Crazy Quilt It

For this project, I’m going to show you how to crazy quilt with no raw edges showing rather than simply layering and topstitching fabric scraps as done on Jean Jacket Re-Vision (page 39). This technique is often referred to as “stitch and flip.” Make sure the scraps you’re using have straight edges.

Take your cut muslin to the sewing machine along with your straight-edged fabric scraps.

1. Place a scrap right side down in the middle of the muslin. Using a ¼” seam allowance, sew an edge of the scrap to the muslin. Then flip it right side up with the seam underneath. Press. (A)

2. Place another scrap right side down on top of the piece you just sewed, with a long raw edge matching. Again using a ¼” seam allowance, sew on the new piece, flip, and press. (B)

3. Continue adding pieces until the muslin is covered. You’ll notice as you go that you need longer and longer strips. You can use long strips of a fabric, or you can create long strips by sewing together several pieces before you sew them to the muslin. You’ll also see that angles are created as you go. Simply place the next strip farther back so when you flip it, it covers the odd angles. (C)

4. When finished, apply decorative stitches (on the sewing machine or by hand; I used my machine) on each of the seams for that vintage crazy quilt flair. You can go “crazy” here with your stitches and use many different types.