Trending Post: 40+ Free Baby Quilt Patterns
I hope that you’re enjoying sewing along with the Quilt Block of the Month Series here on the Polka Dot Chair Blog. I know that many of you are new or somewhat new to quilting and thought that I’d take some time and write up some Quilt Block Construction Tips. These are just little things…
I hope that you’re enjoying stitching along with the “Block of the Month” series here on the Polka Dot Chair! Today I thought I’d share with you a few more quilt block ideas and catch you up a bit on the progress that I’ve made with my personal blocks for the series! To view all the…
Add a little “sparkle” to your year by participating in the 2023 Polka Dot Chair Block of the Month program. Make a quilt one month at a time with our Starlight Sparkler quilt pattern. You’ll build your skills as the year progresses and have a lot of fun in the process! This year we’re making the…
Every year I look forward to plunging into my Google Analytics and figuring out what were my top projects for the year. I actually don’t track it during the year because I like to be surprised at the end (silly I know). After I make my “best projects of” list for that year, I carefully go…
Sometimes you want the satisfaction of finishing a quilt without committing weeks or months to the process. Quick quilt projects don’t have to look simple or rushed. By choosing patterns that use precut fabrics, strip piecing, or large blocks, you can create a polished, finished quilt in far less time. Before I dive into my…
There’s something about spring fabrics that instantly sparks creativity, maybe it’s the soft florals, cheerful pastels, or fresh ginghams that feel like a breath of fresh air after winter. If your stash is starting to fill up with pretty spring prints and you’re wondering what to make with them, you’re in the right place. In…
Our Sunday newsletter accidentally included an incorrect link. If you’re looking for the 2026 Printable Planners, you can find the information here. I’ve been sewing and quilting for years, and organization has never come naturally to me. Over time, I’ve learned that setting simple, realistic sewing goals helps me stay on track. Today I’m sharing some…
Please join me as we create the Santa’s Sampler Quilt! This Christmas quilt pattern will be shared on the Polka Dot Chair site, one block at a time, throughout December! Keep reading to find out how to play along! Last year I hosted the Festive Friends quilt along, and we’re doing it again this year,…
Looking for a bow quilt pattern that’s both classic and customizable? The Bows & Monograms Quilt Pattern combines a bow quilt block with mix-and-match seasonal and monogram options. Whether you’re stitching a keepsake baby quilt, a cheerful fall throw, or a festive holiday version, this pattern gives you the flexibility to make it your own….
Do you have a stash of Halloween fabrics you’re dying to use? If so, why not use some of that fabulous stash and create a fun Halloween quilt? If you’re looking for ideas, I’ve rounded up thirteen fun Halloween Quilt Patterns for you today! My Favorite Halloween Quilt Patterns If you’re looking for something fun…
I’m excited to share all the details for what might be my favorite quilt finish of the summer: the Blue Ribbon Shortcut quilt! This beginner-friendly, quick piece quilt is created using precut fabrics, making it a breeze to create! I was joking with my daughter the other day that this past summer felt like the…
I’m excited to share another ‘Finish it Friday” quilt project with you! This navy version of my Stripey Sails & Stars quilt pattern might be my favorite project of the summer! A few years ago, I challenged myself to work through my WIP pile and share some of my finished projects with you in a…
I recently finished a quilt that feels like summer stitched into fabric! A nine-patch quilt made using the cheerful Summer Picnic fabric collection. This quilt is all about easy strip piecing, bright colors, and those casual, breezy vibes that make you think of picnics in the park and long sunny afternoons. I have a new…
Every year, as soon as the weather warms up, I start to get the idea that I need to make a summer quilt. If you’re also looking for easy-to-construct Summer Quilt Patterns, I came across quite a few that I thought you would enjoy! I wish I had time to tackle them all; they are so…
I’m excited to share photos and information about my completed Society Sparkler Quilt with you! This quilt is a vintage-inspired pink and green sampler quilt, and I’m thrilled with how it turned out. It’s been a while since I’ve shared a “Finish it Friday” post! A couple of years ago, I was growing tired of…
The Cat Dash Quilt Pattern is a beginner-friendly cat quilt pattern made from three yards of fabric and a precut jelly roll! Today, I’m excited to introduce you to our newest quilt pattern and discuss a new kit program we are introducing to the shop! I’ve wanted to clear out some of my older fabric…
More than 20 quilt patterns perfect for Spring sewing! We gathered some of our favorite Spring quilt projects to share with you! Included are both free quilt patterns and patterns you can purchase. As the days get longer and the weather warms up, it’s a great time to pull out fresh fabrics and start a…
Here are some of our favorite tips for organizing your quilting works in progress! These are easy-to-follow, actionable tips to help you get and stay organized! Sewing and quilting are my favorite hobbies. I’m always “mentally” planning my next project, which leads to multiple works in progress (WIPs). It’s easy to misplace pieces, forget about…
Use the eight-at-a-time half-square triangle technique to quickly piece the quilt blocks needed for this adorable Pretty Pinwheels Quilted Zip Pouch! Follow along with our free sewing pattern to find out how to do it. I’m always looking for small sewing and quilting projects you can make in an afternoon. I have an enjoyable project…
From cozy blankets to adorable outfits, here are some great things to sew for a new baby. Welcoming a new baby is an exciting time, and what better way to celebrate than by creating handmade items that are both practical and sentimental? Plenty of simple yet thoughtful projects make perfect gifts for a newborn baby…
If you’re lucky enough to own a handmade quilt, you’ll want to ensure that it says beautiful for years! Our guide to properly caring for, cleaning, and storing your handmade quilts will help you keep those precious quilts looking great for generations! Ask any quilter, and they will tell you that Quilts are not blankets;…
