Patch Work

Patch work is a very interesting technique where patches or pieces of fabrics are stitched together to make a design. Patch work can be a simple combination of squares or may be a complex arrangements of different shapes. The procedure involves drafting a pattern, collecting materials, cutting and joining the blocks to create pieced fabrics. Interesting effects can be obtained by using different colored and textured fabrics. Using creativity lots of decorative designs can be made and used in wide varieties of different products. Banjara embroidery which is practiced by banjaras who are tribal people use lot of patch work in their products. 

Patch work sample

Materials Used

• Fabrics for patches
• Cardboard for the templates
• Thread and needles
• Scissor for cutting

Instructions on how to do Patchwork

1) The first step is to make a template of each piece in your patch work design.

2) Place it on the fabric and trace the design.

3) Before cutting leave some seam allowance on the fabric.

Design is drawn with seam allowance on three different fabrics as the design includes three fabrics

4) Cut each piece one at a time.

Cut pieces of fabrics

5) Join patch pieces by hand sewing. 

6) Do not stretch seam when you sew two bias edges together.

7) Finish the edges.

Image of the final design

Products where patch work is used

Patch work is used in wide variety of products like purses, kurtis, table cloths, bed covers, pillows, pillow covers, women's tops, wallets, sarees, children clothes, cushion covers, handicraft products, lamp shades, and wide variety of other products.