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patchwork
Patchwork is a fascinating sewing technique. Whether it's a blanket, pillow, or bag: patchwork is a great way for beginners to enhance their sewing projects and have lots of fun doing it. Here I'll show you what you need to know to get started.
You can find all my posts on the topic of patchwork here:
First basics
I've summarized how to get started with patchwork in this post. You can find more information about patchwork in my blog posts.
🧵 Patchwork for beginners
Your entry into the world of fabric art
The word patchwork is a combination of the English words "patch" and "work"—meaning "working with pieces of fabric." The basic idea is to assemble small pieces of fabric into a large, harmonious whole. Traditionally, cotton fabrics in geometric shapes such as squares, triangles, or strips are used.
But not all patchwork is the same – there are countless styles. From traditional patterns like "Log Cabin", "Nine Patch" or "Flying Geese" to modern, minimalist compositions where colors and textures take center stage.
What makes this technique special is the creative freedom it offers: you can use up fabric scraps, design your own patterns, and make each piece truly unique. Patchwork is a wonderful way for beginners to get started and practice working with fabric, sewing machines, and precision.
Patchwork and quilting
What is the difference?
Many people use the terms patchwork and quilting synonymously – but in fact they describe two different steps in the creation process:
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Patchwork refers to the sewing together of many individual pieces of fabric to create a large surface – usually the top of a future quilt.
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Quilting, on the other hand, describes the stitching of several layers of fabric – that is, the sewing together of the patchwork top with a warming intermediate layer (volume fleece) and a backing (lining fabric).
A quilt therefore consists of three layers:
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the patchwork top (the sewn-together surface),
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the volume fleece,
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and the reverse side (often made of smooth cotton fabric).
Quilting permanently bonds these three layers together. The stitching lines create three-dimensional structures that accentuate the design and give the piece stability.
In short: Patchwork is the design – quilting is the finishing touch.
The two together create what is commonly referred to as a "quilt".
Materials and tools for patchwork beginners
What do you need to get started?
To ensure a successful start, you should pay attention to good tools and the right materials. Precision is key in patchwork – every millimeter can be crucial later on.
Fabrics :
Cotton fabrics with a tight weave are best. They are easy to cut, hardly stretch, and are durable. Patchwork fabric bundles are ideal for beginners, as the fabrics are coordinated in color and quality. Old shirts, bed linens, or fabric scraps are also suitable – especially if you want to work sustainably.
Tools :
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Rotary cutter: For cuts accurate to the millimeter.
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Patchwork ruler: Indispensable for precise angles and measurements.
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Cutting mat: Protects the table and extends the life of your blade.
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Iron: Each seam is ironed after sewing – this ensures smooth transitions and a clean result.
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Pins or clips: For fixing the fabrics.
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Universal needle (70–80): Ideal for cotton or blended fabrics.
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Sewing thread: Use tear-resistant, high-quality polyester or cotton thread.
Tip: When planning your project, first cut out all the pieces and lay them out – this way you can immediately see if your color mix harmonizes.
Working with inches
Converting inches to centimeters - why patchwork measures differently
Anyone who delves into patchwork will quickly encounter a peculiarity: many patterns are given in inches, not centimeters. This is because patchwork originated in the USA, where the inch measurement remains the standard.
1 inch equals 2.54 cm.
It sounds simple, but when sewing, small deviations can make a big difference – especially when many pieces of fabric are sewn together.
This means for you:
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If you are using an English or American sewing pattern, work consistently in inches.
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Use a patchwork ruler with inch markings and keep the seam allowance consistent – usually ¼ inch (approx. 0.6–0.7 cm).
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Avoid switching between centimeter and inch systems – otherwise inaccuracies will occur.
Tip: Many patchwork feet for sewing machines are designed for exactly this ¼ inch measurement. This allows you to sew precise blocks without constantly having to measure.
If you prefer to work in the metric system, you can of course do so – but then make sure that you plan and cut the entire project consistently in cm.
You can find more information about cm and inches in my blog post: "Converting inches to cm: Simple explanations & practical tips".