Winter is the perfect season for quilters. With chilly days and longer nights, there’s no better time to cozy up with your sewing machine and create something warm and beautiful. If you’re looking for a fun winter project to try, I have more than 20 ideas for quilt patterns and small projects perfect for winter!…
A look back on some of the most popular free patterns, projects, and tutorials shared on the Polka Dot Chair during 2024. (quilt pattern is Stripey Sails & Stars) Each December, I enjoy looking back at the content and projects shared here on the Polka Dot Chair during the year. I love to see what…
I’m happy to share the finishing instructions for our Christmas Sampler quilt! These block setting instructions would also be great for any quilt made using 12″ quilt blocks! Hi Friends! We’ve reached the end of our Festive Friends Quilt Along! I hope that you’ve enjoyed it. I’ve had a lot of fun sewing along with…
I’m excited to introduce you to my newest quilt pattern, Stripey Sails & Stars. It’s a unique Sailboat and Star quilt pattern that can be created with Fat Quarters! Last summer, I, along with several of my friends, hosted the Summer Block Party Sew Along. Each of us shared a unique summer-themed quilt block, and…
If you’re a Disney fan, this DIY project is perfect for you! In this tutorial, we’ll teach you step-by-step how to make a personalized Mickey and Minnie Mouse canvas tote bag using fabric appliqué and thread sketching techniques. Use your sewing machine and black thread to create a unique fabric-sketched image reminiscent of classic animation…
Maintaining and organizing your sewing or quilting space effectively can make sewing more enjoyable and efficient. Here are some tips to help you keep your sewing area tidy and functional. I am not naturally an “organized person,” but I have learned over the years that I can do a few things to help “stack the…
Looking for a new quilt pattern to try out? Check out these printable quilt patterns featuring a variety of blocks and designs for quilters of all skill levels. They’re perfect for your next quilting project! The internet is full of free quilt patterns, which is lovely and overwhelming. I’ve blogged for over 15 years and…
Create a beautiful quilt perfect for Spring with our free easy to easy-to-follow Gathered Precuts Quilt Pattern. Some of you may remember last fall when I shared a free pattern on the site called Gathered Pre-Cuts. The quilt pattern was designed to use a 10-inch pre-cut stack of fabric, sometimes called a layer cake and…
Looking for a small quilt project that you can tackle in an afternoon? Why not try making a Mug Rug? If you’re looking for mug rug patterns, here are some of our favorite free quilted mug rug patterns! There’s something inherently comforting about sipping a warm beverage, especially when it comes in a mug placed…
A look back at the most popular sewing & quilting projects from 2023 as chosen by our readers! One of my favorite blog posts to write each year is my “Year in Review” post. I’ve done it almost every year that I’ve been blogging. I hit “publish” on my first blog post in early 2009,…
Our December free mug rug pattern is a cute patchwork presents mug rug made using present quilt blocks that could easily be used for other special occasions during the year! I can’t believe it’s my final mug rug pattern of the year. I hope you have enjoyed making some (or all!) of the 12 designs…
Meet my newest quilt pattern, the Peppermint Sparkler quilt! It’s fun to piece red, white, pink, and green Christmas quilt pattern that can also be made in red, white, and blue to celebrate the summer holidays! The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to infuse your home with warmth and festive cheer…
Our November Free Mug Rug Pattern is a festive, fun, free-motion quilted Christmas Tree Mug rug. Not only is this a great way to practice your free motion quilting skills, but it also makes the perfect gift! It’s time for a festive make!!! ‘Tis the season to deck the halls, trim the tree, and indulge…
If you love to make handmade gifts for the holidays but find yourself overwhelmed at times with all that you have to do, you’re not alone. We can all use a little bit of extra help during the Holidays, and today, I thought I’d do my part to help you all a bit! I’ve…
You’ve created your pillow front, but now, what do you do? How do you turn the fabric into a quilted pillow cover? Today, we will walk you through four different ways to finish or bind the edge of your pillow cover. Choose the one that works best for you! Recently, I’ve been having a lot…
Create a cute and cozy mug rug with our free mug quilt block and instructions. The Cozy Cup Mug Rug is our October free mug rug pattern designed by Amy Ball. It’s definitely cozy season now, and for me, that says a warm cider or hot chocolate with a generous serving of whipped cream. And…
Create a snuggly lap quilt out of 3 yards of fabric and a Jelly Roll of fabric with our free Scrappy Triangles Quilt Pattern! Today, I have a special guest tutorial for you! Traci of Quilted Imperfection is sharing with us how she makes her scrappy quilts! You may remember that she created this Wonky…
Use our fun mix-and-match pumpkin face sewing patterns to create a set of quilted mug rugs (or quilted coasters) that, when used together, create a cute jack-o-lantern! Although it might seem a little early for a Halloween-themed mug rug, it’s really never too early to start sewing (or at least planning your sewing) for the…
Learn how to make a custom quilted sewing machine mat! This handy mat sits under your sewing machine and contains pockets to hold all of your notions. Our free sewing pattern even includes instructions to convert this sewing machine mat into a roll-up sewing tool organizer! I am the worst at staying organized when I…
It’s time for our August Mug Rug pattern. This month’s free mug rug pattern is a Patchwork Heart Mug rug. Now that we are over halfway through our year of mug rug patterns, it seemed right to celebrate my love of mug rugs with a heart shape! One of the reasons I’m such a big…
This quilted Summer Sun Mug rug is the perfect project to practice a bit of improv quilt piecing! Improvisational quilt piecing can seem overwhelming the first time you try it, but it’s a great way to stretch your creative muscles! Learn how to do it with our free Mug Rug pattern. A summery mug rug…