Missouri Star's Trip Around The World Quilt Pattern Guide

Hey there, quilting enthusiasts! Are you looking for a project that's both stunning and satisfying? Well, buckle up, because we're diving into the Trip Around the World quilt pattern, and guess what? We're taking the scenic route with a little help from the amazing folks at Missouri Star Quilt Company! This pattern is a classic for a reason – its vibrant, interlocking squares create a mesmerizing effect that's sure to impress. Let's get started on this quilting adventure, guys!

What is the Trip Around the World Quilt Pattern?

First off, what is this pattern all about? The Trip Around the World quilt pattern is known for its vibrant and dynamic design, which is created by arranging colorful squares in concentric rounds. Imagine a world map, with different countries and continents pieced together – that's the essence of this quilt! It’s like a patchwork journey, where each fabric square represents a stop on your quilting expedition. The finished product is a feast for the eyes, a bold statement piece that can brighten any room. The beauty of this pattern lies in its versatility; you can use a wide range of colors and fabric scraps, making it a fantastic project for using up your stash. From bright, bold hues to soft, pastel shades, the possibilities are endless. The design gives the illusion of movement and depth, drawing the viewer in for a closer look. It's a pattern that has stood the test of time, loved by quilters for generations because of its beauty and adaptability. You can make it as simple or as complex as you like, depending on the number of fabrics and the size of the squares you choose. So, whether you're a seasoned quilter or just starting out, the Trip Around the World quilt pattern offers a rewarding and creative experience. The key to a successful Trip Around the World quilt is careful planning and precise cutting. Taking the time to organize your fabrics and accurately cut your squares will ensure that your quilt comes together smoothly. And don't worry if it seems a little daunting at first – with the right guidance and a bit of patience, you'll be amazed at what you can create.

Missouri Star's Take on the Classic

Now, why are we talking about Missouri Star? Well, they've put their own spin on this timeless design, making it even more accessible and fun for quilters of all skill levels. Missouri Star Quilt Company, known for its innovative tutorials and user-friendly techniques, has simplified the process while maintaining the stunning visual impact of the original pattern. Their approach often involves using pre-cut fabrics, such as charm packs or layer cakes, which significantly reduces cutting time and ensures accuracy. This is a game-changer, especially for those of us who aren't fans of spending hours with a rotary cutter! Missouri Star's tutorials break down the pattern into manageable steps, providing clear instructions and helpful tips along the way. They emphasize efficiency and accuracy, making the quilting process more enjoyable and less intimidating. Jenny Doan, the heart and soul of Missouri Star, has a knack for explaining complex techniques in a way that's easy to understand, and her enthusiasm is infectious. Watching her videos feels like quilting alongside a friend who's always ready to offer encouragement and support. Missouri Star also offers a variety of quilt kits specifically designed for the Trip Around the World pattern, which include all the fabrics you need, pre-cut and ready to go. This is a fantastic option for quilters who want to dive right into the project without having to worry about fabric selection and cutting. Plus, these kits often feature curated color palettes that create stunning visual effects. By combining traditional techniques with modern conveniences, Missouri Star has made the Trip Around the World quilt pattern accessible to a wider audience, inspiring quilters to create their own beautiful versions of this classic design. So, if you're looking for a project that's both rewarding and achievable, the Missouri Star way is definitely worth exploring. You'll not only end up with a gorgeous quilt but also gain valuable skills and confidence along the way.

Materials You'll Need

Alright, let's gather our supplies! Before we embark on this quilting journey, it's essential to have all the necessary materials at hand. This will ensure a smooth and enjoyable quilting experience. For a Trip Around the World quilt, you'll typically need a variety of fabrics, a rotary cutter, a cutting mat, a quilting ruler, a sewing machine, thread, and batting. But don't worry, we'll break it down step-by-step!

