Stitch Recipes: Finding Your Quilting Vibe
You’ve pieced the project, pressed every seam, and chosen your thread color… but then comes that tricky question: How should I quilt it?
With so many (amazing) stitches built into your BERNINA machine, choosing just one, or knowing which ones pair well together can feel a little overwhelming. That’s what inspired my newest idea: Stitch Recipes.
Just like a favorite family recipe, a stitch recipe gives you a repeatable formula for a specific look or mood. It’s a collection of stitches and settings that work together to create a cohesive aesthetic.
To test out this idea, I made five blocks, all pieced exactly the same, using the same fabrics and the same thread color. The only thing I changed? The quilting stitches. The result: five completely distinct vibes!
Materials Used
- Machine: BERNINA 790 PRO
- Thread: Mettler 50 wt in White
- Presser Foot: Three-Sole Walking Foot with Seam Guide #50
- Fabrics: Art Gallery Fabrics PURE Solids
- Batting: Hobbs Batting (Thank you Hobbs for providing batting for this project!)
Using the same materials across all five blocks allowed me to focus entirely on how each stitch recipe transformed the feel of the quilting. The consistency makes it easy to see how powerful stitch choice alone can be in creating a mood.
Stitch Recipes
1. Modern
Clean lines • Minimalism
This block focuses on simplicity. Straight stitches and minimal decorative detail keep the eye moving smoothly across the surface. It’s the quilting equivalent of a tidy workspace. Very effortless.
Stitch Recipe: 1, 305, 1, 603, 1, 305, 1 (repeat)
Using this repeating pattern of straight and decorative stitches creates a quiet rhythm, modern and structured. The subtle shifts give depth while maintaining an uncluttered aesthetic.
2. Rustic
Natural textures • Cozy and warm
Here, I wanted the stitches to mimic wood grain and natural curves, creating a soft, home-spun texture. Perfect for cabin-style quilts, this “recipe” makes your project feel worn and cozy, your project will end up having a “blanket” feel or effect.
Stitch Recipe: 137 (up), 137 (up), 644, 137 (down), 137 (down), 644
This combination alternates the direction of stitch #137 to imitate the irregular flow of natural grain, with stitch #644 adding a subtle accent line. Together, they create the kind of texture you’d find in hand-hewn wood. I like the organic feel this is giving too.
3. Bohemian (Boho)
Eclectic • Free-spirited
This one’s all about mixing it up with decorative motifs and meandering lines. (And learning how to use the mirror function)! The combination creates a rhythm of movement and texture, perfect for your projects that celebrate color and creativity. I would LOVE to recreate this using a different thread color for each stitch line. I think It would really connect the boho feel to the project.
Stitch Recipe: 660, 708, 660 (mirror), 708, 660, 708, 660 (mirror)
By alternating between stitches #660 and #708 and occasionally mirroring #660 you get a beautifully unpredictable, boho-inspired flow. The mirrored repeats create movement that feels lively, just like a mix of textiles.
How to Use the Mirror Function on the BERNINA 790 PRO
The Mirror feature flips a decorative stitch either left↔︎right (horizontal) or up↕︎down (vertical) perfect for creating symmetry or alternating texture in quilting lines.
To mirror a stitch:
- Select your stitch (for example, #660).
- Tap the information (i) icon on your stitch screen.
- Choose the Mirror arrows. Horizontal flips the stitch sideways, vertical flips it top-to-bottom.
- Test on a scrap before stitching on your quilt.
- When alternating rows (like in the Boho recipe), mirror every other row to create visual movement and balance.
Pro Tips:
- Use Pattern Begin so each mirrored row starts at the same point.
- Save your mirrored stitch setup with Temporary Altered Stitch Memory if you plan to repeat it.
- For even spacing, pair your mirrored rows with the BERNINA Walking Foot and a seam guide or marked quilting lines.
When you’re done, simply tap the mirror button again (or hit “Reset”) to return to the original stitch orientation.
4. Traditional
Timeless • Elegant
For a polished, heirloom feel, this recipe uses symmetrical patterns and classic motifs. The layout feels predictable and stylish, I think of it as the little black dress of stitch recipes.
Stitch Recipe: 1, 750, 768, 1, 750, 768
Alternating between straight stitch #1 and decorative stitches #750 and #768 creates a rhythm that I think is reminiscent of hand quilting. The repetition adds structure and refinement, giving a heirloom quality to your finished block.
5. Mid-Century Modern
Retro shapes • Bold personality • Playful geometry
Angular stitches and curved motifs come together here, nodding to vintage design with a fresh twist. It’s perfect for those who love structure and flair! This one turned out to be my favorite. I was so impressed with how clearly the Mid-Century Modern feel came through! Bold, confident lines and geometric curves captured the style perfectly. I will be recreating this one for sure on a future project!
Stitch Recipe: 134, 159, 685 (repeat)
This repeating sequence of geometric stitches adds that unmistakable mid-century flair. The combination of line, curve, and repetition creates visual movement reminiscent of classic furniture design. I feel like this looks effortlessly cool.
Each of these five Stitch Recipes shows how the same materials can take on entirely different personalities, just by changing the quilting stitches.
When you find yourself at that familiar “how should I quilt this?” moment, pull up this Stitch Recipe blog and let it guide your decision. You might even combine recipes for a look that’s uniquely you.
Because quilting, like cooking, is all about creativity, and the best results come when you make the recipe your own! Ah, so satisfying!
How to Make Your Own Stitch Recipe
Ready to start your own Stitch Recipe collection? Here’s how:
1. Choose a Simple Test Block
Pick a block pattern that’s easy to piece and large enough to show off stitches clearly (I used 9” squares from my Cross Stitch Keepsakes pattern).
2. Use Consistent Materials
Keep your fabric, thread color, and batting the same for each test block. That way, the stitches themselves take center stage.
3. Experiment on Your BERNINA
Try different stitch patterns, spacing, and combinations. Note the stitch numbers and settings as you go!
4. Label and Photograph Each Block
Include the stitch numbers, length/width settings, and any adjustments (like needle position or presser foot).
5. Give Each Recipe a “Vibe”
Think in terms of mood: modern, rustic, elegant, playful, etc. This helps you quickly match future projects with the right feel.
6. Create a Stitch Recipe Journal
Store swatches, photos, and notes in a binder or digital album. Over time, you’ll build a personalized library of quilting inspiration.
Whether you’re quilting your first throw or adding finishing touches to your most recent project, Stitch Recipes can help you move past decision paralysis and into the creative flow!
About the Author
Maelynn of Mae Just Sew blends modern design with cozy tradition, helping quilters create projects that feel both fresh and timeless. Find more patterns, tutorials, and inspiration at www.maejustsew.com.
