FAQ

What is the difference between a Hawaiian Quilt and your "2 Fabric Applique Quilts"?

Both styles of quilt use two contrasting fabrics and the needleturn applique stitching is identical for both.

Hawaiian Quilt designs are symmetrical so the applique fabric is folded in eighths and cut like a paper snowflake. The applique fabric is then unfolded onto the background fabric, basted in place, and needleturn appliqued.

2 Fabric Applique Quilts (2FAQ) are not symmetrical, they are asymmetrical so they cannot be cut like a Hawaiian Quilt. NOR are they cut like other styles of applique which use many pieces, each individually cut and placed in just the right position on the background fabric. With 2FAQ patterns you mark the entire design on the applique fabric, place that entire piece of fabric on the background fabric, baste the applique as one piece (following the pattern instructions and the markings on the pattern page), then cut on the cutting lines, and do your normal needleturn stitching. That is a very brief description of the process, each pattern includes detailed instructions and diagrams.

The most important thing you can do before starting either style of quilt is to READ the INSTRUCTIONS. If you feel the need for additional help, or would like to have Nancy walk you through each step of the process for either style of quilt then consider purchasing one of our two instructional videos. These can be found under Lessons.

Are instructions included with the pattern?

Yes, patterns come with complete instructions leading you through each step of the process. It is assumed you know needleturn applique and standard quilting techniques. If you desire instructions on needleturn applique or hand quilting consider purchasing one of our videos.

Will I need to enlarge the pattern to make a quilt the size specified on the pattern?

No, patterns are for the size indicated, no need to enlarge the pattern before beginning your quilt.

What pattern do you suggest for a beginner?

We always suggest you buy the pattern you like the best! That is the pattern you want to finish so you will be motivated to work on it. All our patterns are equally easy to make...some will just take longer because of their size and the number of applique inches to complete the design.

A fast Hawaiian Quilt in the wall-hanging size is the Cyclamen, it has the fewest points and valleys with the gentlest curves. Some people like to start with a block pattern before committing to a larger project. But unless you want the block as a finished project, just work on it long enough to gain confidence then toss it out and get on to the project you really want to make!

As a beginner, if you want to make a Hawaiian Quilt you will benefit from our video: Hawaiian Quilting with Nancy Lee Chong. Read more about it below.

The fastest 2 Fabric Applique Quilts would be Kimono, Bird of Paradise, Calla Lilies...or any other for that matter. Remember, do the one you like the best. And the video that will help you the most with a 2 Fabric Applique Quilt is: 2 Fabric Applique Quilts with Nancy Lee Chong. Read more about it below.

Can a small pattern be enlarged to make a large quilt?

It depends on how much larger you want the design to be. Here are some things to consider:

What will the LARGEST element in the design look like after it is enlarged? Will you like that look?

If there are four flower blossoms in the center to begin with there will just be four blossoms in the center after it is enlarged - they will just all be bigger. Is that the look you want?

Patterns are designed to be a specific size. When designing a quilt we fill the available space with motifs and elements which are proportioned to that size. For a large quilt we can fill the space with more flowers, leaves, or whatever the design elements are to create a pleasing arrangement which is typically more intricate than a smaller design.

What we really recommend is that you choose a pattern that you like for the size quilt you want. We believe you will be happier with the outcome.

Other options could be to use the smaller pattern for a center medallion and surround it with pieced or applique borders, or use four small patterns (one pattern four times, or four different patterns) for a larger quilt.

Can a large pattern be reduced to make a small quilt?

It depends on how much smaller you want the design to be. Here are some things to consider:

What will the SMALLEST element in the design look like after it is reduced? Will you be able to needleturn the smallest elements successfully?

The original design included 3/16 inch for a turn-under allowance. When you reduce the pattern it will naturally reduce the turn-under allowance. To keep the design elements in proportion you will need to reduce the amount you turn under when appliqueing. Can you do that? Or will you be OK with a 3/16 inch turn-under that is now proportionately larger than the pattern elements?

If there are eight flower blossoms in the center to begin with there will still be eight blossoms in the center after it is reduced - they will just all be smaller. Is that the look you want? Will you lose detail that is important to the overall design?

Patterns are designed to be a specific size. When designing a quilt we fill the available space with motifs and elements which are proportioned to that size. For a small quilt we fill the space with fewer flowers, leaves, or whatever the design elements are to create a pleasing arrangement which is typically simpler than a larger design.

What we really recommend is that you choose a pattern that you like for the size quilt you want. We believe you will be happier with the outcome.

Another option could be to use just the center medallion without the border from a larger pattern.

I want to make a Hawaiian Quilt for a relative (or friend), what should I consider when selecting a pattern?

