Quick Answer

The Panel Mash-Up Book gives you a clear method to cut, mix, and reassemble fabric panels into unique quilts—no need to follow a single panel design exactly.

Why This Approach Works

Fabric panels often come with large-scale prints that can be tricky to quilt as-is. The Panel Mash-Up Book teaches you to deconstruct those prints into smaller, manageable pieces, then recombine them with coordinating fabrics for a balanced look.

Co-authored by Gudrun Erla and Doug Leko, the patterns are named after songs, adding a playful layer to each project. This book is ideal if you want to use up panel stash or create one-of-a-kind gifts.

Steps to Turn Panels into Quilts with the Panel Mash-Up Book

  1. Choose Your Panel and Coordinating Fabrics: Select a fabric panel that you want to feature. Then pull 3-5 coordinating solids or prints that complement the panel's colors. The book suggests using fabrics that contrast slightly to make the panel pieces pop. Common mistake: picking fabrics that blend too much. Contrast helps define the panel motifs.
  2. Deconstruct the Panel into Sections: Follow the book's cutting diagrams to slice the panel into strips or blocks. Each project specifies exactly where to cut so you preserve key motifs. Use a rotary cutter and ruler for accuracy. Checkpoint: label each piece with a sticky note as you cut to avoid confusion during reassembly.
  3. Mix Panel Pieces with Coordinating Fabrics: Rearrange the cut panel pieces with your coordinating fabrics as shown in the pattern. The book's layouts ensure the panel motifs are distributed evenly across the quilt top. Common mistake: placing all large panel pieces together. Spread them out for visual balance.
  4. Sew the Quilt Top: Sew the pieces together in the order specified by the pattern. Press seams open or to one side as directed. The book includes pressing tips to reduce bulk at seam intersections. Checkpoint: press after every few seams to keep the top flat and accurate.
  5. Add Borders and Finish: Attach any borders called for in the pattern, then layer with batting and backing. Quilt as desired—the book recommends simple straight-line or meandering quilting to let the panel motifs shine. Common mistake: overquilting. Let the panel designs be the star by using a subtle quilting pattern.

Product Spotlight

  • Panel Mash-Up Book GE-525: Panel Mash-Up is a brand-new book packed with creative ways to turn fabric panels into dynamic quilts, co-authored by Gudrun Erla of GE Designs and Doug Leko of Antler Quilt Design. You get expert techniques from two well-known quilters, ensuring the methods are tested and yield professional-looking results.

    Panel Mash-Up Book GE-525

    Panel Mash-Up Book GE-525