I want to make my DGSs denim rag lapquilts. I've never made a rag quilt before, so I'm just winging it. I went to the Salvation Army store on their 1/2 off price day and bought large mens jeans (about 18 pair) and a p'bly an equal amount of mens flannel shirts. What I'm planning is to machine embroidery on some of the blocks. I'm cutting the blocks 6 1/2" square and will be using 1/2" seams. My question is, can I make these quilts a single layer? Just the denim? I am planning to back the embroidered squares with the flannel, so the back of the embroidery won't show, and will make the back of the quilt a little interesting. Or, do I need to use at least two layers of fabric for the quilts? I can always go to SA again for more shirts. Also, should I use a stitch other than a straight stitch, or stitch each seam twice?

I'm going to make 3 of these, one for each of the DGSs. I've started cutting the denim squares and embroidering for the first GS. His embroidery designs are all sports related. I think it'll be cute. Oh, wait, he's going on 12 now, guess I shouldn't call his quilt "cute", right?!

Thanks in advance for any advice. I LOVE this board!!!

Coleen

I can't wait to see your cool denim quilts

The only thing you might find tricky is the 1/2" seam allowance, IMHO. Most rag quilt instructions say 3/4" to an inch to allow for a nice 'fray' when you wash it. Again, just my opinion, but I think part of the appeal to rag quilts is the blend of fabric in the ragging which you won't get as much of if you just use a single layer. Having said all that....I've seen them done all different ways, each appealing for their uniqueness. Rag quilts are so forgiving and really allow for creativity, so be sure and post your pictures so we can see too! Good luck! Enjoy!

I make mine with a layer of denim and a layer of flannel. I dont use batting, because it would be too big for my wash machine. I LOVE your idea of the embrodery!

Yes, you're p'bly right about the size of the seam allowance, I never thought about how small 1/2" seam would be. Thanks.

Coleen

i use denim and flannel layer

I guess I'm just being lazy and in a hurry to get these done by taking a shortcut of not using at least 2 layers.

Confession: I'm afraid if I wait too long, I'll never get all 3 finished. :oops: :oops:

Denim is really heavy, only 1 layer might be just the ticket! I agree, a 3/4" seam is what I do, if you are only doing 1 layer, you want to be sure you get a good rag.

If you want to do a more conventional rag on down the road, here a couple of good tutorials:

http://greenappleorchard.blogspot.co...-tutorial.html

http://www.lovetosew.com/ragquilt.htm

I'd use the flannel backing on all of the squares if it's going to use to cover up with. Seems to me it would make it a softer 'feel' and a more even warmth.

Have you thought about using blocks with the pockets still attached? I was cutting the best parts out of some jeans that DH has outgrown and I was thinking that a pocket here and there would add interest.

I agree with Raptureready use fannel a backing for the denim.
No other filler needed.
By all means use the pockets of some of the squares. Kids love hiding places. Use pockest of the shirts also.

Happy New Year