Mini Quilt SWAP 2024

Mini quilts are one of my favorite quick-finish projects and I can not think of a better way to share them than with a friend. That’s why I’m excited to jumpstart signups for the Mini Quilt SWAP for 2024.

Bringing folks together from our creative community makes my heart happy and that’s why I think I love hosting these swaps so much! It’s the perfect way to meet someone who shares your passion, understands that creativity can be messy, and knows just how hard it can be to toss that small scrap of fabric!

While I don’t have space in my new studio dedicated to minis, in the past they covered an entire wall. So many of these pictured above are from new friends I made through swaps. Not only do they serve as a constant reminder of how amazing this community is but they add personality to my creative space.

Okay, let’s get to the details because this SWAP is a quick turnaround.

Mini Quilt SWAP Details:

WHAT/SIZE: Every participant will make and receive a mini quilt, mug rug, or wall hanging. The pattern/style is “Maker’s choice” and can be anything that displays your creative point of view. For this SWAP it is highly encouraged that you keep your design “scrappy”.  The finished mini should be no larger than a fat quarter.

WHEN: Sign Up’s are happening NOW through September 28th, 2024, or earlier.* Partner email will be sent by October 4th, 2024, and all packages must be shipped to partners by October 31st, 2024.

WHERE: Everywhere! My SWAP events are open to everyone. Each participant will be paired with a partner in their general area to keep shipping costs low.

WHO: All fabric scrap lovers and stitchers are welcome! Please remember when joining any swap, your partner may have a different skill level. Along the way, I share helpful hints, technique-based tutorials and because of the community atmosphere, you can get help and ask questions along the way.

Price: $5 per SWAP  – I am often asked about the fee and want to clarify right up front. Running a SWAP of this size and caliber requires a tremendous amount of effort behind the screen. There are many hours spent organizing, emailing, and following up on participants. Not to mention being a SWAP Angel when a partner falls out at the last minute.

How the SWAP Works

1. Sign Up: The Mini Quilt SWAP is open for sign-ups until September 28th, 2024.* After signing up, you’ll receive a quick questionnaire to help me match you with the perfect sewing buddy.
2. Get Paired: My team and I will work hard to pair you with a great partner. You’ll receive an email with your partner’s information by the end of the day on October 4th, 2024.
3. Create and Send: Start stitching your unique mini quilt and have it postmarked by October 31st,2024.

Fun Facts About Mini Quilts

• Also Know As: Because they are similar in size, mini quilts are sometimes called mug rugs. Typically, mug rugs are larger than coasters and can be used for more than just holding a cup providing furniture protection.
• Skill Builder: Creating zipper bags can help improve your sewing skills, from inserting zippers to experimenting with different fabrics and techniques.
• Gift-Friendly: As the name suggests, mini quilts stitch together more quickly than a standard quilt, making them perfect for a last-minute handmade gift. Plus, they are easy to personalize. Just pair them with your favorite baked good and recipe card or an assortment of flavored coffee/teas that the recipient might enjoy.
• Pattern Testing: Due to their size, mini quilts are the perfect way to audition fabrics and test quilt blocks before committing to a full-size quilt.

Sign up and get ready to meet a new friend while exchanging a handmade mini quilt during the swap. I can’t wait to see the incredible creations you’ll come up with!

*Please note that space is limited and these types of events will likely sell out.

Scrappy Fabric Group: As many of you know fostering community is very important to me. To help encourage this atmosphere, I have formed a private Facebook community to chat directly with you and offer a safe space for everyone to get together. Inside the group, you can share projects you are working on or have finished, meet and get to know the members from around the world, share inspiration, and participate in additional group activities. Everything is in one spot- simple and easy to use on your computer or smartphone. Please feel free to click here to join the community. All are welcome!

Need Inspiration? Never fear, I have a great round-up of mini quilt patterns to help get you started!

And for those of you looking to extend your gardening season, these flower mini quilts are the perfect solution. Just think about all the different color combinations you can stitch together with your scrap stash.

Alright, are you ready to join the 2024 mini quilt SWAP fun! Be sure to sign up today and come join me and the Scrappy Crew!