May 17, 2010
Does someone know of an easy quilt pattern (full size) that would be suitable for my father?
Posted by: : Category: Quilting
He is retired and has been a widower for over 30 years. I do a bit of padding, but if I do something that is too “fancy” looking, I know good and well that does not use it, but put aside savings for an obscure “later”. So I need something that is very masculine and simple, but something I can put a little work. Is the issue rather complicated?
May 17th, 2010 at 8:22 pm
I would suggest a simple patchwork quilt, using darker colors he likes. Try a combination of deep blue, forest green, rich purple, medium grey, burgundy, and brown. It’ll be really gorgeous, but the grey and brown will keep it from looking too fancy. Use the simplest big-block squares or rectangles pattern you can find, maybe 4 blocks wide by 5 or 6 blocks high. If you want it to really be used, I would suggest using flannels and corduroys and denims or even plain old washcotton — depending on where you all live. If the fabrics are something he knows is a plain thing, he may be willing to use it. Back it with flannel.
Honestly, wash it two or three times (not just once) before giving it to him. This will help it to look more like it’s really something to be used. It’ll take a little of that ‘new’ feel off it.
May 17th, 2010 at 8:40 pm
i think a log cabin pattern is very masculine, i agree, use darker colors and some of his favorite textures.
May 17th, 2010 at 9:02 pm
Different flannels would be my first choice. If he wears flannel or plaid shirts, use some fabric from a couple of his old shirts. Or fabric similar to the types of shirts he wears.
The pattern called “Turning Twenty” would be a good choice. It can be made into different sizes, depending on how many fat quarters you use. This uses larger pieces, so it goes together quickly, and allows plenty of room for quilting designs.
The backing could be flannel or chambray (lightweight denim). Or a cotton with a design that shows an interest of his, ie. fishing, sports, cars, etc.
The quilt I made for my dad had a 12 squares and each showed a different interest of his. I backed it with flannel because he always wore flannel shirts in the winter. It’s similar to the ones I’m doing for my kids, which you can see at the link below.