All Linen Quilt - Searching for the Perfect Pattern

[@djlane5213]

I’m loving all your mid-century modern furniture in the room.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you so much! ❤️

[@susanlee1827]

I was thinking that too. Her chair/ottoman combo is really ❤️❤️❤️

[@shannoneaster9311]

🖍 This episode beautifully describes the creative process in the mind of a quilter. It’s the “grown up” version of a brand new giant box of crayons and a new coloring book. “What page should I color first and which of these bazillion colors will I use?”🖍🤔 It’s my absolute favorite part of creating beautiful quilts. And your linen stash is amazing! ❤Loved having shared this moment with you this morning. Can’t wait to see what you make first, because you are absolutely right…there are many beautiful linen quilts in that “crayon box” of fabric stash, and you have so many fun pages ready and waiting in your “coloring book”. 🥰

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I LOVE love LOVE this analogy!! Who knows where I'll start, but I think I might really try to make 4 quilts of all that linen. That would be so cool! 🤩 Thanks for sharing the moment with me---I love having you along this YT trip with me! ❤️

[@g.butterly8294]

Allways a delight to "hear you thinking" on the go. Last day I was so much laughing "alone with you" that my partner came to check what I was doing. I almost reply: oh just having a cup of tea with a good friend! As he was ready to get rid of his old office shirts... I did'nt cut them as usual to clean, but I decided I should use this precious fabric for better use and try to do a quilt with them, even if I dont respect the "quilt law" of America. As very sewing beginner you give me inspiration and confidence, thanks so much for the time you take to share with us. I'm very impressed to see all what you manage to do with a full time job, family etc... I could not. But just like you I have 1000 ideas and desires a minute... I just need to pick one project and start! With all my love from the other side of the ocean. ❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks so much, G! ❤️ I think I don't respect the quilting laws of America, either! 😂 Thanks for having a cup of tea with me and for watching and commenting! I appreciate your support! 🤓👍🏻

[@TheQuiltingLunchLady]

So many quilts, so little time, so many ideas, so much wonderful fabric… yeah I can see your mind working feverishly trying to justify starting another whip. Ah, the problems we quilters face!!!!😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Christine, I laughed about this and read the part about my "mind working feverishly" aloud to Paul...because it is 100% TRUE. I have to say, it's nice to be known! 🤓❤️

[@lindastrous5243]

As soon as I saw the dialogue pattern , that would be my choice. Linen and a modern looking pattern just seems to belong together.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Right?! I will definitely be making that one out of at least SOME of my linen! ❤️

[@Making-Beth-Gain]

Cathy, your linen shirt collection = GOALS 😍

[@Denise11Schultz]

Me too Beth, and I had collected shirts for quilts, especially linen shirts, for almost 25 years before I found Cathy. And I had missed the most obvious next goal: to break them down! Doing that now, and having So Much Fun. Then once I have my palette, it’s on to Sew Much Fun (my favorite part is piecing ☺️💙).

[@Making-Beth-Gain]

Shirts are such a great source for fabric, especially linen because by the yard it gets pricy. I love breaking them down it is so rewarding. It’s like a “quilting fabric harvest” 😂

[@SewTeresa]

Oh my goodness! I so want to make a linen quilt now. Thrift stores here I came!! 😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Teresa, right?! The linen quilt is calling to me! 🤩

[@IOSALive]

TheCatBird Quilts, I really enjoyed this video, so I hit the like button!

[@Annie-id5bc]

Thanks for the reminder to hit the like button!

[@michellegoldsmith]

I recently dyed an old linen white linen shirt that had gone yellow. It was really easy and it took the colour really easily and looks great in hot pink. That pattern you have picked out would lend itself to dyed linen to create the gradients of colour as well. Just thinking out loud.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh I'm so glad you commented, Michelle! I am cooking an idea about using the pinks/blushes together but it needs a contrasting color to keep it interesting. I think that a mustard or burnt sienna would look great but I don't happen to have that in linen! My friend suggested dyeing some of the linen and I wondered if it would take the dye well! And then, voilà! Your comment answered my question perfectly! Thank you! ❤️

[@johnbarnby]

Right from the opening of this video my first instinct was to wish you would make a quilt with ALL of those beautiful colors. I wanted to dive into that gorgeous pile of color! I love the checkerboard idea. The St. Louis quilt block has always been one of my favorites and there's definitely something satisfying about checkerboard in general. It's like they exude homey comfort and protection. I'm sure whatever you decide it will be dreamy and beautiful. Now my wheels are turning and I may have to add a linen quilt in my future too.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, John! I agree about the homey comfort of a checkerboard quilt! You definitely should add a linen quilt to your list! ❤️

[@marybeth4002]

I've purchased a couple linen shirts to be creative, however, each time my oldest daughter comes home for a visit she drools over them. I must say the linen shirts sure do look good on her and she is sooo happy. Back to the cotton for me. LOL ❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Love it!!

