Quick Answer
To choose the perfect Sew Kind of Wonderful quilt pattern, first assess your comfort with curved piecing and following multi-step instructions. Beginners should start with patterns like Posh Kitty or Posh Pack that use the QCR Mini Ruler, while confident quilters can tackle Text Me or Moon Dance for more complex curves. Consider your desired quilt size, fabric requirements, and the specific ruler needed.
Text Me
Choosing a quilt pattern can feel overwhelming, especially when you're drawn to the beautiful curved designs Sew Kind of Wonderful is known for. The key is to match the pattern's complexity to your current skills and confidence. This guide breaks down the decision into clear rules, so you can pick a project that will be enjoyable, not frustrating.
Sew Kind of Wonderful patterns range from small, quick projects to large, intricate quilts. The difficulty often depends on the ruler required—the Wonder Curve Ruler or the QCR Mini Ruler—and the number of pieces and layout complexity. By understanding these factors, you'll find a pattern that fits your skill level and helps you grow as a quilter.
Assess Your Comfort with Curves
The first step in choosing a Sew Kind of Wonderful pattern is to honestly evaluate your experience with curved piecing. If you've never sewn curves before, look for patterns that use the QCR Mini Ruler, which is designed for smaller projects and may feel more manageable. Patterns like Posh Kitty and Posh Pack are excellent starting points because they involve smaller pieces and simpler curve shapes.
If you're comfortable with curves and have used the Wonder Curve Ruler, you can consider patterns like Text Me or Moon Dance. Text Me features curvy alphabet blocks that require precise piecing, while Moon Dance creates an illusion of overlapping colors, which adds a layer of complexity. Assess your ability to follow detailed instructions and manage multiple fabric pieces.
- Start with a small project like a bag or mini quilt to practice curves before committing to a full-size quilt.
Consider the Required Ruler
Each Sew Kind of Wonderful pattern specifies a ruler: the Wonder Curve Ruler (QCR) or the QCR Mini Ruler. If you already own one, that can narrow your choices. The QCR Mini Ruler is used for smaller projects like Posh Kitty and Posh Pack, which are great for beginners. The full-size Wonder Curve Ruler is needed for larger quilts like Text Me and Metro Waves.
If you don't own either ruler, factor the cost into your decision. The QCR Mini Ruler might be a more affordable entry point if you're just trying curved piecing. Alternatively, if you're ready for a bigger commitment, investing in the Wonder Curve Ruler opens up a wider range of patterns. Remember, the ruler is reusable for many projects, so consider it a long-term investment.
- Check the pattern requirements before buying to ensure you have the correct ruler.
Evaluate Quilt Size and Fabric Needs
Patterns come in various finished sizes, from 50" x 50" lap quilts to 69" x 80" bed quilts. Think about the space you have for quilting and the time you want to invest. Smaller quilts like Posh Kitty (50" x 50") are quicker to finish and require less fabric, making them ideal for beginners or those with limited time.
Larger patterns like Posh Penelope (69" x 80") or Metro Waves (54" x 72") offer a more substantial project but require more fabric and time. Also, look at the fabric requirements: some patterns are scrappy, using many different fabrics, while others use a limited palette. Choose a pattern that matches your fabric stash and budget.
- If you're unsure about a pattern's size, visualize it in your room to ensure it fits your intended use.
Look for Patterns That Teach New Skills
A great pattern not only fits your skill level but also helps you improve. For beginners, patterns with clear instructions and simple repetition, like Posh Kitty, build confidence. Intermediate quilters might enjoy Posh Penelope, which combines curves with on-point sashing and cornerstones, adding a new layout challenge.
Advanced quilters may seek patterns that push their precision, such as Text Me, which involves piecing letters and numbers, or Moon Dance, which creates optical illusions. These patterns require careful color placement and exact piecing. Choose a pattern that offers a learning opportunity without causing frustration.
- Read the pattern description to see what techniques are featured, such as sashing or color illusions.
Decision Rules for Choosing Your Pattern
- If you're a beginner: Choose a small project that uses the QCR Mini Ruler, like Posh Kitty or Posh Pack. These have fewer pieces and simpler curves, allowing you to practice without feeling overwhelmed. Start with Posh Kitty for a quick win.
- If you're intermediate: Look for patterns that introduce new layout elements, such as Posh Penelope with on-point sashing. These patterns offer a challenge without being too complex. Posh Penelope is a great next step.
- If you're advanced: Seek patterns that require precision and offer creative freedom, like Text Me or Moon Dance. These will push your skills and produce stunning results. Text Me or Moon Dance will satisfy your craving for complexity.
Patterns to Consider
- Posh Kitty (Paper): 50" x 50" quilt pattern to be made with the QCR Mini Ruler. Materials include focus cat fabric, accent fabric, black, background, backing, and binding. This pattern is a great starting point for beginners because it uses the QCR Mini Ruler and has a manageable size. The limited fabric list makes it easy to gather supplies.
- Posh Penelope (Paper): 69" x 80" scrappy quilt pattern that combines curves with on-point sashing and cornerstones. Materials include many assorted focus and background fabrics. This pattern is ideal for intermediate quilters ready to tackle a larger project with more complex layout. The scrappy nature allows you to use your stash creatively.
- Text Me: 42-page book produced in collaboration with Sherilyn Mortensen. Features curvy interpretation of alphabet, numbers, and bonus sticker blocks. Requires the Wonder Curve Ruler. This book offers endless possibilities for advanced quilters who enjoy detailed piecing and want to create personalized quilts with letters and numbers. The Wonder Curve Ruler is essential.
- Moon Dance (Paper): 64" x 80" pattern that creates an illusion of overlapping areas appearing to change color. Uses three colors; cover quilt made with Hoffman Fabrics batiks. This pattern is perfect for advanced quilters who want to experiment with color theory and optical effects. The illusion requires precise cutting and piecing.
Which Pattern Fits You?
Best for
- Beginners who want to learn curved piecing with a small, manageable project (e.g., Posh Kitty).
- Intermediate quilters ready to tackle a larger quilt with new layout techniques (e.g., Posh Penelope).
- Advanced quilters who enjoy detailed, intricate designs and have experience with the Wonder Curve Ruler (e.g., Text Me, Moon Dance).
Not for
- Beginners who don't yet own a QCR Mini Ruler and prefer to invest in the full-size Wonder Curve Ruler first.
- Quilters who want a quick, small project but are drawn to large patterns like Moon Dance; those require significant time and fabric.
Choosing the right Sew Kind of Wonderful pattern comes down to honestly assessing your skills, the ruler you have or are willing to buy, and the size and complexity you're ready for. Start with a pattern that excites you but doesn't intimidate, and you'll enjoy the process and the beautiful curved results. Happy quilting!
