How to Make a Quilt Design Wall: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making a quilt design wall is a transformative step for both novice and veteran quilters alike. By adding this visual tool to your workspace, previewing fabric choices and layout variations becomes a seamless process. A quilt design wall enables us to step back and assess our work from a fresh perspective, catching potential design issues before they become time-consuming problems.

For those considering incorporating a design wall into their craft space, there are several routes to explore. An array of commercial design walls offers convenience and a ready-made solution, while a DIY approach can provide a customised fit for a specific area or budget. Either way, a design wall serves as an essential tool, advancing the flow of creativity and efficiency in quilt making.

Key Takeaways

  • A quilt design wall is a vital tool for evaluating and organising quilt layouts.
  • Options for design walls include both DIY creations and ready-made commercial products.
  • Having a design wall in your workspace can greatly enhance the quilt-making process.

Easily Preview Layouts with a Quilt Design Wall

A quilt design wall serves as an invaluable tool for laying out your quilt blocks before stitching them together, enabling a clear visualisation of the final product and providing an easy way to rearrange pieces.

Using an Empty Wall in Your House as a Design Wall

If you have an empty wall, it can be transformed into a design wall. Cover it with flannel or batting, because quilt pieces stick easily to these materials without adhesive. Simply use push pins or a staple gun to secure the material to the wall. The size can be customised based on your available space.

Make a Permanent Design Wall

For a more durable solution, fix a large piece of insulation board or foam core to a frame. Cover this with cotton batting or flannel. Attach the covered board to your wall with screws for stability. The framed edge gives it a finished look while keeping the design surface taut.

Portable Design Wall Options

Consider a portable design wall if you often attend workshops or have limited space. A foldable option can be:

  • PVC frame: Lightweight and can be taken apart.
  • Tri-fold board: Foam or cardboard that stands on its own.

Cover these with batting or flannel so that the pieces stick. This flexibility allows you to work in various locations and easily store the wall when not in use.

Commercial Design Walls

When choosing a commercial design wall, we must consider various factors such as size, portability, and surface material. These walls are ready-made and are ideal for quilters who prefer a professional setup.

Available Sizes:

  • Small (approximately 36"x36")
  • Medium (around 72"x72")
  • Large (up to 96"x96")

Material Options:

  • Flannel (for natural adherence)
  • Fleece (similar to flannel but thicker)
  • Grid-printed (helps with alignment)

Features to Look For:

  • Portability: Foldable or roll-up designs for easy storage.
  • Adhesion Quality: A surface that allows fabric to stick without pins.
  • Durability: Sturdy construction that withstands repeated use.

Popular Brands and Their Offerings:

  • Brand A: offers a portable, flannel surface design wall with grid lines.
  • Brand B: features a fleece surface, available in various sizes.

Installation: Most commercial design walls come with mounting tools for easy installation. Some may require a freestanding frame. Always check the installation method to ensure it fits your workspace.

Price Range:

  • Entry-level: £60-£100
  • Mid-range: £100-£200
  • Premium: £200+

In conclusion, whether you opt for a portable or stationary model, ensure it meets your quilting needs in terms of size, material, and functionality.