If you’re looking for a quilt pattern that is modern, colorful, and perfect for beginners, the Dart AB Gradiance Quilt Pattern is a wonderful choice. Designed by Ariga Wilson for Robert Kaufman Fabrics, this quilt combines simple strip piecing with clever fabric placement to create a bold and dynamic design.
The Dart AB Gradiance Quilt Pattern is a perfect balance of simplicity and style. With clean lines and a striking gradient effect, it turns basic strip piecing into a bold and modern statement quilt. Even if you’re new to quilting, this design allows you to experiment with color flow while building confidence in your sewing skills.
Measuring 59” x 78”, this quilt is ideal as a throw for your living room or as a bed accent. With its striking rows and vibrant color play, it’s a project that looks sophisticated while remaining accessible for quilters at any skill level.
Materials and Fabric Requirements
This quilt is made with the Dart fabric collection and a Gradiance Roll Up, but you can easily substitute your own favorite fabrics. For the original version, you’ll need:
-
Fabric A – Licorice (black solid): 2-3/4 yards
-
Gradiance Roll Up (40 strips): one pack
-
Binding – Licorice: 5/8 yard
-
Backing – Licorice: 5 yards
Cutting Instructions
-
From Fabric A (Licorice):
-
Rectangles and squares for piecing (sizes: 2-1/2” x 6-1/2”, 2-1/2” x 4-1/2”, and 2-1/2” squares)
-
Border strips (2-1/2” x 74-1/2” and 2-1/2” x 59-1/2”)
-
Row sashing strips (1-1/2” x 55-1/2”)
-
-
From the Roll Up:
-
25 different strips, cut into three pieces each:
-
2-1/2” x 3-1/2”
-
2-1/2” x 6-1/2”
-
2-1/2” x 30-1/2”
-
-
Step-by-Step Assembly
-
Assemble Rows:
Take three Roll Up pieces (cut from the same strip) plus two Fabric A rectangles. Sew them together to form a row strip, pressing toward the darker fabric. Repeat to make 25 rows. -
Complete Rows:
Extend each row with extra Fabric A rectangles on the left or right, as shown in the Quilt Assembly Diagram. -
Join Rows with Sashing:
Arrange the 25 rows with 24 sashing strips in between. Sew together to form the quilt center. For best results, sew rows in pairs and then join the halves. -
Add Borders:
Attach the side borders first, then the top and bottom borders. -
Finish Your Quilt:
Baste, quilt as desired, bind with the Licorice fabric, and enjoy your finished Dart AB Gradiance Quilt.
Why This Quilt Is Great for Beginners
The Dart AB Gradiance Quilt is simple to sew yet visually stunning. By using pre-cut strips from a Roll Up, much of the cutting is already done, making it less intimidating for new quilters. The addition of sashing creates a polished and professional look without adding complexity.
This pattern is also a fantastic way to play with color gradients, as the Roll Up strips transition beautifully from light to dark tones.
Free PDF Download
To help you get started, you can download the official pattern directly as a free PDF:
Download the Dart AB Gradiance Quilt Pattern – Free PDF
Conclusion
The Dart AB Gradiance Quilt Pattern proves that beginner-friendly projects can also be bold and modern. With simple piecing techniques and a clever use of color, this quilt is both enjoyable to make and stunning to display. Whether you’re just starting your quilting journey or looking for a relaxing project, this pattern is an excellent choice.