If you have never made a quilt before, a rag quilt is a great place to start. Even if you are new to sewing, I promise that you can make a gorgeous rag quilt! I am going to walk you through the step by step process of how to make a rag quilt. If after you have read through the tutorial you still have questions, please feel free to contact me. Unless you are asking questions about math, like how much fabric you will need to make "x" size of quilt. I stink at math. I have no idea how to figure out how much fabric you need for a queen size. . .or exactly how much of each fabric you should buy. . . or anything that involves numbers. Trust me, you do not want my help in the math department. I usually depend on the ladies at the fabric store for all those questions. 
I know it seems a little crazy, but I find it very therapeutic to work on baby projects. My latest was making a rag quilt. Just finished it this weekend. I've always loved them and wondered how they were made. My friend Tracie (who is hopefully picking up her daughter from Korea this week), showed me how. It's really quite simple, but does involve a few steps. I worked up some rag quilt directions for you just in case you have a hankering to make a stinkin' cute baby blanket.
Baby Rag Quilt Tutorial
-Flannel is the best fabric for rag quilts, because it frays the best.
-Cotton also works really well, it just doesn't make seams that are quite as soft and fluffy. -Minky does not fray, so it isn't the best choice for a rag quilt. You can use it on one side, but if you use it on both your seams won't fray, they will just look sloppy. If you do decide to use it on one side, I'd recommend using flannel for the other side.
-If you use cotton or flannel, I recommend washing the fabric first. If you use minky, you don't need to because it doesn't shrink.
Hope that helps clear up confusion.
1-The first thing you need to do is pick a pattern for your quilt, then decided the size you want it to be. I cut up a bunch of little 1" squares so I could arrange them in different patterns. I tried a few and liked this one the best:
Make sure all the edges are even and pin it on two sides.
And this on the back:
8-Keep going till you have finished all of your rows. Here is my first row all done:
9- Now it is time to sew your rows together. Yippee!
Take the first row and lay it right side down. Place the second row on top, right side up.
Match up all the seams and pin them together:
Then place pins in between the seams:
Now sew down the side, using a 1/2" seam. Sometimes it is a little tricky getting it even. I had to kind of push the top fabric through so that it wouldn't bunch at the seams.
Keep pinning and sewing until you have them all sewn together.11-When you are done, you will need to sew around the edge of the quilt. Sew a straight stitch all the way around the edge, using a 1/2" seam.
12-Now it's time to clip those seams! Put in a movie, because this part takes awhile. You will need really sharp scissors. Just go around the entire quilt, clipping every seam. I made cuts about 1/2" apart. You want to get close to the thread, but MAKE SURE YOU DON'T CUT IT!
13-Clip off all of the loose threads on the back and front of the quilt.We are getting soooo close:
14-Your rag quilt looks pretty great at this point, but to really fluff up those seams, you need to wash and dry it. I did mine in cold water on the permanent press cycle, then dried it on high heat. When it comes out, voila:
Nice and fluffy. Isn't that the cutest little rag quilt ever! Looove it!
If you decide to make one and have any questions, just let me know.
If you love the rag quilt look as much as I do, you might want to check out my Rag Quilt Baby Bibs. Super easy and super cute!
I've been googling instructions for rag quilts and found this post that way. I was so interested to see that you are trying to adopt. I'm the adoptive mother of two (both domestically through LDSFS) and we are in the process of getting approved to adopt a little boy from Korea. I haven't read your whole blog, so I don't know what is new with your adoption situation since this post was written. But I did want to share some words that I read from a birthmother recently. She reminded mom like you and me to remember that we are not waiting for a child. We are waiting for OUR child. Through the experiences I had surrounding our first two adoptions, I KNOW those words are true. And they give me hope when I need to be reminded now and then. Good luck!
Oh, and by the way, I've looked at a lot of rag quilt tutorials, and yours is definitely my favorite. I emailed the link to my sister, who wants to make one for her daughter. Have you ever made a rag quilt with a fabric other than flannel? I think I may have more fabrics to choose from if I do cotton, but I'm not sure how well it will fray. I'd love any advice you might have.
Becca
Thanks so much Becca, I always love getting comments from other mom's who have adopted. It is so comforting and gives me hope.
I haven't done a rag quilt with anything other than flannel, but I have a friend who did flannel on one side, cotton on the other. It didn't fray as much, but it is still totally cute!
Hi Becca, I love your quilt! Is this pink rag quilt on one side and one piece of fabric on the other side? I'm a grandmother and just this year I'm making blankets for our grandchildren. I love sewing! I hope that makes since. Barb from Michigan <3
Fun! One thing I've seen from being the sewing education field for years is putting a third fabric layer hidden inside, so it will only show in the seams – adds some fun color and surprise.
*smiles*
Another way to "fluff" the seams, is to take a comb and go against the grain with it before you wash it. It catches a lot of the little threads and gives it that "raggy" look very quickly. This method works with cotton and flannel; and saves your lint trap in the dryer.
I'm making one of these quilts now with cotton. I'll let you know how it turns out. I'm new to sewing but thought this would be fun. My sister is having the first baby of our family so I wanted to make something special for him. I'm so glad my friend showed this to me. I love all your ideas!
I finished my rag quilt this past weekend! Yay for me! It turned out pretty great, if I must say. But maybe it's where I used cotton instead of flannel, it's a little stiff feeling…? Should I wash it more, already washed it twice…?
The cotton probably does make it a little more stiff. I bet it will get softer with each washing though.
How many yards of fabric do you recommend and which kind? Any thoughts about using minky?
I recommend starting with at least 1 1/4 yards of fabric for both sides, so a total of 2 1/2 yards. Flannel works the best. You can use minky for the back, but it doesn't fray very well. You'll have to wash it a few times before it stops shedding along the seams. Hope that helps.
Hi Kara! I made your rag quilt, just wanted to share
http://dahlialane.blogspot.com/2010/08/happy-1st-birthday-kayleigh.html
That is awesome Danielle! I checked it out and it turned out adorable. Love the pattern you came up with! Thanks for sharing.
outstanding post! great advice, will take on board!
I just wanted to let you know that I used your idea on my blog. Thank you for the tutorial – http://spartasavings.blogspot.com/2010/08/baby-nesting-project-3-rag-baby-quilt.html.