A traditional element of Hawaiian Quilts was that the design had special meaning to the quiltmaker or quilt owner. For that reason you may want to select a pattern which will have special meaning to the person you plan to give the quilt to. Secret meanings are frequently part of a Hawaiian Quilt's story, so if you share a special occasion, or want to convey a message you can embed the meaning in the name of the quilt, no matter the design.

The most obvious consideration would be the person's favorite flower or interest (i.e.Bluegrass Band for a musician, Victorian Gingerbread for an architect or person who lives in a Victorian-era town, Banana Tree for a person whose childhood nickname was Monkey).

Perhaps a birth month flower and colors can guide your choice:

Month - Flower - Color

January -Carnation or Snowdrop - Black, Dark Blue or Red

February -Violet or Primrose - Violet, Sky Blue or Yellow

March -Daffodil or Jonquil - White or Light Blue

April - Daisy or Sweet Pea - Yellow, Red and Colorless

May - Lily of the Valley or Hawthorn -Yellow, Red and Green

June - Rose or Honeysuckle Light - Blue, White and Cream

July -Water Lily - Green, Russet and Red

August - Gladiolas or Poppy - Orange, Red and Light Green

September - Aster or Morning Glory - Brown, Deep Blue

October - Calendula or Cosmos - White, Yellow and Varied

November - Chrysanthemum - Dark Blue, Red and Yellow

December - Narcissus or Holly - Indigo, Green, Greenish-Blue

Each island has a nickname, color and flower. If they are from Hawaii, live in Hawaii, or have a favorite island let this information inspire your selection:

Island - Nick Name - Color - Flower

Oahu - The Gathering Place - Yellow - 'Ilima

Maui - The Valley Isle - Pink - Loke (Rose)

Hawai'i - The Orchid Isle - Red - Lehua

Kaua'i - The Garden Isle - Purple - Mokihana

Moloka'i - The Friendly Isle - Green - Kukui

Lana'i - The Pineapple Isle - Orange - Kauna'oa

Ni'ihau - The Forbidden Isle - White Pupu shells

Kaho'olawe - Silver-gray - Hinahina

Either our Aloha Album or Tropical Splendor patterns may be a wonderful alternative for a special person with strong ties to the Hawaiian Islands. These patterns incorporate flowers and motifs from all of the islands.

Of course, we do not have patterns for all these flowers; when we do, we have provided a link to the pattern. You may also want to Design Your Personal Hawaiian Quilt using our book and DVD set. It is easier than you think, and the result will be a quilt that is as unique as you are!

You can also visit other designers' websites or our Pinterest Page.

Which applique technique works best?

We recommend needleturn applique for both the Hawaiian Quilts and our 2 Fabric Applique Quilts. Other applique techniques (i.e. freezer paper method) only complicate an otherwise very simple process.

Machine applique can be used for the Hawaiian Quilt block patterns with good success. If you choose this method, be sure to trim off the 3/16 in seam allowance which is included on the pattern for needleturn.

Our 2 Fabric Applique Quilts patterns also include instructions for machine applique with fusible web, and raw-edge applique by machine.

Do the patterns include a turn-under, or seam allowance?

Yes, the patterns include an approximate 3/16 inch turn-under allowance.

Is this reverse applique?

No. There really is no such thing as 'reverse applique' for you, the quiltmaker. You are always cutting on the cutting line of the top fabric, turning under the raw edge and stitching the top fabric to a background fabric. All applique is done exactly this way.

The notion of 'reverse applique' comes from the visual perception of the design. When the pattern is being designed the turn-under allowance needs to be added to the correct side of the cutting line by the pattern designer. But once the pattern is drawn, the process for the appliquer is exactly the same. It is not a change in applique techniques.

We believe we would all do well to eliminate the term reverse applique from the quilters' dictionary. It is confusing and provides many with the idea that it is somehow different or more difficult than normal applique...neither of which is true. You will never find us using the term reverse applique.

Do you recommend cutting away the background fabric behind the applique?

No, we do not. The background fabric provides the stability required to maintain the integrity of the applique. Cutting away the background fabric weakens the quilt, putting undue stress on the applique stitches.

How do I know where to place the echo quilt lines on a Hawaiian Quilt?

In most cases, suggested quilting lines are included on the pattern page. Generally speaking echo quilt lines are spaced 1/2 inch to 5/8 inch apart, echoing the shape of the applique.

How do you suggest quilting your "2 Fabric Applique Quilts"?

We always quilt in the ditch around the applique as a beginning. Then consider these options:

Echo quilt in the background areas, add details to the applique images - veins in the leaves, seeds in the sunflowers, etc.

Let any design motif in your fabrics guide your quilting. For example, if your applique fabric has sunflowers printed on it, then outline stitch the sunflowers.

Meandering horizontal lines suggest water or clouds which work well in the background areas.

Use the applique pattern to trace additional images to use as quilt lines. For example, with the "Two Mums" pattern mark additional mum blossoms and leaves to be quilted in the background and overlapping the outside frame.

