Last Updated on May 31, 2023
Hey everybody! It’s Tersia Jager from TheSewingStuffs. Today, we’re going to make a beautiful barn quilt together. Now, let’s get back to our barn quilt project. Here, we will create stunning 4×4 Barn Quilt Patterns called “Starburst.” I’ve made smaller quilts before, like a 2×2 or a 3×3, but this 4×4 will be a real showstopper. Just wait until you see it!
How to Make 4×4 barn quilt patterns?
Here is this step-by-step guide to creating a beautiful 4×4 barn quilt. We will walk you through the process of making a starburst patterned barn quilt using a 4×4 pre-primed plywood.
Materials Needed
- 4×4 pre-primed plywood (3/4 inch thickness)
- Paints (dark red, light red, dark turquoise, light turquoise, black, and gray)
- Yardstick
- Heat erasable pen
- Paintbrushes
- Heat gun or hairdryer
- Painter’s tape
- Sealer (rain guard)
Steps to Follow
To start, I have a pre-primed piece of three-quarter-inch plywood measuring 4×4. I’ve divided it into four equal blocks, each measuring 12 inches wide and 12 inches tall. You can see the layout in our pattern. It’s all about those four blocks; the star points will converge in the middle.
You See, download or the pattern right now and print it out for your reference. You can adjust the size of your quilt according to your preference, whether it’s a 2×2, 3×3, or even an 8×8. So, let’s get started!
Step 1: Prepare the Plywood
Ensure that, your 4×4 pre-primed plywood is ready for painting. If not already primed, apply a coat of primer and let it dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 2: Plan and Draw the Pattern
Study the starburst pattern you want to create. Using a yardstick, measure and divide the plywood into four equal blocks horizontally and diagonally. For a 4×4 quilt, each block should be 12 inches wide and 12 inches tall. Refer to the pattern and draw the lines on each block, following the direction shown.
Step 3: Add Accent Lines
To create accents around the starburst, draw lines from the top right of the first block to the quilt’s center. Repeat this step for all sides of each point to achieve a symmetrical design.
Step 4: Draw Highlight Lines
In the middle of the second block, mark the center with a dot. From this point, draw a line from right to left, creating a “V” shape. Repeat this step for each side of the quilt.
Step 5: Mix Paints and Begin Painting
Prepare your paints according to the desired colors mentioned. Apply a thin coat of paint on each section, following the drawn lines. Allow the paint to dry completely using a heat gun or hairdryer.
Step 6: Apply Additional Coats
Once the first coat is dry, apply a second coat of paint on each section, ensuring even coverage. Dry the paint again using a heat gun or hairdryer. If necessary, repeat this step for a third coat to achieve the desired color intensity.
Step 7: Remove Painter’s Tape
After the final coat of paint has dried, carefully remove the painter’s tape. Allow the paint to cool before peeling off the tape to avoid any smudging or damage.
Step 8: Paint the Background
Decide on the background color for your quilt. The color named “cotton knit” was chosen. Paint the background color, ensuring it complements the starburst design. Let the paint dry completely.
Step 9: Apply Sealer
To protect your 4×4 barn quilt from the elements, apply two coats of sealer, such as a rain guard, to the front and back of the plywood. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying times.
Step 10: Enjoy Your Barn Quilt
Once the sealer has dried, your barn quilt is complete! Hang it up in your desired location and admire your beautiful creation.
What is the best size for a barn quilt?
The recommended sizes for barn quilts are typically 4×4 Barn Quilt Patterns or 8×8 Barn Quilt Patterns. These sizes work well for both large barns and smaller outbuildings.
Using these standard sizes also helps to economize the project, as the sign board commonly used for barn quilts comes in the standard size of 4’x8′. Ultimately, the size should be chosen to ensure the barn quilt fits well on the structure and achieves the desired visual impact.
Breakthrough of the Whole Process
- Color: For this particular design, I’ve chosen a dark red color called Whiplash for the star, and I mixed a bit of white with it to get a matching color. For the turquoise, I’m using a darker shade called Caicos, paired with a soft turquoise for the matching color. Of course, feel free to experiment with different color combinations.
We must add some accents once our pattern is drawn on the plywood. I like to call them “highlights,” but let’s go with “embellishment” for now. For this quilt, I’ve chosen black for the darker color and a darker gray called “Mostly Metal” for the lighter color. But you can also mix a bit of white with the black to lighten it up. It’s all about personal preference.
- Drawing the pattern: Drawing the pattern and accents may seem tricky, but trust me, it’s easier than it looks. Take it one block at a time, following the lines in the pattern. A yardstick will be useful, especially for a larger quilt like this. Just take your time; before you know it, you’ll have the pattern sketched out.
- Painting: Now, let’s move on to the fun part—painting! Start with a thin coat of paint on each section, then dry it using a heat gun or a hairdryer. Repeat this process two more times so each section gets three coats. Remember to let the paint dry before pulling off the tape.
As we paint, remember to enjoy the process and have fun with it. Seeing the colors come together is truly mesmerizing. And if you make any mistakes along the way, don’t worry. It’s all fixable. You can even create your own unique touches as I did with a slight white streak in the middle of the star.
- Cotton Knit: Once the painting is complete, consider adding a soft white color called “Cotton Knit” for the background. It gives a more subtle look and complements the other colors beautifully. Here is a tip for those finishing touches.
Conclusion
Congratulations on successfully creating your own barn quilt! Whether it’s a 4×4, 2×2, or any other size, the starburst pattern adds a stunning touch to any space. Remember to have fun throughout the process and experiment with different. I hope you’ve had a great time following along with this barn quilt project. I truly enjoyed making it, and I hope you’ll give it a try too.
I Like to write and read on fashion, may be that’s why “Fashion says “me too” style says “only me”