• Fabric: The heart and soul of any quilt! You can use a wide array of fabrics for this pattern, from your favorite stash scraps to coordinated fabric collections. Consider using charm packs, layer cakes, or fat quarters to save time on cutting. The beauty of this pattern is that it works well with both planned color schemes and scrappy, eclectic mixes. Think about the overall mood you want to create – bright and cheerful, calm and serene, or bold and dramatic. The fabric choices will play a significant role in the final look of your quilt. Don't be afraid to experiment with different textures and prints, but make sure the fabric weights are similar to ensure the quilt drapes nicely. You can also incorporate different fabric types, such as cotton, linen, or even some lightweight wool, for added visual interest. Just be sure to pre-wash your fabrics to prevent shrinkage and color bleeding later on.
• Rotary Cutter, Cutting Mat, and Quilting Ruler: These are your best friends for accurate and efficient cutting. A rotary cutter, with its sharp blade, allows you to slice through multiple layers of fabric with ease. A self-healing cutting mat provides a safe surface to cut on, while a quilting ruler helps you measure and cut precise squares. Invest in high-quality tools that will last, and always remember to use caution when working with sharp objects. Replace the blade in your rotary cutter regularly to ensure clean cuts, and keep your cutting mat clean and flat to prevent fabric from slipping. Quilting rulers come in various sizes and shapes, so choose the ones that best suit your project and cutting style. A large square ruler is particularly useful for cutting squares for the Trip Around the World quilt.
• Sewing Machine: Your trusty companion for piecing the quilt together. A reliable sewing machine with a consistent stitch is essential for creating a durable and beautiful quilt. Make sure your machine is properly maintained and threaded, and use a universal needle suitable for the fabric you're using. Adjust the stitch length and tension as needed to ensure smooth seams. If you're new to quilting, practice sewing straight lines on scrap fabric before you start piecing your quilt. A quarter-inch seam allowance is standard for quilting, so make sure your machine has a quarter-inch foot or use a guide to maintain accuracy. Regular cleaning and oiling of your sewing machine will keep it running smoothly and prevent problems down the line.
• Thread: Choose a high-quality thread that complements your fabrics. Cotton thread is a popular choice for quilting, but polyester thread is also a good option, especially for quilts that will be heavily used. Select a color that blends well with your fabrics or a contrasting color for added visual interest. Don't skimp on thread quality – a strong, smooth thread will prevent breakage and ensure your seams hold up over time. Experiment with different thread types and colors to find what works best for your project and your personal style. Some quilters prefer to use a single thread color throughout the quilt, while others like to switch colors to match the different fabrics. The choice is yours!
• Batting: The cozy filling that goes between the quilt top and backing. Batting comes in various materials, such as cotton, polyester, wool, and blends. Each type has its own characteristics in terms of warmth, drape, and washability. Cotton batting is a classic choice that's breathable and drapes nicely, while polyester batting is lightweight and hypoallergenic. Wool batting is warm and has a lovely loft, but it can be more expensive. Consider the climate you live in and how the quilt will be used when choosing your batting. The thickness of the batting will also affect the quilt's warmth and drape. A thinner batting will result in a flatter quilt, while a thicker batting will create a more puffy, dimensional look. Always check the manufacturer's recommendations for pre-washing and handling your chosen batting.

Cutting Your Fabric: Missouri Star's Method

Alright, let's get cutting! Missouri Star often uses pre-cut fabrics like charm packs (5" squares) or layer cakes (10" squares) for this pattern. If you're using yardage, you'll need to cut your fabric into squares. The size of the squares will determine the overall size of your quilt, so plan accordingly. Remember, accurate cutting is key to a successful Trip Around the World quilt, guys!

