Quilting has always been a way to combine tradition with creativity, and the Time Wheel Quilt is the perfect example of that balance. This quilt design captures the beauty of circular movement, blending bold fabrics and curved piecing to create a project that is both modern and timeless. With its intricate layout of blocks, Dresdens, and paper piecing, the Time Wheel Quilt offers a journey of craftsmanship that results in a breathtaking piece of textile art.
The circular movement of this quilt gives it a sense of flow and energy, almost as if time itself is turning within its design. The combination of structured geometry and free-flowing curves makes the Time Wheel Quilt both visually captivating and rewarding to make. It’s a project that invites you to slow down, enjoy the process of piecing each block, and watch as a truly unique quilt unfolds before your eyes.
The pattern is designed with precision, featuring fabrics from the Kismet Collection by Sharon Holland. Each block combines geometric accuracy with soft flowing curves, making this quilt an engaging challenge for confident beginners and intermediate quilters alike. The finished quilt measures 60″ × 70″, making it a wonderful size for a cozy throw or a decorative quilt for your home.
Fabric Selection and Requirements
The Time Wheel Quilt showcases a variety of prints and solids, perfectly chosen to create a harmonious balance of light and dark tones. To recreate the design, you’ll need a combination of patterned fabrics and solid blenders. A selection of around 16 different fabrics plus background and binding is required. The original pattern suggests using fabrics from the Kismet Collection, but you can also personalize your quilt by selecting your favorite prints and colors.
In total, you’ll need approximately:
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Multiple fat quarters or yardage for the quilt blocks.
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4½ yards of backing fabric.
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½ yard for binding.
This variety of fabrics makes the quilt visually dynamic, while the repeating curved motifs tie the whole design together.
The Beauty of the Blocks
The quilt is composed of three main types of blocks:
Block A – Curved Precision
Block A highlights pieced curves that radiate outward, creating the illusion of a spinning motion. Sewing curved pieces requires careful pinning, but with patience and accuracy, you’ll achieve beautifully rounded blocks trimmed to 10½” square.
Block B – Dresden Plates
The Dresden Plates add depth and detail to the design. Each petal is sewn into points and appliquéd onto the corners of the blocks, with a circular center appliqué finishing the look. These floral-like accents bring a unique texture and flow to the quilt.
Block C – Paper Pieced Rays
For the most dramatic effect, Block C uses foundation paper piecing to create radiant rays that seem to burst from the center. This technique ensures accuracy and allows for playful color placement. Beginners at paper piecing will find this block a great introduction, while seasoned quilters will enjoy the precision.
Quilt Top Assembly
Once all blocks are completed, they are arranged into seven rows. The clever placement of Blocks A, B, and C creates a wheel-like motion across the quilt, with curves and Dresdens weaving together seamlessly. Following the diagram provided in the pattern ensures balance and flow in the final layout.
After piecing the top, the quilt sandwich is created by layering the backing, batting, and quilt top. Pin or baste carefully before quilting. The pattern encourages you to choose quilting motifs that match your personal style—whether you prefer free-motion swirls, straight-line quilting, or traditional motifs.
Finishing the Quilt
The final touch is the binding. Using strips of 1½” wide fabric, you’ll encase the edges of your quilt neatly. Whether you hand-stitch the binding or machine-sew it, this finishing step frames your quilt beautifully, completing the design.
Why You’ll Love Making the Time Wheel Quilt
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A great mix of techniques: curved piecing, appliqué, and paper piecing.
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A versatile size, perfect for displaying or snuggling under.
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Endless fabric possibilities to make it uniquely yours.
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A quilt that feels both classic and modern, ensuring it becomes a cherished piece.
At the end of this article, I will make the PDF pattern available for free download, so you can start creating your own stunning Time Wheel Quilt today.
PDF pattern available for free download
The Time Wheel Quilt is more than just a project it’s an artistic journey that combines skill, patience, and creativity. Whether you’re drawn to the precision of the curved seams, the charm of the Dresden Plates, or the striking beauty of paper-pieced rays, this quilt will keep you engaged from the first cut to the last stitch.