The Variation Bargello Quilt, specifically the Trip Around the World rendition, is a sophisticated geometric project that utilizes strategic strip piecing to create a sense of movement and depth. This pattern, meticulously designed by Chumkies, transforms standard fabric strips into a radiating diamond motif that flows from the center of the quilt to its outer edges. It is an ideal project for quilters who appreciate precision and the mathematical beauty of traditional Bargello techniques.
By following the specific color graduation and seam-ripping method outlined in this guide, makers can achieve a complex visual effect without the need for individual square-by-square piecing. The process involves creating a continuous “tube” of fabric strips, which is then sliced into varying widths to produce the characteristic Bargello “wave” or “step” appearance. This variation is particularly effective for showcasing a spectrum of colors or a curated collection of tonal prints.
Mastering the Variation Bargello Quilt: A Detailed Guide to the Trip Around the World Design
Why This Bargello Variation Stands Out
The Variation Bargello Quilt is a standout design because it simplifies what often looks like an impossible task. Unlike traditional patchwork that requires cutting and pinning hundreds of individual squares, this pattern relies on the strip-set method. By sewing long strips of fabric together first, you ensure that your seams are perfectly aligned before you ever make a vertical cut.
This specific “Trip Around the World” variation creates a symmetrical, radiating pattern that is visually grounding. It is an excellent choice for a focal-point bed quilt or a striking wall hanging. The logic of the pattern also allows for scalability; once you understand the sequence of the “tube” method, you can easily adjust the number of strips to change the finished size of the quilt.
Material Requirements and Fabric Selection
The success of a Bargello quilt depends heavily on your fabric choices. To achieve the intended “glow” in the center of the diamond, you should select fabrics that offer a clear value gradient (from light to dark).
- Strip Width: This pattern typically utilizes 2.5-inch strips, making it compatible with standard Jelly Rolls or custom-cut yardage.
- Fabric Count: You will generally need 7 to 10 different fabrics to create a smooth transition in the Bargello sequence.
- Contrast: Ensure there is enough contrast between adjacent fabrics so the “steps” of the Bargello remain visible.
Before you begin cutting your main project, it is often helpful to review essential quilting tools to ensure your rotary cutter and rulers are prepared for the precision required for these long, straight cuts.
Key Construction Techniques
The construction of the Variation Bargello involves sewing your strips into a large panel and then sewing the top strip to the bottom strip to form a tube. This tube is then cut into vertical segments of specific widths. By using a seam ripper to open the tube at a different seam for each segment, the colors “shift” up or down, creating the staggered Bargello effect.
As you assemble these segments, maintaining a scant 1/4 inch seam allowance is critical. If your seams are inconsistent, the horizontal lines of the Bargello will not align, and the diamond shape will look distorted. If you are new to this level of precision, you might find it useful to practice how to square up a quilt block techniques to ensure your final quilt top remains flat and rectangular.
Tips for Success
Label Your Strips: Use small stickers or pins with numbers (1 through 10) to keep your fabrics in the correct order. In a Bargello, one misplaced strip can disrupt the entire visual flow.
Pressing: Press your seams in alternating directions for each row. This allows you to “nest” the seams when joining the vertical segments, resulting in perfectly sharp corners.
Starch: Consider using fabric starch before cutting your strips. This gives the fabric more stability and prevents the long strips from stretching out of shape during the sewing process.
Download the Pattern and Start Piecing
The full PDF pattern provided by Chumkies includes detailed diagrams for the strip layout and the specific cutting widths for each segment. This resource is essential for tracking which seam to open at each stage of the “Trip Around the World” construction.
Once your quilt top is finished, you will need to consider the final layers. For advice on the internal structure of your project, see our guide on choosing the best quilt batting to complement the drape and warmth of your Bargello masterpiece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this pattern suitable for beginners?
While the sewing itself involves only straight lines, the organizational aspect makes this an intermediate project. A beginner with strong attention to detail and good organizational skills can certainly succeed.
Can I use a Jelly Roll for this pattern?
Yes. Since the pattern is based on 2.5-inch strips, a Jelly Roll is a perfect starting point. However, you must ensure the Jelly Roll has enough repeating colors to complete the full gradient required for the Bargello effect.