Thanks for sharing the link Dori! Your daughter's quilt turned out adorable!
My quilt was a hit at my sisters shower and I have orders for more. I'm having a hard time figuring out pricing…any ideas how to figure pricing??
That is always the hardest part for me. Usually I check sites like Etsy to see what others are charging just to get a ballpark. It also depends on the material you are using, some fabric is much more expensive than others. Rag quilts take a lot of time, so you want to make sure and charge enough to make it worth your time. Good luck!!
Anyone ever make one of these for a big people? Would it OD my washer and dryer with lint? I love this! I envision making a jacket like this too… my mind is going on and on with the possibilities.
Glad you shared, glad I found you! Thanks!
Lynda
You can totally make one in a larger size. Just empty the dryer lint screen a couple times while drying it for the first time.
I have made an adult rag quilt out of my daughters old cheer tshirts…turned out great and just used a flannel sheet in the middle for the batting. I cant believe how heavy and warm it is.
Rag quilts for adults are commonly made with denim on one side and flannel on the other–no batting needed! The denim frays beautifully and makes a warm, heavy, hard-wearing quilt good for watching tv or taking to the ballgame. Use new denim, or recycle the good parts of old jeans.
I bought the pattern for this quilt, and it has an adult sizing on it. They make every second square up of 4 tiny squares, and it is all done in plaids…. really beautiful! They also use larger sewing allowances. They use a 'walking foot' on their sewing machine, which makes it easier to feed the fabric through. I have made quite afew, often with random placing of the squares, they are all unique, and beautiful in their own way. I made a totally blue one for my first grandson, tones of blues, anything goes, really.
I made a couple of double bed sized rag quilts and they are warmest blankets I've ever had except for a very large down comforter that I bought in Austria 40 years ago! I do NOT pre-wash the flannel as when it shrinks the stitches lock. You do have to be careful when washing it. The first 3 or 4 times, you need to check the dryer half way through the time and clean the filter. If your washer doesn't have a heavy duty setting you might want to take it to a laundromat. Good luck!
Thanks a million for sharing this! I absolutely love it. I'm new to sewing on a machine. I am definitely going to attempt to make one for my niece whom practically lives with me. I'm really happy I found your blog. Thanks again!!
I'm glad you found me.
You'll have to let me know how your blanket turns out.
Kara
Thank you for your blog. I went out and bought way too much fabric yesterday before reading the total amount you used! I am making two blankets for a friend's twins (hopefully the blankets will turn out) and I hope to update you when they're finished. Terrific site, I hope that all is going well with your adoption processes. It is a long haul, I have friends on a waiting list for an adoption.
Praying that God blesses your home and family!
Thanks LoraLu! And good luck with your blankets, I'd love to see them when you finish.
Thanks so much for the tutorial, l stumbled on your site while looking for sizes to make my grandbaby one for xmas this year. I absolutely love the colors you used, browns and pink are 2 of my favorite. I'll let you know how mine turns out, l'm using a rich purple and soft yellow plus some white pattern flannel.
Thanks you so much for this tutorial! It was super easy to follow and every step was covered. Perfect for beginner seamstresses like me! I have my project all sewn and ready to cut the edges; I can't wait to see what it looks like all finished and washed! Seriously, thank you! I am pretty new to sewing, and your thorough yet simple tutorial gave me the confidence to try a rag project. Now that I've done it and it was easy and it turned out well I'm even more confident to try new things! I'll definitely be doing more rag stuff in the future
new folloer..
love this..can't wait to try it
also can u use any fabric?
LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOVE it!!!!!
Thanks for sharing!
Kara, thank you for sharing this "step by step" tutorial! I am new to quilting and this is the very BEST rag quilt tutorial I have seen after about twenty in one night. I wonder, if I use minky should I was the fabric first and after? What if I mix it with cotton or flannel? Should I was them both first?
Thanks again
I meant to spell WASH. Should I wash the fabric first. SORRY.
I helped my cousin make a rag quilt with flannel on the front and minky on the back. We washed the flannel first, but not the minky, because it doesn't shrink.
I don't recommend using minky on both sides. It doesn't fray, so the seams just end up looking sloppy. Flannel works much better for a rag quilt!
I have had fabric for a rag quilt for over ten years but it has sat in the drawer because I never really understood how to make it. Now I understand- thanks to your tutorial!
I am so glad to hear that Patti! I'd love to see it when you get it finished.
Hey I left a comment about a month ago saying THANK YOU for this AWESOME tutorial! Here's what I made:
http://www.pinkpineappleprojects.com/2011/01/rag-quilt-christmas-stocking.html
I wanna see!
I tried to look and it said I had to be invited
I'd like to see it too. Thanks.
Hi Kara,
I love your blog – I'm going to stalk you, for sure. I discovered it while searching for a tutorial on rag quilts. Yours is the clearest, most easily understandable I have found. You did a great job explaining each step for us quilting newbies, and your pictures are top notch.
I do have a question for you. I'm at the clipping stage and I am a little confused about the best way to clip the corners so I don't end up taking a chunk out of the fabric and making the finished quilt look a bit wonky in the process. Do you have any pointers for me?
Any help you can give me would be SO appreciated!
Thanks,
Mary
I love thus idea. I work at a daycare and one of my mom's made this following your instructions! So I am going to try my hand at it. Wish me luck! Ps. I hope you get your child! My husband and I have two children and always wanted three but I have terrible pregnancies and the doctors told me both times that I should not get pregnant again because I will surely die. We decided that we were not going to press our luck again. but we have decided to look into being foster parents and if God gives us the oppertunity to keep one of those children than that's what we'll do. Good luck and I'll be praying for you!
Glad to hear you will be trying the quilt. Feel free to ask me any questions if you need help! And good luck with foster care. Hopefully both of us end up with the children that are meant to be in our families.
I was wondering how well it worked hand sewing your blanket??
It's not hand-sewed, I used my sewing machine. Much faster that way!
Thanks for the great instructions! The photos really help allot. I have a new grandbaby coming soon so this tutorial is perfect for me! Ill keep my fingers crossed for you and your new baby.
