Cathedral window is a layered patchwork which gives a 3D effect. Although time consuming it is relatively easy to do even if you have a minimal amount of sewing experience. For the best results I recommend using a plain coloured background fabric with either a contrasting colour or pattern fabric for the "windows". These free illustrated sewing instructions will enable you to make your own Cathedral Window patchwork cushions and pram covers.

Here I have used Cathedral Window patchwork for a cushion with a lace trimmed edging.

Here I have used Cathedral Window patchwork for a cushion with a double frilled edging. The background fabric is plain and the "windows" are made out of fabric to match my curtains.

Requirements:

Plain coloured lightweight fabric. I would suggest buying approximately 1metre.

Contrasting lightweight fabric. I would suggest approximately 1/2 metre.

Matching thread.

In the photo to the right I have used Cathedral Window patchwork for a baby's pram cover which is edged with broiderie anglaise lace.

Cutting Out:

For the cushion cut out 16 squares of background fabric each measuring 9" (23cms). Also cut out 13 squares of the contrasting fabric each measuring 2.25" (6cms).

For the pram cover cut out 20 squares of background fabric each measuring 9" (23cms). Also cut out 40 squares of the contrasting fabric each measuring 2.25" (6cms).

Making the Patchwork:

Step 1:

Using a 9" square of the background fabric with wrong side uppermost fold in a 1/2" (1cm) hem on all 4 sides, stitch in place using a small running stitch and press.

Step 2:

Fold all 4 corners of the square to the centre. Press the folds.

Step 3:

Fold all 4 corners of the new square to the centre again. Press the folds.

Step 4:

Stitch the corners together through the centre making a neat cross stitch. This square should measure 4" (10cms) approximately.

Step 5:

Sew the squares together using ladder stitch making 4 rows of 4 squares for the cushion and 5 rows of 4 squares for the pram cover.

Step 6:

Pin a square of the contrasting fabric, right side uppermost, diagonally on top of the seam of the 2 folded squares. Repeat to cover all the seams. For the edges cut the 2.25" (6cms) squares in half and pin in the triangles around the edges and the 2 remaining corners.

Step 7:

Fold the edges of the original squares over the raw edge of the contrasting square. Hem stitch through the edges of the original square and the contrasting fabric only. Use small indiscreet stitches. Repeat for all the "windows".

For the pram cover stitch lace around the edge if required.

To complete the cushion please go to "Making Cushions"