Sewn vests for diabetic dogs | Monkey Beans

I realize this is not patchwork, but please bear with me. I’m blogging while watching the 9/11 Memorial on television – they are on the ‘G’ names. I’ve already teared up several times listening to those who lost a family member announce the names of victims and at the end, talk about the person(s) they lost that day. Some are making paper rubbings on the engraved name of their loved one. It got me to thinking about my father, who died way too young of complications from Type l Diabetes. I miss him every day.

Cruising my Google reader up pops a post by Meg at Monkey Beans. She’s a quilter and member of the Portland Modern Quilt Guild. She has a friend whose daughter has Type l (Juvenile Diabetes). She received a service dog trained to recognize high and low blood sugar and to alert the diabetic. The daughter’s dog and three others needed vests to wear while on the job. Meg made all three. Aren’t they fabulous? Click HERE to visit her post Gratifying.

Looking for pet supplies, toys, food or gift ideas? Check these out.

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