[@annettegraff8323]

Lol! Been on a diet and lost weight! Came home with 2 linen shirts for myself to wear ! I always get 100% cotton or linen if possible! Feels so much better! Im a bit ocd and it doesn't irritate me as much as poly blendsThat being said , I prefer knitting with wool because it is quality breathable fiber ! It is biodegradable and earth friendly! Linen ,by its nature doesn't hold dye well and has a softer color scheme The quilts I love are soft and comfortable! The batt would need to be 100% cotton to have that subtle tactile quality imo. This vision of yours brings to light the necessity of interpreting the fabric constraints! Excellent!❤👏👏

[@Denise11Schultz]

Been collecting linen for a quilt for many years. Thank you for the thoughtful and thorough explanation for making this. I don’t have nearly the rainbow variety you are surrounded by, though. •My colors are so dominated by a variety of acid greens, I really want at least a little more color variety before I start piecing. •Until I saw your collection, I thought perhaps linen accepted those greens in preference to other dyes. •After seeing your collection of linen, I wonder if there is just one donor for those shirts, and she prefers acid greens. 😉 •I’m especially glad you emphasized the necessary precautions with linen grain and raveling. I usually use a bowl of liquid starch for that. •I once was commissioned to finish a blue and white double wedding ring quilt that had been crushed into a ball and buried at the back of the quilter’s closet, where it was discovered by her daughter after she died. •No wonder she died. I tried to iron some of the blocks and rows, and it was hopeless. She had not understood how to do the ‘seam jumping’ at the center of the double wedding ring block, so each center was warped and twisted. And the pieces were not cut accurately. All I could guess was that the fabric had not been ironed before cutting. I imagine in my 80’s I might become similarly impatient. •With a double wedding ring that was Hopeless. •The woman had belonged to a large quilting class, and they were enlisted to rip the entire quilt, block by block. I made two large scrap pillows from some of the extra beautiful blues and white, and raffled them off to thank the ladies. •Then I soaked each piece in a bowl of liquid starch, ironed and recut each piece, and reconstructed each block, and completed the king-size quilt. •It was really a touching experience, to complete her last UFO. •Thanks for reminding us to use a lot of starch. I hadn’t thought of that blue and white quilt for 20 years. •And now I’m ready to find a rectangular pattern and some more colors of linen. And maybe some dye for some of that acid green. 😊

[@cxm305]

You’re such a wonderful inspiration 💕 I’ve never had luck with charity shops but I also was never looking for mens shirts on those trips. Went today thinking maybe I’ll find a couple good shirts. Someone had donated over 30 xl-xxl brand new (plastic lining still in the collars extra buttons still attached) name brand 100% linen, 100% cotton, and linen cotton blend shirts! Including brooks brothers, Caribbean, and Armani brands, $5.99 each 😱 took so much restraint to not buy everything, ended up with 9 shirts - 4, 100% linen and the others cotton and linen cotton blends - spent $50 (goodwill gives a discount if you pay cash I discovered). Best shopping trip ever and thought of you the whole time, took a lot of restraint to not buy everything 😂 thank you so much for motivating me to go, was such a blessing!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh my goodness!! I wish we had been there to film that!🤩 I would have acted like I won the lottery! 😂 I'm so happy for you--truly! And thank you for sharing your wonderful Goodwill trip and excitement---I'm blessed by your comment!❤️

[@jennjennedington279]

I am salivating at the potential….. what a win! Congratulations!

[@jennjennedington279]

The temptation to ask where are you? And get in the car……

[@cxm305]

@@TheCatBirdQuiltsI kept thinking how much you would be freaking out, Paul for sure would have needed to get you a cart 😂

[@cxm305]

@@jennjennedington279haha guess it depends on where you live. My jackpot was at the goodwill on the southwest corner of Jog Road and Lantana road in Lake Worth, FL. Most of the store had not great stock as thrift stores usually do down here but I think a lot of that is caused by people who have a career hunting down items and reselling online. Their men’s shirts was the best stocked area by far (thanks to the huge donation of new shirts). Goodwill has a warehouse location in West Palm where you pay by the pound but it’s way too overwhelming for me, went once years ago and never again 😂 South Miami, Aventura, and East Lauderdale have a large population of residents who wear stuff once and get rid of it, their stores might be even better. Palm beach not as much except around maybe Boca. 6+ hour drive from the state line if ya take 95, like 8-9hrs from 75 but def a nice place to visit especially if you have interest in scuba diving - surprisingly uncommon known fact - palm beach is ranked 3rd best reef scuba location in the world 🙂

[@HeikeWoolard]

😳🤭🤗☺ I was hoping so much that you would love and use that pretty linen shirt. The time is now! 🥰😍

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Yes, Heike, it is TIME!❤️

[@destrygraves]

Linen relaxes. I don’t think in reality it stretches, it just relaxes. The way a very independent and angry toddler relaxes after awhile when you hold them and rock them to hug it out. It does feel heavy and I need heavy to fall asleep and of course that is a horrible habit for sleeping. I almost always wake up hot. I love to listen to everything you have to say about anything quilting. Now I know I need a linen quilt. Great chat. TFS

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Destry! ❤️And yes, the word is "relaxes" not "stretches!" I'm thankful to have a better word for it! 🤓👍🏻

[@genawalter401]

I think that your plans sound amazing! It's so funny how we get so excited to make something new and then go off in tangents thinking of more projects we want to make. There truly is never enough time to do it all. I am looking forward to seeing what colorway you decide to use. 😊 😊😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Gena! ❤️ And yes, it's so true!

