The First State – Delaware Pixelated Quilt Pattern

brookesbtchinstitc
Sep 9
2 min read

This week, our virtual road trip pulls into Delaware – The First State! Though it may be the second smallest state in the U.S., Delaware is full of history, culture, and coastal beauty that can inspire your quilting journey in endless ways.

The First State Quilt Pattern

To honor Delaware, I designed The First State Quilt Pattern as part of my Home Pattern Series. For the cover quilt, I chose a sea green and beige palette—a nod to Delaware’s state flag and its connection to the Atlantic coastline. Every pattern in this series includes:

A throw-size quilt and 2 mini quilt designs
Step-by-step instructions
Appliqué templates for the minis
An appliqué heart to place on the city you call home 💙

Inspiration from Delaware’s Heritage

When you think of Delaware, you can draw quilting inspiration from its heritage, history, and natural beauty:

Coastal Influence: Delaware’s beaches are some of the most beloved on the East Coast. Think soft sand, ocean blues, foamy whites, and even coral tones to capture the salty air and sunshine.
Historic Roots: Delaware was the first state to ratify the Constitution in 1787. For a heritage-inspired quilt, consider colonial colors—deep burgundy, navy, gold, and cream—that reflect early American history.
State Symbols: Incorporate the Blue Hen (state bird) with touches of vibrant blue, or weave in yellow for the peach blossom (state flower). Small accents like these can tie your quilt to Delaware’s unique identity.
Modern Delaware: Inspired by its reputation as a financial hub, sleek modern fabrics like black, silver, and bold solids can give your quilt a contemporary twist.

Fabric Tips & Ideas

Here are a few fun approaches to help you personalize The First State Quilt:

Traditional Coastal: Use seafoam greens, sandy neutrals, and light blues for a calm, beach-inspired quilt.
Colonial Americana: Mix rich reds, indigos, and creams for a design that reflects Delaware’s historic importance.
Playful & Bright: Try batiks in teal, aqua, and sunburst yellow to bring a modern and cheerful energy.
Monochrome with a Pop: Choose all grays and charcoals, then add one bold Blue Hen-inspired blue square to make your quilt pop.

Fun Facts About Delaware

Delaware was the first state to join the Union, earning its nickname “The First State.”
The Blue Hen was adopted as the state bird during the Revolutionary War for its spirited fighting nature.
Delaware is a tax-free shopping state—quilters rejoice! 😉
Despite its size, Delaware has 28 miles of shoreline and some of the most-visited beaches on the East Coast.

Special Road Trip Treat

To celebrate our stop in Delaware, you can take 10% off The First State Quilt Pattern (printed or digital download) with code FIRST, valid until the end of September!