Tactfully Twisted Quilt… the Cover Quilt
Sometimes a quilt design stays with you… long before you ever dreamed of quilting. For me, Tactfully Twisted began with a well-loved family quilt, one made by my great-great-grandmother, stitched from simple two-tone solids that have softly faded over time. The block, often called the Capital T, is a classic, that is straightforward and practical.
That quilt lived at the foot of my parents’ bed while I was growing up. It wasn’t precious in the “don’t touch” sense, it was used, well loved, and showed its wear and tear with pride. And I think that’s why it stuck with me. That “simple” quilt meant more than just pretty fabric cut up and sewn back together… it was a piece of my family’s history.
Tactfully Twisted is my modern take on that idea... honoring a traditional block while giving it a fresh, playful shift.
The Cover Quilt: Washi Plus by Ruby Star Society
For the cover quilt, I chose Washi Plus by Rashida Coleman Hale of Ruby Star Society, and it couldn’t have been a better match. The collection’s bold colors and graphic feel pair so nicely with the “T” Blocks, allowing the block structure to shine.
This cover sample was made using the 9-inch block size in the throw quilt size, which really highlights the movement created by the twist in the layout. Simply rotating the “T” Blocks adds energy and personality, but the overall effect still feels balanced and intentional… exactly what I love about transforming a classic-inspired design into a modern one.
About the Tactfully Twisted Quilt Pattern
Tactfully Twisted is designed to be approachable, flexible, and fun to sew... whether you’re newer to quilting or just love a clean, modern finish.
Here’s what you’ll find in the pattern:
- Seven quilt sizes, from baby to king
- Two block size options: 9-inch or 12-inch
- A modern take on a traditional block, often known as the Capital T, Square T, Double T, or Four T’s
- Confident beginner friendly construction using the stitch-and-flip method
- Clear instructions that are step-by-step friendly with full color diagrams
The stitch-and-flip technique keeps the piecing straightforward, making it a great pattern if you enjoy seeing your quilt come together steadily, block by block.
From Then to Now
What I love most about Tactfully Twisted is how it connects past and present. The bones of the design come from a quilt made generations ago. The twist comes from how I lay out the “T” Blocks today.
Seeing this pattern come to life feels especially meaningful. It’s bold, modern, and expressive… everything my great-great-grandmother’s quilt wasn’t meant to be, and yet it carries the same heart. And I hope she’d be proud of what I’ve designed. From what I’ve heard she was a sassy lady, so I have a feeling she would have loved this new layout as much as I do.
Make It Your Own
Whether you choose the 9-inch or 12-inch blocks, go bold with color or keep it simple and two-tone, Tactfully Twisted is designed to adapt to your style. It’s the kind of pattern that invites experimentation while still feeling classically modern.
I can’t wait to see how you interpret it and what stories it’ll tell generations from now.
Tactfully Twisted is now available in my shop.
If you make one, I’d love to see it... tag me on Instagram, @bykellyrenay, so I can cheer you on and share your work.
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