[@toloveandrestore2472]

The quality of your channel is SO great! Thank you for doing this! The amount of men’s shirts I have now 🤦🏽‍♀️

[@auntdello5286]

I think all your colors would make a nice Jonah quilt! The contrasts of all those cool colors with the warm shades would really work.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I think so too, AuntDello, but I might have to eliminate some and that's when it gets tricky! 😉

[@auntdello5286]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts I'm looking forward to seeing the development of whichever pattern you finally choose. All the quilts you've shared so far are really nice. Thank you for sharing your process.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you so much! ❤️

[@sallylee9911]

I love the mid century furniture!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you!

[@wendyfrankle6435]

Its because of you that I started collecting linen ... :) I thrift the shirts when I find them on sale, break them down and store them in a bucket under my cutting table. My husband is quick to check my shirts when I get home because he LOVES to wear linen... so if it fits him he usually steals them with the promise that someday I can have them back! hahaha.. I haven't LOOKED in my linen bucket in a while as I didn't have anything in mind for it until today. Thank you for the amazing suggestions, patterns and linen wisdom. THE LINEN QUILT might be next on my list...

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Wendy, this is fantastic! 🤩 And I love how (and laughed about) your husband stealing your perfectly good quilting shirts to WEAR. The nerve of him! 😂 If you get going on THE LINEN QUILT, you'll have to share it with me on Instagram! ❤️ We should all use the hashtag #alllinenquilt!!

[@DianeRoberts]

You are "floored" by the collection of linen on your floor!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Diane, right?! I laughed at that too, when I watched the video edit! 😂

[@gilliantangen3717]

I absolute love your thoughts and enthusiasm…. So contagious 👏👏👏👏

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Gillian! ❤️

[@kimbuterbaugh2669]

I'm in. Time to collect more linen. Excellent inspirational video.❤

[@juliejeavons6949]

I made a small wall hanging this week with linen. I struggled to cut it straight and I thought about sending you a message to ask how you managed to quilt with it. I sometimes think you are my psychic twin 🤣

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You should have! I would have certainly told you more than you wanted to hear, and then capped it off with, "Oh YEAH, we also have a video coming out on that very thing Friday!" 😂🤓❤️

[@BettyAnn9681]

Just came back from a vacation in AZ where I found my first 100% linen shirt. And it's yellow! Only beginning the process of finding thrift shirts for fabric, but love the ideas for once I have enough.

[@sshellyrsutton]

Hello Cathy, another great video. You do crack me up! I too used to run cold…. But since menopause, not so much. I have made many quilts but have never thought about making one in linen til seeing your video. My wheels are turning…. 🤔 On a different topic, have you ever used the Hobbs Tuscany Cotton Wool blend batting? It is very breathable and has been my personal “go - to” for quite a while now. I can’t wait to see your linen quilt finished. Happy Sewing! 🧵🪡💃🏻🎉

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Shelly! As for cotton/wool blend batting, I haven't tried it before! My friend loves wool batting, though, so I'm not surprised to hear that a cotton/wool blend is breathable and good to work with!

[@susanlee1827]

Pattern audition can be a rough chore!! I was giggling because what I heard you say was “grainy squares” 🤔…then I realized you were saying “granny squares”!!! Ohhhhhh 😂😂😂😂😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You know that Southern slang will stretch the pronunciation of a word to its breaking point! (and sometimes beyond recognition!) 😂😂

[@pirjoraila4605]

Love, love, love linen. Have a WIP dear Jane in linen, I am not smart in that way. The granny square with brown BG... You could make each block with a different background, no? Love all the patterns you showed. It is a juicy dilemma.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

It IS a juicy dilemma! 🤓❤️

[@stefflcus]

Not me hollering, "You can make both! YOU CAN MAKE AAALLLLL!" 😂I can't resist a good origin story and all my various WIPs (quilting and otherwise) are proof. But please, allow me to be a bad influence! ALL THE PATTERNS. Or at least four of them. Spotted: "Starch the dog outta it." Now THAT is a Southern thang, but this is the first time I've ever wondered the etymology of it. HmmMMmmm!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You are a bad influence. Totally. But I love it when you comment because I always laugh, go "Aww!" and then, "YES gurl!" Basically your comments give me LIFE.❤️

[@stefflcus]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts Ahhhh, thank you!! They will continue.

