FUN PROJECT IDEAS FOR THE NATURE'S CREATURES COLLECTION

One applique collection with endless possibilities! What will you make?

The Nature's Creatures applique collection is a range of 16 little critters, but the best part is each design can be rotated to make its own pattern repeat and unique quilt-as-you-go quilt. Say, you like the Butterfly; you can use this pattern to create a stunning quilt as you go quilt like this:

You get the idea...

There is so much that you can do with this versatile applique series, it’s up to you, and we’d love to see what you create!

So here are the details:

Background fabric:

Each design starts with an 18” (45 cm) square.

Actual applique design size:

13” (33 cm) square.

IDEA 1: FRAMED TEXTILE ARTWORK

This is just a fun and achievable way to start making appliques because there is no pressure to put them into a quilt. You can hand sew or embroider details and then hang it proudly for all to see! After all, quilting and applique is a beautiful and skillful art form and deserves a stunning frame. Not only that, your framed textile arts make thoughtful gifts, and you can also upcycle frames from your local thrift store. (Definitely a fun school holiday project for kids).

To frame:

The Ladybug design will fit a 14” (36 cm) square frame.

This 4-minute video shows a no-sew applique method and an easy way to frame an applique design in a photo frame.

IDEA 2: CUSHION!

With Gucci designing stunning cushions for thousands of dollars, why not create your own ornamental cushions to wow yourself with your outstanding work when you return to bed at night?

This design will make a 17” (43 cm) finished cushion.

This 7-minute video shows how to quilt an applique block and how to make a no zipper cushion:

DIY Quick & Easy No Zipper Cushion With Koala Applique Design! - YouTube

This 8-minute video shows a really easy way to insert a zipper in the back of an applique cushion.

How to Make a Quick & Easy Zipper Cushion With Raw Edge Applique & Free Motion Sewing Option! - YouTube

IDEA 3: A QUILT-AS-YOU-GO QUILT OR WALL HANGING

For this idea, there are many options. We have lots of quilt-as-you-go methods on our YouTube channel. Find your favourite method and make as many Lady Beetle blocks are you like.

I have designed this applique so all the floral details line up and can make a complete flower if repeated. You could also make a wall hanging with four Lady Bugs.

Image for inspiration, the pattern does not include these instructions.

One Quilt block:

After the applique is complete:

Trim to 16 ½” square for a regular ¼” quilting seam allowance.

The finished size of the block after seam allowance is 16” square.

Wall hanging with design repeated four times:

Cut a 32” square of background fabric. Fold vertically and horizontally in half, lightly press to make centre creases. Position the applique design in each quarter of the background square. You can position it with a gap in between or edge to edge. Shapes that touch, for example, the orange flower centre, you can trace as a full piece; in this case, trace as a full circle.

IDEA 4: Make a complete quilt with the Nature’s Creatures Collection.

Quilt size: 64” square.

Requirements to make a quilt

(Requirements based on 42” wide 100% cotton quilting fabric)

Applique fabric: Use your stash, or we estimate an assortment of 12 fat quarters.

Background fabric: 4 ½” yards (4 m) Recommended is a solid or non-directional print.

Backing: Same as above.

Batting: 2 ¼ yards (2.10 m) Based on 94” (2.4 m) wide cotton batting.

Binding: ¾ yard (75 cm)

Make your quilt in a regular way or make it with your favourite quilt-as-you-go method. We have a whole playlist of quilt-as-you-go techniques on our YouTube channel, Pattern Poole TV, to get you inspired!

We can't wait to see what you make!