The Charlotte Quiltalong Week 1 - Choosing Your Fabric

Welcome to Week 1 of the Charlotte Quiltalong! Whether you’re sewing along in real time or planning to catch up later, I’m so glad you’re here. This week, we’re starting with one of the most exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) parts of the quilting process: choosing your fabric.

The Charlotte Quilt is a bold, modern design that works beautifully with a wide range of fabric styles. It’s fat quarter, jelly roll, or scrap friendly or you can be like me and cut your own jelly roll from yardage. 

💡 What to Expect During the Charlotte Quiltalong

This quiltalong is meant to be fun, flexible, and supportive. Each week, here’s what you can look forward to:

• A live Q&A video on Instagram (usually Tuesdays at 1pm PT)

• Weekly blog posts with tips and guidance

• Visual inspiration and process videos on Instagram and YouTube

• Help for both beginners and experienced quilters

• A supportive community using the hashtag #thecharlotteqal on Instagram

• A free coloring sheet to help plan your layout

• Encouragement to use what you already have 

🎨 Week 1: Choosing Fabric for the Charlotte Quilt

Need help deciding what to use? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Go Scrappy

If you’ve been meaning to dig into your scrap bin, the Charlotte Quilt is a great place to start. The block-based layout and varied fabric placement make it very forgiving — and a perfect way to use up leftovers while still creating a quilt that feels intentional. Try to pick a theme (e.g. warm colors, or blues and neutrals) to give your quilt some cohesion.

2. Use a Fat Quarter Bundle or Jelly Roll

If you have a favorite fat quarter bundle or jelly roll you’ve been saving, this is the time to use it!

3. Try a Monochrome or Seasonal Palette

The Charlotte Quilt works surprisingly well in a more focused palette. A two-tone version can make the design look clean and modern, while a seasonal version (like soft spring pastels or cozy fall tones) gives it a completely different feel. Don’t be afraid to play with contrast — a strong background choice can really make the blocks stand out.

📸 Share Your Fabric Pull

I’d love to see what you’re working with! Post your fabric pull on Instagram using #thecharlotteqal and tag @kitchentablequilting. Comment on each other’s posts, offer encouragement, and join in the fun — that’s what makes quiltalongs special.

🧵 Need the Charlotte Quilt Pattern?

You can grab the Charlotte Quilt Pattern right here.