[@susanvoth5831]

This was an enjoyable chat about matching fabric to patterns, informative too. Thank you. I designed and made a linen quilt once upon a time. I’m also a thrift shopper and purchased all of the fabric from local thrift stores. Actually, more fabric than expected was available from the clothing I cut up. I also use silk in quilts. Such fun, and an inexpensive way to increase one’s stash. Thanks for sharing.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Susan! ❤️ I bet your linen quilt was lovely and felt amazing!🤩

[@tinakercher8768]

I hope you will make all those patterns!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww! Thanks, Tina! ❤️

[@suzanneramsay7757]

Thank you for sharing this. I have had trouble with the crinkleness of linen in my wardrobe, so to know that it launders well as a quilt. I'd love to see a copy of one, once used and washed a few times to see how they look. I am assuming it doesn't get ironed or pressed after laundering. If your friend would lend it to you to show, it would be wonderful.. I might just have to try it anyway, because, you're right, linen is so nice on the skin....Thanks again

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

It is super crinkly after washing and drying, so just know that! You can iron it (although be careful if the batting isn't cotton) to smooth it out some. It acts just exactly like linen clothes---so if that look bothers you, you might not enjoy it in quilt form unless you're willing to iron it!

[@Cassandra-..-]

This is my FAVORITE part of quilting! And yes, I was yelling, “make both!” at the screen. And then again at the snowballed blocks from the Utility book! Make all three!!! 😍😍😍😍😍😍😍

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Me too, Cassandra! The idea/inception stage is the VERY BEST. And I just might! ❤️

[@diannplatt-roberts8692]

Go for it. I have about 8 projects I’m working on now.

[@lindamasson3094]

Thank you for sharing those patterns. I love the Dialogue Cabin.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I do, too, Linda! 🤓❤️ And you're welcome!

[@marijkeschellenbach2680]

Your thought processes are what I learn from so much and I really appreciate that and am glad I have found your site. Liked and subscribed!!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Bedankt, Mariljke!❤️ I'm so glad you found my channel. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@marijkeschellenbach2680]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts Where did the Dutch come from? Surprised me🙂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I googled your name to try and discover the language (also did a pronunciation search because I have endless curiosity. lol) ...Google thinks it's Dutch! So then I thought it might be sweet to say thanks in Dutch, gambling that it's the right language. Was Google correct?!

[@marijkeschellenbach2680]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts yes indeed! Born Dutch in Indonesia 84 years ago and emigrated to the U.S when I was 18. Started quilting when I was getting to retire from having been a radiology technologist for 45 years! Still loving to learn new techniques and crafts and feel I need a lot more years to do it all.

[@norwaysuem]

I change blankets about 4 times a nite ti find the right blanket. Me grandmothers 200 year old quilts usually win the race. Used clothing cotton. All handvstitched

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

It really is hard to beat those old, cotton, handstitched quilts! They're the BEST!❤️

[@joanieartspringer8551]

Love the checkerboard!

[@donnawest-newman956]

I just finished a quilt that I used a lot of my linen stash in. Very simple design I used some Riley Blake squares in it and used big pieces of linen as sashing. It has a lovely antique look. It was very bouncy and yes, it moves lol The feel of it is just amazing 😊

[@joyc6945]

Hello! I am in sympathy with John Barnby. He wrote "Right from the opening of this video my first instinct was to wish you would make a quilt with ALL of those beautiful colors." Because that was my initial thought. Plus, I, too, love checkerboard quilts. They are quick and easy to make. Well, I find them quick and easy to make.

[@wendysilverthorn-duggan189]

I have a n idea for the linen quilt. You could do the carpenter wheel pattern and make it into the colour wheel with all your coloured men’s shirts.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

That would be cool!

[@freddiehansen7324]

A whole quilt of linen sounds lovely. I do find the fabric trickier, maybe I just didn't starch the ever-living fire out of it though!! Also, can I just mention that I saw bolts of linen at Hobby Lobby's fabric section! I was soooo tempted, but I have decided no more new fabric until I get some of all the fabric I have used up. Love love linen, but batiks are my kryptonite :) The whole, I don't need more WIP's made me chuckle! that is also me in a nutshell - I have fabric in "project cases" just waiting for the right pattern, but every time I look at the fabrics, I want to get started on them right now. I had to put most of my projects aside because we painted the living room and the sofa no longer looked good with the new paint, so I pieced, sewed and quilted 9 big pillowcases and it looks like a new couch!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

That's so wonderful (pillowcases!) I love it when a room gets a new look! ❤️

[@szelop]

Linen relaxes!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Relaxes!! Yes THAT’s the word I was looking for!

[@MonicaHayden]

OMG! You totally have a MCM vibe in your living room! I love it!! Is that your style?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

It is. 😊 Thank you! ❤️

[@lucilegubbins4433]

This was so much fun to watch! I have way too many WIPs also.