Thank You Again
Fran
Thanks Fran!!
This is beautiful! Thank you so much for posting! I have never made a quilt before, and am having a son in June. I just got a really great deal on some Debbie Mumm fabric at Jo-Ann's, without any plans what to do with it. Just couldn't pass up the deal. It's gonna make a GREAT rag quilt! Can't wait to get started. Your instructions are very clear, thanks again!
Thanks Katie! I'd love to see your quilt when you finish!
I love this! What a great batting-stash-buster quilt.
Thanks for sharing!
I was just wondering if you had to do the "x" mark in the middle or if you could do a circle or something besides an "x"?
Thanks, Sheila!
I think a circle would work as long as it was pretty large. You just want to make sure the pieces of fabric are attached well enough that they can't slide around. Let me know if you try it, I'd love to see the result!
I am going to start cutting my fabric Monday and I will def let you know how it comes out. Thanks for replying back to me!
Thanks for this great tutorial! This is one with pictures all the way through and I really appreciate it!
My question is this: I want to make a double sided rag quilt, with pattern on front and back. Do you think that I should split my seams so they are front and back, or will that make them not frilly/frayed enough? I could do one side without frays like your sample, but I want it to be clear that it was meant to be like that, and that I wasn't just being sloppy and didn't want to finish my ends on one side.
Thoughts?
I also am trying to find easy directions to do this. Instead of doing one layer in the middle, I want to do two at the same size of the top/bottom so there will be 4 pieces of fabric. Is there an easy way to make a two sided rag without having to make one top layer of two and one bottom layer of two and quilting them together afterwards?
Anywebsites that show ideas?
I found your tutorial while reading someone else's blog. It's fantastic. I can't wait to try it out. I do have one question. How do you think fleece would work? Thanks again!
Hello! I also love this site of yours. Looking for a rag quilt pattern, and how to's is not an easy task. You did a great job with this tho! My question to you is this: If I want to use 5 different types of fabric, using the same fabric for front and back, how much of each fabric do you think I need if Im doing 8 inch squares and wanna do like 5 squares by 8 sqaures? This is my first quilt so I am all new to this. THANKS
I have looked at so many tutorials on rag quilts, and so far yours has been the easiest one to understand. I am looking forward to making my first rag quilt for a sweet friend of mine who is having a baby this summer. Thanks for posting this tutorial!
I love your tutorial. I am new to all this quilting stuff but your directions are quite clear – can't wait to try it.
i just stumbled onto this tonight. i was looking for a new baby blanket to make and this looks awesome and wait to try it!
Very well done tutorial and a beautiful resulting quilt. I especially like your tip about cutting 1 inch squares to get your design layout. I can't wait to try this myself.
If I wanted the entire back of the quilt to be one big piece of Minky, what would I need to do differently?
I just had a granddaughter born on August 14, and by August 19 i had a finished rag quilt thanks to your tutorial! I didn't have a single question! Worked perfectly! Thanks! This won't be my last!
I am having a lot of problems with the flannel shifting when I sew the X on it so then it ends up looking uneven. I love this idea. Any advice you could give would be welcome. I really want to make for my pregnant sister but I'm worried it is gonna turn out sloppy looking.
How much of each color did you buy?
My friend has made a few of these for babies and she doesn't bother to put the batting inside — just the 2 layers of flannel. Maybe because we live in a warm climate!
I'm getting ready to make one myself for a baby due in Feb.
Having a hard time finding the snubbed nose spring loaded scissors my friend has
Does she still do the x's as though the batting were there?
i am having a hard time figuring how much of each material to get.
I'm using 5 inch squares. 72 sqs total. (9×8) 4 diff fabrics
10 squares of fabric 1
26 sq fabric 2
22 sq fabric 3
14 sq fabric 4
can you help me with this?
Oh sheesh. Math is my very worst subject! I am so bad at figuring things out I usually just buy extra of everything so I know I'll have enough. LOL!
To be honest, I sometimes ask the ladies at the fabric store to help me figure out how much I need. They are much better at it than I am. Sorry I'm not much help to you.
Thanks so much for your step by step directions, it was my first ever quilt and it turned out AWESOME!!!!
Two questions please…….Is it necessary to back tack on the cross stitching of each block? A note from and earlier experience…I made a rag denim (no stretch jean fabric) and flannel quilt some time ago. My dryer handled the lint but my washing machine did not….cost $100.00 for repair man to come out and clean out pump/filter!!! Any ideas how to prevent this problem?
Hi Sylvia,
It's probably not necessary to back tack on the "x's" but I like to do it just to be safe.
I've never heard of a rag quilt damaging a washing machine before. How awful! I wonder if it was just because the denim is so heavy? I know a few people have told me that they use a comb to "rag" the edges of their quilts. Maybe that would help remove some of the lint ahead of time. Good luck!
Kara
This tutorial was amazing! Got me through my first quilt
Thank you so much!!! I am so grateful for the detailed instructions. I linked back to you in my post about it twice!
Priscila @ jensennp.blogspot.com
Your instructions are amazingly helpful!! Thanks so much!
This tutorial is awesome! I have just recently started sewing/quilting and have wanted to do a rag quilt. The books I have are a bit confusing, so I was really happy to google your site. I made a Christmas rag quilted wall hanging, and I have to say it turned out pretty nice!
My hubby and I are expecting our suprise blessing #3 in Feb. and we are finally moving our 5 year old out of her toddler bed (She is VERY tiny for her age). She wanted to make her own "big girl bed" blanket… I am going to help her make this! I am so excited about it- she is too! We are hitting Hancock Fabrics today for their great black Friday sale.
I am so glad I found your tutorial- it has been a while since I made one and I was struggling with fabric amounts. I was about to WAY overbuy fabric!
LOL! I did overbuy at a black friday sale today, I want to make larger (twin size-ish) for my three grown sons for christmas. Then they can use them whenever… my question is this, I bought several solid colors of flannel, the reds and blues and dark browns have me worried…should I wash them first?? I'm worried about the colors running, or can I just add vinegar to the water when I wash the first time??
Also, I want to use a layer of flannel instead of batting, do I still have to pre-quilt/tack it if I cut them all the same size and the middle layer will be sewn and be part of the fluffiness? I'm thinking of using 10" squares…
Thanks for your help and great tutorial!
