The Majestic “Elephant Abstractions Quilt” – A Masterpiece in Fabric
The moment you lay eyes on this striking quilt, you know it’s not just a blanket — it’s art. The Elephant Abstractions Quilt, designed by renowned textile artist Violet Craft, is a bold, dynamic quilt pattern that captures the power and grace of an elephant in a unique, geometric style.
Perfect as a statement wall hanging, a luxurious bed topper, or a gallery-worthy display, this quilt is a showstopper in every sense.
The quilt uses foundation paper piecing (FPP) to achieve sharp angles and precise detail, giving the elephant its dramatic and lifelike presence. It is a project that celebrates both wildlife and craftsmanship, ideal for intermediate to advanced quilters looking for a challenge.
🎓 Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
You’ll need experience with paper piecing, precision cutting, and assembling complex block sections.
💼 Materials Needed
- Pattern: “Elephant Abstractions Quilt” by Violet Craft (available via violetcraft.com)
- Assorted cotton fabrics:
- Variety of earth tones (browns, rust, gold, ochre, beige)
- Accent colors (blue-gray, deep teal, olive, black)
- Foundation paper for piecing
- Rotary cutter and cutting mat
- Sewing machine with standard foot
- Thread in coordinating neutrals
- Iron and pressing surface
- Batting and backing fabric
- Binding fabric (dark solid or matching print)
🌈 Quilt Size
Finished size: 54″ x 60″
🏋️ Construction Overview
The quilt is made using foundation paper piecing (FPP), which involves sewing fabric pieces directly onto printed paper templates. This method allows for precise points and sharp angles, essential for the elephant’s facial structure and ears.
🖊️ Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Purchase and Print the Pattern
Visit Violet Craft’s website to purchase the Elephant Abstractions digital or printed pattern. Print all foundation templates at 100% scale.
2. Choose and Cut Fabrics
Plan your color scheme:
- Select warm, earthy tones to mimic natural elephant hues
- Choose contrasting colors to make the ears and background pop Label all fabrics to stay organized.
3. Prepare Paper Templates
- Cut out all paper templates included in the pattern
- Group templates by section: trunk, tusks, ears, head, and background
4. Begin Paper Piecing
- Start with smaller units like the trunk or tusks
- Sew fabric pieces onto the paper using a shortened stitch length (1.5 mm)
- Trim excess fabric, then press with a dry iron
5. Assemble the Sections
- Join small paper-pieced blocks into larger segments (e.g., both ears, top of the head)
- Match seams carefully and press after joining
6. Remove Paper
Once the quilt top is complete, gently remove all paper backing from the seams
7. Quilt Sandwich & Quilting
- Layer quilt top with batting and backing
- Baste and quilt with straight lines or custom quilting to enhance dimension
- Use thread colors that blend or highlight elephant contours
8. Bind and Finish
- Trim the quilt to square
- Attach binding using your favorite method
- Add a sleeve to the back for hanging, if desired
📕 Official Name
This project is officially known as the “Elephant Abstractions Quilt” by Violet Craft. It is part of her Abstractions Series, which also includes lions, eagles, and other wildlife in this signature geometric style.
🌟 Final Thoughts
The Elephant Abstractions Quilt isn’t just a sewing project — it’s a journey through color, geometry, and majestic wildlife. It challenges your skills while rewarding you with a breathtaking result that will turn heads and warm hearts. Whether gifted, displayed, or treasured in your own home, this quilt is a true work of art.
Happy quilting!
