Creating a Wild Goose Chase table runner is a wonderful way to bring a touch of elegance and charm to your dining table.
This quilt pattern, inspired by traditional quilting techniques, involves a series of flying geese blocks arranged in a dynamic design.
In this comprehensive tutorial, we’ll guide you through every step of making a Wild Goose Chase table runner, from cutting your fabric to assembling the final piece.
Introduction to Wild Goose Chase Quilt Pattern
The Wild Goose Chase quilt pattern is a classic design in the quilting world. Its name reflects the intricate arrangement of flying geese blocks that resemble migrating birds. This pattern is both timeless and versatile, making it a popular choice for many quilters. The table runner version is perfect for adding a decorative touch to any table setting.
The pattern typically involves creating flying geese units, which are small, triangular blocks that come together to form larger geometric patterns. The beauty of this quilt pattern lies in its simplicity and the way it can transform different fabric choices into a cohesive design. With a few straightforward steps, you can create a stunning table runner that showcases your quilting skills.
In this tutorial, we’ll break down the process of making a Wild Goose Chase table runner, covering everything from fabric selection to the final stitching. By the end, you’ll have a beautiful table runner ready to enhance your dining space or serve as a thoughtful handmade gift.
Materials and Tools Needed
Before diving into the sewing process, it’s essential to gather all the necessary materials and tools. For the Wild Goose Chase table runner, you’ll need:
- Fabric: Choose a variety of fabrics in coordinating colors and patterns. You’ll need fabric for the runner’s top, backing, and binding. For this project, aim for 1/4 yard each of two main fabrics for the top and 1/2 yard for the backing.
- Batting: A piece of quilt batting to give your table runner some thickness and structure. Cut the batting slightly larger than your runner.
- Thread: Select thread that complements your fabric colors. You’ll need thread for both piecing and quilting.
In addition to these materials, ensure you have the following tools:
- Rotary Cutter and Mat: Essential for accurate cutting of fabric pieces.
- Quilting Ruler: Helps in measuring and cutting fabric precisely.
- Sewing Machine: For assembling and stitching the table runner.
- Iron: To press seams and fabric for a professional finish.
Having all these materials and tools on hand will make the quilting process smoother and more enjoyable.
Cutting the Fabric for Your Table Runner
The first step in making your Wild Goose Chase table runner is cutting the fabric. You’ll need to cut pieces for the flying geese blocks, as well as fabric for the borders. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Cut the Flying Geese Pieces: For each flying geese block, cut two 4½” squares of the main fabric and four 2½” squares of the contrasting fabric. These small squares will be used to create the flying geese units.
- Cut the Border Strips: For the borders, cut two strips of your main fabric measuring 2½” x 18” for the sides and two strips measuring 2½” x 30” for the top and bottom.
- Prepare the Backing Fabric: Cut one piece of fabric for the backing that is 2 inches larger on all sides than your finished table runner top. This allows for proper quilting and binding.
Accurate cutting is crucial for achieving a well-aligned and visually appealing table runner. Take your time to measure and cut each piece carefully.
Assembling the Flying Geese Blocks
With your fabric pieces cut, it’s time to start assembling the flying geese blocks. Follow these steps to create the signature triangles of the Wild Goose Chase pattern:
- Create the Geese Units: Take the 4½” squares of the main fabric and draw a diagonal line from corner to corner on the back of each square. Place one square on a contrasting fabric square, aligning the edges. Sew along the diagonal line and trim excess fabric. Press the seam allowance open.
- Complete the Units: Repeat the process with the remaining squares, creating two geese units for each flying geese block. Arrange these units to form a larger block, sewing them together to complete the flying geese block.
- Assemble the Blocks: Continue assembling the flying geese blocks according to the pattern layout. Arrange the blocks in a pleasing design, ensuring that the geese units align correctly.
Proper pressing and seam alignment are key to achieving a crisp and accurate final product. Take care to press each seam thoroughly.
Assembling the Table Runner Top
Once your flying geese blocks are ready, you’ll need to assemble them into the table runner top. Follow these steps to put it all together:
- Layout the Blocks: Arrange the flying geese blocks on a flat surface to determine the best layout. You can place the blocks in a straight line or a more staggered arrangement, depending on your design preference.
- Sew the Blocks Together: Begin sewing the blocks together in rows, ensuring that the edges align neatly. Press the seams after each row is completed. Then, join the rows to complete the table runner top.
- Attach the Borders: Sew the border strips to the top of the table runner, starting with the side strips and then adding the top and bottom strips. Press the seams flat.
Make sure to sew with consistent seam allowances to ensure that all blocks and borders fit together seamlessly.
Adding the Batting and Backing
With the top of your table runner complete, it’s time to add the batting and backing. This step involves sandwiching the layers together and preparing for quilting:
- Layer the Runner: Lay the backing fabric on a flat surface, right side down. Place the batting on top of the backing, smoothing out any wrinkles. Finally, place the table runner top on the batting, right side up.
- Baste the Layers: Use quilting pins or a basting spray to hold the layers together. Ensure that the layers are smooth and free of wrinkles.
- Quilt the Table Runner: Quilt as desired, either by hand or with a sewing machine. You can choose to quilt along the seams, in a grid pattern, or with free-motion quilting techniques.
Proper basting and quilting will help keep the layers aligned and prevent shifting during the quilting process.
Binding the Table Runner
The final step in creating your Wild Goose Chase table runner is adding the binding. This process gives the runner a finished edge and enhances its durability:
Prepare the Binding: Cut strips of fabric for the binding, each 2½” wide. Sew the strips together end-to-end to create one long strip. Press the seams open and fold the strip in half lengthwise.
Attach the Binding: Starting at the middle of one side, sew the binding to the edge of the table runner, aligning the raw edges. Use a ¼” seam allowance and leave a 6” tail at the beginning and end of the strip.
Finish the Binding: Fold the binding over to the back side of the runner and hand-stitch or machine-stitch it in place. Ensure that the corners are neatly mitered and secure.
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Binding is the finishing touch that frames your table runner and provides a clean, professional look.
Creating a Wild Goose Chase table runner is a rewarding project that showcases the beauty of traditional quilt patterns. By following this step-by-step tutorial, you’ve learned how to cut fabric, assemble blocks, quilt, and bind your table runner. Whether you’re an experienced quilter or just starting, this project is a great way to practice your skills and produce a lovely finished piece.
PDF OF THE PATTERN HERE
The Wild Goose Chase pattern is not only visually appealing but also a versatile addition to your home decor. Enjoy the process of making your table runner, and take pride in your finished creation. Happy quilting!
