Spare Change Quilt Pattern: A Fun & Easy Guide

Oct 29, 2025 by SLV Team 47 views

Hey guys! Ever find yourself with a jar full of spare change and think, "There has to be something cool I can do with this?" Well, maybe not that spare change! But I’m talking about your fabric stash! Let's dive into the delightful world of the spare change quilt pattern! This is a fantastic way to use up those little fabric scraps you’ve been hoarding (we all do it!), and create a beautiful and unique quilt. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from gathering your supplies to putting the finishing touches on your cozy creation.

What is a Spare Change Quilt?

So, what exactly is a spare change quilt? The spare change quilt gets its name from the idea of using small, leftover pieces of fabric – like the spare change you find in your pockets. It's a scrappy quilt design, meaning it's all about embracing the variety and using up what you have. Forget perfectly matching fabrics and meticulously planned color schemes (unless that's your jam, of course!). This quilt is all about the fun of randomness and the beauty of imperfection. The spare change quilt pattern is perfect for beginner quilters because it doesn't require advanced techniques or precise cutting. It’s also a great project for experienced quilters looking for a relaxing and creative way to use up their stash. Imagine transforming those forgotten fabric bits into a warm and inviting quilt! It’s like giving your scraps a new life and creating a piece of art in the process. The best part? Each quilt is completely unique, reflecting your personal style and the fabrics you’ve collected over time. You can use any type of fabric for a spare change quilt, from cotton and linen to flannel and even denim. The key is to choose fabrics that are similar in weight and texture so that the quilt drapes nicely. Get creative with your fabric combinations and don't be afraid to mix and match colors and patterns. The more variety, the more interesting your quilt will be. Experiment with different layouts and arrangements to create a design that you love. There are no rules when it comes to making a spare change quilt, so have fun and let your creativity shine!

Gathering Your Supplies

Before you start sewing, you'll need to gather your supplies. Don't worry, you probably already have most of these on hand if you're a seasoned quilter. If not, a quick trip to your local fabric store (or a rummage through your attic!) should do the trick. Here’s a list to get you started on your spare change quilt pattern journey:

Fabric Scraps: This is the star of the show! Gather all those little pieces of fabric you've been saving. The more variety, the better. Think about different colors, patterns, and textures. Scraps can come from old clothing, leftover projects, or even fabric samples. The key is to have a good mix of fabrics to create a visually interesting quilt. Sort your scraps by color or pattern to make it easier to choose fabrics as you sew. You can also pre-cut your scraps into squares or strips to save time later on. The size of your scraps will determine the size of your finished quilt blocks, so keep that in mind as you gather your materials.
Rotary Cutter, Mat, and Ruler: These are essential for accurate cutting. A rotary cutter makes quick work of cutting fabric into squares and strips. A self-healing cutting mat protects your work surface and provides a stable base for cutting. A quilting ruler helps you measure and cut precise shapes. Invest in high-quality tools for the best results. A rotary cutter with a sharp blade will make clean, accurate cuts. A cutting mat with clear markings will help you measure and cut fabric with ease. A quilting ruler with a non-slip surface will prevent the fabric from shifting as you cut.
Sewing Machine: A reliable sewing machine is a must-have for any quilting project. Choose a machine with a variety of stitch options and adjustable settings. A walking foot can be helpful for quilting multiple layers of fabric. Make sure your machine is in good working order before you start sewing. Clean and oil it regularly to keep it running smoothly. Practice sewing on scrap fabric to get a feel for your machine's settings and capabilities. A well-maintained sewing machine will make your quilting experience much more enjoyable.
Thread: Choose a thread that complements your fabric scraps. A neutral color like gray or beige is a good choice for blending with a variety of fabrics. You can also use a colorful thread to add a pop of contrast. Select a high-quality thread that is strong and durable. Cheap thread can break easily and cause problems with your sewing machine. Experiment with different types of thread to find one that you like. Cotton thread is a popular choice for quilting, but polyester thread is also a good option.
Iron and Ironing Board: Pressing your fabric is an important step in the quilting process. It helps to flatten the seams and create a neat, professional finish. Use a hot iron and a pressing cloth to protect your fabric from scorching. Press each seam as you sew to ensure that your quilt blocks are square and accurate. A well-pressed quilt will look much more polished and professional.
Backing Fabric and Batting: You'll need a large piece of fabric for the back of your quilt and a layer of batting to provide warmth and insulation. Choose a backing fabric that complements your scraps. Cotton batting is a popular choice for quilting, but you can also use polyester or wool batting. The size of your backing fabric and batting will depend on the size of your finished quilt. Make sure to purchase enough materials to cover the entire quilt top with a few inches to spare on each side.
Scissors: Having a good pair of scissors on hand is essential for trimming threads and fabric. Choose a pair of scissors that are sharp and comfortable to hold. Keep your scissors in good condition by cleaning and oiling them regularly. Use your scissors only for cutting fabric to prevent them from becoming dull. A sharp pair of scissors will make your quilting tasks much easier and more enjoyable.

