One Patch Charm Quilts: Day One

 I came across a new book in my library that features one patch quilts. It's aptly titled: 20 To Make One-Patch Quilts by Carolyn Forster.

One Patch Quilts by Carolyn Forster

This reminded me of all my own one-patch quilts I've made over the years. I asked Carolyn if I could share my journey and quilts as they relate to her book. Of course, she graciously said "yes." It seems that my enthusiasm about the book is because she also is enthusiastic about these little gems.

The quilt on the cover is a quilt I've never made before. It's a Clamshell and it's always made me nervous thinking about hand stitching the curved edges. Just to let you know: I'm making one right now - I'll keep you posted.

Now, let's see some of my own one-patch quilts. Carolyn has 20 lovely projects in order from simple to very challenging. The first, of course, is the simple Charm Quilt composed of squares.

Here is a set of 5" charm squares from a few years ago. Any size square will do for a simple Charm quilt.

Various 5" charm squares

Here's a quilt I made about 30 years ago using real scraps and leftovers! The squares finish to 1-1/2" and the quilt is 29" x 29". I machine quilted it in straight lines. No hand piecing anywhere (not even the binding). This sits quietly in my living room, draped over the arm of a chair. Being that old keeps her from a lot of activity!

Check out Carolyn's book on her website to see more quilts. Her book has several pages at the beginning devoted to techniques - both hand and machine. Lots of good info throughout.

I'll be back soon with another quilt made using a simple, single shape.