Using Pre-Cuts

Pre-cut fabrics are a quilter's best friend, especially when tackling a project like the Trip Around the World quilt. They save you a ton of time and effort by eliminating the need to measure and cut individual squares. Charm packs, with their 5-inch squares, are a popular choice for smaller quilts, while layer cakes, featuring 10-inch squares, are ideal for larger projects. Missouri Star Quilt Company is a big fan of pre-cuts, and for good reason – they make quilting more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. When using pre-cuts, you can focus on the fun part – arranging the colors and piecing the quilt together. The squares are already perfectly sized and ready to go, so you can dive right into the creative process. This is particularly helpful for beginners who may find cutting fabric daunting. Pre-cuts also offer a fantastic way to sample a variety of fabrics from a particular collection. They come in coordinated color palettes, ensuring that your quilt will have a cohesive and harmonious look. You can mix and match different pre-cut packs to create even more unique and interesting designs. And don't worry about the edges fraying – pre-cuts are usually pinked or die-cut to minimize fraying during the piecing process. So, if you're looking for a quick and easy way to get started on your Trip Around the World quilt, pre-cuts are definitely the way to go. You'll save time, reduce fabric waste, and end up with a stunning finished product. It's a win-win situation!

Cutting from Yardage

If you prefer to use yardage, or if you have a specific fabric collection in mind, you'll need to cut your own squares. This allows for more flexibility in terms of fabric selection and color placement. The first step is to determine the size of the squares you want to use. This will depend on the desired size of your finished quilt and the complexity of the design. Smaller squares will create a more intricate and detailed quilt, while larger squares will result in a bolder, more graphic look. Once you've decided on the square size, use your rotary cutter, cutting mat, and quilting ruler to cut strips of fabric to the appropriate width. Then, sub-cut the strips into squares. Accuracy is crucial here, so take your time and double-check your measurements. A slight error in cutting can accumulate over the course of the quilt, leading to misalignment and frustration. It's helpful to use a consistent seam allowance, typically a quarter-inch, throughout the piecing process. This will ensure that your squares fit together properly and that your quilt lays flat. Cutting from yardage also gives you the opportunity to fussy-cut specific motifs or patterns in your fabric. This can add a personal touch to your quilt and create interesting visual effects. For example, you might want to center a particular design in the middle of a square or create a repeating pattern with a specific element. So, while pre-cuts offer convenience, cutting from yardage allows for greater customization and control over the final look of your Trip Around the World quilt. Just remember to take your time, measure carefully, and enjoy the process!

Piecing the Quilt: Step-by-Step

Here's where the magic happens! The piecing process involves sewing the squares together in rows, then joining the rows to create the quilt top. The Trip Around the World quilt is typically constructed in concentric circles, starting from the center and working your way outwards. Missouri Star's tutorials often provide specific color arrangements to guide you, but feel free to get creative and arrange your squares in a way that pleases your eye.

Creating Rows

The foundation of your Trip Around the World quilt lies in the careful creation of rows. These rows form the building blocks of your concentric circles, so it's essential to get them right. Start by selecting the squares you want to include in your first row. This is where your color planning comes into play. Consider the overall pattern you want to create – do you want a gradual transition of colors, a bold contrast, or a random mix? Lay out your squares on a flat surface and experiment with different arrangements until you're happy with the look. Once you've decided on the order, it's time to start sewing. Take two squares and place them right sides together, aligning the edges. Sew a quarter-inch seam along one edge, using your sewing machine. Press the seam open or to one side, depending on your preference. Pressing the seams open reduces bulk and helps the quilt lay flatter, while pressing to one side can create a slightly more textured look. Repeat this process with the remaining squares in the row, until you have a long strip of connected squares. Take your time and sew accurately, ensuring that the seams are straight and the squares are aligned. This will make the next steps much easier. Once you've completed a row, measure its length and compare it to your planned dimensions. If there are any discrepancies, now is the time to make adjustments. It's better to fix a small issue at this stage than to have it snowball into a larger problem later on. Repeat the process to create the other rows for your quilt, following your color plan and paying attention to accuracy. As you build your rows, you'll start to see the pattern of your quilt emerge, and the excitement will build. The creation of rows is a fundamental step in quilting, and mastering this technique will serve you well in many future projects. So, take your time, be patient, and enjoy the process of bringing your Trip Around the World quilt to life.