Designing Your Quilt

Now for the fun part: designing your quilt! With the spare change quilt pattern, you're really only limited by your imagination, guys. While the beauty of a spare change quilt is its randomness, it's still helpful to have a basic plan in mind. Will you go for a completely random look, or will you try to arrange your scraps in a specific pattern? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Random Patchwork: This is the simplest approach. Just sew your scraps together in a random order, without any particular plan. This creates a fun, scrappy look that is full of character. Start by cutting your scraps into squares or rectangles of different sizes. Then, sew them together in a random order, paying attention to the color and pattern combinations. Don't be afraid to mix and match fabrics that you wouldn't normally put together. The more variety, the more interesting your quilt will be. As you sew, make sure to press each seam open to reduce bulk and create a smooth finish. Once you have a large enough piece of fabric, you can trim it to the desired size and shape. This is a great option for beginners because it doesn't require any special skills or techniques.
Strip Piecing: Cut your scraps into strips and sew them together to create larger blocks. You can then arrange the blocks in a variety of ways to create different patterns. This technique is a bit more structured than random patchwork, but it still allows for plenty of creativity. Start by cutting your scraps into strips of varying widths. Then, sew the strips together to create larger blocks. You can arrange the strips in a random order or create a more structured pattern. Once you have a few blocks, you can sew them together to create a quilt top. This technique is great for using up long, narrow scraps of fabric.
Geometric Designs: Use your scraps to create geometric shapes like squares, triangles, or diamonds. Arrange the shapes in a pattern to create a more structured quilt design. This technique requires more precise cutting and sewing, but it can create stunning results. Start by cutting your scraps into the desired shapes using templates or a rotary cutter. Then, arrange the shapes in a pattern and sew them together. You can create a simple geometric design or a more complex pattern. This technique is great for using up scraps of fabric that are too small for other projects.

Sewing Your Quilt

Alright, you've gathered your supplies, designed your quilt (at least in your head!), now it's time to start sewing that spare change quilt pattern! This is where the magic happens. Follow these steps to create your scrappy masterpiece:

Cut Your Fabric: If you haven't already, cut your fabric scraps into the desired shapes and sizes. Remember, consistency is key for a neat finished product. If you’re going for a random look, you can still vary the sizes, just keep it somewhat consistent.
Arrange Your Blocks: Lay out your fabric pieces on a flat surface to arrange them in the desired pattern. This is a good time to experiment with different layouts and color combinations. Take a picture of your favorite arrangement so you can refer back to it as you sew.
Sew the Blocks Together: Sew the fabric pieces together in rows, using a 1/4 inch seam allowance. Press the seams open as you go to reduce bulk.
Join the Rows: Once you have sewn all the rows, sew them together to create the quilt top. Again, use a 1/4 inch seam allowance and press the seams open.
Layer Your Quilt: Layer the backing fabric, batting, and quilt top together. The backing fabric should be right side down, the batting in the middle, and the quilt top right side up.
Baste the Layers: Baste the layers together using pins, safety pins, or basting spray. This will prevent the layers from shifting as you quilt.
Quilt the Layers: Quilt the layers together using your sewing machine or by hand. You can quilt in the ditch, create a free-motion design, or follow a specific pattern. Choose a quilting design that complements your quilt top.
Bind the Edges: Bind the edges of the quilt using your favorite binding method. This will finish the edges and give your quilt a professional look.

Finishing Touches

Congratulations, you've sewn your spare change quilt pattern! Now for the final touches to make it truly shine! Once your quilt is assembled, give it a final press to smooth out any wrinkles and set the seams. Inspect the quilt for any loose threads or imperfections and trim them as needed. Add a label to the back of the quilt with your name, the date, and any other information you want to include. This will make your quilt a treasured keepsake for years to come. Finally, snuggle up with your finished quilt and enjoy the warmth and comfort it provides. Your spare change quilt is a testament to your creativity and resourcefulness. It's a unique and beautiful piece of art that you can be proud of.

Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Spare Change Quilt

Want to take your spare change quilt pattern to the next level? Here are a few extra tips and tricks:

Pre-wash Your Fabrics: This will prevent them from shrinking or bleeding after the quilt is finished.
Use a Walking Foot: This will help to prevent the fabric from shifting as you quilt.
Experiment with Different Quilting Designs: Try free-motion quilting, stitch in the ditch, or follow a specific pattern.
Add Embellishments: Consider adding buttons, beads, or other embellishments to your quilt for a unique touch.
Don't Be Afraid to Experiment: The beauty of a spare change quilt is its randomness, so have fun and let your creativity shine!

So there you have it! Everything you need to know to create your own spare change quilt pattern. Grab those fabric scraps, fire up your sewing machine, and get ready to create a cozy and unique quilt that you'll treasure for years to come. Happy quilting, everyone! And remember, there’s no such thing as a wrong way to make a spare change quilt!