Free Quilt Patterns for Frugal Quilters

Whether you are new to quilting or an expert finding free quilt patterns is a frugal way to add to your collection.  Generally the patterns are downloadable and printable.  You just print them off, cut out the pieces and you are ready to go.

Quilting is a relaxing hobby and can become quite addictive.  The same pattern can be worked over and over again in many different color combinations of quilt fabric to create unique quilts each time.  Once you have the pattern down you can use variations in the way the blocks are put together to create different looks as well.

You could reprint a pattern every time you wanted to use it but that is really a waste of ink and energy.  It is a simple thing to have your quilting templates laminated so that they last.  Once they are laminated you just lay them down on the fabric, place a weight on them, and use a rotary cutter to cut out the fabric as directed in each project. 

Once you have finished with your project take a digital picture of it and print it out.  Now, place the picture, the laminated quilt pattern templates, the instructions, and any notes that you made in a manila envelope marked with the name of the quilt.  You can file this away to be used the next time you want to make this particular quilt.  You will have all the pieces you need and your image and notes will easily help you remember any problems that you may need to work out before actually starting the quilt.

There are a number of websites with free quilt block patterns. Be sure to read all of the hints and instructions for downloading and printing. It is also important to make sure you understand any restrictions that may be on the patterns.

Quilter’s Cache is a great website for any quilter, beginner or expert. There are a multitude of free quilt patterns as well as hints, tips, and tricks about all aspects of quilting.

Free Quilt Patterns is a very user friendly site with the names of different quilt blocks in alphabetical order.

Scrap Quilts is a great resource for those who have a lot of smaller fabric scraps that they want to use up.

McCall’s Quilting is an informative site with images of the quilt blocks in color.

Block Central has calculators and other tools to help you make the easiest quilt ever.

Quilt Patterns from History is the place that you want to go for authentic patterns from various time periods. Civil War, Colonial Revival, or Westward Expansion, this is a great resource for historic reenactors or homeschoolers.

Connecting Threads has exclusive quilt patterns and projects to download for free.

Once you have your free pattern you can get started on your quilt.  Most people who quilt find it a relaxing and enjoyable hobby.  It is very affordable when you are getting the patterns for free.

There are  many wonderful ways to use quilting techniques, not just in quilts but in table runners, pot holders, and other home decorating projects.  Scrap quilts, especially, are a good way to use up those bits and pieces of fabric.  If you enjoy quilting and are looking for some new patterns these websites may be just what you are looking for.