Machine Quilting Borders & Backgrounds

Class Preview

Quilt any border with confidence! Discover versatile, easy-to-stitch motifs that will beautifully frame all of your future projects.

All About Borders

Meet longarm quilter Angela Walters and get a sneak peek at six attractive motifs that will transform your projects. Before you start stitching, discover Angela’s efficient approach to quilting large vertical and horizontal spaces, and find out simple tricks for using your favorite motifs as border designs! Plus, learn an easy method of quilting corners.

Herringbone

The versatile — and beginner-friendly — herringbone motif enhances borders of all sizes. With Angela’s guidance, learn how to break larger spaces into manageable sections, then stitch fluid diagonal lines from edge to edge. Create fun variations by varying the length of the lines, and see how to use the herringbone motif as a background filler!

The Swirl Chain

Add elegant effects to larger borders with Angela’s easy-to-learn swirl chain motif. Practice stitching a series of elongated swirls and echoes, alternating direction as you go. Worried about turning a corner? Angela shares a simple tip for getting it right every time. In addition, find out how to modify your swirls to create a gorgeous fill design.

Brackets

Transform empty borders with rows of lovely bracket shapes for a classic framing effect. Get detailed instruction on how to stitch one side of the motif before tackling its mirror image. Then, discover two effective options for turning the corner. You’ll also see how to complement your border designs with graphic swirl background patterns.

Wavy, Wavy

Want to embellish your borders with rich texture and detail? Angela shows you how with her versatile wavy, wavy design. Starting with a basic triangle shape, you’ll see how to add echoing to create an intricate motif that will make any size border pop — no marking required! Plus, practice stitching several eye-catching background variations.

Arcs

Go minimalist with your design choices using a simple arc pattern that works well with thinner borders or strip quilts. Alternate the direction of your arcs, or create a motif with offset points for two completely different looks. Finish by quilting a complementary background design with whimsical clamshells, swirls and more.

Ferny Design

Learn to quilt frilled ferny motifs for a nature-inspired design. Angela walks you through the process of stitching curvy leaf shapes — and their reverse images — while offering troubleshooting tips along the way! In addition, discover how to create a gorgeous leafy filler pattern that will complement any quilt top.