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The Diode pantograph is a fun, retro geometric design that brings a bold, mid-century modern aesthetic to the Happy Scallops quilt. When I found these Warp and Weft Layer Cakes on sale, I knew I had to create a bed-size quilt. Keep reading to learn all about the Diode pantograph, the Happy Scallops quilt, and some sewing tips for working with woven fabrics!
Grab the Happy Scallops Pattern Here
Quilting with the Diode Pantograph
The origin of the Diode pantograph came from my time reading blueprints and electrical drawings. It started with a diode symbol, but I softened the geometric shape to make sure my longarm quilting machine could run smoothly. Fun fact: every time the quilting machine reaches a point in the design, it has to come to a full stop to pivot, which can slow down quilting time. While it’s not a huge issue, I like to be gentle with my machine, and this design lets it flow more fluidly.
I’d recommend this pantograph to a beginner quilter. The design is simple to execute—you just need to make sure each row is straight and aligned when you advance the quilt. There's no need to match points or stitch over a previous row, and the design doesn't require any offset. The Diode pantograph also involves some backtracking along the main horizontal line, but my machine handles it effortlessly.
Love the Diode Design? Grab It Here!
If you love this pantograph design, it’s available for purchase in my shop. Feel free to share this link with your quilter or learn more below about having me quilt your custom quilt top.
If you'd like help adding longarm quilting services to your quilt, check out my longarm quilting information page to send your quilt in for professional quilting services!
Sewing with Warp and Weft Woven and Chambray
This is only my second quilt using woven fabrics, and I am absolutely loving the Honey Warp and Weft Woven and Chambray collection. These fabrics are striking in color and incredibly soft to the touch. However, when sewing with woven fabrics, I recommend using a 1/4” seam allowance and a smaller stitch length (I usually set mine between 1.2 and 1.5) to ensure the fibers stay in place.
Since wovens have a looser weave, I quilt a bit more densely to give the seams extra assurance, preventing them from coming apart. Trust me, these little adjustments will make a big difference when sewing with woven fabrics.
Bold Binding for a Modern Touch
I was so excited when I had just the right amount of fabric left to create the perfect binding for this quilt! It’s always a win when fabric from the Warp and Weft Honey collection is the perfect fit. I love the bright blue color of the binding—it really pops against the chambray border on the quilt top and adds a bold, modern touch to the overall design.
Love the Diode Design? Grab It Here!
Cozy Backing for Extra Comfort
For the quilt’s backing, I chose another fabric from the Warp and Weft Honey collection in Blue Ribbon. This tight-weave linen is a stunning royal blue—the kind of color you’d expect to see on a blue ribbon winner at a quilting show! It pairs perfectly with the rest of the quilt, providing both a bold and cozy feel.
Grab the Happy Scallops Pattern Here
Professional Quilting Services for Your Custom Quilts
Would you like help adding custom quilting to your quilt top? I offer longarm quilting services for hire, and I'd love to help bring your quilt design to life. Feel free to reach out via email or check out my longarm quilting information page to send your quilt top in for professional services.
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Grab the Diode Pantograph Here