Dee
I almost always wash my fabric ahead of time with any sewing project. It helps prevent colors bleeding, and drying the fabric in the dryer ahead of time prevents weird shrinkage in the final project.
If it were me, I'd still sew the three pieces of fabric together with an "x". It will make it much easier to sew them together, especially since you are using larger squares. It's always frustrating when I'm trying to sew through multiple layers and they slip around. But of course, it is totally up to you.
Kara
Kara thank you SO very much for this tutorial. My husband's grandmother has always made quilts for other people….and the other day I'd asked her if she knew how to make one of these….she tells me "Oh sure, you just cut up the scraps or clothes you like and make a pattern and sew them together!"…she thought I meant literal rags! So I'm pretty sure I'll be making one of these for her for a Christmas gift…after all, what do you make for the woman who can make anything? Something she doesn't know how to make of course! Thank you so much again!
Haha, that is so funny! I'm sure the "rag" quilt you make for her will be much cuter than the kind she was thinking of. LOL!
Hi Kara!
Thank you for the lovely tutorial. I just finished cutting fabric for a Green Bay Packers quilt for my mother and father in law, and you taking me through it step by step has helped SO much!
I have been told that it is generally a good idea to take your rag quilt to the laundromat so you don't ruin your washing machine or gum up the works in your plumbing, so I think I won't even risk washing in my own washer!
I will definitely post pictures when I'm done
Kara,
Awesome tutorial! Thank you!
I have a question…wanted to make one of these for a male and used denim mixed with some masculine cotton prints…do u think they will work ok together, or do the fabrics have to be similar weight? of course the denim is heavy and the cotton isn't….he'd rather have the 'heavy' feel of a blanket than the softness…just wondering how to do it best.
I will be praying for your baby to find you soon
Thanks for such an easy tutorial!
Hi Kerri,
If you want to make a quilt with denim and cotton I would make sure that you have at least one layer of denim on every square. If you make it cotton on one side and denim on the other you can design it so that one side is all denim or make designs with the cotton and denim. If you do every square denim on one side and cotton on the other it will be an even weight all over. I wouldn't recommend using any blocks that are cotton on both sides because it will throw the weight of the quilt off.
I love this!! I have seen several tutorials on this, but yours is the best one I have seen. I have both a 14 yr old girl and 8 yr old boy. This would not only be a great idea for a baby, but also a loving quilt for my kiddos'. What would you say would be a good yardage for a twin and full size bed. Yes, more time, but more love too.
-Thanks
Thanks so much Aimee! Sewing I can do. Figuring out anything math related? Not so much. I usually just go to the fabric store and have the ladies there help me figure out how much I need. They are way better at it than I am!
Kara
I'm curious as to about how long this took to make? I'm thinking of making a twin-size, so I know it will take longer, but just trying to get an idea. (anyone who has made one can feel free to "weigh in". I would consider myself to have amateur sewing skills, but I can thread the sewing machine
and sew stitches good enough for me! I think that once you get going, this is a fairly simple process….thoughts??? Should I even begin to attempt this (I am 7 months pregnant and work part-time…) am I crazy to think I could get this done and done half-way decently???
I made one of these in about 3 days. I probably would have had it done in 2 but I have a baby and the third day was mainly just cutting and washing/drying
Hope that helps!
Haha! Kids really do have a way of making craft projects last longer, don't they? Three days is still really quick for a quilt though; that's why I love this method so much!
Yes, you should be able to get it finished. Another reader said it took her three days. Obviously a twin size will take longer, but you should still be able to get one done fairly quickly. Good luck!
I was wondering when making this if its possible on the back to have just solid fabric without the squares?? how would I do that? any ideas….
For this method you sew the back and front together before piecing it together, so you can't have a solid piece of fabric on the back. You can do stripes instead of squares though, I've see a few of those online.
Just found your instructions on making a rag quilt. I have been wanting to make one for my granddaughter but could not find clear instructions that compare to yours. Thank you!
So glad to hear it. Thanks Cindy!!
I made a dinasaur rag quilt from a Simplicity pattern. I used flannel but it pilled up so bad. How can I tell if the material I select will pill up or not? It really ruined it for me, although the dino turned out cute. I never gave it away
Thoughts? HELP
Thanks!
I love your tutorial on making the rag quilt. I have been looking at several sets of directions and love the up close pictures you have with yours. It makes it so much easier to get a good idea of what to do. Also, I am an adoptive Mother. However, my situation is a little different. My hubby and I did an adult adoption of our youngest daughter. She had been in the foster care system, was adopted at age 12, but mistreated terribly. She was one of my hubby's ROTC students and that's how we found her. She has been a blessing in our lives and hopefully we have been the same for her.
I'm working on one of these right now for my daughter to take to college with her. It is denim on one side and flannel on the other. I'm not adding layer of batting, it is already heavy enough, and I'm not sewing the squares together in an X and it is turning out great. Because it is so heavy (X-long Twin), I'll be taking it to the laundromat to wash and dry. I read somewhere that if you clip the edges at a 45 degree angle that they fray better. I think I'll try it on some sample squares before I clip the entire quilt. I also read that you want to use 100% cotton for both front and back as polyester blends will not fray.
If you're not using batting, then you don't need to sew the "x", you are right! I've never heard of clipping at an angle. Let me know how it works.
And yes, cotton is definitely best for good fraying results!
Hi Kara,
I'm so happy to have found your tutorial! I've been curious about how to make a rag quilt ever since I saw one in a specialty shop last fall. I was surprised at how simple it is to make (excellent step-by-step instructions). I split out the work over three days and spent about 3 hours each day to make the crib-size baby quilt. I bought the fabric and cut all of the squares on Saturday, sewed on Sunday and snipped, washed and dried on Monday. My kids helped me "make the sandwiches" and sew the x's. It was a real team effort!
Kara,
I don't have any experience with machine-sewing through batting. I pinned my first sandwich with four pins, but when I sewed through it, all the layers ended up out of line with each other. I understand that a small amount of mis-allignment wouldn't matter that much, but it was crooked by about 3/4 of an inch! Do you have any suggestions?
Thanks,
Vicki
Vicki, are you using the thin warm and natural batting? It doesn't shift as bad as the thicker stuff. Either way, if it is shifting that much, use more pins. At least two per side should hold it in place. Good luck!!
I found your instructions through a Google search then I pinned this tutorial on Pinterest! You have great photos and instructions. I have all my strips sewed, but I haven't braved sewing strips to each other–I went and bought longer quilting pins in the hope that they will help with shifting. Thanks for sharing!
Hi! I would love to make this for my nephew, would should be here in about 5 1/2 weeks. My question is, are you using a sewing machine, and if so what setting? If not, how are you doing it?
Hi Kara – I'm expecting my first great grand baby in July and want to do something special. I found your instructions and can't wait to get started – this will be perfect! But, I'm a little confused about cutting the flannel 1/2" smaller than the fabric squares and then sewing a 1/2" seam. Is there a problem with making sure the flannel is "captured" when sewing the squares together? I can't wait to give this a try! God Bless your efforts to adopt.
Just wanted to say …. I tried the chocolate peanut butter cookies LOVED THEM!!!!! Will now add them to my cookies must haves Thank you.
I've made many quilts, but this one really caught my eye. I made one out of flannel for a Bunco pal's new baby. I liked the thickness without batting. Normally I'm a huge pin-aholic, but I found when I was sewing the X that the two pieces of flannel stayed together without pins and didn't shift. Cutting all those seams was tiresome and I had to wash it several times to get the look I wanted, but it turned out beautiful. And I love the idea that the back is already done. That is usually my least favorite part of making a quilt. I'll definitely be making more of these in the future. Thanks for a great project!
I should add that I did use pins when I sewed the strips together. I'm not that brave!
I agree with you–cutting those seams does seem to take forever. But it sure does make for a cute quilt!
so, do I wash the flannel before sewing or leave the washing until after it's been completed? Thanks!! This is my first rag quilt, but I'll bet it won't be my last!
I would definitely wash your flannel prior to any sewing
I usually wash everything beforehand, just in case 
I absolutely love this little quilt!!! Will be making one for my daughter this week!! I'm using receiving blankets to make mine. I always love the way that the colors match so well when they package them and since I have so many I thought it would be a great way for her to cherish them in the future!! I'm hoping to make several so that she can keep them for her children!! What a great idea!!! LOVE IT!! Thanks
Love the idea of using receiving blankets! I've got a bunch I could use. Genius!
Hi Kara, I just love this rag quilt. I made a tumbling block rag quilt for my grandson and it turned out amazing, and now I have a granddaughter on the way and was looking for a new idea for her, this rag quilt is adorable and I already have the material in 4 different coordinating colours. Thanks again for the great idea,
Hi Kara, I dont understand how you get your rows sewn together. Can you explain more thoroughly. Thanks!
So I found you on Pinterest for the crepes recipe. However this is something that I really wanted to do with my older kids baby blankets. I had no idea how to even start but with this and a little imagination I am finally ready to try it. Thanks!!
Hi Kara, I have a question. Have you ever make a quilt out of old Army uniforms? My friend would like me to make him a quilt of his old ACU (Army Combat Uniform) for his young son, I have never made a quilt but am up for the chalange. I just cant find anything on the web to give me ideas on how to begine. Any suggestions?
Thanks, Corina
My friend made a "rag" bib like the other tutorial Kara has out of my husband's camo and it did not fray much but it is adorable! She even took one of his little canvas name tags and put it on there. It is a heavier material so I'm assuming it would be similar to working with a denim. I'm not a great seamstress myself but just from what I can tell on the bib, you could make a rag quilt like this using the same method with squares and alternating some other fabrics in there?
Il est superbe ce plaid
merci pour la technique
bonne journée
country
Your tutorial is the best one I have found. I'm making one for my husband out of his old flannel pants and one for my son with his old receiving blankets.
This is so cute! The step by step instruction is very easy to understand! So glad I found this page! I am Definitely going to have to try making one for my son! He loves "blankies" so it would be perfect for him!!! Definitely thinking about making him a spongebob quilt! He would go nuts over it!
I totally love your quilt tutorial. But, I was wondering if flannel in the middle could be used instead of batting?
Yes Jen, you could use flannel in the middle instead of batting. You'll end up with a lighter weight quilt, but it should work just fine. Good luck!
This quilt is so adorable! Could you please tell me how far apart you clip the seems?
I just made a rag quilt out of a cotton blue, yellow and white duck pattern shower curtain. It is adorable! I bought it at Goodwill for $3 – washed it up and started cutting. I added flannel – for $10 and my time, I had it done in an afternoon. It's for my brother who's baby is due in July!
It sounds adorable! And when you can get something for such a great deal, it's even better!
Awesome instructions!! That really is such a cute blanket! Thank you!
Thanks so much Lora!
I chose this as my first quilt project and it turned out great! Thanks so much for the awesome tutorial! I'd love to share a pic but don't know how.
Thanks again, Jill
Yay, so glad to hear it turned out, especially since it was your first! Totally understand about not being able to share a pic. Technology can be so difficult sometimes!
Beautiful quilt, and wonderful tutorial! Have you done a rag quilt with an added edging that is then clipped? I am in the process of making a denim rag quilt with flannel back (large adult size). Thank you so much for sharing.
I have never tried that. If you make one, I'd love to see it!
Thank you so much for sharing. My mother use to be a professional wedding dress maker and I have never had an interest in sewing. Actually, I am quite intimidated by the sewing machine. My friend is having her first baby and I am so excited to make her a rag quilt. I will share when completed.
This is a great project for a newbie, I bet yours will turn out just great. Can't wait to see it!
I love this quilt so much! I am going to start making a patriotic rag quilt for a wife in my husbands Marine squadron. I was wondering what kind of "batting" you used between the front and the back? Is is just a neutral flannel or an actual batting? Thanks so much
I used warm and natural batting. You can find it at just about any fabric store. Good luck!
Can you use courdoroy?
I have never sewn with corduroy, so I have no idea how it frays. I'd try cutting slits on a piece of scrap corduroy, then washing and drying it to see how it turns out. If it looks fine to you, then go ahead and use it.
