Modern Quilting 101: What Makes a Quilt Modern?
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What Is Modern Quilting? A Beginner-Friendly Guide to a Fresh Take on a Timeless Craft
Whether you’re just starting your quilting journey or curious about what makes a quilt “modern,” you’re in the right place. Today we’re diving into the heart of modern quilting - what it is, where it came from, and how you can start stitching your own modern masterpieces (no fancy tools or years of experience required!)
So, What Is Modern Quilting?
Modern quilting is all about simplicity, boldness, and creative freedom. While traditional quilts often follow time-honoured patterns with intricate details and lots of symmetry, modern quilts break a few of those rules - in the best way.
Think:
- Clean lines
- Graphic shapes
- High contrast
- Lots of negative space (aka the "breathing room" between blocks)
- Bold, often unexpected color palettes
Modern quilts often look like pieces of contemporary art - yet they’re still warm, handmade and full of heart.
A Quick Peek at the History
While quilting has been around for centuries, modern quilting began to take shape in the early 2000s. The rise of online quilting communities (shoutout to Flickr, early blogs, and eventually Instagram!) brought fresh ideas, younger makers, and a desire to try new things with fabric and thread.
Then came the founding of The Modern Quilt Guild in 2009, and suddenly, modern quilting had a real name - and a movement.
It wasn’t about rejecting tradition. It was about building on it in a way that felt fresh, playful and personal.
Modern vs. Traditional: What’s the Difference?
Let’s break it down:
Traditional Quilting:
- Follows historic block patterns (like Log Cabin, Ohio Star)
- Uses small, precise piecing
- Symmetry and repetition
- Earth tones, muted palettes
- Decorative motifs and borders
Modern Quilting:
- Often features original or improvisational designs
- Favours larger blocks, bold shapes and simplicity
- Asymmetry, off-centre designs
- Bright colours, high contrast, unexpected combos
- Minimalist layout with negative space
Of course, you don’t have to pick one side. Some of the most interesting quilts blend both worlds. That’s the beauty of it - there are no quilting police!
Beginner Tips for Getting Started with Modern Quilting
If you’re new to quilting, don’t worry - you don’t need to master everything at once. Here are a few gentle ways to dip your toes in:
1. Start Simple
Choose a pattern with just a few block types and plenty of negative space. Modern quilts thrive on simplicity.
Try this: My Geometric Blooms Quilt is beginner-friendly and perfect for practicing modern style.
2. Play with Colour
Modern quilts are known for bold and unexpected palettes. Don’t be afraid to pair coral with teal, or mustard with lavender. Try using mostly solids to let the shapes shine.
Tip: Use a colour palette generator (like Coolors or Canva) to find fresh combos or check out our Pinterest Board for some inspiration.
3. Embrace the Imperfect
Modern quilting celebrates your personal touch. If your seams don’t line up perfectly, it’s okay! You’re learning and handmade means human-made.
4. Look for Inspiration
Follow modern quilters on Instagram or Pinterest. Check out hashtags like #modernquilt or #modernquilting. Seeing what others are making can spark ideas for your own style.
Final Thoughts
At its core, modern quilting is about freedom and expression. It’s about making something you love, in a way that feels creative and doable. You don’t need to be an expert, a perfectionist, or a historian - you just need a little fabric, a little time and the willingness to try.
So grab your favourite fabrics and let’s make something modern together. 💛
Happy quilting,
Trin
Founder of Trin Makes Quilts – Modern Patterns for Beginners