Kaleidoscope Quilt
A Kaleidoscope Quilt is a quilt inspired by the symmetrical patterns found in a Kaleidoscope. The Kaleidoscope quilt block is constructed with a square divided into 8 wedges, similar to an 8-pointed star or LeMoyne Star. The quilts made with this quilt block use color and placement for the effect. There are fabric cutting techniques to mimic the effect of a kaleidoscope and when done with fabric that mirrors the piece next to it, the results are stunning. Another technique for creating a Kaleidoscope quilt is to use the One Block Wonder style done with fabric repeats stacked on top of each other. Most complex kaleidoscope quilts are from American Artist and Quiltmaker Paula Nadelstern who has received international acclaim for her quilts.
Benefits of a Kaleidoscope Quilt
- Making a Kaleidoscope Quilt is an exercise in color and design.
- Start simple with the Kaleidoscope Block, then a One Block Wonder, and take a look at the quilts and fabric from Paula Nadelstern
- A Kaleidoscope quilt can be made with a variety techniques not found in other types of quilts.
- A Kaleidoscope Quilt can be made with solids or prints - the more color and variety of prints the better.
Tools and Supplies - Kaleidoscope Quilt
You'll need the following to help make a Kaleidoscope Quilt.
- Basic sewing supplies
- sewing machine
- 45° ruler and or other wedge rulers
- Folding mirror - to see what the pattern might look like when using prints
- Pattern and the fabric for your selected quilt technique
- Design Wall
What I Wish I Knew When I Started - Kaleidoscope Quilt
Even the simplest KALEIDOSCOPE QUILT can provide beautiful results. This type of quilt needs a design wall! If that is not an option for you - use a piece of flannel on a wall pinned in place and take a picture. The flannel can be folded and put away when needed and the picture will let you see the movement of color and design you might miss seeing it up close.
