Calendula in Abode

August 17, 2024

If you're a quilting fabric aficionado and Art Gallery Fabrics fan, you may have noticed that I have used their fabrics on several projects both recently and way back in the archives. I discovered AGF around 2018 and have fallen in love with both the artistry of their designers and quality of their quilting cottons.

When Cait and I were invited to make a Calendula quilt for Maureen Cracknell's new Abode collection lookbook, we were thrilled! I have used several of Maureen's fabrics in previous quilts, and enjoy her whimsical floral style. The fabric in the True Blue Calendula was her work as well!

The lookbook team suggested a green background using one of the coordinating Pure Solids and wow - it totally changes the look relative to a white background! We loved it! Because of the colored background we opted to match the middles of the plus blocks with the ring to maximize the impact of her prints in this collection - in the cover photo of Calendula we mixed them up instead. I love how easy it is to customize this pattern.

We had the chance to use the new AGF pre-printed 2 1/2" binding yardage - it's pretty fun! Binding is one of my favorite parts of the quilting process, so I love seeing designers put thought and intentional design into the little details like binding. Cait found it easy to cut and work with, even with the bulk of the flannel.

This was my first time using AGF flannel as well! It's so soft and I'm sure it won't be the last time. Cait and I both adore minky quilts, but there's a significant weighty feel to a quilt finished with minky that isn't always what I'm after. I anticipate flannel being a good fit for my family, who loves soft-backed quilts, when I want a lighter option.

What a fun project and great experience working with the team over at AGF! It was a real treat to get the opportunity to work with this new collection.

Happy sewing!

Rebecca

Fabric details:

Main: Abode by Maureen Cracknell for Art Gallery Fabrics
Accent: Affinity Jade (Abode)
Background: Pure Solids in Zambia Stone by AGF
Binding: 2.5" Edition - Homebound Binding (Abode)
Backing: Affinity Shine Flannel (Abode)

Pattern Details: Calendula Quilt

How about 20 quilts in one pattern?! Calendula is a beginner friendly pattern that comes in two variations, five sizes, and either variation can be modified to an even simpler block.

Choose from a scrappy design or two-color version
Want a faster, simpler block or featuring large scale fabrics? Choose the beginner modification that uses a solid square in the middle of the plus blocks
Layer cake and fat quarter friendly
Includes sizes baby-king

Skill level: Beginner

Find Calendula in the Pattern Shop