Joining Rows

With your rows beautifully pieced, the next step is to join them together to form the quilt top. This is where the concentric circles of the Trip Around the World pattern really start to take shape. Before you begin, lay out your rows on a flat surface, such as a large table or the floor, in the order you want them to appear in the finished quilt. This will give you a visual overview of the overall design and help you catch any potential mistakes before you start sewing. Take two adjacent rows and place them right sides together, aligning the edges. Pin the rows together along their length, paying particular attention to matching the seams where the squares meet. This is crucial for creating a cohesive and visually appealing quilt. If the seams don't align, the pattern will look disjointed and the quilt may not lay flat. Sew a quarter-inch seam along the pinned edge, using your sewing machine. Again, accuracy is key here. A consistent seam allowance will ensure that the rows fit together properly and that the quilt maintains its intended dimensions. After sewing, press the seam open or to one side, as you did when piecing the squares. Pressing the seams helps to distribute the bulk and create a smoother surface. Repeat this process with the remaining rows, until all the rows are joined together. As you add each row, the quilt top will grow larger and more impressive. You'll start to see the full impact of your color choices and the intricate pattern of the Trip Around the World design. Once all the rows are joined, give the entire quilt top a final press to set the seams and remove any wrinkles. This will make it easier to quilt and bind the finished quilt. Joining the rows is a significant milestone in the quilting process. It's the moment when the individual pieces come together to form a cohesive whole, and the beauty of the design truly shines. So, take pride in your work and enjoy the satisfaction of seeing your Trip Around the World quilt take shape.

Quilting and Binding

Almost there! Once your quilt top is complete, it's time to layer it with batting and backing fabric. Then, you'll quilt the layers together, either by hand or machine. Finally, you'll bind the edges to create a neat and durable finish. Missouri Star has tons of tutorials on quilting and binding techniques, so be sure to check them out for inspiration.

Layering

Layering is a crucial step in the quilting process, as it sets the foundation for the quilting itself. It involves carefully assembling the three main components of your quilt: the quilt top, the batting, and the backing fabric. The goal is to create a smooth, even sandwich that will hold together beautifully during the quilting process. Start by preparing your backing fabric. This can be a single piece of fabric or pieced together from multiple pieces. Make sure the backing is at least a few inches larger than the quilt top on all sides. This extra fabric provides a margin of error and allows for adjustments during quilting. Lay the backing fabric wrong side up on a large, flat surface, such as a table or the floor. Use masking tape or clamps to secure the edges to the surface, creating a taut and wrinkle-free base. Next, lay the batting on top of the backing fabric, smoothing out any wrinkles or creases. The batting should also be slightly larger than the quilt top. There are various types of batting available, each with its own characteristics in terms of warmth, loft, and drape. Choose a batting that suits your project and personal preferences. Finally, carefully center the quilt top right side up on top of the batting. Smooth out any wrinkles or puckers, ensuring that the quilt top is lying flat and even. Once the layers are aligned, it's time to secure them together. There are several methods for doing this, including pinning, basting with thread, or using fusible spray. Pinning involves placing safety pins every few inches across the quilt surface, working from the center outwards. Basting with thread involves using large, loose stitches to hold the layers together. Fusible spray is a temporary adhesive that can be sprayed between the layers. Choose the method that you feel most comfortable with and that best suits your project. Whichever method you choose, take your time and be meticulous. A well-layered quilt will make the quilting process much easier and more enjoyable. So, don't rush this step – it's the foundation for a beautiful finished quilt.

