Touchable 3-D Quilts

“I want to touch that quilt!” Have you ever thought that? While most quilts are lovely to look at, some make you want to reach out and touch them. Texture within a quilt is often the culprit.

Most quilters are very happy with the finished look of a pieced quilt, but others like to add another dimension to their quilting projects by including some type of texture to their quilts. This can be a fun, whimsical touch done on a small scale, or a large-scale addition that’s featured throughout the entire quilt.

Let’s have a look at several examples of quilts with 3-D elements.

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Photo via Craftsy member Create H.O.P.E.

Ruffles

Frilly ruffles are a fun way to add 3-D texture to a quilt. They are simple to make and add to any project! The A Soft Place to Land Quilt Pattern is a perfect example of this. Ruffles and cuddly minky fabric work together to create an incredibly soft, textured quilt. For another great ruffle quilt, check out the Ruffle Quilt by Craftsy member Melissa Haworth, which features vintage sheets.

Photo via Sewing Daisies

Yarn

Nothing adds more texture to a quilt than a bit of yarn! Did you realize that the two can be combined? The marriage of fabric and cotton creates a cozy crocheted quilt. Visit Sewing Daisies for a free tutorial on how to make this Fusion Blanket. Step-by-step directions and photos will help you work your way through the sewing and crocheting process of this unique quilt.

Photo via Craftsy member Inventive Denim

Rag quilts

Rag quilts are full of texture! These touchable quilts are beginner friendly and whole lot of fun to make. Check out the Denim Circle Rag Quilt, a truly unique twist on the classic rag quilt pattern. Gather and recycle all of your old jeans to make this stunning quilt!

If you are interested in learning how to make a basic rag quilt, this pattern by Fresh Lemons is for you.

Photo via Craftsy member Sunset Crochet

3-D shapes

A variety of shapes can be sewn onto a quilt top to form an added texture and dimension. Try something new with the 3-D Flowers Charm Pack Quilt Pattern by Sunset Crochet. These flowers are easy to sew, and they just beg little hands to play with them. Most of the quilt is sewn on the machine, and a small portion of the flower centers are stitched by hand.

For another adorable quilt featuring 3-D shapes, check out Fly the Flag – Bunting Pendant Quilt Pattern by AuntyCookie.

Specialty Trims

Do you collect special trims and ribbons? Another simple way to add a touch of texture to a quilt is by using those trims. They can be sewn into a quilt top or attached as an edging or binding. For more inspiration, check out this rickrack quilt tutorial by Twin Fibers and this pom pom trimmed binding by Bee in My Bonnet.

Do you like to sew textured and 3-D quilts? What is your favorite way to add texture?