Swirlpools is a pattern that I’ve been so excited to share! It’s a bold and modern design that plays with movement and color in such a fun way. While it’s officially labeled as an intermediate-level pattern, I think a confident beginner who’s comfortable with bias edges could absolutely tackle it. It’s one of those quilts that looks intricate but comes together in a really satisfying way.
One of the things I love most about Swirlpools is its versatility. It’s a block-based pattern, meaning you can play around with layout options to create different visual effects. You can lean into an ombré or gradient look for a smooth transition of color, or you can go full-on scrappy for a more eclectic and playful quilt. Either way, the swirling motion of the design creates an eye-catching effect that’s both dynamic and modern.
If Swirlpools looks a little familiar, that’s because it has a sister pattern - Hurrication! The two share a similar construction method, but Swirlpools takes the swirl all the way to the edge, minimizing the amount of background fabric needed. This small change gives the design a more immersive feel, as if the colors are truly flowing across the quilt top.
Swirlpools is written to work with fat quarters or half-yard cuts, giving you flexibility when selecting fabrics. Whether you love pulling from your stash, grabbing a curated bundle, or hand-selecting each color yourself, you’ll have plenty of options.
Quilt Sizes Included:
Baby: 42” x 42”
Throw: 56” x 70”
Bed: 84” x 98”
Usually, when I make a cover quilt, I plan out every little detail, right down to each fabric swatch. I love being able to tell you exactly what I used. But this time? Things went a little differently!
The original palette I had mocked up on my computer just didn’t hit the same once I started laying out the fabrics in person. I had to pivot fast - but honestly, I’m not even mad about it. I’m absolutely in love with how this sunset-inspired ombré layout turned out. The blend of oranges, corals, and soft pinks gives this quilt such a warm and glowy vibe.
The fabrics came from everywhere - two online orders, one local quilt shop stop, and a dive into my stash. It’s a little mix of Riley Blake, Art Gallery, Michael Miller, and one Kona solid in there, too. It was a total fabric adventure, and while I didn’t keep track of every single one, I love the mix that came together.
For the backing and binding, I went with an Art Gallery basic called Oval Elements in a lovely shade of pink. It pairs so well with the front and gives the whole quilt a polished, cohesive look.
I decided to quilt this one myself, and I kept it simple. Sometimes simple is the way to go! Straight-line quilting spaced about ½” apart gave it just enough texture without taking away from the movement of the design.
Swirlpools comes together pretty smoothly, but there are a couple of things to be mindful of:
Bias Edges – Since some of the pieces are cut on the bias, you’ll want to handle them carefully to avoid stretching. Using a little starch and minimizing handling helps a ton. READ MORE HERE.
Layout Planning – If you’re going for an ombré look, definitely take the time to lay out your blocks before sewing. Snapping a photo of your layout can help you keep track as you go. READ MORE HERE.
I’ve got two blog posts that go more in-depth on those topics, so be sure to check them out if you’re looking for more support.
Swirlpools is available now as a PDF download or as a printed booklet in the shop. However you like to quilt—digital or paper—you’re covered. I can't wait to see what colors and layouts you come up with!
And just because I couldn’t resist, here’s a little photo parade of more Swirlpools goodness:
