A Classic Christmas Finish: My Green & Red Double Irish Chain Quilt
There’s just something about a red and green Christmas quilt that feels timeless. The moment those fabrics start coming together, you can practically hear holiday music in the background and smell cookies in the oven.
This quilt was made using the Heritage Series Quilt Pattern by Penelope Handmade, and it’s such a beautiful take on a traditional design. I used the Christmas quilt kit from @peonypetalquilts {BUY HERE}, and it couldn’t be more perfect for the season. Classic reds for the chain set against a deep, festive green background…chefs kiss.
Quilting Details
When it came time to quilt, I wanted something that echoed that Christmas feel without overwhelming the design. I chose the Christmas Holly pantograph, which adds delicate texture with soft holly leaves and berries winding across the surface. It gives just the right touch of festive charm and texture while letting those bold colors shine.
For thread, I went with Glide 40wt in Basil, a rich green that melts beautifully into the background and ties the whole look together. It gives the quilting a subtle sheen, just enough to catch the light and make the texture come alive.
And because every good quilt has a backstory (and let’s be real, a practical side too), I used Warm & White batting and kept it on the thinner side. My teen, who runs hot approximately 90% of the time, will probably end up stealing this quilt so I wanted to keep it cozy but not too toasty. It’s the perfect weight for California winter temperatures.
If you’re thinking about quilting your own Christmas Irish Chain, here are a few alternate pantographs that I think would also look stunning with this pattern and color combo:
Knit – gives that cozy, sweater-like texture
Poinsettia 2 – perfect for an elegant holiday floral
Abstract Butterfly – adds gentle movement and whimsy
Quilted by Yours Truly
The quilting was done by me, @stitchedbyalexis, and this one was such a joy to work on. Watching those red chains pop against that deep green background as the holly pattern stitched across. It’s the kind of quilt that makes you want to start humming Christmas carols in October.
A Touch of Small-Town Magic
For photos, I took this quilt on a little adventure up to Julian, California, a charming mining town nestled in the mountains near San Diego. With its cozy shops, pine covered hills, and a hint of that crisp mountain chill, it was the perfect backdrop for a Christmas quilt shoot.
I hope you all enjoyed this project and I look forward to seeing your quilts come together. And maybe I’ll see a few of them in the studio!
Happy holiday sewing!
— Alexis