Chain Link Stash Quilt: A Free Pattern & Tutorial

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Chain Link Stash Quilt: A Free Pattern & Tutorial

Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into a super fun and rewarding quilting project? Let's talk about creating a chain link stash quilt. This is an awesome way to use up all those fabric scraps you've been hoarding (yes, we all do it!) and turn them into something beautiful and cozy. Not only is it a fantastic stash buster, but the chain link design adds a modern and visually appealing touch to your home decor. In this article, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to make your own chain link quilt, from gathering your supplies to putting the final stitches in place. So, grab your fabric scraps, cutting mat, and let's get started on this creative adventure!

Why a Chain Link Stash Quilt?

So, why should you embark on this particular quilting journey? Well, let’s dive into the awesome reasons behind choosing a chain link stash quilt. First and foremost, this project is a fantastic stash buster. We all have those bins, drawers, or even entire closets filled with fabric scraps that we swear we’ll use someday. This is that someday! Instead of letting those precious pieces of fabric gather dust, you can transform them into a stunning and functional quilt. It’s like magic, turning what seems like clutter into a cherished heirloom.

Secondly, the chain link design itself is incredibly versatile and visually appealing. It adds a modern touch to any room, whether you’re making a baby quilt, a throw for your couch, or a full-sized bedspread. The interlocking links create a sense of movement and connection, making the quilt not just a source of warmth, but also a piece of art. You can customize the colors and patterns of your fabric scraps to match your existing decor or create a bold, eclectic statement piece. The possibilities are truly endless!

Another great reason to try this project is that it’s perfect for quilters of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, the chain link pattern is relatively simple to execute. The basic construction involves cutting squares and rectangles, then arranging them in a specific order to create the chain link effect. With a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve. Plus, it's a great way to practice your piecing and quilting skills, helping you to improve your accuracy and confidence.

Finally, making a chain link stash quilt is an incredibly rewarding experience. There’s something special about taking something old and forgotten and giving it new life. Each piece of fabric tells a story, and when combined, they create a unique and personal quilt that you’ll treasure for years to come. It’s a labor of love that you can wrap yourself in, knowing that you created something beautiful and meaningful with your own two hands. So, are you convinced yet? Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to make your own chain link stash quilt!

Gathering Your Supplies

Before you start cutting and sewing, it's essential to gather all the necessary supplies. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need to create your chain link stash quilt:

  • Fabric Scraps: The heart of this project! Sort through your stash and gather a variety of colors, patterns, and textures. The more diverse your selection, the more interesting your quilt will be. Aim for a mix of light, medium, and dark fabrics to create depth and contrast in your design. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different types of fabric, such as cotton, linen, and even some lightweight denim. Just make sure they are all compatible for washing and drying to avoid any shrinkage issues later on.
  • Cutting Mat: A large cutting mat is crucial for accurately cutting your fabric pieces. A self-healing mat is ideal as it will last longer and provide a smooth surface for your rotary cutter. Look for a mat that is at least 24 x 36 inches to accommodate larger pieces of fabric. A good cutting mat will not only protect your table but also ensure that your cuts are precise and consistent.
  • Rotary Cutter: A sharp rotary cutter is a quilter's best friend. It allows you to cut multiple layers of fabric quickly and accurately. Make sure your blade is sharp to avoid ragged edges and ensure smooth, clean cuts. A 45mm rotary cutter is a versatile size that works well for most quilting projects. Always use a rotary cutter with a cutting mat to protect your work surface and extend the life of the blade.
  • Quilting Ruler: A clear acrylic quilting ruler is essential for measuring and cutting precise shapes. Look for a ruler with clear markings and a non-slip surface to prevent it from sliding while you cut. A ruler that is at least 6 x 24 inches is a good size for cutting strips and squares. Having a variety of rulers in different sizes can also be helpful for different aspects of the project.
  • Sewing Machine: A reliable sewing machine is a must-have for any quilting project. Make sure your machine is in good working order and properly threaded. Use a universal needle and good quality thread for best results. A quarter-inch foot can also be helpful for achieving accurate seam allowances.
  • Thread: Choose a good quality thread that complements your fabric scraps. Neutral colors like gray, white, or beige are versatile and will blend well with a variety of fabrics. Consider using a different color thread for quilting to add a decorative touch.
  • Iron and Ironing Board: Pressing your fabric pieces before and after sewing is essential for achieving a professional finish. A good iron and ironing board will help you create flat, crisp seams that lie nicely. Use steam to help set the seams and remove any wrinkles.
  • Pins: Straight pins are essential for holding fabric pieces together while you sew. Use fine pins to avoid leaving holes in your fabric. Safety pins are also useful for basting your quilt layers together before quilting.
  • Backing Fabric: Choose a fabric for the back of your quilt that complements your stash fabrics. A wide-back fabric is ideal as it eliminates the need for piecing. Muslin or flannel are also good options.
  • Batting: Select a batting that is appropriate for the size and intended use of your quilt. Cotton, polyester, or a blend of both are common choices. Consider the loft and warmth of the batting when making your selection.