[@jennjennedington279]

I had a hard time staying in my chair as usual…. I get so motivated to get started on something every Friday morning! Off to put a mound of flying geese blocks into a top. With a little stack of linen by my side to motivate me for cutting into it when this one is done.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

This is the best possible comment, I think. If you want to plunge into a new project after watching a video, then I must be doing something "right" here on the channel! 😘

[@bonniedilorenzo3535]

Love love this. I have been "collecting " linen as well . This has helped me tremendously. I have never sewn with linen before, does stitch length have be even smaller if weave is looser?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Yes, Bonnie, it does. Well it doesn't "have to" but it definitely guards against fraying in the end result and is more secure as you're piecing! The smaller the better, in my experience! Although if you have an "oops" and have to seam-rip or unpick the seams it's a total pain.😱

[@reneed6954]

stay stitching and or wash away stabilizers are game changers with shifty, "stretchy", drapey fabrics.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

So true! I haven't used wash away stabilizers before but it might be time for me to try!🤓

[@pegpage8618]

Oh my gosh, Cathy. So many lovely thoughts today. Thanks for sharing your inspiration for your linen shirts. I love all of the patterns you previewed and whatever you pick it will be so much fun to watch you work through them. Thanks for the book recommendations too -

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Peg, you make me smile. Even thought I've never actually heard your voice, I can just hear you saying, "Oh my gosh, Cathy."❤️ I need to finish up my current WIPs but MY GOODNESS I want to start on one right now!!

[@pegpage8618]

Oh yes - that is exactly what I was saying. 😅

[@posymartin3963]

What a way to cheer up a dull and cold morning in Belfast 😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh yay! Well I'm glad it brought a little cheer to you today, Posy! ❤️

[@Cassandra-..-]

Hello from a dull and cold morning in Seattle!🙋‍♀️

[@sherryfaires7931]

I have never made a quilt with linen, but I understand what you are saying about how it gives and stretches. I would be tempted to pull the threads to get the straight of grain lines, but that might take a year. I wonder if serged seams would be too thick in a quilt. We do know it wouldn’t or shouldn’t ravel. I love your WIP tan linen quilt with splashes of nice colors! Thanks for showing the patterns and taking us along on your journey! Have a great weekend!

[@juliemcneal5742]

Hi Cathy! Loved this video but truly have loved all of your videos. I was wondering if you could tell me how you would be finishing the quilt? What batting material if any and backing would you use? This is a great idea and very new to me (using linen) because I too married a heater and his temperature gauge is stuck on high! Thanks again. Sending love from right here in Texas!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Hi Julie! Not sure yet about batting or backing! I have some linen yardage that I might use for the backing (if I have enough) and several viewers have commented about bamboo batting! I was thinking 100% cotton batting but I guess we'll see!

[@mariannecamous3472]

So happy to see this video. I have a trunk full of antique linens, many of which have stains in some areas. I've thought for awhile of making a linen quilt. I also said some linen shirts and dresses that no longer fit. Have put those in the "brain locker" for a future quilt. As soon as I finish my 6 current projects, that's what I will tackle!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh yay! I love antique linens but rarely use them (like you) because of the stains. What a great way to redeem them!❤️

[@teresamcfadden2414]

When Paul asked about keeping the checkerboard quilt and you stated that you didn’t use it, it brought to mind a Hawaiian tradition . Don’t quote me on this but……. They sleep under every quilt they make for someone, to put love into it.

[@marybeth4002]

That is the sweetest thing I have ever heard.

[@jennjennedington279]

I love this tradition.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

That is so wonderful! ❤️

[@cassieplayford634]

I can’t wait to see what you choose…..it’s going to be gorgeous no matter which pattern you decide on. 💕

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Cassie! ❤️

[@QUILTINGCHAP]

It looks like the same pattern was referenced twice - the granny patch one. The one with the brown background isn't linked. Great video! Thanks!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Uh oh! Thanks for the heads up! 🤓👍🏻

[@donnac5201]

Thanks so much for this topic! I’m loving the creativity coming into my mind at the moment. I love linen and have lots of leftovers from apparel sewing. I’m also thinking that maybe there’s a pattern that would work well with my serger. 🤔

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You're welcome, Donna! ❤️ And I think it would be great with a serger!

