Geo Octagon Panto and Crossed Paws Quilt in Poolside Too
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Double trouble launching in this blog post! I've got a new (albeit late) panto to show off for February. It's simple yet creates an amazing amount of texture and has a secondary pattern that reveals itself when stitched out. Welcome Geo Octagon to the Modern Textiles pantograph club! Why not stitch this fun geometric design out on a fresh Crossed Paws quilt, using none other than Ruby Star Society prints? These fabrics aren't in shops just yet—but since I was featured in the look book for Moda, I was able to sneak some sample fabric to make this delightful throw quilt. Read on to learn all about this design that is 100% Modern Textiles.
Grab the Geo Octagon Pantograph Here
Grab the Crossed Paws Quilt Pattern Here
The Inspiration Behind Geo Octagon Quilting Design
I spent a weekend with friends in my old college town, and we dedicated an entire day to thrift shopping. I went out with totally open eyes—I didn't need anything while we were out and about, but I did find myself gravitating toward the tablecloths, quilts, afghans, and various other textiles, noticing all sorts of yummy texture and design inspiration.
This quilting design is an homage to one of the comforter designs that I spotted and couldn't shake from my head. The geometric nature of the original piece spoke to me, and I knew it would translate beautifully into a longarm quilting pantograph for modern quilt patterns.
So here we are with this fun, simple, and modern quilting pantograph! The Geo Octagon design is simple to stitch out, but half the design is backstitched in order to maintain the original pattern integrity.
Stitching Out the Geo Octagon Pantograph
There's no need to offset this design since the points are meant to match up, which also means there's no spacing required when using this pantograph for your longarm quilting services. I'd put this design into the intermediate category for quilters since points are matching throughout the design.
The secondary pattern that emerges as you stitch is one of my favorite features. What appears simple at first glance becomes complex and visually stunning once the quilting is complete.
Grab the Geo Octagon Pantograph Here
Grab the Crossed Paws Quilt Pattern Here
Ruby Star Society Poolside Too: Tropical Vibes for Winter Days
Poolside Too fabrics are what all tropical vacations are about, and with it being the dead of winter here in Minnesota, I needed this bright pop of color to get me through the week! There's nothing quite like working with vibrant, cheerful fabrics when the snow is piling up outside.
Designing the Crossed Paws Quilt
When making the mock-up for Ruby Star Society's lookbook, I wanted the colors of the crossed patchwork to pop against the light and dark background but make it a little bit warm and inviting compared to the very high-contrast cover quilt. The balance between visual impact and approachability is crucial when creating modern quilt patterns that appeal to a wide range of quilters.
Going with the Storytime Speckled fabric paired with the White on Natural Starry fabric was the perfect combo. It's natural and cool vibes is what this whole Poolside Too line is about. These fabrics create a serene backdrop that allows the bold cross colors to truly shine.
The Perfect Fabric Color Palette
For the cross colors, I went with Architectural Blocks in Sorbet, Goldfish, Shine Girl Shine in Golden Hour, and Lagoon. Sorbet adds a soft touch, Goldfish provides warmth, Golden Hour brings sunshine vibes, and Lagoon ties everything back to that poolside, tropical feeling that inspired the entire collection.
Availability and Kits
If you're a quilt shop, you can grab the fabrics needed for this quilt directly through Moda, as they generated a kit bundle for this specific quilt pattern. A big win for me is that Moda is now distributing this pattern and a few others of mine—woohoo!
Grab the Geo Octagon Pantograph Here
Grab the Crossed Paws Quilt Pattern Here
Choosing the Perfect Backing Fabric
I stuck with the same Storytime Speckled fabric for the backing so the quilting would really have a moment to show off the incredibly cool all-over design that it puts out into the world. The backing fabric choice is just as important as the top when you're planning for longarm quilting—it's where your quilting design truly gets to shine.
Thread Selection: A Critical Decision
I think the off-white (linen) thread was the right choice to let the quilting do the talking. The neutral tone allows the Geo Octagon pantograph to create subtle shadows and texture without competing with the fabric designs.
I was entertaining the idea of the thread being a fun color—but didn't want to overpower the quilt top design. What team are you on? Colored thread that packs a punch, or a neutral to blend in with the fabrics of the quilt?
Grab the Geo Octagon Pantograph Here
Grab the Crossed Paws Quilt Pattern Here
Binding: The Perfect Finishing Touch
I had a little bit leftover of the Architectural Block fabric in Goldfish that I decided would be a fun punch to finish off this quilt. Binding choices might seem like a small detail, but they can make or break the final appearance of your finished quilt.
