If you like to appliqué the way Debora does, with enthusiasm, then you will find that there is a lot you can do to embellish these designs. Our first thought was to use raw edge appliqué. It wasn't gaudy enough! So after pouring over many photographs and visiting carousels in person, Debora decided that these designs had to be machine appliquéd with many different metallic threads and decorative stitches, and hand sewn beads and sequins to enhance the bridles, and blankets. Debora figured out how to sew sequins on using the sewing machine and her instructions teach you how.

We have How to Applique videos if you learn visually.  Watch our designer, Debora Konchinsky take you through all the steps to make a Critter Pattern Works quilt.

Here are some hints about working with metallic threads. If you have struggled with fraying and snapping metallics, you might consider purchasing some Tri Flow or Sewer's Aid (silicone in a tiny jar available at fabric store notions departments) and metallic needles.  Sewer's Aid comes on a card with instructions to "use sparingly", but nothing about where to use it!  Dribble a little along the length of the spool of thread, just once.  This solves the nasty problem of fraying and snapping threads.

The blocks start out 11" square, including seam allowances. Then 3" borders were added in different bright colors. You could have a attractive small quilt using just one pattern and arranging them two over two blocks, with a border around that, the quilt would come out around 31" square. The quilt with all twelve Carousel Critters measures 47" x 60". It could be expanded into a bed size quilt by adding borders.

This pattern is only available to be mailed, (not available as a PDF pattern).