The Story and Popularity of Christmas Stitched Quilts | Holiday Quilting Traditions

The Story Behind Christmas Stitched by Fig Tree

The holiday season is a magical time filled with traditions, meals, and gifts. Many families have certain decorations they put up each year that hold special meaning and evoke nostalgia. One such cherished decoration for many is the Christmas Stitched by Fig Tree quilt.

The History of Christmas Stitched by Fig Tree

Christmas Stitched was originally released in 2005 by fabric designer Sherri McConnell of Fig Tree Quilts. The nostalgic quilt features patchwork blocks in red, green, cream, and blue depicting classic Christmas images like stockings, trees, wreaths, candles, and more. The blocks are set on point and separated by red and cream Four Patch blocks. The quilt earned acclaim for its festive, nostalgic vibe and has been re-released in new colorways over the years.

Since its debut, Christmas Stitched has become a beloved and collectible holiday quilt pattern. Its signature style sparks memories of Christmas past and perfectly captures the holiday spirit. For many quilters, completing a Christmas Stitched quilt and displaying it during the holidays is an annual tradition.

What Makes Christmas Stitched by Fig Tree Special

There are several reasons Christmas Stitched has become such a popular holiday quilt:

• Nostalgic design: The quilt features vintage-inspired blocks depicting Christmas items like stockings, wreaths, trees, etc. This elicits feelings of Christmases past.
• Versatile layout: With blocks set on point and separated by Four Patches, the layout is dynamic yet still traditional.
• Bold, festive colors: The contrast of red, green, blue, cream, and white gives it a lively, joyful look perfect for the holidays.
• Timeless style: Its classic patchwork style means it always looks current and never goes out of fashion.
• Customizable: With different colorway options available, quilters can choose one that matches their style.

Tips for Making Your Own Christmas Stitched Quilt

If you want to carry on the tradition and make your own Christmas Stitched quilt, here are some helpful tips:

• Use quality fabrics - Since holiday quilts are heavily used, choose durable cottons that will withstand wear and tear.
• Stick to the pattern - The specific arrangement of blocks and colors is part of what makes this quilt special.
• Pick a color palette - Whether you use the original palette or choose your own, select 5-6 coordinating fabrics.
• Mix prints and solids - Combining printed novelty fabrics with solid red, green, cream, or blue fabrics looks striking.
• Personalize it - Consider embroidering a name, date, or message on one of the blocks to make it uniquely yours.
• Have fun sewing! - Play Christmas music and enjoy the process of stitching up some holiday cheer.

Christmas Quilt Displays

One of the best parts about Christmas Stitched is putting it on display during the holiday season. Here are some creative ways to show it off:

• Hang on wall like a tapestry or banner
• Lay over the back of a sofa
• Use as a festive tablecloth
• Make into a tree skirt
• Lay across an entry table or chest
• Layer on a bed as a fun quilt

However you choose to use your Christmas Stitched quilt, it will provide a healthy dose of nostalgia and coziness each holiday season. The signature style and festive fabrics will help make your home merry and bright.

The Popularity and Significance of Christmas Stitched

Since its release in 2005, Christmas Stitched by Fig Tree has become one of the most popular holiday quilt patterns around. Its nostalgic style and heartwarming vibe resonate with quilters and decorators alike. For many, completing their own Christmas Stitched is an annual tradition that ushers in the Christmas season.

In addition to its endearing design, Christmas Stitched has significance as a celebration of quilting and handmade gifts. Quilters take pride in stitching up holiday cheer and love sharing their finished quilts with family and friends. The act of creating a Christmas quilt is a labor of love that evokes the true spirit of the holidays.

Whether you make one for yourself or as a gift, a Christmas Stitched quilt is sure to be treasured and enjoyed for years to come. Its special place in the world of holiday quilts is certainly deserved.

FAQs

What are the finished dimensions of a Christmas Stitched quilt?

The finished size of a Christmas Stitched quilt is around 60 x 72 inches. However, the exact size can vary slightly depending on seam allowances and how much the blocks are trimmed down.

What types of fabrics work best for a Christmas Stitched quilt?

High-quality quilting cottons are recommended, as holiday quilts get a lot of use. PRINTS coordinate well with SOLIDS in red, green, blue, cream, and white. Novelty prints with Christmas motifs make fun accents.

Is Christmas Stitched a good quilt for beginners?

Christmas Stitched is approachable for beginners, thanks to its straight-forward piecing. The patchwork blocks are simple squares and rectangles. Still, some quilting experience is helpful.

How long does it take to make a Christmas Stitched quilt?

It depends on your pace, but plan on around 15-30 hours. The piecing goes quickly, but factor in time for cutting fabric, assembling blocks, borders, quilting, and binding.

What are some good ways to display a finished Christmas Stitched quilt?

Drape over a sofa, lay across a table or chest, hang on the wall, use as a tree skirt, or layer on a bed. Get creative with how you showcase this festive quilt!