Kickstart Your Quilting Year: Easy Projects and Mystery Quilts to Beat the January Blues

The holidays are behind us, but the hot days of January can leave us feeling a bit uninspired. What better way to brighten your mood than with some fun, easy quilting projects and two fabulous mystery quilts? Let's dive right in!

1. Good Hope Quilters' Guild Mystery BOM designed by Dewald Compion

One surely not to be missed! If you feel like you are in a rut, or would like to start something fresh and exciting for the New Year, the GHQG Mystery quilt is your answer!

For more information head to their website by clicking the link below:

https://www.goodhopequiltersguild.org.za/mystery-block-of-the-month

2. John & T Squared Mystery Quilt for 2025

Sure to be fun and comes with loads of support (and laughs if you join in on their Zoom chats!), this mystery quilt is called "The Hope Quilt". Filled with skill building techniques and paired with your favourite fabrics, this mystery quilt is a definite! To download the first block, click the link below:

https://www.iquilt.studio/store/2025-Mystery-Quilt-Blocks-c175836174

3. Coasters with a Pop

Add a splash of personality to your home with fabric coasters. They're a beginner-friendly project and great for using up leftover 5" squares from charm packs.

• Materials Needed: 5" squares, batting, and coordinating thread.

• Tip: Mix and match patterns for a playful set or stick to a theme for a cohesive look.

• Estimated Time: 1 hour for a set of four.

Here is a lovely free pattern and tutorial by Sewing Times, simply follow the link.

https://insewingtimes.blogspot.com/2021/06/diy-easy-coasters-4type-for-beginner.html

4. Scrap Buster Potholders

Turn those small leftover pieces into functional art for your kitchen. Potholders are quick, satisfying, and a great way to experiment with new techniques.

• Materials Needed: Scraps, heat-resistant batting, and binding.

• Tip: Use bright, cheery colours to add warmth to your kitchen.

• Estimated Time: 1-2 hours per potholder.

Here is a link to a YouTube tutorial by Riley Blake Designs on how to make your own scrappy Potholder.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPCuf0uC2N

 5. Fabric Book Covers

Start the year by dressing up your favorite journal, planner, or book with a custom fabric cover. These covers add a personal touch and protect your books from wear and tear.

• Materials Needed: Fabric scraps, lightweight batting (if you want to quilt it), and elastic or button for closure.

• Tip: Use vibrant prints or personalize them with embroidery to make great gifts.

• Estimated Time: 2-3 hours

Want some help? Follow the link to Hello Sewing for a lovely free tutorial.

https://hellosewing.com/how-to-make-fabric-book-cover/

 These projects are perfect for jumpstarting your quilting year and shaking off the January blues. Need supplies or inspiration? Visit our shop to stock up on fat quarters, batting, or a notion or two. Better yet, join one of our workshops to learn and sew in a fun, supportive environment!

Here’s to a creative and fulfilling start to your quilting journey this year. Don’t forget to share your finished projects with us—we love seeing your work!

Love in Stitches

A Pin Cushion Gal

xx