05/17/2026
Something a little different...
This is an inlaid rag quilt with “caterpillar” seams between the blocks. You’d have to look closely to see that the Winnie the Pooh fabric squares are sewn onto the center of the khaki-colored homespun squares and are not included in the seams. That’s considered an inlay and allows the edges of the Pooh fabric to create additional fraying.
Those squares are then sandwiched with a light layer of ecru flannel and a bottom layer of the khaki homespun, and each square is quilted in the traditional “X” design. So now there are 4 layers of fabric but, because one layer is quilter’s cotton, two layers are homespun, and only one layer is the more substantial flannel batting, the quilt is surprisingly relatively lightweight and snuggly.
But I think the most interesting part of this quilt are the caterpillar seams, so-called because they do resemble fat fuzzy caterpillars. The clipped seams create a beautiful fringe because of the particular fabrics used.
The blanket was assembled, the seams were clipped, and then it was machine-washed and dried (twice) to fluff it up and start the ragging process. The blanket will get softer and will shed fewer fibers with each subsequent wash.
But be aware that, due to the extra raggediness of this method, the quilt will continue to fray a bit and you may find loose threads to clip now and then. Clipping the loose threads will not affect the durability of the quilt. I would suggest giving it a good shake before each use, just to make sure there are no threads for little fingers to find.
This type of blanket uses more fabric than my usual quilts, as a result of the extra layer, so it’s a bit more expensive. It also takes more time to create because my old reliable Singer is just not that speedy, nor am I.
Measures 32” wide by 38” long; 100% cotton; all new materials; made in a pet-free, smoke-free home to minimize allergens. Machine wash cool and gentle, tumble dry low, remove promptly. $47
