It’s summer time and one of my favorite places in the summer is the beach. So today I thought it would be fun to take a look at beach quilts. I’ve made a few in my time. I like to feature sailboats, lighthouses, and fish. What quilt blocks remind you of the beach. Let me know in the comments.
One of the first beach quilts I made was in memory of our family reunion held at Bear Lake, Utah. I appliqued everyone who was at the reunion on the quilt. Each applique captured what I remember them doing. I treasure this quilt and the memories it holds. This quilt took years to complete. While this simple quilt for my grandson was done in a week. 
I simple made rail fence blocks by sewing strips together and sub cutting. Then added a patchwork sailboat in the middle of my waves.
Another simple beach quilt is my Clamshells quilt. I didn’t piece these are traditional clamshells. Instead I took a spin on the drunkard’s path block.
A few years ago I designed this block for a summer sampler with Moda. 
I don’t believe the pattern is still available through Moda. But it is one of the over 150 patterns available through my Sew Along Membership. In fact, the sampler quilt, Smooth Sailing is part of that membership. This quilt captures all that I love about the beach. 
I hope this gives you some fun ideas to create your own beach quilts. If you would like to combine your love of quilting with sailing. I’ll be teaching on a cruise to the Bahama’s next March. I’d love to have you join me. Click to get details.
