, you can use a binding technique to secure the edges and give it a finished look.
What type of backing should I use for a pillowcase quilt?
The backing of a pillowcase quilt should be a woven fabric like muslin, cotton, or flannel. You can also use a coordinating fabric that complements the quilt top. Make sure to pre-wash the backing fabric and dry it on low heat to avoid shrinkage. If you’re using multiple pieces of fabric for the backing, sew them together first and then attach it to the quilt.
Conclusion
Making a pillowcase quilt with the Missouri Quilt Company is easy, fun, and rewarding. With the right tools, materials, and instructions, anyone can create a beautiful quilt that will last for years. With the help of the Missouri Quilt Company, you can create a quilt that will be cherished for years to come.
