I have to admit that I'm becoming a little tired of making rag quilts from squares and rectangles. Don't get me wrong -- I love all rag quilts, but it's time for something a bit different.
The traditional Indian Hatchet quilt block was a logical choice for a rag quilt. It's triangular areas aren't too small and fussy, and the block is easy to sew using quick piecing techniques. The Indian Hatchet rag quilt quilt isn't difficult to make, but it is important to stay organized as you work, so that like-areas are easy to find when it's time for final assembly.
Rag quilts are warm and cuddly, especially if you include a middle, or batting, layer. I prefer to use flannel batting for rag quilts, because it isn’t as thick as a regular batting and because it remains stable in the finished quilt, just like any other fabric. Quilting stitches aren't required when flannel (or other fabric) batting is used.
Flannel frays nicely, making your ragged edges a bit more lush than they would be if you either omitted the middle layer or used quilting cottons in that spot. Do keep in mind that a middle layer adds more weight to the quilt, and the larger the quilt, the heavier it will be. Omit the batting layer if you prefer.
Be as careful as possible when you stack and sew fabrics, but try not to worry too much about perfection. Rag quilts provide comfort, and you’ll find that people are not afraid to actually use them, something they often hesitate to do with our overly fussy quilts. Rag quilts are perfect for snuggling up with on a chilly night or taking along in the car when you travel in wintry weather.
You’ll find that it’s easier to sew multiple layers accurately when you use a walking foot, also called an even-feed presser foot, but a special foot is not required. Mine had gone missing when I assembled this quilt, and although it does have some bobbles, it’s warm and comfy and not terribly mismatched.
If you've never made a rag quilt, be sure to become familiar with rag quilt basic instructions before you begin. You might also consider making my easy four-patch rag quilt first.
The Indian Hatchet rag quilt finishes at about 55" x 73" as shown. Add borders to the quilt to increase its size.
Take a look at the reverse side of this rag quilt -- it's made from very different fabrics.
