Fat Quarter Sheared Quilt with Daisy Blooms
Today I’m sharing the fat quarter version of the Sheared quilt with you—paired with a brand new quilting pantograph design, Daisy Bloom! This was such a fun, satisfying make because everything came straight from my stash (and scrap stash), right down to the backing and binding.
There’s something extra rewarding about creating a full modern quilt using what you already have on hand. If you’ve been holding onto fat quarters or leftover cuts from previous quilting projects, this is your sign to pull them out and put them to use.
One of my favorite parts of quilting is proving that beautiful results don’t require brand new materials. Some of my most-loved quilts have come from “making do” with what I had—and this one is no exception.
If you’d like to make your own version, you can grab the quilt pattern here:
Shop the Sheared Quilt Pattern
Shop the Daisy Bloom Panto
Why the Sheared Quilt Pattern Works So Well for Fat Quarters
The Sheared quilt pattern is especially well-suited for fat quarters, which makes it a go-to in my lineup of modern quilt patterns.
Fat quarters give you just enough fabric to create contrast and movement without overwhelming the design. With Sheared, the layout allows each fabric to shine while still contributing to the overall structure of the quilt.
This balance is what makes it ideal for:
- Scrappy quilts
- Coordinated bundles
- Stash-busting projects
- Beginner-friendly quilting projects
Because the cuts are straightforward and repetitive, it’s also a great pattern if you’re looking for a quicker finish—or if you just want something relaxing to sew.
Quilt Top Fabrics for a Scrappy Fat Quarter Quilt
This quilt top came together using a mix of fat quarters and scrap fabrics, making it a perfect example of a stash-friendly fat quarter quilt pattern.
I used fat quarters for the greens, purples, and blacks, then pulled in leftover backing pieces for the whites (including the adorable strawberry print), a solid coral, and a blue ribbon linen from Ruby Star Society.
The result is exactly what I love in a modern quilt—a scrappy look that still feels cohesive. Because many of the fabrics lean toward basics, the quilt almost reads like a structured print from a distance, while still having that layered, pieced charm up close.
How to Choose Fabrics for a Balanced Scrappy Quilt
If you’re pulling from your own stash, here are a few quick tips to keep things cohesive:
- Stick to a loose color palette (mine leaned cool with pops of contrast)
- Mix scale intentionally (small prints + solids + a bold print)
- Repeat a few anchor colors throughout the quilt
- Don’t overthink it—a little randomness adds charm
Scrappy quilts are one of the best ways to build confidence in your fabric choices. There’s less pressure for everything to match perfectly, which often leads to more interesting results.
If you’d like to make your own version, you can grab the quilt pattern here:
Shop the Sheared Quilt Pattern
Shop the Daisy Bloom Panto
Quilt Backing: Why I Love Minky for Modern Quilts
I originally bought this dusty pink minky for another quilt—but it got tucked away and completely forgotten (you know how that goes). When I rediscovered it, it ended up being the perfect backing for this project.
While I love a good 108” wideback, my family consistently prefers minky backing for one reason: it’s incredibly soft and cozy. For everyday-use quilts, especially, that comfort factor is hard to beat.
The only downside? This particular minky was 60” wide, which meant I needed to piece the backing. Totally manageable—but I will admit, now that I stock wider options, I’ve been spoiled by not having to seam quilt backs.
Things to Know About Longarm Quilting with Minky
If you’re planning to send a quilt with minky through longarm quilting, here are a few helpful things to keep in mind:
- Minky has stretch, so proper direction is key
- It can pull through to the front of the quilt, beware of high contrast minky to quilt top
- I tend to slow my machine down and lengthen my stitch length to avoid any minky pulling up to the front (or at least reduce the visual of it best)
- It creates incredible texture once quilted
The trade-off is absolutely worth it—the finished quilt has a weight and softness that makes it instantly loved.
Quilt Binding: The Finishing Detail That Matters
Binding is one of those elements that often gets overlooked—but it plays a huge role in the final look of your quilt.
For this one, I used a Zen Grey from Moda that I had in my stash. At one point, I’m pretty sure I had a full bolt of this fabric, but as my color preferences evolved, it became a slow-use staple.
It ended up being the perfect choice.
I didn’t want anything too dark against the dusty pink backing, but I also tend to avoid very light bindings (they show wear and dirt quickly). This soft grey lands right in the middle—subtle, practical, and a great complement to both the quilt top and backing.
Choosing the Right Binding for Your Quilt
When selecting binding for your modern quilt, consider:
- Contrast vs. blend (do you want it to stand out?)
- Durability (mid-tones hide wear best)
- Frame effect (binding acts like a border)
It’s a small decision that makes a big difference in the finished piece.
Shop the Sheared Quilt Pattern
Shop the Daisy Bloom Panto
Daisy Bloom: A Modern Quilting Pantograph Design
Let’s talk about the quilting design—because this one feels especially timely.
Here in Minnesota, we’ve been bouncing between spring sunshine and surprise snowstorms. So this design might be a little bit of wishful thinking—but I was ready for something light, floral, and happy.
Enter: Daisy Bloom
This quilting pantograph has a soft feel that pairs beautifully with modern quilt patterns. One of my favorite features is the subtle stem design—it’s understated enough that the pattern almost reads like a two-way design when rotated.
What Makes This Quilting Pantograph Stand Out
- Minimal backtracking (only on stems and partial leaves)
- No complicated alignment required
- 50% offset for a seamless repeat
- Works on both scrappy and structured quilts
Shop the Daisy Bloom Panto
Designs like this are especially great for longarm quilting because they stitch out efficiently while still delivering a high-end look.
How Quilting Changes the Look of a Quilt
One of the most transformative steps in quilting is—unsurprisingly—the quilting itself.
The same quilt top can look completely different depending on the quilting pantograph you choose. Dense designs add texture and structure, while more open designs keep the quilt soft and drapey.
With Daisy Bloom, I love how it adds movement and a bit of fun without overwhelming the piecing. It adds an element the quilt rather than taking it over—which is always my goal when working with quilts.
If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to finish a quilt, start by asking:
- Do I want texture or softness?
- Do I want the quilting to stand out or blend in?
- Will this quilt be decorative or heavily used?
Those answers will help guide your design choice every time.
Shop the Sheared Quilt Pattern
Shop the Daisy Bloom Panto
Professional Longarm Quilting Services for Hire
If finishing quilts is your least favorite part—or if your quilting to-do pile is getting a little too long—I’d love to help.
I offer professional longarm quilting services tailored to modern quilters who want clean, polished finishes.
👉 Learn More About My Longarm Quilting Services
What My Longarm Quilting Services Include
Edge-to-Edge Quilting with Modern Pantographs
I specialize in edge-to-edge longarm quilting using modern digital quilting pantographs that complement a wide range of quilt patterns.
A Growing Pantograph Library
From geometric to organic designs, you’ll have plenty of options to match your quilt’s style and I'm continually adding to the library, with at least two new designs added each month!
Quilting for Modern and Traditional Quilts
Whether you're working on a fat quarter quilt or something more intricate, I can help bring it to life.
Optional Binding Services
Want your quilt completely finished? I offer binding services so it arrives ready to use or gift.
Mail-In Longarm Quilting Made Simple
You don’t need to be local to take advantage of longarm quilting services.
Here’s how it works:
- Ship your quilt top
- Choose your quilting design
- I quilt and finish it
- Your quilt is returned ready to enjoy
If you’re unsure which quilting pantograph to choose, I’m always happy to help guide you.
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Shop the Sheared Quilt Pattern
Shop the Daisy Bloom Panto'