It might be blazing hot outside and peak popsicle season—but there is a small part of me already dreaming of twinkle lights, flannel quilts, and handmade gifts under the tree. That’s right: it’s Christmas in July!
There’s no better time to get a jump on your holiday sewing than now—when your schedule is a little lighter and your sewing room isn’t buried in tinsel and cookie crumbs. Whether you want to make a show-stopping Christmas quilt or a few heartfelt handmade gifts, planning ahead is the key to a calm, cozy December.
In this post, I’m sharing festive pattern ideas, gift-worthy projects, and time-saving tips to help you start stitching early for Christmas.
🎄 Festive Quilt Patterns to Start Now
✳️ 1. Classic Christmas Sampler
Choose 6–12 holiday-themed blocks and create a sampler-style quilt with stars, trees, gifts, or wreaths. Great for trying new techniques and showing off your favorite holiday fabrics.
✳️ 2. Modern Minimalist
Go bold with solids! Try red, green, and cream blocks with lots of negative space. Sleek and sophisticated with that festive touch.
✳️ 3. Cozy Flannel Throw
Nothing says Christmas like a snuggly quilt made from flannel or minky. Try a simple pattern like a rail fence or giant star to let those warm fabrics shine.
✳️ 4. Trees
Create a quilted Christmas tree table runner (check out my Arboreal pattern here), pillow or a christmas tree quilt sure to be the conversation starter of the season.
🎁 Quick Handmade Gifts to Quilt Ahead
There’s nothing like a handmade gift, especially when you’ve made it without the stress of a December time crunch! These smaller projects come together quickly and are always a hit.
- Quilted mug rugs with holiday fabrics or cute embroidery
- Reusable fabric gift bags—eco-friendly and festive
- Mini wall hangings with seasonal messages or shapes
- Patchwork pot holders or hot pads for holiday hosts
- Stockings are a great way to bring traditonal Christmas cheer to your home.
🗓 Tips for Planning Your Holiday Quilting Early
Getting ahead doesn’t have to mean overcommitting—it’s all about small, intentional steps.
✅ Make a List and Check It Twice
Start with a list of what you’d like to make—then be honest about how much time you’ll have. Prioritize what’s most meaningful.
✅ Shop Your Stash (and Then the Sales)
You probably already have holiday fabrics hiding in your stash! Pull those out first, then fill in any gaps during summer Christmas fabric sales.
✅ Cut Now, Sew Later
Even if you don’t have time to sew this week, take an hour to cut out a pattern. Future-you will thank you.
✅ Batch Your Projects
Make multiple gifts using the same pattern or materials (like five sets of potholders) to save time and brainpower.
✅ Set a Christmas-in-July Sew Day
Treat yourself to a one-day personal retreat—make hot cocoa, turn on a cheesy Christmas movie, and knock out a few holiday projects just for fun.
🎅 Wrap Up: Stitch the Season Early
Christmas in July isn’t just fun—it’s freeing. By starting early, you give yourself the gift of time: time to enjoy sewing, time to wrap with care, and time to actually relax during the holidays.
So pull out your favorite holiday prints, pour a glass of iced cocoa (is that a thing?), and start dreaming of peppermint borders and snowflake blocks. The season will be here before you know it—but this year, you’ll be ready.