Double Crosshatch Quilting Tutorial
Are you looking to elevate your quilting projects with a classic yet stunning design? Look no further! This basic quilting tutorial is just for you!
Straight-line quilting a double cross hatch pattern adds a timeless, elegant touch to any quilt, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned quilters alike. In this post, I’ll share some practical tips and tricks to help you master this technique with ease.
From planning your design to the final touches, you’ll find everything you need to confidently quilt a beautiful double cross hatch pattern on your home sewing machine. Let’s get started and bring your quilting vision to life!
Check out the video to see these tips in action:
Here are some tips for straight-line quilting a double cross hatch design:
Recommended Tools for Simple Grid Quilting
Throughout this article I have linked to various products that I recommend using. Here’s a short-list of the essentials:
- Quilt top and Backing
- Batting (learn about quilt batting here)
- Quilting Thread (learn about thread here)
- Basting supplies (spray or pins)
- Long Ruler (6.5″ x 24″ ruler)
- Hera Marker
- Quilting Gloves
- Walking Foot for your Sewing Machine
Tips for Straight Line Quilting
- Use a Walking Foot: This foot is specifically designed for straight-line quilting and helps feed the fabric evenly through the machine.
- Consistent Stitch Length: Maintain a consistent stitch length throughout the quilting process.
- Stay Relaxed: Take breaks if needed to avoid fatigue and ensure your lines stay straight.
- Wear Quilting Gloves: Wearing gloves to make your hands more grippy makes a huge difference in quilt control and alleviating stress on your shoulders while quilting.
- Practice on a Small Project: If you’re new to straight-line quilting, practice on a smaller project to get comfortable with the process. This is one reason I love mini quilts!
Planning and Preparation: Quilting Tutorial Basics
Before you begin quilting, there are a few things you need to do to set you up for success.
- Baste your quilt: Begin by basting the quilt sandwich to include a freshly pressed quilt top, batting, and backing fabrics. Basting can be done a variety of methods such as pinning, spraying, or even loosely stitching with a needle and thread. I personally prefer spraying with an adhesive such as Odif 505 and then adding in a handful of curved safety pins. Baste well using safety pins, basting spray, or hand basting to prevent shifting.
- Plan Your Design: Decide on the spacing of the lines. I prefer to do a diagonal grid 3″ apart and then the next set of stitches a half-inch away from the first set.
- Mark Quilting Lines: Once you’ve decided on the spacing of your crosshatch grid, mark the lines on your quilt using a Hera marker, or a water-soluble fabric marker or chalk. I personally mark the lines in sections, starting with just the first set of quilting lines, 3″ apart.
Quilting Tutorial in Four Sets of Straight Lines
When doing the double crosshatch grid quilting design, it is helpful to divide it up into four sets of straight lines. I always start by stitching the first grid evenly spaced and then go back in and add the second set of quilting lines. I do it this way for a couple reasons. Mostly because doing the first set gets everything all locked in place, making the following sets a little easier. Or, like, what if I decide I don’t want to do the extra sets of lines? I like being able to change my mind in quilting at any step along the way.
A note about marking the quilt: I personally like to mark the first two sets of lines and then use the foot on my machine to guide the next two sets of lines a half-inch away from the first. You can mark all four sets of quilting if you are more comfortable with that option though.
Quilting the First Set of Lines
Start with the First Direction:
Begin choosing one diagonal direction to mark and quilt across the entire quilt. I recommend starting towards the center of the lines, where the diagonal lines are the longest. Working your way from the center to the corners allows you to avoid puckers or re-adjust as you go if you notice fabric distortion.
This first set of lines is very important! You will want to periodically check to ensure that your fabric hasn’t shifted or puckered. Smooth out any wrinkles as you go.
If you used pins or thread to baste your quilt, you can remove them after quilting the first set of lines.
Quilting the Second Set of Lines
Quilt the Second Direction:
After completing the first set of lines, rotate your quilt 90 degrees to start the second set of lines perpendicular to the first set. Again, start from the center and work your way out.
Quilting the Third Set of Lines
Add the double quilting next to your first set of quilting lines.
After completing the first grid, you can add in a second grid close to it! You may choose to mark the third and fourth sets of lines, but I personally use the edge of my walking foot, which is about 1/2″ away from the lines.
Quilting the Fourth Set of Lines
Finish with double quilting next to your second set of quilting lines.
You probably get the hang of it by now! Add that final set of lines to complete the double crosshatch quilting design.
Perfecting Your Straight Line Quilting
A while ago I made this video including 3 tips for straight line quilting! These tips apply for ANY quilting design that features straight lines, and I hope you find the information helpful!
I hope these tips in this quilting tutorial have inspired you to try your hand at straight-line quilting a double cross hatch design. With careful planning, the right tools, and a bit of practice, you can achieve a beautiful, professional-looking finish on your quilts.
Remember, quilting is a journey, and each stitch brings you closer to creating something truly special. So grab your materials, set up your machine, and enjoy the process of bringing your quilting dreams to life.