Quilt additional shapes suggested by the pattern itself. For example, quilt snowflakes on the Penguin Family, quilt stars on the Bears Aloft, quilt additional bugs on the Dragonflies in Flight.

You can see that the possibilities are limitless. Go for it! Whatever you do will be perfect for your quilt. What is "quilt in the ditch"?

Quilt in the ditch is a single row of quilting on the background fabric which snuggles up as close to the applique as possible. The row of stitching right next to the applique helps to pop the applique off the background. It can also pull the edge of the applique down into the quilting contours to help hide some of those less-than-perfect applique stitches--an added bonus!

Do you ever machine quilt your quilts?

Yes, we sure do! We much prefer hand quilting our Hawaiian Quilts, but life is short and there are many, many quilts to be made. So when we have a deadline to meet, or just to get through the backlog of applique tops we have accumulated we do machine quilt. For the Hawaiian Quilts we still prefer to quilt in a traditional echo-style, even when using the machine.

The 2 Fabric Applique Quilts are intended to be quick wall hanging projects and so we seldom hand quilt these.

What batting do you recommend?

Hawaiian Quilts: We use 5 ounce 100% polyester. This is a thick batt. You want the extra loft to really show off the echo quilting. Do not use cotton, it compresses and looks flat after being quilted. You will put a lot of effort into hand quilting your Hawaiian Quilt - you want your echo quilting rows to show.

Packaged battings which work well are Hobbs Cloud Loft/High Loft batting, or The Warm Company's Soft-Soft High-Loft batting (1/2" loft).

If you have never worked with a high loft batting for hand quilting you may want to make a small sandwich with two pieces of fabric and your chosen batting to practice on before starting your quilt. The first few stitches are always the most difficult, but once you get started the batting begins to compress a bit and you will find it easy to needle the thick polyester batting.

2 Fabric Applique Quilts: We use standard low loft battings, usually cotton or cotton/poly blends. Generally we are not wanting the quilting to distract from the graphic nature of the applique on these quilts. We also want the quilts to be easily machine quilted. Cotton batting naturally holds the layers of the quilt top and backing to the batting when machine quilting.

Do you use a hoop or quilt frame?

When we quilt our Hawaiian Quilts by hand we use a lap hoop -- yes, even on the queen and king sized quilts. With a hoop, when echo quilting, you can sit comfortably and turn the hoop to stitch in all the different directions you need to. If the quilt were mounted on a stationary floor frame you would have to twist and turn your body, arms and wrists to accomplish the echo quilting. The lap hoop is a wiser ergonomic choice.

Where can I purchase a quilt hoop?

The quilt hoops we like best for lap quilting are made by Frank A Edmunds Company, and are available from their website. These hoops are made from solid hardwood, have a sturdy block closure and 4" tension bolt. The minimum size to consider is the 14" round hoop. For bed-sized quilts we use the 16" x 27" oval. Size is really up to you--the size project you are working on, and what you are comfortable with.

Do you have any suggestions for removing the washout chalk marks from my fabric?

First, you should always test your marking tools on the actual fabric you will be using to make sure the marks come out. The Clover Water-soluble Pencils we sell do not contain wax and we find that they come easily off of most fabrics.

If you do find that the marks are not coming out as easily as you had hoped here are a few things to try:

Rub with a fabric eraser.

Wash the fabric or quilt, you may need to rub a bit if the marks are stubborn.

If the fabric was ironed while marked a few of our students have had success washing the fabric with OxyClean.

Is there a significance to the spool colors for Aurifil thread?

Yes, the color spool tells you the weight of the fabric. These are the spool colors for Aurifil's Cotton Mako thread:

Spool color Thread weight Suggested uses

Orange - 50 weight Hand applique, machine piecing, machine embroidery, machine quilting

Green - 40 weight General purpose sewing, long arm quilting

Grey - 28 weight Hand quilting

Red - 12 weight Redwork, embroidery

Do you use cotton or silk thread?

Cotton. We especially love Aurifil's 50 weight thread for hand applique, machine piecing, machine quilting and general sewing. It is a fine, smooth thread that comes in over 200 solid colors. It is easy to work with and looks beautiful.

We find silk thread difficult to work with. Our primary criteria for all our quilting is to "first make it fun and stressfree". Silk thread is difficult to work with, so no matter what it looks like we are just not going to use it.

Do I match the color of applique thread to the applique fabric or the background fabric?

Match to the applique fabric. When matching thread, if you can, lay a single strand of thread on your fabric to find the best match. If you cannot find a perfect match and your background fabric is lighter than your applique fabric go with a thread which is a bit lighter; if your background fabric is darker then choose a thread that is a shade darker - but only if you cannot get a near-perfect match.

