Get ready to embark on a delightful quilting adventure! The “Two by Two” quilt pattern, designed by the talented Colleen Tauke, is more than just a quilt – it’s an “I Spy” game waiting to happen, perfect for sparking joy and imagination in both quilters and the young at heart. This free PDF pattern offers a fantastic opportunity to explore fussy cutting and create a truly unique, interactive masterpiece. Let’s dive into all the wonderful details!
Two by Two Quilt: A Delightful Design!
The “Two by Two” quilt is designed to be a captivating “I Spy” experience, making it an ideal project for baby showers, children’s gifts, or simply adding a playful touch to any room. Imagine little ones spending hours pointing out and naming the charming pairs of novelty prints you’ve carefully selected and fussy cut! This pattern encourages you to hunt for the perfect fabrics, allowing your creativity to shine as you bring these fun pairings to life. It’s a project that promises not only a beautiful finished quilt but also endless smiles and heartwarming memories.
Creative Color Palette Suggestions
The beauty of an “I Spy” quilt is that almost anything goes, but here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Bright & Playful: Think primary colors, cheerful pastels, and a wide array of whimsical novelty prints featuring animals, toys, and everyday objects. This palette is guaranteed to be a hit with children!
- Soft & Soothing: Opt for gentle creams, blues, greens, and yellows. Use novelty prints that are still identifiable but perhaps less intensely colored, creating a calming visual experience.
- Modern & Bold: Experiment with high-contrast fabrics, geometric prints, and contemporary novelty designs. Black and white prints with pops of a single bright color can be incredibly striking.
- Themed Fun: Dedicate your quilt to a specific theme! Think “Farm Animals,” “Under the Sea,” “Vehicles,” or “Nature Walk” for a cohesive yet diverse collection of “I Spy” elements.
Fabric Requirements Guide
While the exact yardage will be detailed in your free pattern download, here’s an estimated guide to help you prepare for your “Two by Two” quilt. Remember, “I Spy” quilts are perfect for using up scraps of novelty prints!
| Fabric Type | Estimated Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Novelty Prints (for “I Spy” blocks) | 1/8 – 1/4 yard each (or fat eighths/quarters) of 20-30 different prints | Look for clear, distinct images for fussy cutting. |
| Background Fabric | 1 – 1.5 yards | A solid or subtle blender to make your novelty prints pop. |
| Inner Border Fabric | 1/2 yard | Coordinates with background or “I Spy” fabrics. |
| Outer Border Fabric | 3/4 – 1 yard | Can be a continuation or a contrasting print. |
| Backing Fabric | 2 – 2.5 yards (depending on quilt size) | Consider a wider backing or piece multiple fabrics. |
| Binding Fabric | 1/2 yard | Often matches the outer border or a prominent color. |
| Batting | Crib size (approx. 45″ x 60″) | Cotton or a cotton/poly blend is popular. |
Important Note: These are estimates. Always refer to the official “Two by Two” pattern for precise fabric requirements before purchasing!
Where to Buy Fabrics
Finding the perfect novelty prints and coordinating fabrics is part of the fun! Here are some fantastic online fabric stores known for their wide selections:
- Fat Quarter Shop: A highly popular online store with a vast selection of quilting fabrics, precuts, and patterns.
- Keepsake Quilting: Offers a rich collection of high-quality cotton quilting fabrics, kits, and notions.
- Shabby Fabrics: Your trusted destination for high-quality quilting fabrics, bundles, and exclusive kits.
- eQuilter: Boasts one of the largest online selections of high-quality quilt fabrics.
- Fabric Shack: A top retailer of quilting fabric, supplying quilters around the world.
Tips for Success
To ensure your “Two by Two” quilt turns out perfectly and provides endless enjoyment, keep these tips in mind:
- Fussy Cutting is Key: Take your time when fussy cutting your novelty prints. This is where you frame a specific image or motif to be centered in your block, enhancing the “I Spy” element.
- Accurate Cutting: Precision is paramount in quilting! Use a rotary cutter, self-healing mat, and a good ruler for accurate cuts. “Measure twice, cut once!”
- Maintain a 1/4-inch Seam: A consistent 1/4-inch seam allowance is crucial for your blocks to fit together perfectly. Consider investing in a 1/4-inch presser foot for your machine.
- Pressing Matters: Press your seams carefully. Often, pressing seams to the darker fabric can prevent show-through. Alternatively, pressing seams open can reduce bulk.
- Layout Your Design: Before sewing, lay out all your “I Spy” blocks and coordinating squares on a design wall or the floor to finalize your arrangement. This helps ensure a balanced and appealing look.
- Don’t Fear Improvisation: If you find a fabric you love that isn’t exactly “paired,” don’t be afraid to create an “odd one out” for extra fun, as one quilter suggested!
Watch the Tutorial
Seeing is believing, and learning from an expert is invaluable! Enhance your quilting journey by watching Colleen Tauke’s detailed video tutorial for the “Two by Two” quilt.
FAQ
What is an “I Spy” quilt?
An “I Spy” quilt is a playful quilt made with many different novelty fabrics, often featuring recognizable objects, animals, or characters. The goal is for children (or adults!) to “spy” and identify specific items within the quilt blocks. The “Two by Two” variation focuses on finding matching pairs.
Is this pattern suitable for beginners?
Yes, the “Two by Two” quilt is an excellent project for quilters of all levels, including enthusiastic beginners. The core techniques involve basic piecing and fussy cutting, which are great skills to develop early in your quilting journey.
How do I choose fabrics for an “I Spy” quilt?
Look for fabrics with clear, distinct images that are easy to identify. Variety is key! The more different images you have, the more engaging your “I Spy” game will be. Don’t be afraid to mix and match colors and styles, as long as the images stand out.
What is fussy cutting?
Fussy cutting is a technique where you precisely cut a specific motif or image from a fabric to feature it prominently in a quilt block, rather than just cutting a random section of the fabric. It’s perfect for highlighting the fun images in an “I Spy” quilt.
How long does it typically take to make a quilt like this?
The time it takes can vary greatly depending on your experience level, the size of the quilt, and how much time you can dedicate each day. As a beginner, focusing on accuracy over speed will lead to a more satisfying finished project.
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Download Your FREE “Two by Two” Quilt Pattern!
About the Designer
Colleen Tauke is a highly respected quilter, designer, and quilt educator with over 40 years of sewing experience, 17 of which have been dedicated to quilting. She is known for her approachable teaching style and has been a sewing specialist for Fons & Porter’s Love of Quilting magazine and PBS television. Colleen has contributed numerous quilt designs to various Fons & Porter magazines and has created hundreds of instructional videos, making complex techniques accessible to all. She teaches classes, tests patterns, and creates custom quilts, sharing her passion with both beginners and seasoned quilters alike. Her work often focuses on inspiring creativity and making quilting a joyful experience.
Ready to Create Your Own “I Spy” Adventure?
The “Two by Two” quilt pattern by Colleen Tauke is a truly special project that combines the art of quilting with the joy of discovery. Whether you’re making it for a cherished little one or simply for the pure fun of it, this quilt promises a rewarding experience from the first cut to the final stitch. Gather your favorite novelty prints, embrace the spirit of play, and get ready to create a quilt that will be loved and explored for years to come. Happy quilting!
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