Quilting

Patterns, patchworks and projects

Fidget quilts

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Fidget Quilt Alzheimers Patients 1This tiny work of art is more than just a pretty textile. It will sit on the lap of a dementia patient as a soothing sensory tool. Michele Bilyeu, from With Heart and Hands, came to making these quilts in response to her mother’s struggles with Alzheimer’s. She explains,

I saw the increasing distractions, the fidgeting, the inability to stay calm and centered and always sought a multitude of ways to keep her engaged, happy, content, and even busy.

Click the link below to see many more fidget quilts. She hopes you’ll be inspired to make a few.

Making Fidget Quilts for Alzheimer’s Patients: Free Tutorials and Ideas, by Michele

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Comments

  1. This is such an amazing place to find just the right thing that you can make for Alzheimer’s and Dementia patients and also for those in wheelchairs, those with Autisim etc. Thank you so much for bringing this to our attention! You rock Scarlett! I know there are many Veterans in the Veterans Homes who suffer from these damaging diseases. What a great way to make their lives better.

  2. Barbara,
    So good to hear from you. And thanks for the kudos. Just when I think I know everything there is to know about quilting, I stumble upon something new. I love my job and I love all the generous quilters who share their know-how. –Warmly, Scarlett

Have you read?

The Panel Quilting Workshop: 12 Quick-and-Easy Quilting Ideas

As a quilting enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for books that not only inspire creativity but also simplify complex techniques. Ruth Ann Berry’s The Panel Quilting Workshop: Quick & Easy Panel Quilts for Every Style delivers on both fronts, offering a treasure trove of ideas for anyone who loves quilting with pre-printed fabric panels.

First Impressions

The book immediately grabbed my attention with its vibrant cover featuring intricate yet approachable panel quilt designs. It promises to take the guesswork out of working with fabric panels, which, if you’ve ever tried, can sometimes be tricky to incorporate into cohesive quilts.

What This Book Offers

Berry’s book is more than just a collection of patterns—it’s a workshop in itself. She walks readers through the fundamentals of selecting, cutting, and arranging panels to create striking designs. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced quilter, the step-by-step instructions make the process feel manageable and even fun.

Here are some standout features:

  • Variety of Styles: The book includes a wide range of designs, from traditional to modern, ensuring there’s something for every taste.
  • Clear Instructions: Each project is laid out with detailed diagrams, material lists, and helpful tips.
  • Creative Panel Uses: Berry demonstrates how to elevate simple panels into stunning quilts using techniques like sashing, borders, and pieced elements.

Personal Highlights

One of my favorite projects in the book was the Stained Glass Panel Quilt. The clever use of black sashing to mimic stained glass gave the finished piece a dramatic and elegant look. I also appreciated the section on troubleshooting common issues, like aligning panel seams or choosing complementary fabrics.

What I Loved Most

Berry’s writing style is approachable and encouraging. She clearly understands the challenges quilters face and offers practical advice without overwhelming the reader. The book feels like a personal lesson from a seasoned mentor.

Room for Improvement

While the book is packed with great ideas, some readers might wish for more guidance on customizing panels beyond the included designs. A section on designing your own layouts could take this book to the next level.

Who Is This Book For?

If you’ve ever been intimidated by pre-printed panels or wondered how to transform them into something extraordinary, this book is for you. It’s also perfect for quilters who want quick, satisfying projects without sacrificing style.

Final Thoughts

The Panel Quilting Workshop is a delightful addition to any quilter’s library. It strikes a perfect balance between inspiration and instruction, empowering quilters to experiment and create with confidence. Ruth Ann Berry has crafted a guide that feels both practical and personal, making it a must-read for anyone passionate about quilting.