How do I make and attach a quilt sleeve?

This topic is included in both our videos Hawaiian Quilting with Nancy Lee Chong and 2 Fabric Applique Quilts with Nancy Lee Chong.

How do I make a quilt label?

This topic is included in our video Hawaiian Quilting with Nancy Lee Chong

How should I wash my quilt?

We suggest that you wash all the fabrics before beginning to make a quilt. This will eliminate shrinkage and dye migration problems later on. If excessive dye comes out of any fabrics when you pre-wash we suggest using Synthrapol to help remove the excess dye. Then, because you pre-washed your fabrics you will be able to wash your quilt in the same fashion and be reasonably sure it will not shrink nor will the colors run.

What is the difference between your videos and book?

DVD: Hawaiian Quilting with Nancy Lee Chong
Hawaiian Quilting with Nancy Lee Chong (DVD) teaches you everything you need to know to make a Hawaiian quilt, from beginning to end. Needleturn applique and hand quilting are both included. Hawaiian quilt designs are symmetrical, so the fabric is folded and cut before basting to the background (similar to how a paper snowflake is cut). Step-by-step details are shown in the video.

Book & DVD: Design Your Personal Hawaiian Quilt
Design Your Personal Hawaiian Quilt (book and DVD set) teaches you how to design a Hawaiian quilt. Once you have a design (either your personal design, or a purchased pattern) you would need the DVD Hawaiian Quilting with Nancy Lee Chong, above, to learn to make the quilt from your pattern.

DVD: 2 Fabric Applique Quilts with Nancy Lee Chong
2 Fabric Applique Quilts with Nancy Lee Chong (DVD) teaches you how to make a 2 Fabric Applique Quilt (2FAQ) using needleturn applique. It will not teach you how to quilt. 2FAQ quilts are not symmetrical designs, so the pattern is marked on the fabric first, then basted to the background, before being cut. Step-by-step details are shown in the video.

Which video should I buy?

These two videos provide excellent needleturn applique instructions:

If you want to make a 2 Fabric Applique Quilt, or you want to learn needleturn applique, or improve your needleturn skills, then the 2 Fabric Applique Quilts with Nancy Lee Chong video will give you everything you need at a lower cost.

On the other hand, if what you really want is to make a Hawaiian Quilt then the video you should buy is Hawaiian Quilting with Nancy Lee Chong. This video will also teach you hand quilting.

The book/DVD set Design Your Personal Hawaiian Quilt will teach you how to design a Hawaiian quilt, not make one.

Do you provide lessons via the internet?

Yes, Nancy teaches Hawaiian Quilting and other applique and hand quilting classes on the internet at Academy of Quilting. Her classes are offered on-demand, so whenever you want a class it is there for you! Feedback from students on this method of learning has been very positive. Sign-up today!

We now have our patterns available as Digital Downloads. This is particularly valuable for our International Customers since they will not have to pay shipping. It is also great for those of you who want instant access to your pattern as well.

Our digital quilt patterns are PDF files that you will be able to download after you complete the checkout process. You will receive an email containing the link to access your download. Your download will include several pages, including the pattern cover, instruction pages and the pattern. This PDF pattern is to be printed from your home printer that is multiple pages and will need to be taped together.

WHAT IS A PDF FILE? PDF is a common file format used to share documents. You may need Adobe Reader installed on your computer to open the pattern files. If you have a different program for opening your PDF Files use that. You can download Adobe Reader for free.

HOW DO I GET MY PATTERN FILE? Click on the link provided in the email to download each file. This link will be available for one month.
On a PC the file will open in a different window on your computer. Save them to a permanent folder. You will see a little icon in the upper right corner that is a little file folder with an arrow. Here you will be able to download it to your computer. Please download it as you only have one download available. If you print it you must print the pattern pages and tape them together.

If you are on an Apple device and click the download on your email the download will automatically be added to your Download File under your Files App (this App is the one that is a white square with a blue file folder on it).

I DIDN'T GET MY PATTERN FILE. Occasionally, emails will be sorted into your spam folder. Please check there first. If you haven’t received your pattern within 10 minutes, send me an email and I will manually resend the pattern file to you.

MY PATTERN IS NOT PRINTING THE CORRECT SIZE. Make sure your print settings are correct before printing. Check the box that says “actual size” or 100 %. NOT shrink to fit or fit to page. You can print the first page of the pattern to test your settings, before printing the entire pattern.

Please respect digital artists. Please do not share Copyright protected files. All digital purchases are final sale and for PERSONAL USE ONLY. FAIR USAGE POLICY: Quilts created from this pattern are for Personal use only. They may NOT be offered for sale or manufactured. Reproduction of this pattern is for personal use only. Sharing, copying, selling or teaching with this pattern is NOT permitted without PRIOR written permission from Pacific Rim Quilt Company.