How to Make an Arkansas Crossroads Quilt in Any Size Block
Welcome to our Arkansas Crossroads Quilt Tutorial. This quilt looks complicated once it is assembled, but it is not difficult at all. The entire quilt is assembled using two sized squares. Suitable for a beginner sewist, or quilter, come see how we make this beautiful quilt design in just a few simple steps.
This is a coordinating blog post that outlines the transcript in our video How to Make an Arkansas Crossroads Quilt in Any Size Block. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments or on the video. You can watch the full length video below. To download any free design patterns available for this video go to the downloads section below.
Video Description Details
In This Video You Will Learn
How to determine what two square sizes you need to complete this quilt design.
How to assemble the patch units, using only two square sizes.
How to assemble the blocks and the quilt top.
Materials Needed
Background fabric - any neutral fabric will work. Amount needed depends on the size of the finished quilt top you would like to make. (About 2 yards for a baby quilt, 4+ yards for a bed quilt)
Colored fabric(s) - choose a variety of colors, or shades of one color, or better yet, use up those scraps
Thread, sewing machine, & other typical sewing notions
Fabric Cut Measurements (inches)
Two square sizes are needed for this quilt block. Please refer to the note file (below) and/or the video for details on how to determine what square sizes are needed. You can use any size squares to make this block as long as you use the same ratio from small to large as described.
Pattern and Design Downloads
Arkansas Crossroads Notes and Tips
Video Chapters
Welcome : 0:18
Supplies (Squares needed) 1:20
Block examples: 1:40
Assembly: 3:40
How to figure out square measurements needed: 16:43
Outtro: 16:40
Products in this Video I Find Most Useful
Thread Cutter for Chain Piecing - https://amzn.to/3VQWpbb
Seam Guide Tape - https://amzn.to/4atrN3S
Rotary Cutter (18 mm) - https://amzn.to/3vGaHAR
Items needed to make Design Boards used in this video (see below for link to that video tutorial):
Foam boards (package of 15) - https://amzn.to/3s1J6lT
Batting - https://amzn.to/37kR5CM
Heat-n-Bond Ultrahold - https://amzn.to/3jWTuIW
Sites Related to this Video
My Website: http://deborahfillmer.com/
Scott’s Photography: https://scottfillmer.com/
Company Page: https://piecesofthepast.com/
Company Etsy Shop - https://www.etsy.com/shop/piecesofthepastAL
Company FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/piecesofthepastal
Company FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/933436568406336/
Transcript
Title: Exploring the Arkansas Crossroads Quilt Pattern: A Journey into Timeless Craftsmanship
Welcome to Pieces of the Past, where passion for Fiber Arts meets the joy of creating something new from old. I'm Deborah, and I invite you to join me on a journey through endless possibilities, tools, and techniques, as we delve into the art of quilt-making.
Today, I'm excited to share with you the intricacies of a timeless quilt pattern: the Arkansas Crossroads. Originating from the Kansas City Star in 1941, this pattern has stood the test of time, offering a perfect blend of elegance and simplicity.
As I work on my own Arkansas Crossroads quilt using scraps, I'm struck by its deceptive complexity. While it may appear intricate, this pattern comprises just two types of squares, making it an ideal project for beginners in quilting or sewing.
Let's dive into the process.
The Basics of the Arkansas Crossroads Pattern
To begin, you'll need two types of squares: small squares and large squares. While I won't provide specific measurements here, stay tuned for how you can adjust them to customize your quilt's size.
The small squares, typically scraps in my case, measure 1 and 1/2 inches. The large squares, which serve as the background fabric, measure 2 and 1/2 inches.
Sewing the Blocks Together
Start by sewing the small squares into pairs, then into fours, creating charming four-patch units. Chain piecing makes this process efficient, allowing you to sew multiple units in succession.
Once you have your four-patch units, combine them to form eights, then sixteens, which will serve as the center of each block.
Introducing Snowball Blocks
Now, let's add a touch of whimsy with snowball blocks. These blocks, featuring small squares on opposite corners of the large squares, create the illusion of triangles without the hassle of sewing actual triangles.
Assembling the Blocks
Combine the snowball blocks with four-patch units to create units resembling hourglasses. Then, sew these units to the sixteen-patch center, resulting in a beautifully balanced block.
Customizing Your Quilt
The beauty of the Arkansas Crossroads pattern lies in its adaptability. By adjusting the size of your squares, you can create quilts of any size, from cozy throws to bed-sized masterpieces.
To calculate the measurements for your quilt, simply double the size of your small squares, subtract half an inch, and voila – you have the dimensions for your large squares.
Final Thoughts
As we wrap up this journey into the Arkansas Crossroads quilt pattern, I hope you feel inspired to embark on your own quilting adventure. Whether you're a seasoned quilter or a novice seamstress, there's something magical about bringing fabric to life in the form of a timeless quilt.
Thank you for joining me today. Your support means the world to me. Be sure to check out the accompanying blog post for detailed measurements and instructions. And don't forget to leave a comment – I love hearing from fellow enthusiasts like you.
Until next time, happy quilting! ~Deborah
