Rags 'n Strings is a quilt that combines string piecing and rag quilting. Make a small quilt like mine, or assemble a larger version. Because I publish so many patterns, I made a very small sample, just to get it online quickly, and will probably use it as a pillow cover. The quilt will look much nicer as a larger version.
The quilt pattern instructions are on more pages than normal, because I wanted to share several images that are important for beginners. A quick glance at these images is probably all you need, so printing them might not be necessary. When you print my patterns, always use the "print" link in the upper right area of the page -- it strips out unnecessary items and leaves only the quilt pattern instructions and images.
Before You Begin
If string piecing is a new technique for you, read How to Make a String Pieced Quilt before you begin this project.
The blocks I made for the Rags 'n Strings quilt do not look exactly like the block in the "how to" example -- you can make either version. Take a close look at both and decide which you like best.
- In the "how to," four square string blocks are sewn together to create a large quilt block with strings that radiate outwards to form box-line shapes from the block center. Ragged edges flow horizontally and vertically.
- In the blocks used in Rags 'n Strings, square blocks are each divided once diagonally to create triangles, and four triangles are sewn back together to make a square. Strings form a pinwheel-like arrangement. Ragged edges flow on block diagonals.
Block sizes will differ somewhat depending on how you break units apart and sew them back together.
String Quilt Options
String piecing is a flexible method. You can sew strings onto large squares of foundation and then cut the foundation apart (in our case, into 6" x 6" squares). Or you can string piece onto long strips of fabric and then cut squares from the strips. No matter which method you choose, your foundation must be slightly oversize to allow for squaring it up after the strings are sewn to it, because the foundation will become distorted and slightly smaller as you work.
Yardage for Small Quilt
Fabrics for Strings
It's difficult to predict yardage for a freehand technique like string piecing. Gather an assortment of strings in different widths. If you create blocks on long, narrow foundations, you'll need 70-85 strips that range in width from 1-1/4" to 1-3/4".
If you string piece in a straight up and down manner, 6-1/2" long strips will work. If you piece diagonally, you'll need strips a couple of inches longer (or more, depending on placement angle).
Backing for String Blocks
- (5) 6" x 6" squares
Foundation
- One fabric strip about 6-1/2" x 38" and one 6-1/2" x 26 (or equivalent)
Blocks from Plain Squares
- 3 strips about 7-1/2" x 32" (one strip for fronts, one for backs, one for "batting"
