Good morning, my sister is due for her first child this May and I would love to make her new little one a hand stiched quilt. We will not know the sex of the baby as she is not finding out...bless her heart I had to know what I was having. Any way I have never made a quilt before so I'm looking for a pattern that is not to difficult, but one that is not plain either. I was wondering if anyone out there may know of any web sites that offer free patterns, or if anyone here may be able to help. I do know how to crochte (sp?), but I know mt mom will be making her an afgahn(sp again?) The size I am looking for is just a regular crib/toddler bed size....

TIA Kim

By Dana on Sunday, January 25, 2004 - 10:45 am:

I'm not very helpful, but I know the DIY (Do It Yourself) channel has some good shows on quilting.

I took a look at their website and here is a message board you might be able to get many replies with your question.

http://boards.diynetwork.com/1/OpenTopic?a=frm&s=8271906766&f=3811916776

Hope that helps.

By Mommyathome on Sunday, January 25, 2004 - 11:03 am:

I love to hand quilt! I've done a blanket for all of my kids (when they were babies) and for a few close friends.
I prefer to buy a baby quilt panel with a cute design on it. For example, for my oldest DD I did a precious moments quilt, my middle DD was a teddy bear/heart quilt, and my DS was the blue jean teddy quilt. Once I find a panel that I like, I match a plain fabric to it for the backside. I like to use a flannel...it's more cuddley. Then, I quilt around the design. You can quilt as much detail or as little detail as you want. With my DS's quilt I quilted every little detail and it turned out great.
I've also quilted a plain fabric with a quilt pattern. You mark the quilt and then quilt it from there. (I think that's what you are referring to) I really prefer to do a baby panel rather than a pattern. I can post some pictures if you aren't sure what I'm talking about.
Otherwise, Dana listed a good website. The DIY network has lots of fun things. Maybe try a search for Quilt Marking Pattern and see what comes up there.
Good luck! There's nothing better than a homemade quilt!

By Bka on Sunday, January 25, 2004 - 11:14 am:

Thanks guys! I did do a search shortly after posting this am. I found exactly what I was looking for I was surprized at how easy it sounds I think I may be able to do it after all!!! I will go check out the DYI web site too. Thanks again ladies