I've got another free motion quilting video tutorial for you today! This video shows off a fun border design I call the Spiked Clover Border, and it might challenge your mind a little bit.

This design will have you practicing common shapes in different directions. Watch the video below to see how to quilt the spiked clover border.

How to Quilt the Spiked Clover Border

Doesn't this design have a fun look to it? But it is a little more challenging than some of the other designs I've shared in the past. There are a few main elements to the spiked clover - curls, the number 3, and curves. We begin at the bottom of the chalked out border and quilt a curl towards the center. Come back to the top of the curl and now we'll quilt a number 3. You could also think of the three as two little bunny hops, butterfly wings, or anything else that helps you remember the movement! Tuck another little curl or tail into the base of that 3. Quilt a gentle swoop or curve into the head of the 3 and travel down and out of your clover. Now, quilt it again, but this time upside down! 🙃

Talk to Yourself While You Quilt

There's quite a bit going on in this design. And long before I ever tried to quilt this on camera I was practicing on paper. I doodled this design over and over. I made mistakes and I tried again. My other piece of advice for quilting challenging designs like this is to talk yourself through the design while you doodle or quilt. As I'm quilting the spiked clover border, I'm thinking to myself (or saying out loud) "Curl, number 3, tail, swoop. Ok, upside down now! Curl, number 3, tail, swoop." This mantra helps me keep my focus as I quilt and helps me remember the next step!

Now it’s Your Turn!

Now that you know how to quilt the spiked clover border, it’s your turn to give it a try! I would love to see your version of this design. You can share pictures of your quilts with me at the Quilted Joy Facebook Page, tag me on Instagram, or join the community in the Quilted Joy Clubhouse!

If you would like to explore more tips and tricks for longarm quilting don’t miss the Quilted Joy Learning Center!