I am so excited to share this project with you today. If you’ve ever wanted to make a baby quilt but felt intimidated by all the piecing and precision, this one’s for you. I’m talking about the 2-Hour Baby Quilt—yes, you read that right! With the magic of a cheater quilt panel, you can create an adorable, handmade baby quilt in just a couple of hours. No piecing, no stress, just pure sewing joy. Let’s dive in!

What is a Cheater Quilt?

If you’re new to quilting, you might be wondering, What in the world is a cheater quilt? Well, it’s basically a printed fabric panel that looks like a pieced quilt top. It’s like a shortcut to a gorgeous quilt without all the cutting and sewing tiny pieces together. Cheater quilts are perfect for beginners or anyone who wants to whip up something quick and beautiful. This saves so much time and frustration. My favorite places to search for these are: Spoonflower, Etsy, and Joann Fabrics. Hop on their websites and do a quick search for 'cheater quilt'. You'll love what pulls up!

On sites like Spoonflower and some Etsy shops, you can select other fabrics for your cheater quilt to be printed on, such as minky.

What You'll Need:

Here’s the best part: you only need a few supplies to get started! The quilt measures 36"x42".

• 1 yard of a cheater quilt panel: Quilt back (find the jungle fabric I used here).

• 1 yard of coordinating fabric: Quilt front

• 1 yard of fabric: *More on the below

• Batting

• Basic sewing supplies (Thread, scissors, rotary cutter, pins, and a sewing machine.)

This quilt was personalized just for Lionel. I have a detailed blog post and video sharing step-by-step instructions on how to personalize a quilt. It's very simple! However, if you'd rather skip the personalization, just get 1/2 a yard of fabric for the binding. You will just sandwich your fabrics together, quilt, and then bind!

How to Personalize a Quilt

Let's Make a Quilt:

Step 1: Prepare Your Fabrics

Before sewing, wash (optional) and iron your fabrics to prevent shrinkage later. Trim the cheater quilt panel and backing fabric to 36" x 42".

Step 2: Add Personalization (Optional)

For a special touch, cut letters, shapes, or a name from your extra yard of fabric and applique them onto the quilt. You can find a full video tutorial on how to personalize your quilt here. If you decide NOT to personalize this quilt...you can complete it in probably one hour!

Step 3: Layer and Baste

Lay your quilt backing fabric right side down on a flat surface. Place the batting on top, then center your cheater quilt panel right side up. This is your 'quilt sandwich'. Smooth out any wrinkles and baste the layers together with pins or spray adhesive.

Step 4: Quilt the Layers

Quilt your 'sandwich' in your desired method of quilting. Free-motion meandering is my favorite! You can find a video on how to achieve this look here. However, use whatever quilting method works best for you!

Step 5: Bind the Quilt

Use your extra fabric to create binding strips (2.25” wide). Attach the binding around the edges using a sewing machine or hand-stitch for a polished look. If binding intimidates you... I got you!! Here is a quick video on an easy way to create a binding.

Why I Love This Project

This 2-hour baby quilt is one of my favorite projects to recommend because it’s so beginner-friendly and rewarding. Whether you’re making it for your own little one, a gift for a friend, or even to donate, there’s something so special about creating a handmade quilt. Plus, it’s a great way to dip your toes into quilting without feeling overwhelmed.

Share Your Creations!

I’d love to see your finished quilts! Tag me on Instagram @SouthernSewingCo or share your photos in the comments below. There’s nothing more inspiring than seeing what y’all create.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your fabric, fire up your sewing machine, and let’s make something beautiful together. Happy sewing, friends!

-Ashley