How to Free-motion Quilt a Gnome Motif

How to Machine Quilt a Gnome Motif

Elves, fairies, dwarves and brownies—they all make up the legendary class of creatures known as gnomes. Gnomes possess supernatural powers and are incredibly strong and fast. So, whether you need help wrapping Christmas presents, planting a garden or embellishing your quilts, call on a gnome to work its magic!

Hello, quilters! I’m Lori Kennedy of Lori Kennedy Quilts and author of 25 Days to Better Machine Quilting.  I do most of my quilting on the intuitive, BERNINA Q 20 quilting machine and the BERNINA 770 QE.  BERNINA sewing machines make it easy to add personality to the quilting line with whimsical motifs. The Christmas Gnome is the perfect way to add a little fun to your quilting.  Once you learn the basic gnome motif, add your own details to create a personalized motif.

 

machine_quilt_gnome_motif_1

Begin by stitching an oval.

machine_quilt_gnome_motif_2

Stitch over the left side of the oval, stopping near the top.

machine_quilt_gnome_motif_3

Stitching from left to right, stitch a curved line with a loop in the middle to create the gnome’s nose.

machine_quilt_gnome_motif_4

Stitching from right to left, stitch a wavy line that comes to a point, to create the beard.

machine_quilt_gnome_motif_5

Add a curved line around the top for the brim of the hat.

machine_quilt_gnome_motif_6

Stitching from right to left, embellish the brim with a wavy line or other design.

machine_quilt_gnome_motif_7

Add the left side of the hat, ending in a curl.

machine_quilt_gnome_motif_8

Stitch the right side of the hat.

machine_quilt_gnome_motif_9

Stitch along the ride side of the oval, then stitch across the oval adding a small square buckle.
(Optional: Add the left arm at this point, if desired.)

machine quilt gnome motif 10

Stitch from left to right to complete the belt, then stitch around the oval to add oval feet.

machine quilt gnome motif 12

Add other motifs like a simple Christmas tree or Pretty Packages to continue the pattern.

machine quilt gnome motif 13

Gnomes come in all shapes and sizes-so have fun creating a family of gnomes.   Add arms to create more expression or leave the gnomes simple. Don’t forget—gnomes aren’t just for Christmas—they are equally at home in the autumn woods and the summer garden.  Perhaps you could create a sewing room gnome to help clean and organize after a long day of quilting!?

When you have fun quilting…your quilts will be fun!

Print this page

What you might also like

Leave a Reply