[@kylierigby1953]

Hi Cathy. I'm working on a linen quilt now! I have to early May to get it done!! Yikes!! For a friend's 60th. Rail fence quilt. Very easy for linen. I'm up to my first stitched ironing. Long way to go. Thankfully it is a small lap size. 😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Girl, you better get busy!! 😱😂 I have faith in you, though! You can crank out some quilts! ❤️ And yes, I'm thankful FOR YOU that it is a lap size! 😊

[@kylierigby1953]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts Aahh, but we also have house renovations going alongside it all!! Yikes! 😬

[@sistersister2999]

I’m collecting linen too, although nearly as far along as you are and most of mine are stripes, with the exception of one peach with white floral pattern. I’m guessing that those small snowball corners will be tricky with linen! Also, another thing to consider with linen is the weight of linen/heft of the fabric varies a lot. So if you’re collecting for a specific project it’s helpful to collect/use similar weight linen (Yes, ask me how I know…😂). Lastly, linen works well with something less than batting in between. I made several small linen quilts one year using a sheet as the “batting”. They were a great year-around weight especially for the weather of the southern US.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank, Sister, for the reminder and suggestions! The linen quilt I'm currently working on has different weights of linen and it has posed some challenges! Lots of comments asking about what batting I will use, and some suggestions (like yours) for sheets as batting (like flannel)...I know it's a good idea, but I want something with a little thickness, so we'll see! 🤓 I bet your peach linen with white floral pattern is pretty!❤️

[@sandrahageman9955]

If only I could find linen shirts. I may have to start looking for thrift stores along my next road trip. If I get a vote, I like the kitchen table pattern. I may need to do that in cotton.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Of course you get a vote! ❤️ That Jonah is a lovely pattern, isn't it?

[@lauracurnan3255]

Thank you for all of your views. So interesting to hear another side of this. I would sooooo stay away from anything stretchy. SO YOU HAVE FUN with that fabric. Hugs from Tampa.❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Laura, I laughed out loud at "SO YOU HAVE FUN with that fabric!" I guess we'll see if it's fun once I get started! 😂

[@marilynbishop6684]

Watching you (from New Zealand) sitting on the floor, with a lovely straight back, reminds me I need to get back to yoga! Linen is my favourite material. But it’s not a fabric you can work if your mind is cluttered. You need to concentrate…but it’s worth it!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh thank you! Usually my posture is the worst! 😱 And you are so right--it requires attention! But yes, so worth it! ❤️

[@Quiltlady9]

Love, love your videos, keep them coming ❤.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Dora!

[@barbaraanne2136]

You haven't indicated what batting?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Because I don't know/haven't decided yet. 😂

[@michellestrange4716]

OMG I've gone and bought my first quilt pattern the dialogue quilt was divine. I hope you choose this one to make your linen quilts. Since starting my journey with you I have come across a charity in the UK that is desperate to get rid of men's shirts. I can buy hundreds apparently for most likely less than a $1 per shirt if it is bulk! Tempted but it is only me 😁 thank you for your content my first shirt quilt is at tester block nine patch disappearing and I am cutting all the 51/2 inch squares. Don't know if I'll have enough so going for scrappy approach. To make sure I don't run out.

[@maryschiff9580]

I love, love linen but have to admit that I have never thought to collect shirts. So smart. I talk myself in and out of patterns for days (okay, weeks) before I finally settle on one. Like you alluded to, I almost always have enough of my chosen fabrics to make multiple projects so the agony of indecision is rarely justified. I’m looking forward to seeing what you decide upon and, by the way, I love your living room style. Chic and comfortable. 👍😁

[@jennjennedington279]

“The agony of indecision is rarely justified…” oh MAN that hit hard and good! I’m headed in to just START with my linen because you’re SO RIGHT. Might have to post that phrase on my wall above the cutting table. Thank you.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, thank you and thank you! ❤️ So many great compliments (and camaraderie) in this comment! And like Jennifer, I'm loving "the agony of indecision..."! Also very smart and very well put! 🤓

[@maryschiff9580]

@@jennjennedington279 go for it! 😁❤️

[@maryschiff9580]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts 😁❤️

[@bethliebman8169]

Loved following your thinking process exploring the possibilities of a potential all linen quilt. Dialogue Quilt was the one that most appealed to me out of all your possibilities. Hope to see you make that one soon.

[@christinahall3318]

YES!!! Love the linen as well. I have both the books you mentioned and I do believe I may go with one of those patterns. IF I don’t do the checkerboard quilt as well. My linen stash is not as large as yours but is getting there - combo of shirts and fabric. #linenlove Sew On My Sweet Friend!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Christina, I love #linenlove! 😂❤️🤩 I think I might do one or both of the quilts from those books (maybe starting with the "comfort quilt" from the Utility-style quilt book.) The checkerboard will be GLORIOUS, but I'm not sure I want to sink that much time into it just yet! 😳

[@christinahall3318]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts I’m thinking large square - at 5 inch - checkerboard! We have a king size bed and that would make the quilt go faster. PS thank you for the starch hint. #starchthelinen #linenlove #pinklinen

[@sandywhite4042]

I can't remember but ,wasn't in the 1700,1800,1900. Wasn't their fabric linen?? I know my great grama made all our quit. She would use her grain sacks for fabric when they were made from Fabric. Which I never new but,back then you used what you had which she did She was a owner of a very large diary farm of 500 cow So very thing Matered. Love your video, just came across it this morning

[@sheilakethley5351]

Love the mid-mod!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Sheila! ❤️

[@katharinemichie2178]

Log cabin step patterns are going to give you a very heavy linen quilt. I did a large, single bed size cotton log cabin quilt, and it was noticeably heavier than one I made of similar size but larger pieces. It’s all in the amount of seam allowances.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

It's a great point! I love that heaviness though! 😍

[@elizabethcollins8817]

Good morning ☕️☕️🌷

[@theclosetquilterelliemiria198]

oh I love this video - I just finished a linen quilt with cross stitch in it ( tablecloth ) and am starting another one ( blue and white) love all the colors !