Quilting

Quilting is the art of stitching through all three layers of your quilt – the top, the batting, and the backing – to create a cohesive and durable finished product. It's what gives your quilt its texture, dimension, and visual interest. There are two main approaches to quilting: hand quilting and machine quilting. Hand quilting is a traditional method that involves using a needle and thread to create small, even stitches across the quilt surface. It's a time-consuming process, but many quilters find it to be a meditative and rewarding experience. Hand-quilted quilts often have a unique, heirloom quality that can't be replicated by machine. Machine quilting, on the other hand, is a faster and more efficient method that uses a sewing machine to create the stitches. It allows for a wider range of quilting designs and patterns, from simple straight lines to intricate free-motion designs. There are two main types of machine quilting: domestic machine quilting and longarm quilting. Domestic machine quilting is done on a standard sewing machine, while longarm quilting is done on a specialized machine with a large frame that can accommodate an entire quilt. The quilting design you choose will depend on your personal preferences, the style of your quilt, and your skill level. Simple quilting patterns, such as straight lines or echo quilting, are a good choice for beginners. More complex patterns, such as free-motion quilting or custom quilting, require more skill and experience. Before you start quilting, it's a good idea to practice on a smaller sample quilt to get a feel for the techniques and materials. This will help you avoid mistakes on your finished quilt. As you quilt, pay attention to the tension of your stitches and the evenness of the fabric. Consistent stitches and smooth fabric will create a more professional-looking quilt. Quilting is an opportunity to add your own personal touch to your quilt and make it truly unique. Don't be afraid to experiment with different designs and techniques until you find what you love. And remember, practice makes perfect! The more you quilt, the better you'll become.

Binding

Binding is the final step in the quilt-making process, and it's essential for creating a neat, durable, and professional-looking finish. It involves attaching fabric strips to the raw edges of the quilt to enclose the batting and backing and prevent fraying. There are several different methods for binding a quilt, but the most common is the double-fold binding method. This involves folding fabric strips in half lengthwise, pressing them, and then attaching them to the quilt edges with a sewing machine. The first step in binding a quilt is to calculate the amount of binding fabric you'll need. Measure the perimeter of your quilt and add about 20 inches to account for corners and joining the ends. Cut fabric strips to the desired width, typically between 2 1/4 and 2 1/2 inches. Join the strips together end-to-end to create one long binding strip. Fold the binding strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, and press. This creates a double-fold binding strip. Next, align the raw edges of the binding strip with the raw edge of the quilt, starting at the middle of one side. Leave a tail of about 10 inches of binding fabric unsewn. Sew the binding to the quilt using a quarter-inch seam allowance, stopping a quarter-inch from each corner. At the corner, fold the binding strip up and away from the quilt at a 45-degree angle, creating a mitered corner. Then, fold the binding strip back down along the next side of the quilt, aligning the raw edges. Sew the binding to the quilt along the next side, repeating the mitered corner process at each corner. When you reach the starting point, overlap the binding ends and trim the excess fabric. Join the binding ends together using a diagonal seam. Fold the binding over the raw edge of the quilt to the back, creating a smooth, finished edge. Hand-stitch the binding to the backing fabric, using small, invisible stitches. This creates a secure and professional-looking binding. Binding is a skill that takes practice to master, but it's worth the effort. A well-bound quilt will not only look beautiful but also stand the test of time. So, take your time, be patient, and enjoy the process of finishing your Trip Around the World quilt.

Tips for Success

• Color Planning: Before you even touch your fabric, spend some time planning your color scheme. This will help you create a cohesive and visually appealing quilt. Think about the overall mood you want to create – bright and cheerful, calm and serene, or bold and dramatic.
• Accurate Cutting: We can't stress this enough! Accurate cutting is crucial for a Trip Around the World quilt. Invest in good-quality cutting tools and take your time.
• Pressing: Pressing your seams as you go is key to a flat and professional-looking quilt. Press, don't iron – lift and press the iron down rather than dragging it across the fabric.
• Organization: Keep your fabric squares organized to avoid confusion. Use containers or label your squares to keep track of your color arrangement.

Enjoy the Journey!

The Trip Around the World quilt pattern is a rewarding project that results in a stunning quilt. With the help of Missouri Star's tutorials and a little patience, you'll be well on your way to creating a masterpiece. So, gather your fabrics, fire up your sewing machine, and enjoy the journey! Happy quilting, folks!