How Helen designs her own fabric

Rachel from Fiber Focus talked a TAFA member Helen Klebesadel into dishing how she creates fabric from her own artwork (shown here) using Spoonflower. Helen takes you step-by-step through the process from creating an account, using Photoshop Elements to transfer your artwork into a fabric printable digital image, to proofing your design in the most economical way. Rachel gives you a nicely written back-story of Spoonflower before the tutorial. You don’t want to miss this one. Get the know-how.

[tags]tutorial, Spoonflower, fiber artists, create your own fabric, Spoonflower[/tags]

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Quilting meets the timeless artistry of Navajo and tribal designs in this roundup of breathtaking patterns inspired by the rich traditions of the Southwest. These quilt patterns channel the bold geometry, vibrant colors, and storytelling heritage of Navajo art, offering a blend of cultural beauty and creative expression.

Whether you’re drawn to the iconic Lone Star designs, the intricate layers of the Sunset Star, or the symbolic details of the Navajo Seasons quilt, there’s something here to capture your imagination. From beginner-friendly blocks to advanced patterns that challenge your quilting skills, these projects invite you to explore the harmony of shapes, hues, and traditions.

The patterns in this collection are more than just quilts—they’re a way to connect with the past while crafting something uniquely your own. Use earthy tones, striking contrasts, or even your stash fabrics to create quilts that echo the landscapes of deserts, mountains, and wide-open skies. You’ll also find tutorials and free resources to guide you as you stitch these timeless designs.

So, if you’re ready to add a touch of tribal beauty to your quilting repertoire, these patterns will inspire you to create something extraordinary. Which one will you start with? Let us know in the comments, and let’s celebrate the artistry of Navajo and tribal quilting together.

Quilting was introduced to the Navajo people through trade, boarding schools, and missionary efforts, where European settlers and American missionaries taught sewing and quilting techniques. Over time, Navajo quilters began incorporating their artistic sensibilities into quilting, blending traditional patterns with this new medium.

Navajo artisans were famous for their intricate woven rugs and blankets. Using upright looms and hand-spun wool, they created bold geometric designs, often inspired by nature and spiritual beliefs. These weavings carried deep symbolism, with colors and patterns reflecting sacred meanings, family stories, or connections to the land.

Lone Star Quilt Free Pattern – Jordan Fabrics

Navajo Seasons Quilt Pattern – Jinny Beyer Studio

Navajo Quilt Block

Homestead Star Quilt

NAVAJO ROAD Quilt Pattern – Chris Hoover – Whirligig Designs

Navajo – Traditional Quilt Block Tutorial LIVE – Video # 46

Tribal Musings

6 Stunning Southwest Inspired Quilt Patterns

Quilt Pattern – Tapis Quilt by AGF Studio

Comments

Rachel Biel says
August 26, 2010 at 5:57 am
Thanks for posting the tutorial, Scarlett! A friend of mine designs fabric for one of the major quilt fabric companies and has presented the process in our fiber art group. It always seemed like so much work and way too complicated for the average creative. Spoonflower really makes that process accessible to all of us. Helen really did a great job of explaining it. Now, the main barrier is the pricing and if that can come down over time, we’re all set!
Also, thanks for mentioning TAFA. For those of you who have not heard of it yet, I launched it in February. If you want some inspiration by some incredible art quilters, visit this link: http://www.tafalist.com/search/label/Member%20Made%3A%20Art%20Quilts

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