QNM Articles & Patterns

Coxcomb & Cactus

 Assembly

Step 1

Wash and press fabrics. Choose your desired method of applique. Coxcomb & Cactus was made by hand; instructions given here are for traditional applique methods. Cut the patches listed in the materials and cutting box and shown in the rotary cutting diagram.

Note that all but one block are made with red/orange flowers; the remaining block is made with green flowers and represents the "cactus."

Step 2

Fold each A patch in half both ways and lightly press the creases. Using a light source underneath, layer the 1/4-motif and then A. Lightly mark the motif as given. Rotate the tracing 3 more times to complete the motif. Mark all the A patches this way.

Step 3

Prepare the patches for applique with your favorite method. For each A, blindstitch the leaves, 4 large flowers and their centers, flower bases, the single small flower, and then its center. Press each block right side down on a padded ironing board. Trim to 12 1/2" x 12 1/2".

Step 4

Arrange the blocks for a pleasing mix of colors. Join 3 blocks to make a row. Make 3 rows like this. Sew the rows together.

Step 5

Matching centers, sew each inner border to an outer border. Matching centers and starting and stopping 1/4" from each corner, sew borders to the sides of the quilt. Miter the corners, trim the extra, and press the seam allowances open.

Step 6

Referring to the quilting placement diagram, mark the Coxcomb Border quilting motif starting in the outer border corners, flopping the motifs, and working toward the center. Mark the Pumpkin Seed quilting in the inner border starting in the corners and working toward the center.

Step 7

Layer the quilt lining, batting, and top. Baste. Quilt the patches in-the-ditch and quilt a 1/2" grid in the large flowers. Quilt the marked motifs. Bind the quilt to finish.