Hi Kara – I was noticing in your posts you guys went through the process of adoption and were blessed with you little princess in April. So happy for you. My daughter has a condition called Turner Syndrome. She is almost 13 now. TS only effects females. Because girls who have TS do not produce eggs and many have heart conditions that could compromise their lives if they carried a pregnancy using another woman's eggs, our daughter plans to adopt. Interestingly I have worked in labor and delivery for 7 years. When I am introduced to a birth mother who is giving her baby up for adoption, I thank them and tell them how selfless they are, that they are a true hero. I pray everyday our daughter will be blessed to have someone as selfless and loving as they are give her the gift to become a mother. Congratulations to you. Cherish every moment of cuddle time with your princess.
So sorry about your daughter, but so glad that adoption is such a beautiful way to build a family. I totally agree that birth mothers are heroes. I am so, so, grateful to ours. Rachel has blessed our family more than I can even express.
This is an adorable rag quilt. I'm a more experienced quilter, have worked at a quilt store for 10yrs., and have made several rag quilts. But today, when I was prepping my fabric I needed a quick refresher on making a baby size. I found your tutorial and it is so well done-very easy to follow for anyone no matter what their experience level. Thanks for the time you put into it
Thanks so much Kim. I actually find myself referring back to my old tutorials all the time. The ole' noggin just can't remember everything anymore.
Thanks for the great tips & step-by-step pics! I went with a more random pattern, but I love how yours came out!
I also linked to your tutorial in my post http://loveandstories.wordpress.com/2012/07/03/a-rag-quilt-lessons-in-potty-training/
Found the tutorial today and loved it. Will try for a larger size though as my kids are a little older. I too am an adopted mother and wish you all the best in your journey.
Thanks Jane!
Do I need to stitch an " X" to make the "sandwich" or can I stitch something else?
The "x" just seems to work the best because it holds the corners and the center together. You could stitch something else, you just might need to use more pins to hold the corners together when you sew the squares together. Let me know how it works!
I absolutely love how simple and straightforward you've made this tutorial. I can't wait to make one for my son and daughter! Congratulations on your daughter's homecoming!
Thanks Casandra! And good luck with your quilts!
ive been rag quilting for some time now and i'ts always been a struggle to come up with cute flannel prints.you may have mentioned somewhere before but i probably missed it.i live close to seattle and we have a joann's and walmart has fabric but im limited to that,just wondering where you go to buy fabric and if you can recommend any online stores.im a big fan by the way,thank you.
Hi Janelle,
I bought the fabric at Joann's, but they stopped selling it. I was able to find more at a local quilt shop, but they sold out as well. I recommend looking for a quilt shop, I bet there are several in Seattle. The flannel is generally more expensive, but it is a much higher quality than I have found at Walmart. Plus they usually have a much larger selection of cute flannel prints. I don't buy much fabric online, but I have purchased some from http://www.theribbonretreat.com/FabricDefault.aspx and have been very happy with it. Good luck!
Hi, beautiful blanket and pattern. I have a couple questions, I apologize if they have already been asked but 156 comments was a lot to read through. You said 2 1/2 yards total. If I want to do a pattern like yours how much of the pink, how much of brown, how much for the back, and how much of batting? Thanks so much.
I also want to add that I was adopted and I am so thankful to God every single day for the life and opportunities I was given and its a wonderful thing you did adopting a baby. Congratulations. (She's probably 2 year old now)
Madebyniki.blogspot.com
I am looking so forward to trying to make this quilt. Thank you so much for informative tutorial. Just one question. Not sure if my machine will be able to handle the thickness of the layers. Do you use a special foot on your machine?
Nope, just the regular foot works just fine. Good luck!
What kind of batting do you use? What should I ask for at the store?
Thanks for the super easy to understand tutorial!
I use warm and natural batting.
I have cotton fabric I wanted to use. I'm wondering after i cut all the edges how do I keep the fabric from fraying?
Um, actually, with a rag quilt, the purpose is to have the edges fray.
I tried this today and my quilt came out perfect! I made it for my daughter that I am adopting from Foster Care. Love hearing other people's adoption stories!
Hello Kara,
I dont have a clothes dryer- what would you recommend i do to get it dry and fluffy.
I love you quilt it is adorable.
Thank you for sharing.
I read the post from Janelle, post #102, she was asking about online places to purchase fabric. I just wanted to mention that I have ordered fabric from http://www.fabric.com and I have been 100% satisfied with everything I've bought from them. I've bought ALOT of flannel and it is great fabric. Just wanted to pass that on in case anyone else needed a fabric source. And I also love your tutorial. Excellent instructions.
LOVE this tutorial, can't wait to try it out! We recently had quadruplets, and the two baby girls took over our 3 year olds nursery, and I am about to make everything for her new big girl room, she's so excited! I'm thinking of using designer cotton fabric on both sides and flannel as batting. I was thinking of not cutting the flannel smaller than the cotton squares, that way the middle flannel layer could help fray and fluff up the fraying. Do you think that would work or am I missing something?
I will be a first time grandma. I want to make the blanket, but I have a question, did you use felt in between the flanel or use real quilting batting, It looks like felt. I want to start as soon as possible, it is a beautiful piece, congradulation.
Diane D Arseneau
If i wanted to make this as a throw for an adult, what size do you suggest? How many yard of fabric would you suggest?
Sorry, math is NOT my strong suit, so I'm not much help. When I am making a blanket or quilt, I just ask the ladies at the fabric store for help figuring out how much I will need.
I love this quilt. I just bought my fabric tonight and can't wait to get started. Going to be making the quilt for a friend's baby.
Congrats on adopting your daughter. =) I was adopted as a baby and so thankful for the amazing life my parents have given me. I love getting to hear of other people's adoption stories.
just be careful with your little bundle of adopted joy, that you don't spoil them to the point that they are narcisstic monsters when they are adults……. my son married a girl adopted from Korea whose parents lavished her and spoiled her. If she doesn't get her way or if I don't call and "check" on her 2-3 times a week, she thinks I don't care. I made a baby quilt for my grandson and she burned it because she was mad at me for something she wrongly assumed. Sorry to post this….. but I just want you parents to be careful. It's so hard not to overspoil your precious babies. And children need to be loved and spoiled to a certian degree….. just be sure to groom them to be loving adults. And by the way….. I love this precious baby quilt! Thank you for posting the tutorial!