With all these supplies in hand, you'll be well-prepared to tackle your chain link stash quilt. Remember, the key to a successful project is to be organized and take your time. Now, let's move on to the next step: cutting your fabric!

Cutting Your Fabric

Alright, with your supplies gathered, it's time to start cutting those fabric scraps! This is where the magic begins to happen, as you transform your stash into the building blocks of your chain link quilt. Precision is key here, so take your time and double-check your measurements. Here's a step-by-step guide to cutting your fabric:

  1. Prepare Your Fabric: Start by pressing all your fabric scraps. This will ensure accurate cuts and make the piecing process much easier. A wrinkle-free fabric is a happy fabric, trust me!
  2. Determine Your Block Size: The size of your blocks will determine the overall size of your quilt. For a chain link pattern, you'll need two sizes of rectangles: one for the links and one for the connectors. A common size is 2.5 x 4.5 inches for the links and 2.5 x 2.5 inches for the connectors. However, you can adjust these measurements to suit your preferences. Just make sure the ratio between the two sizes remains consistent.
  3. Cut the Link Rectangles: Using your rotary cutter, cutting mat, and quilting ruler, cut out the required number of link rectangles. The number of rectangles you'll need will depend on the size of your quilt. A good rule of thumb is to start with a generous amount and then cut more as needed. Remember, it's always better to have too much than not enough!
  4. Cut the Connector Squares: Next, cut out the connector squares. These squares will join the link rectangles together to form the chain. Again, cut a generous amount to start with, and adjust as needed. Make sure your squares are perfectly square to ensure accurate piecing.
  5. Organize Your Pieces: As you cut your fabric, organize the link rectangles and connector squares into separate piles. This will make it easier to grab the pieces you need when you start piecing your quilt. You can even sort them by color or pattern to create a specific design.
  6. Cutting Tips:
    • Use a Sharp Blade: A sharp rotary cutter blade is essential for clean, accurate cuts. Replace your blade regularly to avoid ragged edges.
    • Cut Multiple Layers: To save time, you can cut multiple layers of fabric at once. Just make sure your fabric is securely pinned together to prevent it from shifting.
    • Follow the Grain: Pay attention to the grain of your fabric when cutting. Cutting along the grain will prevent your fabric from stretching and distorting.
    • Double-Check Your Measurements: Before you cut, double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy. A small mistake can throw off the entire quilt.

With your fabric pieces cut and organized, you're one step closer to creating your chain link stash quilt. Next up, we'll dive into the exciting world of piecing your quilt blocks together. Get ready to see your design come to life!

Piecing Your Quilt Blocks

Now comes the fun part: piecing together your fabric pieces to create the chain link design. This is where your quilt really starts to take shape, and you'll begin to see your vision come to life. Take your time, focus on accuracy, and enjoy the process! Here’s how to piece your quilt blocks:

  1. Arrange Your Pieces: Lay out your link rectangles and connector squares in the desired chain link pattern. Experiment with different color and pattern combinations until you find a design you love. Take a picture of your layout to help you remember the arrangement.
  2. Sew the First Row: Take two link rectangles and one connector square. Place the first link rectangle right side up, then place the connector square right side up on top of it. Sew the connector square to the link rectangle using a quarter-inch seam allowance. Repeat this process with the second link rectangle, sewing it to the other side of the connector square. You should now have a short chain consisting of two link rectangles and one connector square.
  3. Sew the Remaining Rows: Continue adding link rectangles and connector squares to create the desired length of your chain. Make sure to maintain a consistent quarter-inch seam allowance throughout. Press each seam open as you go to reduce bulk and ensure a flat, even finish.
  4. Join the Rows: Once you have several rows of chain links, it's time to join them together. Place two rows right sides together, matching up the seams. Pin the rows together to prevent them from shifting. Sew the rows together using a quarter-inch seam allowance. Press the seam open.
  5. Repeat: Continue adding rows until your quilt reaches the desired size. Remember to press each seam open as you go.
  6. Piecing Tips:
    • Use a Quarter-Inch Foot: A quarter-inch foot on your sewing machine will help you achieve accurate seam allowances.
    • Pin Generously: Pinning your fabric pieces together will prevent them from shifting and ensure accurate piecing.
    • Press as You Go: Pressing each seam open as you go will reduce bulk and create a flat, even finish.
    • Chain Piecing: To save time, try chain piecing. This involves sewing multiple pieces together without cutting the thread in between. Simply feed one piece after another through your sewing machine, leaving a small gap between each piece. Then, cut the thread between each piece.

With your quilt blocks pieced together, you're well on your way to creating a stunning chain link stash quilt. Next, we'll talk about how to assemble the quilt top, add batting and backing, and quilt it all together.

Assembling the Quilt Top, Batting, and Backing

With your quilt blocks all pieced and pressed, the next exciting step is assembling the quilt top and preparing it for quilting. This involves layering the quilt top with batting and backing, ensuring everything is smooth and secure. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through this process:

  1. Prepare Your Backing Fabric: Start by pressing your backing fabric to remove any wrinkles. If your backing fabric isn't wide enough, you'll need to piece it together. Sew the pieces together with a half-inch seam allowance, and press the seam open. Ensure your backing is at least 4 inches larger than your quilt top on all sides.
  2. Layer the Quilt: Find a large, flat surface, such as a table or the floor. Lay your backing fabric right side down, and secure it with masking tape. Next, spread out your batting evenly over the backing fabric. Finally, place your quilt top right side up on top of the batting. Smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles in the quilt top.
  3. Basting the Quilt: Basting is the process of temporarily holding the quilt layers together before quilting. There are several methods you can use:
    • Pin Basting: Use safety pins to secure the layers together. Place the pins every 4 to 6 inches, starting from the center and working your way out. Make sure the pins are closed securely to prevent them from snagging on your sewing machine.
    • Spray Basting: Use a quilt basting spray to adhere the layers together. Spray the batting and backing with the adhesive, and smooth out any wrinkles. Be sure to use the spray in a well-ventilated area.
    • Thread Basting: Use long stitches to baste the layers together with thread. This method is more time-consuming, but it can provide a more secure hold.
  4. Trim Excess Fabric: Once your quilt is basted, trim any excess batting and backing fabric, leaving about 1 to 2 inches beyond the edge of the quilt top.

Quilting

Now that your quilt is basted, it's time for the quilting! This is where you stitch through all three layers of the quilt, securing them together and adding texture and design. You can quilt your quilt by hand or by machine, depending on your preference and skill level. Here are some quilting options:

  • Straight Line Quilting: This involves stitching straight lines across the quilt, either horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. It’s a simple and effective way to add texture and stability.
  • Free Motion Quilting: This involves moving the quilt freely under the needle of your sewing machine, creating intricate designs. It requires some practice and skill, but it can produce stunning results.
  • Outline Quilting: This involves stitching around the shapes and patterns in your quilt top, highlighting the design.
  • Quilting in the Ditch: This involves stitching in the seams of your quilt top, securing the layers together without adding a lot of visible stitching.

Binding

Binding is the final step in completing your quilt. It involves attaching a strip of fabric around the edges of the quilt to create a finished look and protect the raw edges. Here’s how to bind your quilt:

  1. Prepare Your Binding Fabric: Cut strips of fabric that are 2.5 inches wide and long enough to go around the entire perimeter of your quilt, plus a few extra inches. Fold the strips in half lengthwise, and press.
  2. Attach the Binding: Sew the binding to the front of the quilt, aligning the raw edges. Use a quarter-inch seam allowance, and miter the corners. Fold the binding over to the back of the quilt, and hand-stitch it in place.

And there you have it! A beautiful, handmade chain link stash quilt, ready to keep you warm and cozy for years to come. Enjoy!