Celtic knots are so versatile; we’ve chosen to be creative and use knotting as the basis for this Celtic Christmas wreath. With a little knotting help from Gail Lawther, author of Celtic Quilting, this wreath brings Irish wishes for a warm Christmas. Nikki uses her favourite Christmas fabrics, Stonehenge from Northcott fabrics.
Note Please read the entire pattern carefully before cutting and sewing. Seam allowances are ¼” throughout. Fat quarter is based on 18” x 22”.
MATERIALS Stitching
fat quarter of cream fat quarter of red fat quarter of green fat quarter of backing ½yd (.45m) wadding fusible web
CUTTING
14½” square cream background 2 14½ x 1¼” red strips for border 2 15¾” x 1¼” red strips for border 2 15¾” x 1⅝” green strips for border 2 18” x 1⅝” green strips for border 6 2¼” x WOF green strips for binding 2 8” squares of red for bow 8” square of wadding
Te three-dimensional red bow is quilted separately with wadding and has clever quilting lines that emphasise the ribbon folds. Stitching that defines the bow’s knot attaches it to wreath. 1. Layer red squares and wadding: red, right side down—wadding—red, right side up. 2. Using tracing paper or regular light paper, create drawing of bow template with fold lines indicated. Pin in place, on top of fabric squares. 3. Adjust stitch length to 2 or smaller. Stitch on fold lines. 4. Remove paper. 5. Satin stitch the outer shape of bow. Trim. 6. Position bow onto Celtic wreath. Secure with pins. 7. Stitch in place at bow only, defining the knot.
APPLIQUÉ
Te knotted wreath is appliquéd onto the background. 1. Trace the Celtic wreath to the paper side of fusible web. Draw with adequate spacing. 2. Cut out beyond the line and fuse to the wrong side of green fabric. 3. Cut out on the lines; this ensures the adhesive applies right to the edge. Follow fusible web manufacturer’s instructions for best results. 4. Lay wreath on the cream background. When happy with layout, fuse in place. 5. Stitch hand or machine buttonhole stitch around all raw edges of wreath appliqué.