Each week I’m sharing a different quilt design from my new book The Ultimate Guide to Machine Quilting. Now, although I really prefer modern designs, sometimes it’s fun to mix it up and try something different. This week, meet Swirling Butterflies, a totally doable wholecloth quilt.
Note: all photography credit goes to Brent Kane and Martingale.
My version of Swirling Butterflies – just divide and conquer to get the job done!
Although the design looks very complex, it’s easier once you break it down. I only marked the medallion and border. The rest of the background was filled in with what I like to call “improv machine quilting.” For this quilt, I did something I rarely do: used a contrasting Aurifil thread. I tell you, it was scary while I was quilting it, but I’m pleased with the end result.
Detail of free-motion quilting on Swirling Butterflies
I chose to make a black wholecloth version with highly contrasting thread while Angela made her beautiful version more traditional on white fabric with more of a blending thread. Look closely for a few other differences in the details.
Angela Walters’ version of Swirling Butterflies – isn’t it just stunning?
Click here to purchase an autographed copy of Machine Quilting with Style, signed by us both.
Christa Quilts 
This stunning! I am totally thinking about getting your book and blogging my way through the experience. I think this topic resonates with so many quilters and I would love to improve my free-motions skills.
Amazing. I can’t wait to see the rest!
Both yours and Angela’s versions are stunning Christa! It’s a gorgeous design!
Both quilts are spectacular! Like you said, what a great aspect of the book, seeing the same design done in different ways. I’m no where close to giving this a try.
Christa, I love your black and turquoise version, but for some reason the version Angela made really resonates with me. I don’t think I’m experienced enough with machine quilting to do either but they will be on my to-do in the months to cone.
Thanks! That’s my favorite aspect of this book – being able to see the same design in different ways 🙂
The copy of The Ultimate Guide…came today, and it’s such fun to read. It’s also very informative, helpful, and beautifully put together. Thank you!
Aw thanks so much – I appreciate that!!