Border Prints: Don't Run from the Border

Most of the time when we look at fabrics, we can see that the fabric is designed with a repeat. If someone were holding a stamp, they would stamp that print in a row, or upside down, or in a grid with another stamp. Most quilting fabric tends towards smaller repeats. You'l see fabrics with as small as an inch repeat, or with as large as a 12" repeat, with everything in between.

It's easy to deal with a small repeat. But a larger repeat is a bit more confusing. And then there are the fabulous border prints. These prints have one selvage edge printed in a huge pattern. Sometimes the repeat is a whole yard wide.
They're gorgeous! But how do you work with them? You might  be tempted to pass them by, but you shouldn't. They're a fabulous fabric opportunity.

Here's several strategies for border prints

• Fussy cut: Pick out exactly where you want those bits of fabric to show and cut them specially
• Take the border off and use it as a border for your quilt.
• Use different pieces  cut from the border as your spacers. They're printed to go with the collection. There's almost always a plainer edge to the print.
• Be willing not be symmetrical. These prints add a random quality to your work. It can feel off balance, but it's very exciting.
• Utilize the other great prints that go with your work. They'll blend in and help you mix it together.
  

This great quilt is so much more exciting for being brave about the border print. Don't run from the borders.  They're endless fun.