What is patchwork?

As we have explained before, patchwork is a technique where pieces and cuts of fabrics with different patterns come together to form geometric figures and a unique composition. The translation of the term patchwork is patchwork and the formed designs can be geometric shapes, people, animals, landscapes and everything your imagination dictates.

In summary, a patchwork piece is composed of three parts: the top, the filling and the lining and the final work is when these three layers are joined, overlapping, forming a single component.

The top is the top part of the work, where the patches are sewn together to form the figures. Filling is the material used to give volume to patchwork works, usually acrylic blanket is used to fill the works. The lining is the fabric that goes under the work and is used to give a nicer finish.

The important thing is that you know that the layers are joined by topstitching which, in the case of this technique, is called a quilt. The quilt is nothing more than a continuous design of stitches made with the sewing machine. To make the work even more elegant you can make the quilt in the shape of arabesques, hearts and many other shapes.

What you can create using the patchwork technique:

Agendas;
notebooks;
cookbooks;
photo albums;
bags;
bags;
blouses;
dresses;
skirts;
cloths for cups;
kitchen rugs;
Curtains;
Cushions;
bed quilts;
Frames;
American game;

How to do beginner quilting:

Quilting is nothing more than that sewing that unites the three layers of patchwork that I have already taught, forming designs and making your creation even more elegant. The quilting leaves the piece firm and full of reliefs, which is not very pleasant for pieces that will have direct contact with the skin of the body. It is important to avoid using too much quilting when making bedding and bath items or if you are creating pieces for children.

This is a finish that you need to practice a lot to get the hang of, but it’s well worth it, so start small, as you feel more confident and after you’ve already worked with various patchwork formats. You’ll also need a special presser foot for your sewing machine that lets you move freely and allows you to sew in any direction without having to turn your work around.

 

This presser foot is important because it will allow you to sew in zigzag, wavy, snake shapes and many others. In straight quilting, we use another presser foot that helps to give more precision to the work without having to make risks directing the seam. Although, I prefer to do this process manually.

 

This quilting can also be done by hand, just a little practice and the use of markers to help you form the patterns to be sewn. In fact, American patchworks still use this manual technique a lot. Patchwork is a craft work that uses many mathematical concepts. To help visualize your work and cut the scraps correctly, use a checkered notebook. Draw your project first in the checkered notebook and then make the cuts in the fabrics.

 

See some beautiful examples, so you don’t get discouraged and see that all learning and process is worth it;