I find that instead of using batting, I use 3 layers of flannel with the middle layer being a solid. I cut all the squares the same size, pin together and sew without making the line down the middle. Then I proceed to cut and then fray. It makes the seams extra fluffy and saves a step since the squares are all sewn as part of the seam.
This is a fabulous tutorial! I've been reading through several and even watching a few videos and yours is the most detailed. I've been wondering how a rag quilt would be if I used a fabric other than cotton and your blog is the only one I've found that addressed that question. Thank you very much!!!
Wouldn't 8 squares 5" each make it 40×40"????
Oh! Never mind! I didn't account for the seam
I have been so confused trying to figure out the measurements then I was like oh wow woman.
Haha, I totally understand. The math part of sewing is always the biggest challenge for me!
Hi, I am looking at trying my first quilt and just love your tutorial… My question is (hopefully you didn't already answer this some where above) how much of each fabric did you use? I know you said about 2 1/2 yards in total but what about each separate amount?
Kally,
The amount of each fabric you need depends on the pattern you choose. I used scraps of fabric for some of my squares, so I'm not even sure how much I used. Sorry I'm not much help.
Kara, our daughter is expecting our 2nd grandchild in about 2 months. I make teddybears usually-Memory Bears mostly, from clothing/material from loved ones who have passed away. I LOVE it! I've decided to take the plunge and try making a rag quilt-actually 2, one for a boy and one for a girl, as she doesn't know what she's having. I can't wait to try this out. You're instructions I believe the BEST I've seen after researching it! Thanks so much for sharing your talent:) I can't wait to get the time to do them. I have a few teddybear orders to do first LOL! Just wanted to say thanks. I LOVE the colors in the quilt pictured…can't wait to try it:)
Thank you so much for the tutorial. You were great with the instructions. I am unable to read patterns which is why I need a tutorial and yours was fantastic. Thank you so much for making it look so easy. I am about to start a baby rag quilt as soon as I can get the Hancock's and get my material. Thanks again for such an amazing tutorial.
Thanks for sharing. Your instructions and photos are great. My sister and I are going to try our hand at a "rag" quilt at Thanksgiving, using your method. We'll let you know how it turns out.
Use a walking foot when you are sewing all material together works real well does not bunch up
Thank u so much. I made my first rag blanket and its beautiful! This one is for my g baby thats due in Feb. Now on to make one for my 2 yr old g baby. Your instructions were AWSOME!! Thanks
)
Thank goodness for this tutorial! I have been searching for detailed pictures of Rag Quilt making and I finally found your site. The instructions I was given were not as detailed as yours, and although being pretty crafty, I was left with questions after reading them several times. You made it so easy to understand…Now–to work on my rag quilt!
Hey there! Do you know if they make any plugins to protect
against hackers? I'm kinda paranoid about losing everything I've worked hard on.
Any suggestions?
Just started crafting and saw this. I believe I can do this. Started cutting today can't wait to start sewing. Thanks for the tutorial.
Thank you for explaining how to make a ragquilt. I was always wondering how to make this. Your explanation was very clear. I will try this as soon as possible.
It works very quickly. You dont have to quilt it afterwards.
Thanks again.
Grtz. Rita from the Netherlands.
I love this tutorial. I really can't buy any new fabrics but I do have a bunch of flannel shirts that are waiting to be cut up so I'm going to try that first. On another note, I think it is wonderful that you have adopted a child. I found out last year, in my mid thirties, when my father unexpectedly passed away, that I was adopted. All I can think about now is what a great life my (adoptive) mom and dad gave to me and what a great sacrifice my biological parent made. So thank you. And now I have to get to cutting up these flannel shirts!!
i love this quilt i made one for my daughter years ago but for the squares i used all the clothes she out grew it took a few years but we made it the size of a twin bed and when she had her first show and tell in kindergarten she brought it cause she was so proud
Such a fun idea to use her clothes. I bet she will treasure it forever!
I'am making a rag quilt with fleece without batting. When I sew the rows together the material is too thick to go under the sewing machine pressure foot. Short of taking appart all the sandwiches, what do you suggest?
I found your instructions the easiest , and you had great pictures . My blue rag quilt turned out great .I made it for my niece who is having a boy in dec . I know she will love it . Thanks so much
I found your instructions the easiest , and you had great pictures . My blue rag quilt turned out great .I made it for my niece who is having a boy in Jan . I know she will love it . Thanks so much
When you wash the rag quilt, does it matter which laundry soap to use. Is Tide ok or should you use dreft or do you need to use any soap the first time you wash the rag quilt?
You can use whatever laundry soap you like.
Kara: Thanks so much for these wonderful directions. Do you think you can answer my following question? It's regarding the post from Melissa, I was wondering about her rag quilt using tshirts and denim. I'm thinking the tshirts won't fray. Is one layer of denim enough for the frayed look or did you attach the t-shirts to a piece of flannel, cotton or denim. Thanks.
I haven't tried a rag quilt with denim or t-shirts, so I'm not sure. Hopefully we will hear from Melissa!
I was wondering if I could use regular quilting cotton fabric to make this blanket or just use fannel material . This is going to be my first blanket to make…
I wanna see a picture of the back!
This is the first quilt I've ever made, and really the first thing I've sewn since Home Economics like 15 years ago. After reading the manual of my borrowed machine, and finding fabric in my late grandmother's stash, I made a quilt for my brand-new nephew. It turned out great, except the flannel I used for the back pilled quite a bit, and a couple of the seams ripped in the wash. I think I can blame that on delicate/old flannel fabric. I tried to fix it the best I could, and I guess I'm satisfied with the result! I can't wait to give it to my brother. The history in the fabric and the hand-made-ness will surely make a great gift
Thank you for your detailed tutorial especially the tip about how to quilt the x. From a beginning quilter…
Thank you for your detailed tutorial especially the tip about how to quilt the x. Now I know why my points on the back side of the quilt didn't connect. Thanks from a beginning quilter.
Glad it was helpful for you Carlyn!
maybe a silly question, but when stitching the X do you anchor or knot each end?