[@theclosetquilterelliemiria198]

The thing I love t he most about linen is how the quilting looks and feels so I have done whole cloth thusfar . Honestly I have never considered doing traditional piecing with it . wow thank you for the inspiration and information -

[@momkelso]

I ❤ listening your thought processes. I have made quilts for the pattern or for the love of a fabric collection and they don’t always “jive”. Funny that I recently checked out a quilt book from the library and keep thinking, I might need to buy this one- “Utility Style” by Sharon Holland. I’m taking your comments as an affirmation that this book should join my collection.😊

[@marilynbishop6684]

By the way have you thought of the Woven Bliss from patchwork bliss (I think) ignore the very busy patterns they use, it’s a lovely pattern to show off beautiful fabrics. I used pale cream for the background and blacks and greys for the rectangles. It’s lovely. Going to make one with blues and greens.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I will check that one out---thanks for the recommendation! 🤓❤️

[@shanaproctor100]

What do you use for batting? I can imagine how wonderful a linen quilt would feel. I, as an Alabama girl, love linen!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Usually 100% cotton. I hope it feels as good as I'm imagining!

[@barbaraanne2136]

Is the log cabin pattern Cory Yoder? She has shown one recently on her youtube.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

It's Chelsi Stratton. But it's not an uncommon arrangement, so maybe they look really similar.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh, I'm sorry, you meant the other one! LOL! The Dialogue Cabin is from Holly Clarke. 🤓👍🏻

[@dedrasmitherman7983]

First of all, you win for sitting criss-cross applesauce on the floor. That is but a memory for me. Anyway, I love the Dialogue Cabin. I think it would be gorgeous. Of course, all the patterns you showed would be. I’m curious to know the difference between linen and “wovens”. I bought a bundle last year but have since discovered they are stretchy. So I don’t know what to do with them. I can’t wait to see what you choose for your first all linen quilt. ❤

[@jennjennedington279]

I was also envious of the floor-sitting. A distant memory indeed

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

LOL! Thanks, Dedra! I didn't realize I could win for sitting cross-legged on the floor, but I'll take it! 😂🤩 Linen is a woven fabric, but not all woven fabrics are linen, if I understand correctly. I know Ruby Star Society put out a line of wovens (Warp and Weft, if memory serves)--some quilters love them, and some quilters don't! If you treat it like linen (starch heavily, cut on-or-close to the grain, press don't iron, and don't use steam) I think you will enjoy quilting with them. They do fray/ravel, especially if you don't starch them, so be prepared! 😉

[@cheekymare2779]

I love your channel and your work is beautiful. I mean the next statement in the best way possible. You thinking this much about your quilts wears me out. I am a fly by the seat of my pants quilter. I am so glad there are people out there who think as much as you do about your quilts. But I would go crazy if that is what was required. Lol

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Cheeky Mare! ❤️ I saw a meme recently that said 'ur overthinking this' 'Bro I don't have any other type of thinking available' ...needless to say I laughed for a long time about it, being relatable and all. 😂 But I actually like thinking it all through, which just goes to show that quilting is for EVERYONE and there is no right or wrong way to do it--just whatever works best for each person.🤓🤩

[@cheekymare2779]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts agreed

[@jenedelwilcox6647]

I've also been collecting linen. I have cut them into rectangles 6 1/2" x 3 1/2" for " potato chip " blocks or a brick quilt or round robin type quilt. I have yet to use them....like Cathy, more ideas than time. Curious about type of batting to use in linen quilts. Thanks for another interesting video.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I'm going to have to do more research about batting---some viewers here have suggested bamboo, flannel sheet, linen sheet, etc. Not sure which direction I want to go yet.

[@feleciachance8987]

Enjoyed the video

[@lynnperschke3966]

You could do a gradient color checkerboard would be pretty!

[@lynnbean7200]

Thanks for this video. I recently bought a whole bunch of printed linen on a trip to India and have been wondering what to do with it. You've given me some very useful tips and inspiration. What about the backing? I'm not sure I want to pay for 4+ yards of linen and had been thinking of doing a double sided quilt with a fancy pattern on the front and a simple checkerboard for the back. What do you think?

