12 Quilted Projects to Make that Aren’t Quilts!
Quilt piecing techniques are helpful for so many other projects besides just quilts! You can create bags, pillows, and even home decor items! Here are over a dozen clever, quilted projects to sew that aren’t quilts!
When most people think of quilting, they imagine a cozy, intricately pieced quilt created with love and skill. But quilting is much more versatile than just making quilts!
If you’re a quilter looking for a new challenge or want to create a smaller, less time-consuming project, here are some fun and functional quilted projects that aren’t quilts.
1. Quilted Tote Bags
Quilted tote bags are a great way to showcase your quilting skills while creating something practical and stylish.
These bags can be customized with various fabrics, patterns, and colors to match your style. They are also perfect for carrying groceries, books, or quilting supplies. A quilted tote bag makes for a thoughtful and personalized gift, too.
2. Quilted Table Runners
Add a touch of handmade charm to your dining table with a quilted table runner. This project allows you to experiment with different fabrics and designs, making it a great way to use up scraps from previous projects.
Simple Fat Quarter Table Runner Tutorial
A quilted table runner can be seasonal, with festive colors for holidays that complement your everyday décor.
3. Quilted Pillows
Quilted pillows are a quick and satisfying project that can instantly refresh your home décor. They are also a fun way to decorate for the Holidays!
Pillows are a great way to try new quilting techniques on a smaller scale before committing to a larger project.
Handy tip
If you are creating quilted pillow covers that are seasonal (for Christmas, Halloween, Easter etc) Make all of your pillows the same size and add a zipper closure to the back. That way you can purchase one set of pillow forms and simply swap out the covers each season. This also makes storage of seasonal pillows very simple!
4. Quilted Wall Hangings
If you want to turn your quilting into art, consider making a quilted wall hanging. These pieces can be as simple or complex as you like, ranging from abstract designs to detailed landscapes.
The Heart of Hearts Quilt shown as a Wall Hanging.
A quilted wall hanging can bring warmth and texture to any room, and it’s a beautiful way to showcase your creativity.
5. Quilted Clothing
Yes, you can wear your quilts! Quilted jackets, vests, and even skirts are trending in fashion. These garments combine comfort with style, making them perfect for cooler weather.
When making quilted clothing, it is important to choose lightweight fabrics and consider the garment’s fit and construction. The result is a one-of-a-kind piece that reflects your personality.
Looking for ideas? Check out:
- Quilt coat at Shannon Fraser Designs – she sells the pattern for the patchwork on the back of the jacket.
- Beachcomber Quilted Jacket at Laundry Basket Quilts
- Patchwork Chore Coat
6. Quilted Pot Holders and Oven Mitts
Quilted pot holders and oven mitts are perfect for adding a handmade touch to your kitchen or as a gift for friends and family.
The Potholder Parade Quilted Hot Pad Pattern
They’re quick to make and allow you to experiment with different fabrics and quilting patterns. Plus, they’re functional! Just be sure to use heat-resistant batting to ensure safety.
7. Quilted Notebook Covers
For those who love to journal or sketch, a quilted notebook cover is a fun and creative project. These covers can be customized to fit any notebook size and can include pockets for pens and other accessories.
Fabric-Covered Notebook Tutorial
It’s a practical way to use smaller fabric scraps while adding a personal touch to your stationery.
8. Quilted Christmas Ornaments
Get into the festive spirit with quilted Christmas ornaments. These small projects are perfect for using up fabric scraps and experimenting with different quilting techniques.
You can create ornaments in various shapes, like stars, hearts, or even mini stockings. They make lovely handmade gifts or add a special touch to your holiday décor.
9. Quilted Zipper Pouches
Quilted zipper pouches are versatile and handy for organizing small items like makeup, sewing supplies, or travel essentials.
Quilted Patchwork Bag Tutorial
They’re also a great project for practicing your quilting and sewing skills. With endless possibilities for fabric choices and quilting patterns, you can create a pouch that’s uniquely yours.
10. Quilted Laptop or Tablet Sleeves
Protect your tech gadgets in style with a quilted laptop or tablet sleeve. This project showcases your quilting skills and provides a practical solution for carrying and protecting your electronics.
Our Busy Day Tablet Case Pattern: The pattern directions do not include quilting, but you can easily add machine quilting stitches before you finish the final construction steps.
You can add pockets, zippers, or closures to make it as functional as possible.
11. Quilted Mug Rugs
A mug rug is a small piece of fabric, often quilted, designed to serve as a coaster for a mug or cup. It’s larger than a typical coaster but smaller than a placemat, providing a designated and decorative space for your mug and a spot for a small snack or treat.
One of the best things about making quilted mug rugs is that they are an accessible project for both beginners and seasoned quilters.
12. Mini Quilts
I love to quilt, but sometimes, I am not in the mood to tackle a big project. That’s why I love Mini Quilts so much!
It’s all of the fun of quilting in a smaller (and faster size). If you love making mini quilts or want to venture into the hobby, you might like some of these Mini Quilt Patterns & Tutorials.
13. Quilted Baby Items
There are so many cute things you can make for a baby that aren’t quilts! These cute patchwork baby bibs are a great example! For our tutorial, we used an improv piece, but you could also cut up an older quilt or use leftover pieces from a baby quilt you made.
This is not a complete list of quilted projects you can make that aren’t quilts; a few other things that come to mind are Quilted Christmas Stockings, Quilted Witch Hats, and quilted Santa Claus Hats, too! If you have ideas or a favorite “non-quilt” project, let us know in the comments section. I’m always looking for new ideas for things to sew, and I’m sure our readers are, too!