How do I stop the long strips from bowing?
To prevent “the banana effect” (where long strips curve), sew your strips in alternating directions. Sew the first two strips from top to bottom, then sew the third strip from bottom to top.
Where to Buy Fabrics
To find the perfect gradient for your Bargello, we recommend these reliable retailers:
Join Our Quilting Community
Connect with fellow quilters, share your Bargello progress, and get help with your projects in these active Facebook groups:
Creating a Variation Bargello Quilt is a rewarding journey that blends technical skill with artistic expression. By using the Trip Around the World layout, you create a timeless piece that honors the history of Bargello while utilizing modern strip-piecing efficiency. Whether you choose a monochromatic blue palette for a calming effect or a vibrant rainbow for a bold statement, this pattern provides the perfect framework for a stunning finish.
Is this quilt sometimes call Around the World?
Rohr Jan I really don’t know, but I’m going to do some research and I’m going to try to see something about it, at least the designer who saw this work, I don’t remember reading about it, even her website is in the article. I will even look again thank you very much for her question.
Yes, it is Trip Around the World, a traditional quilt pattern dating back to the early 20th centuries. There are many books and videos on how to make this quilt.
Hello Esther! you have the movie and link your channel youtube for me put here in? Ofc if you want!
Trying to download the “Variation Bargello” pattern. When I click on the “free download” nothing happens.
Hello Lori the pattern sent your mail
Wow Would love this pattern as heard about bargello but never done one, so off to cut my strips. Thank you
Looks a lot like an around the world quilt, but seeing the bigger picture, it may look more like a bargello. Please send me the pattern. thanks.
see your mail
Hi, cannot access the small bargello pattern. Can you help?
Johnnie pls see your mail! really was with problem the link for download. We sent the pattern for you. pls see you box mail
Trying to download Variation Bargello … click on free download I don’t get anything.
Please let me know if there is a backdoor somewhere. Thanks
Johnnie sorry! Really the link for download is with error! Pls see your mail, we sent for you!”
Would love the pattern, please
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Download will not open shows password protected
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I would love to have this pattern. Love it!
Pls Cathy, see your mail, now ok!
Can’t access the pattern. Would like to try this.
Pls Connie see your mail! now ok
Could I please get the pattern.
Thank you, Sherry Phillips
the pattern was send to you!
Could I please get the pattern
the pattern was send for you
Can you please send the variation bargello pattern to my email?
Hello Renee you can see your mail !
I love this quilt! Can you pleas send me the variation pattern for the smaller blocks?
Hello Peggy! We have sent you the pattern, please check your mailbox.
Can’t find the pattern!! Help please
Hello Joyce! We have sent you the pattern, please check your mailbox.
Could I please get the pattern?
Hello Lynette! We have sent you the pattern, please check your mailbox.
Please send me the variation bargello pattern. Love it! Thank you so much.
Hello Irene! We have sent you the pattern, please check your mailbox.
Could you please send the pattern? I love the sunflowers!
Hello Joyce! We have sent you the pattern, please check your mailbox.
Can’t download this pattern
Hello Jennifer! We have sent you the pattern, please check your mailbox.
Could I please have the pattern. Thanks
Hello Susan! We have sent you the pattern, please check your mailbox.
I have tried to download numerous patterns and given my email. Never have received one!
Hello CArolyn! We have sent you the pattern, please check your mailbox.
Hi, could you please send me the Variation -Bargello- Pattern
Hello Maria! We have sent you the pattern, please check your mailbox.
This is third different times I have asked for a download and never received??
Hello Sharon! We have sent you the pattern, please check your mailbox.
Is there a way to get this pattern? It is beautiful
Hello Debbie! We have sent you the pattern, please check your mailbox.
Would love the pattern
I’d like the bargello pattern. I think I need to make the heart!
Would love the pattern. [email protected]. Thank you!
Hello Laura Diko! We have sent you the pattern, please check your mailbox.
This looks like a good Valentine quilt for me. However, I cannot figure out how to download the pattern. Can anyone help?
Mary please, see you mail!
Would love to get the pattern. Can someone fix the link?
Hello Pete! We have sent you the pattern, please check your mailbox.