Behind the Seams: How I Design My U.S. State Pixelated Quilt Patterns
- brookesbtchinstitc
- Apr 21
- 2 min read
A Rest Stop Peek into the Heart of the Home Pattern Series
Welcome to this week’s Rest Stop on Brooke’s Bitchin’ Road Trip! 🚗🧵Every other week, we pull over from our state quilt stitching to refuel our creativity and share something fun from behind the seams — and today, I’m letting you in on how I design the state-inspired quilt patterns in my Home Pattern Series.
Ever wondered how I go from “state” to “stunning quilt block”? Let’s take a little behind-the-scenes tour!
🗺️ Step 1: Choosing the State
Every design starts with selecting a state — sometimes it’s one I’ve lived in, visited, or had requested by fellow quilters. There’s always a personal connection or spark of curiosity behind the pick.
Once I’ve chosen the state, I start digging into what makes it special.
🔍 Step 2: Researching the State's Identity
This is one of my favorite parts — I get to learn more about every state’s personality and charm.
I research:
What the state is known for
The state flag and colors
State bird, flower, or tree
Major landmarks or geography
Cultural icons, sports teams, and historical fun facts
All of this gives me the creative fuel I need to bring the state to life through quilting.
🎨 Step 3: Creating the Pixelated Design + Color Palette
Next, I create the actual pixelated shape of the state — built square by square, carefully keeping proportions and recognizable outlines.
Once the design is done, I revisit my research to choose the color palette for the quilt sample that becomes the pattern cover.
🧵 Example: The MItten State (Michigan)
For The MItten State (my Michigan pattern), I chose shades of turquoise for the quilt sample — inspired by the stunning color of the Great Lakes. If you’ve ever stood on the shores of Lake Michigan or Lake Huron, you know that magical turquoise-green glow I’m talking about. 💙
The quilt tells a story — a love letter to the place I’m proud to call home.
✂️ What’s Included in Every Quilt Pattern
Each state pattern in the Home Pattern Series includes:
Three quilt designs — one throw size and two minis
Step-by-step instructions that are beginner-friendly
A heart appliqué template to place over the city you call home
Available in digital download and printed format — so you can choose what works best for your quilting style!
❤️ Why I Love Designing This Series
Designing these patterns is more than just geometry and layout — it’s storytelling through stitches. I love that I get to blend the creativity of quilting with the pride and personality of every U.S. state.
Whether you’re making the quilt for yourself, a loved one, or to celebrate your roots — I hope each pattern brings you joy, connection, and a sense of place.
Thanks for spending this Rest Stop with me!Our next state drop is just around the corner… any guesses where we’re headed next? 😉
With love and thread,
Brooke
Comments