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“Urban Amish”

48” by 60” throw

$50 -- Kit includes 12 fat quarters and original Quiltology pattern.

Amish quilts have been described as plain and simple—but the truth is that while the solid colors may read “plain”—the bold design composition and actual quilting are anything by simple.

The traditional solid colors used by these women reflected the Amish culture of frugality and modesty. In fact Amish women were discouraged from indulging in the worldly practice of piecing small pieces of colorful print fabric together because it was considered too decorative.

Instead they did what many other quilters before them did—they worked with what they had on hand—piecing scraps of the dark wool fabrics left over from their own garment sewing. The result was truly amazing and so memorable that it is now iconic. When we hear the word “quilt” we often think of these quilts with their bold geometric graphic design lines popping against the deeply saturated solid colored fabrics. Many of today’s modern quilts have been inspired by this same sense of simplicity. Who knew the Amish would be trend setters?

My own Urban Amish quilt borrows from the bold (and yes simple) design lines of the traditional Amish quilts—but that’s where we part ways. Instead, my urban interpretation uses big prints in contemporary color ways to pop lots of color, pattern and texture into the quilt top.  My motto—if you like the fabric—use it!

Of course solids might would be very interesting too—perhaps another project for another day!

Do you have a stash of fat quarters just waiting for a project like this?  Well, use them up and make room for more!  Buy the pattern alone for $7.50.  This pattern also includes yardage requirements and directions for making various size quilts from baby, to throw, twin, full and queen sizes.

Buy the pattern and/or the kit online at www.shopquiltology.com!