Free Spirit Quilt Guild 2016 Skinny Quilt of the MonthSkinny Quilt #2

Asymmetry and/or Alternate Grid Work

Symmetry refers to elements being evenly reflected across an axis, such as a mirror image. Asymmetry, of course, refers to the lack of symmetry. This particular design feature can be very unsettling to those of us who are accustomed to predictable, uniform placement of quilt blocks. However, asymmetrical doesn’t automatically mean unbalanced. As a matter of fact, a successful asymmetrical quilt can add just enough movement or activity to district our eyes from its inherent chaotic nature.

Alternate Grid Work refers to quilts that don’t follow traditional block formats. Most non-modern quilts have a predictable grid structure, usually relying on well-defined rows and columns. “Breaking the grid” is a great way to experiment and explore modern quilt design. It showcases design fundamentals such as negative space, no borders, minimalism, and, of course, asymmetry.

This month, you can choose any of the following free quilt patterns or, better yet, make up your own asymmetrical modern quilt pattern with or without alternate grid work. You can also modify an existing quilt pattern or make a skinny quilt inspired by a modern quilt that you like. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The first asymmetrical modern quilt pattern shown below is called “In The Mirror.” It is a free pattern from Modern Quilts Unlimited magazine. For your convenience, the pdf is available for download on the Free Spirit Quilt Guild website or you can go to http://modernquilts.mqumag.com/free-pattern-in-the-mirror-from-modern-quilts-unlimited/

The second asymmetrical modern quilt is called “Heartbeat.” This table runner pattern is from Nancy Zieman. An excellent tutorial is available on her website. A link to the instructions is on our website or you can go to http://www.nancyzieman.com/blog/quilting-2/quick-column-quilts-table-runner/

The third modern quilt pattern comes from Material Girls and is called “Heading South.” The alternate grid work is quick and easy to accomplish. It’s a great pattern for using modern fabric and trying your hand at straight line quilting. A link to the pattern is on our website or you can go to https://materialgirlquilts.wordpress.com/2014/09/12/heading-south-table-topper-tutorial/

In The Mirror HeartbeatHeading South