No you don't – you will be sewing up all around each square when you join them in rows.
I usually backstitch mine just to be extra safe, but Raven is right, it's not totally necessary.
I have made a total of four flannel rag quilts for babies. When it is ready to be washed, I take it to the laundromat to use their machines! This saves me from having all those threads in my washer or dryer! I take it outside and give it a good shaking before I put it in the dryer. My next rag quilt will be a memory quilt – made from jeans worn by my friend's late brother. I'm making it for their mom and I've been practicing with the baby quilts…
Using the laundromat is a great idea!
So nice of you to make a memory quilt for your friend. I'm sure it will be a gift that they will treasure forever.
Just curious as to what the approxiamate cost of making a rag quilt is? Would like to make this for a good friend, but don't want to make one if it's crazy expensive!
Thanks!
Kristy
Kristy, it totally depends on the cost of your flannel. I've seen some for as little as $2/yard, and some for more than $15/yard. It's totally up to you!
Yay!! I {loved} this tutorial so much that I set out to make my own {copycat} rag quilt & just finished it this morning!! I'm new to sewing & had never attempted anything like this before…I am THRILLED with how it turned out! I almost hate to part with it at tomorrow at a friend's baby shower!
. Thank you again SO much!!
Yay, that just makes my day! I bet your friend is going to adore it!
I am very new at the sewing world and especially quilting but I really want to make one of these for my baby boy #2. I am having trouble finding a theme because everything fits my first boy and really just want to go with a color theme. My thoughts are using the same layout as your quilt but use Blue minky on the outside border (and the four squares on the inside) black and white dots fleecel on the next inner border and then a white fleece. I hope you can picture what Im talking about lol! My question is how much of EACH fabric should i order? And i have also heard you dont have to see batting if you are using fleece fabric.. I dont want a heavy blanket…. And i saw you mentioned about the minky material not fraying but i love the look it… if i use a fleece or flannel or even a cotton fabric on the back do you think it will be ok since most of my blanket will be minky. I dont want it to look sloppy since this is my first time. (i heard this style of quilt is very forgiving as far as straight line sewing) Thank you for any help you can over!!
thank you for any help you can offer! ^
I wouldn't recommend using both minky and fleece for a rag quilt. Neither one of those fabrics will fray, so the seams will look a little odd and unfinished. If you use flannel in place of the fleece on the front, then the minky seams won't stand out as much. Hope that helps!
As far as how much to order, that is a math question, and like I mentioned on the post, I stink at math!. I just ask the ladies at the fabric store to help me because I can't figure it out.
So my sister tried to make this quilt for me… I gave her this site cause she is really good at this stuff. Unfortunatley she disregaured my wants for the blanket pattern and the fabrics I wanted. I have a son and because of health reasons he is going to be my only child. So I wanted a rag quilt made out of all his recieving blankets. Anyways. She didn't use them all. I told I didn't care how big or small the blanket was as long as they were ALL in there. And I wanted a random pattern. So she put the blanket together, didn't use batting, and didn't stitch the x's in the squares. Is this fixable? Or is there no hope and all my sons blankets are ruined :/
It's fine that she didn't use batting, I know lots of people leave it out because they want a lighter weight blanket. Sewing the X holds the batting in place and makes it so the outside squares don't slip around when you stitch it together. But if she skipped that step, it probably made it more tricky to sew together, but it shouldn't affect the final quilt. Does it seem to be holding together well?
If you have extra receiving blankets you want to use up, you could make up a few Rag Quilt Baby Bibs. Here's the link to the instructions: http://www.creationsbykara.com/2010/08/rag-quilt-baby-bib-tutorial.html
Good luck!
Hi Kara!
I want to try to make a rag quilt for a baby shower in a few weeks. Just one question, do you pre-wash the flannel?
Thanks for all of your advice, I can't wait to make this!
Yep, I pre-wash the flannel.
Kara, I found this other site that had some "math" to help see how much fabric you need for a rag quilt. I think it would help some! Thanks for a great tutorial!
scroll down for measurements: http://jubileehomespun.com/info/Quilt_Instructions.htm
Thanks for the tip Lynda!
This was SO easy to follow, especially as I've never made a quilt before. My mother in law, an avid quilter, gave me some super cute 5" flannel squares. In my searching for patterns, yours is the quilt that made me stop here & say "this is it!" So, here's my first attempt – it was SO fun and am giddy on how well it turned out!
http://twitpic.com/chki73
http://twitpic.com/chkiih
IM SO EXCITED TO FIND YOUR SITE….IVE BEEN WANTING TO LEARN TO QUILT, AND THIS IS GONNA BE THE PERFECT START…..THANK YOU SO MUCH…..ILL LET YOU KNOW HOW IT GOES….:)
When you wash the flannel, do you wash on gentle cycle or regular cycle? I just washed mine and it don't look like its doing right at all. Thanks!
I washed mine on the regular cycle, but I know that some of the cheaper brands of flannel can have issues with pilling.
My husband and I have made several rag quilts. He embroiders on one side and I do a design on the other. We use flannel in the middle with cotton on the outside, so they are warm and not heavy. We use a good quality muslin on the back, and have given them as wedding gifts, birthday gifts, get well gifts, so that friends and family can sign them as a keep sake. Always a huge hit!
I love the idea of having people sign them! What an awesome gift idea that will be treasured forever. Thanks for sharing!
Great, easy tutorial! Love it! I can't wait for that next grandbaby so I can put it to use! Congratulations on the arrival of your baby girl! What an awesome blessing! My question is this: Do you wash your flannel once before cutting out your pieces etc? For most quilts it's recommended that we wash our fabric first and press and starch it…thus my question.
Thanks for inspring me to do a baby rag quilt. I will be subscribing to your blog.
Linda
Yes, I pre-wash and dry my fabric to prevent uneven shrinking.
Hi Kara, love the tutorial! Can't wait to make it. I just have one question that is bothering the heck out of me! I want to make one exactly like yours with the same dimensions. However, how is this blanket a 32X32 in if it has 8 squares on each side that are each 5"? Wouldn't that make a 40X40"? Maybe i'm just being dumb, but I don' get it. Thanks!
~Courtney