Bargello Swirls is a bargello design I created in 2011 using Hoffman Fabrics. I had been asked by many of my Bargello students to design and publish a circular bargello which is what prompted me.
Bargello Swirls
There was one piece of equipment that I needed for this Bargello design - a wedge ruler. I used a 9 degree ruler, however in my Circular Bargello workshop, I give options to use others sized wedge rulers.
9 degree ruler
The wedge ruler can be used for many different designs although it is one of the less common rulers. In my 30+ years of quilt making, this was the first time I had used one, but I'm sure I will find more reasons to use it now that I have it!
The ruler is quite simple to use as it has plenty of lines to match up with seams. I have included detailed photos in the pattern so you can use it with ease.
photo image in Bargello Swirl's pattern
To make this pattern correctly you need to ensure the fabrics remain in the correct sequence and like all bargello patterns, the trick is to ensure you create the design by removing the right seam within each strip. To help you make this pattern, I have included information about creating a record card, the stitching length required, how to prevent irregular bargello blocks, pressing and seam ripping, among other general quilting and bargello knowledge. This helpful information will not only help you with this pattern but also other bargello patterns.
I also include an easy method for finishing the circular edges - inner and outer.
More help comes when I include tips plus reasons why I find it better to use the alternative. For example:
"Note: At this time, you may wish to sew these two wedges together. I find it best to cut all the wedges first, place them on my design wall to ensure I have not made an error, then proceed with sewing them all together"
Bargello Swirls is definitely a pattern for intermediate to advanced quilters. A beginner would be more suited to start with my beginner's bargello project "Bargello in Spring" to learn the techniques involved with bargello creation, then they can feel more confident moving on to the next level.
One last tip I would like to add: Here is a link my previous blog post that includes the two videos I made for the workshop. They show you how to go about selecting fabrics in a color run which is ideal for bargellos. My students find it very useful. Selecting fabric for Bargellos
Do you like Bargellos? What bargello design do you think I should try next?
For more information about purchasing this pattern please visit our website at: Bargello Swirls quilt pattern or if you want more detailed instruction and my support, check out my online workshop: Circular Bargello
