Pacific Sun Quilt Pattern
Hello, sunshine! The small and mighty Pacific Sun pattern is now available HERE!
Though most of my designs are from good ol’ fashioned doodling, Pacific Sun is a design from the touristy shirts and sweatshirts found at souvenir shops. It’s where a chunk of my clothes are from because they’re so comfy and goodness, do they last forever! Though we visited a few shops during our 2018 road trip along the PCH, the shirt that had a design were Pacific Sun was particularly drawn from was not available in my size lol. I did find my size online but I prefer to purchase them while traveling. That’s ok, though. I have these to comfort me.
Yup, I love my California Love sweatshirt so much that I own two.
I’ve wanted to bring the design into the quilting world but, first I needed to make sure to seek permission and credit the original artist for this super popular design but came up empty-handed. However, I did learn through research that this ubiquitous design apparently had musical roots in the 80s. How cool! With my nostalgic Wonder Years pattern series in full swing, it was time for this retro vibe design to shine!
WHAT THE PATTERN COVERS
The pattern includes clear diagrams and instructions but it also includes links to video tutorials to guide you through the entire curve sewing process. I understand that glue (an ideal method for beginners) may not be readily available but not to worry: both basting methods are covered!
WHAT FABRICS TO USE
You can’t go wrong with solids. For this purple version, I went scrappy using Birch solid poplins: Apricot, Brandy, Woodrose, Blush, Orchid, Twlight and Cream. They’re so dreamy to work with!
Birch Fabrics solid poplins. Fabrics courtesy of Fabricworm.
Here’s another solids version, this time going with a two-tone version to create a bold, simple look. Fabrics are Kona Ivy and Essex Linen Oyster.
Subtle, small-scale prints also work well for this pattern. I used a couple of fabrics from Amy Sinibaldi’s Velvet collection by Art Gallery Fabrics. I used zigzag stitches to create some nice texture for this version.
How about dark fabrics for the background? Yup, that works too! I used Kona Grizzly, one of my faves, with Lingerie, Peach, Salmon, Suede, Ivory, and AGF Pure Solids Blossomed. I’m really diggin this combo so expect to see this palette again in a future project ;)
This three-color design is the the default option and I love it for its modern simplicity. I used Kona Bone, Charcoal and Yarrow to piece up this beauty.
Making all of these Pacific Sun versions were so fun because it allowed me to practice on my quilting. I used 1/4” lines to create this one, which is a little time and thread-consuming but it’s still my favorite kind of quilting. I love the texture that it creates and it lends such a modern look to the design. I only wish I had the patience to do them on full-size quilts!
Pattern Tester Versions
I have such a deep respect for my buddies who tested this one out. They’re always helpful with suggestions and their feedback is essential before the launch. They also come up with the coolest versions. Check these out and please give them a follow!
This breathtaking version is from my talented pal Elizabeth @ely_sews
This fresh take was by the talented Alyssa @alyssapearlquilts
This cool version featuring prints as the background is by an equally cool Alissa @alissalovestoquilt
This out-of-this-world take is by the gifted Genna @wetmountainquiltco