[@lynnbean7200]

Oh and I too love mid-century furniture. Your couch is fantastic.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I too, am wondering about the backing and have the same resistance to purchasing linen off the bolt. I think doing a pieced backing is a great idea! Especially if you have enough fabric of what you used on the front---a reversible quilt has a lot of appeal for me--if I get tired of one design but still love the weight and feel of it, just flip it over! 🤓❤️

[@lynnbean7200]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts Lol I have plenty - I definitely overbought but the fabric was so beautiful and so cheap. I did a double sided quilt when my husband bought me a whole bunch of Indonesian batik fabric when he went to Yogyakarta. That looks spectacular as the designs on the fabric are so vivid.

[@debbietrapp7757]

Good morning Cathy, oooh, can’t wait to see which ones you choose to make. With the colors you have the possibilities are endless. I have never used linen but do love the feel of it. Happy Friday and hope you have a wonderful weekend filled with lots of sewing 🧵 🥰

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Debbie! ❤️ I hope you have a wonderful weekend as well!

[@connierivera1758]

A light interfacing may help too. Love linen, beautiful and lightweight, but so true, little challenging to use. Looking forward to your linen creation 😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Connie! ❤️ And yes, interfacing would be another good way address the stretchiness of linen!

[@tammyschweitzer7850]

Buy log cabin paper....and paper pice. It will keep it stable.....just an idea!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

And a good one! Thanks for the suggestion!🤓👍🏻

[@linwillow7344]

This was informative and inspiring! Will certainly watch as you go down the linen path.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Linda! ❤️

[@mosaicmusings8705]

Do you use linen for the back as well? What about the batting (since it's a summer quilt)?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Not sure about batting yet---I might use bamboo, but if not, then probably 100% cotton. I do have some linen yardage (but not sure if it will be enough) so we'll see!

[@andreaberg8576]

I have that exact same pile of linen shirts cut and waiting for inspiration. Can't wait to see what you do!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Andrea! ❤️ If you get started ahead of me, report back so I can get some inspiration too!

[@heidithatcher-miller9512]

I too am looking for the right pattern to start working on all my collected linen. Thank you for the great tips and pattern suggestions.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Linen buddy!! I can't wait to see what you choose to make! ❤️

[@laurajones7417]

Very impressed with your beautiful collection of linen! And you look great sitting in the middle of a rainbow! I have a modest collection of linen/cotton blends that I was auditioning for a quilt pattern with curves. So glad I watched this video first! 😀

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Laura! ❤️ And yes, I'm glad you watched it too---as you know I'm doing a quilt with curves, using linen, and even though I'm making it work, I'm pretty sure I wouldn't do it again! 😱🤩

[@thecheshirecrafter4522]

What a great linen stash. I'm hoping to find some palazzo style linen pants over the summer. Especially drawstring as they're so easy to unpick. Most of my linens are block colours ir stripes, I don't think florals are very common, but I'll definitely look out for them. Some great quilt patterns shown here too.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Maggie! ❤️ If I found some wide-leg linen pants, they would be on my body in a New York minute! I LURVVVV linen pants! 😍🤩 But you are right, they are easier to unpick and there's a lot of fabric in pants!

[@sarahburke8955]

Linen is the best! I can't wait to see which one you choose to start first.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww! Thank you, Sarah! ❤️

[@PatchworkSchoolhouse]

Would it be possible to stay stitch the edge of the Granny Square version before you cut the edge off to stabilize it?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I think so, and that's a great idea! 🤓❤️

[@annerankin1191]

Your patterns that you’ve pinned are all beautiful!!!! XOX

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Anne! ❤️

[@mxrubyrouge]

Thanks for the info on how linens behave - it now makes sense why I struggled so much quilting with it! I used Essex linen in a quilt for the first time and made half square rectangles and although I got a nice result through lots of starch and pressing, I swore off quilting with linen because it was a nightmare 🤣

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You're welcome, Ruby! ❤️ I have had the same experience using linen in curved piecing (which is why I know! lol!) I've managed with starch and pressing as well, but from here forward I'll be doing only squares and rectangles with my linen!

[@jenniferdavis5482]

I love linen also! You might look into Terial Magic! It is like a starch that will make your fabric like paper and stops the fraying! Test it first but would definitely stop the fraying!

[@ladyflimflam]

Several years ago I bought a down duvet and linen duvet cover from IKEA. Their lightest weight down duvet in the cover is PLENTY warm in the winter for this old lady and the linen duvet cover is by itself is warm and heavy enough for the rest of the year. Love, love linen. Want my wardrobe to be linen and seersucker and wool but can’t quite get there.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I would love for my wardrobe to be linen and wool (no seersucker for me) too--I'm working on it! I think linen might just be the perfect fabric, honestly. Simultaneously warm and cool, also simultaneously light and heavy. Not sure how that is possible but it's true! ❤️🤓

[@apiecemaker1163]

I believe the shifty/stretchy comes from the loose weave with linen. That’s what makes it so breathable but also “loose”. Kind of like the homespun. I have some of my grandmothers feedsacks that she gave me before she passed. I’m trying to figure out what pattern to use to make quilts with it. Any suggestions are welcome!