Rag Quilting

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Ragging fabric creates depth, texture, and softness by clipping the exposed seams between blocks of fabric and laundering the project. It makes beautiful throws, jackets, pillows …

Select fabrics with a looser weave for the best ragging. This doesn’t mean you should compromise on quality but avoid batiks and other very finely woven fabrics. Flannels and homespuns work very well. You will need enough fabric for both the back and the front of the project. Remember that the seam allowances are generous so make sure to have enough fabric.

Cut the fabrics to the block size desired, adding 1 ” to the width and height of each block for the seam allowances. For example, cut 7 ” for a 6 ” block. A larger seam allowance creates greater dimension in the ragged edge.

Cut batting slightly less than the finished block size. For example, cut a scant 5 7/8” for a 6 ” block.

Layer the backing, batting, and top fabric as you would for a quilt. Make sure the batting is centered.

Pin together and sew an X across the block or quilt another pattern to keep the layers together.

Stitch blocks back sides together with a ½” seam allowance. You want the seam allowances to come to the front of the project. You should not be stitching through the batting. When all the blocks are stitched together, stitch twice around the outer edges of the project using a small stitch.

Clip all the seam allowances almost to the stitch line, clipping 1/8” to 3/8” apart. Fiskar Softouch Scissors will make the job easier. You may want to sew a row of blocks together, then clip the seams between the blocks before you sew the next row. This also helps to reduce the strain of all the clipping.

Launder your project to create the ragged effect. This project will produce a lot of threads and lint in your washer and dryer. Monitor the lint traps carefully and clean them out during the process. Dry thoroughly.

Sew or bind your ragged fabric as desired.

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