Why Bold Binding Works
I had enough of the speckled fabric to use for binding, but I thought it would be too much of a blah finish—and I do not regret going for bold! The Goldfish binding creates a frame around the entire quilt that draws the eye and gives the piece a finished, intentional look.
Whenever I'm sewing with Ruby Star Society fabrics, I feel you can't go too big or bold with fabric placement and choices. The design team's aesthetic is just so cool like that—it encourages creativity and fearless color choices that result in stunning modern quilt patterns.
Grab the Geo Octagon Pantograph Here
Grab the Crossed Paws Quilt Pattern Here
Professional Longarm Quilting Services for Hire
If finishing quilts is your least favorite part—or if you simply don't have the time—I'd love to help. I offer professional longarm quilting services for hire, specializing in modern quilts, edge-to-edge pantographs, and clean, polished finishes. Many quilters excel at piecing beautiful quilt tops but prefer to have the actual quilting done by a professional longarm quilter.
What My Longarm Quilting Services Include
Edge-to-edge quilting with modern digital pantographs – I use contemporary designs like the Geo Octagon that complement modern quilt patterns while also working beautifully with traditional designs. My pantograph library is constantly growing, giving you plenty of options for every project.
A growing library of quilting pantograph designs – From geometric patterns to organic flowing designs, you'll have plenty of options to choose from to match your quilt's style and aesthetic. Each design is carefully selected to enhance your work without overpowering your fabric choices.
Quilting for modern and traditional quilts – Whether you're working with a fat quarter quilt pattern, a Modern Textiles design like this Crossed Paws quilt, or a scrappy traditional design, I can provide the perfect quilting to enhance your work. Every quilt deserves professional finishing that brings out its best features.
Optional binding services for a complete finish – If you want your quilt completely finished and ready to use or gift, I can handle the binding too. This full-service option means you can ship me your quilt top and receive back a completely finished quilt, ready to enjoy.
Mail-In Longarm Quilting Services Made Easy
I offer mail-in longarm quilting services, making it easy to work together no matter where you're located. Whether your quilt is pieced and ready or you're still deciding on a quilting design, I'm happy to help you choose the perfect longarm quilting option to complement your project.
Simply ship your quilt top, batting, and backing to me, and I'll handle the rest. Once complete, I'll ship your beautifully quilted project back to you.
Learn More About My Longarm Quilting Services
Making the Most of Your Quilting Projects
Whether you're inspired to create your own Crossed Paws quilt using Ruby Star Society fabrics or you're working on other modern quilt patterns, having access to quality resources and professional longarm quilting services makes all the difference.
Grab the Geo Octagon Pantograph Here
Grab the Crossed Paws Quilt Pattern Here
Stay in the Loop with Modern Textiles
Want to keep up with everything happening at Modern Textiles? I share inspiration, updates, and resources in my weekly newsletter. It's the best way to stay connected and get insider access to new designs, quilting tips, and special offers.
When You Subscribe, You'll Get:
New quilt patterns and modern quilt patterns – Be the first to know about fresh designs, including fat quarter quilt patterns and projects for quilters of all skill levels. Get early access to new releases like the Crossed Paws pattern and other Modern Textiles exclusives.
Helpful quilting tips and longarm quilting advice – Learn techniques that will improve your quilting and help you make better decisions about finishing your projects. From fabric selection to binding techniques, I share the knowledge I've gained through years of quilting.
A peek at what's fresh off the longarm quilting machine – See real projects and get inspired by what's possible with professional longarm quilting services. These behind-the-scenes glimpses show you different pantograph designs in action and help you visualize what's possible for your own quilts.
Updates on new digital quilting pantographs – Discover new designs like Geo Octagon for edge-to-edge quilting that can transform your quilt tops. Each new pantograph is designed with modern quilters in mind, offering fresh options for contemporary projects.
News from my quilting business – Stay informed about new services, special offers, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of life in a quilting studio. Learn about exciting collaborations like my partnership with Moda and what's coming next.
Free Charm Pack Quilt Pattern
As a thank-you for subscribing, you'll receive a free charm pack quilt pattern delivered straight to your inbox when you sign up. Charm pack patterns are perfect for using precut fabrics efficiently and make great starting points for your next project.
Final Thoughts on the Geo Octagon and Crossed Paws Journey
Creating this quilt has been such a rewarding experience—from finding inspiration in vintage textiles to working with the gorgeous Ruby Star Society Poolside Too collection, and finally seeing the Geo Octagon pantograph bring it all together.
Whether you tackle your own version of this project or explore other modern quilt patterns, remember that professional longarm quilting services are available to help you achieve the perfect finish. Happy quilting!
Grab the Geo Octagon Pantograph Here
Grab the Crossed Paws Quilt Pattern Here
