Behind the Design: The Bluegrass State Quilt Pattern 🌿💙

The Story Behind the Colors and How You Can Make It Your Own

Hey y’all!

Welcome to our 7th stop on the Brooke’s Bitchin’ Virtual Road Trip! This week, we’re spotlighting The Bluegrass State — a pixelated quilt pattern inspired by the rich scenery, iconic traditions, and natural beauty of Kentucky.

If you’ve ever driven through Kentucky (like I just did last weekend!), you know exactly what I mean when I say: this state is stunning. Between the mountainous backdrops, rolling green hills, and vast pastures, the landscape practically begs to be translated into fabric.

So today, I want to take you behind the scenes and dive into the color inspiration for this pattern — and give you some fun ways to make it your own!

🎨 Why Blue and Green?

When I sat down to choose the colors for The Bluegrass State pattern cover, I knew I wanted to stick close to the roots — literally.

• Green was a no-brainer. The vibrant, rolling hills of Kentucky are what first come to mind when thinking of the state. From pastureland to forests, this shade speaks to the heart of the Bluegrass.

• Navy Blue came next. Kentucky may be green, but its nickname is the Bluegrass State — and I loved how a rich navy brought depth to the quilt and highlighted the variation in green tones. It made the design pop without overpowering it.

  
  

The result? A bold yet serene quilt that echoes the peaceful countryside, a crisp blue sky, and that unmistakable Southern charm.

🧵 Fabric Pull Ideas

Whether you’re recreating the cover version or putting your own twist on it, here are some fabric tips and suggestions:

💚 If You Love the Cover Look:

• Choose a variety of green solids or blenders – think grass, olive, moss, and forest.

• Pair with a rich navy or midnight blue for background contrast or borders.

• Toss in a low-volume print for added interest without overpowering the pixelated design.

🎨 Want to Customize the Colors?

Here are a few ideas to spark your creativity:

1. Horse Country Vibes

   • Use earthy tones like brown, tan, gold, and sky blue to reflect Kentucky’s horse farms and fencing.

2. Sunset in the Hills

   • Blend purples, oranges, and dusty pinks to create a warm, dramatic take on Kentucky’s mountainous sunsets.

3. Bold & Bright

   • Don’t be afraid to play! Swap in teal and lime, or coral and mint, for a modern Kentucky twist.

4. Monochrome Magic

   • Stick with a single color family (all blues, all greens, or even all neutrals) and let texture and shading create the visual depth.

❤️ Add a Personal Touch to your Quilt

All Home Series patterns include an appliqué heart template that you can place over your hometown or favorite Kentucky spot. Whether it’s Louisville, Lexington, Bowling Green, or the edge of the Appalachian foothills — this little detail adds a meaningful, customized touch.

Want to take it a step further? Try:

• Using a metallic or sparkle fabric for the heart

• Hand-embroidering initials or a date inside it

• Adding quilting lines that echo the shape of the state or mimic topography

🧵 Final Thoughts

Whether you were born and raised in Kentucky, have roots in the state, or just love the story it tells, The Bluegrass State pattern offers a canvas full of possibility.

It’s a celebration of tradition, texture, and personal connection — and I can't wait to see how you bring it to life.

Ready to start stitching? Don’t forget to use code BLUEGRASS for 10% off the pattern (printed or digital) — now through July 7th!👉 Click here to shop the printed format of the pattern and click here to shop the digital download format of the pattern.

And if you're looking for more inspiration, fabric pulls, or behind-the-scenes peeks, follow me over on Instagram @brookesbtchinstitches and let’s make something beautiful together.

Happy quilting and see y’all at our next stop!

💙Brooke