
Creating a continental quilt is a fun and rewarding project that can be completed by quilters of all skill levels. The first step is to choose a pattern, and for a traditional look, consider a simple block design like the one featured in the article.
To get started, gather your fabric, thread, and basic sewing supplies. You'll need a good quality cotton fabric for the quilt top, backing, and binding. The article notes that a 100% cotton fabric is ideal for a continental quilt.
Cut out your fabric into the required pieces, following the pattern's instructions. Make sure to cut accurately and efficiently to avoid wasting fabric or making mistakes.
Next, sew your blocks together using a 1/4 inch seam allowance, starting with the top and working your way down.
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Materials and Preparation
Materials for a continental quilt can be quite varied, with options ranging from basic and sturdy to opulent and luxurious.
You'll find quilts and comforters in many colors, patterns, and designs, making it easy to choose one that suits your style.
If you have allergies, materials matter most, and fortunately, high-quality down alternatives can be just as puffy and warm.
Fabric Needs for 9" Quilt Block

When working on a 9" Continental quilt block, you'll need a variety of fabrics to create the different sections of the block.
For the light and ivory sections, you'll need 6 - 3" squares, 4 - 2.5" squares, and 5 - 1.5" squares.
To ensure good contrast between the fabrics, choose two fabrics that don't have the same exact colors for the points that don't disappear into the background.
You can cut the fabrics at your cutting mat, cutting each pair in half along the marked line.
Here's a breakdown of the fabric requirements for a 9" Continental quilt block:
It's worth noting that you can always change the block construction to your preference, which may result in four less patches and seams per block.
Materials
Quilts and comforters come in a wide range of materials, from basic and sturdy to opulent and luxurious.
You can find them in various colors, patterns, and designs.
If you have allergies or prefer animal-derived products, materials matter most.
High-quality down alternatives can be just as puffy and warm.
These alternatives can be a great option for those who want to stay away from animal-derived products.
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Cutting and Sewing
Cutting and Sewing is a crucial step in creating a beautiful Continental quilt. As with all 'pointy' designs, choose fabrics with good contrast between them.
At your cutting mat, cut each pair in half along the marked line, just like you would when constructing HSTs. Remember, you can always change the block construction to your preference if you'd rather have four less patches and seams per block.
To find the right size, look for your Finished Block size in the chart above and cut four units the width of the Subcut Measurement.
Cutting for Quilt Block
To ensure good contrast between fabrics, choose ones with contrasting colors, especially for 'pointy' designs like the Uneven 9-patch.
For points that don't disappear into the background, pick two fabrics without the same exact colors in each.
At your cutting mat, cut each pair in half along the marked line to create half-square triangles (HSTs).
You can construct HSTs as single Flying Geese units if you prefer.
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If you want fewer patches and seams per block, consider changing the block construction to your preference.
To find the Finished Block size, refer to the chart above and cut four units the width of the Subcut Measurement.
For a 9" Finished Continental Quilt Block, you'll need specific fabric cuts, including:
- Light/Ivory: 6 - 3" squares, 4 - 2.5" squares, and 5 - 1.5" squares
- Medium/Pink & Green: 4 - 1.5" x 2.5" rectangles, and 4 - 1.5" squares
- Dark 1/Green: 2 - 3" squares
- Dark 2/Pink: 4 - 3" squares
Quarter Blocks
To make quarter blocks, you'll need to cut and sew four identical blocks.
Make four quarter blocks to ensure you have enough for your project.
Cutting the blocks to the same size is crucial for a good match.
With RST, stitch the two blocks together, using pins as needed to ensure a good match.
Match RSTs and stitch the pairs together, pinning as needed for a good match in the center of the unit.
Press the seam in the direction of the arrow to ensure a crisp finish.
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Assemble the Units
To assemble the Continental quilt block, start by pairing a #1 and #2 with right sides together (RST) and stitching 1/4" from both sides of the line.
Press the seam flat to set it.
Double check that the darker fabric doesn't peek out past the edge of the light seam allowance, and trim it back if necessary.
It's often easier to get a good match at the points of the HSTs if they're made individually rather than substituting in a Flying Geese unit.
With RST, join a #3 square to the dark side of a HST, pressing the seam allowance (SA) as indicated.
Arrange all the stitched units to create the Continental block design, with the #3 square in the outer corners and the small dark one on the outside edge at the sides.
SAs in the top and bottom rows are pressed in toward the #4/#5/#6, while the middle row is pressed out from the center.
Stitch the units in each row together with RST, pressing the SAs as shown in the photo.
Stitch the rows together, and consider pinning to ensure a good match at the points.
This will help you achieve a clean and even finish.
Consider reading: Quilt Square
Quilt Options
A continental quilt is a great way to add some warmth and style to your home, and there are several quilt options to choose from.
You can choose from a variety of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, and blends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is another name for a continental quilt?
In Australia, a continental quilt is commonly known as a doona. This alternative name is often used to refer to a duvet.
Featured Images: pexels.com

