Slant or curve your lines at gentle angles rather than strict 45 degrees.Leave plenty of space between meandering lines for flexibility as you sew.Roughly sketch the curving backbone of your design first before adding motifs.Here are some strategies I’ve developed over time: When I started my meandering practice, one issue I encountered was how to translate the freeform aesthetic onto graph paper in a workable way. Mix up your motif selection to add visual interest as the eye follows the curve of your meandering pattern.
The lack of rigid repetition allows for a lot of creativity. You can also incorporate snippets of natural textures like ferns, tree bark, or grass. Waves lapping at the shore or ripples on a winding creek.Butterflies or birds soaring through the scene.Floral sprigs in different bloom stages scattered across.Leaves and vines twisting along the quilt.When planning your meandering quilt, here are some classic motif options to consider including in your design: Motifs that vary slightly in size and placement to look hand-drawn.