QM Patterns: Nautical Waves

 Instructions

For help with all phases of the quiltmaking process, see Basic Lessons.

Illustrations within the pattern include tabs that show which direction seam allowances should be pressed. Press border seam allowances away from the quilt center.

Step 1 About This Quilt

Two simple blocks pieced with contrasting values create this active two-color design. The original pattern, Patriot Waves in Quiltmaker July/August '05 (No. 104), calls for three colors. If you cannot find this issue at your local quilt shop, order back issues at www.VillageQuiltShoppe.com.

Step 2 Making the Quilt Top

Make a unit 1 following the stitch-and-flip method: Align a dark blue A on a light blue B where shown, right sides together. Sew from corner to corner and trim the seam allowance to 1/4". Open the A patch and press the seam allowances away from B. Repeat this process with another dark blue A as shown. Make 16 unit 1's.

Continue following the stitch-and-flip method. Using the appropriate patches, make the unit 2's-6's as given below, paying close attention to the angles sewn.


Referring to the block piecing diagrams, join the units and A patches to make the Y and Z blocks.



Join the blocks to make the rows. Turning every other row upside down, join the rows.

Sew the border #1 side strips to the quilt and trim any extra length. Add the border #1 top and bottom strips in the same way. Repeat to add border #2.

Step 3 Quilting and Finishing

Slightly stretch the backing wrong side up and pin or tape in place. Center the batting and quilt top over the backing and baste the layers together.

Quilt the blocks in the ditch. Quilt wavy lines across the quilt as shown.

Join the binding strips and finish the edges of the quilt with this strip.