What is a Quilt Along? And Why You Should Join One This July!

If you’ve ever wished for a quilting friend to encourage and even challenge you, then a Quilt Along (QAL) might be exactly what you need.

What is a Quilt Along?

A QAL starts with a host—someone who organizes the entire experience. They set the schedule, decide how the information will be shared, and, most importantly, choose the project. Every QAL is unique. In the past, I’ve hosted QALs by publishing blog posts on my website, while others have delivered details via email. The structure is entirely up to the host.

The next key element is timing. The schedule depends on the complexity of the quilt. For example, if there are 12 different blocks, the QAL could span an entire year, similar to a block-of-the-month project. I’m currently sewing along with the Fat Quarter Shop on a QAL that lasts over a year. But if the pattern involves repeating one block multiple times, you might be able to finish the top in just a month.

The host invites others to join, breaking the quilt into manageable weekly tasks. They’ll often share helpful tips and tricks along the way—and sometimes even offer prizes!

A Quilt Along offers structure, support, and motivation to actually finish your quilt. It’s a fantastic way to stay on track, try something new, and connect with other quilters.

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🎉 Guess what? I’m thrilled to announce that I will be hosting a Quilt Along this July. What is the project? My newest pattern: Drift. Do you want to know what the best part is? It includes curves! Don’t worry if curved piecing sounds intimidating—I’ll be walking you through it all. You’ve got this.

And July is going to be jam-packed with even more excitement because I’m also joining the Tour de Fabrics—a fun-filled event celebrating all things fabric.

Why Join the Drift Quilt Along? Have you ever wanted to join a QAL but hesitated? Curious about sewing curved blocks but unsure if you’re ready? Are you tired of unfinished quilt projects?

Well, the stars have aligned because this July, you can do all of that with me and other quilters everywhere.

Share the badge on social media to show you’re participating in the Drift Quilt Along.
Right click to download.

What to Expect from the Drift QAL

✨ Weekly Tasks – Each week, we’ll tackle a part of the quilt together. I’ll give you bite-sized steps so you won’t feel overwhelmed.

✨ Tips and Tricks – You’ll get guidance straight from me on how to piece the pattern successfully, especially those beautiful curves.

✨ Giveaways – That’s right, there will be weekly prizes! Post a weekly photo on Instagram using #DriftQAL and the hashtag of the week #DriftQALweek1, #DriftQALweek2, #DriftQALweek3, #DriftQALweek4, #DriftQALweek5, #DriftQALweek6, #DriftQALweek7, Each week brings a new chance to win some quilting goodies. There will be an extra prize for interaction focusing on the amount of comments left on other sewists’ photos.

✨ Zoom Sew Day – Join me and fellow participants live for a special virtual sewing session. Let’s hang out, chat, and sew together!

The Drift QAL Schedule

Here’s what you need to do to get started:

1. Fill out the sign-up form above
2. Purchase the Drift pattern
3. Gather your fabric (use your stash or shop for new fabric)

JULY
1st – Fabric Pull
8th – Cutting Fabric
12th Zoom Sew Day
15th – Making blocks with F 1 AND F2
22nd – Making blocks with F3 AND F4
29th – Putting the top together
August
5th – Quilting the Quilt
Bonus week August 12th – Binding

Whether you’re here for the curves, the community, or the prizes, I promise this Quilt Along will leave you feeling accomplished and inspired.

Instagram Giveaway Reminder

You can see everyone’s photos on Instagram by clicking here #driftQAL. You can also use the link to check and see if you used the right hashtag. Remember, I won’t be able to see your photos if your account is private. If I can’t see your photos, I can’t choose you as a winner for one of the prizes. After the quilt along has ended, feel free to change your account back to private. If you have any trouble doing this, please let me know — I would be happy to help.