17 Stunningly Beautiful Modern Quilt Patterns

Modern quilt designs are inspiring more quilters to work with new ideas.

The contemporary approach to designing quilts has changed the rules that define traditional patterns.

In their place, modern quilt ideas offer a bold and sometimes playful alternative.

Asymmetry, minimalism, high-contrast features, unusual block arrangements, and negative space can now all come into play when you want to make a quilt with a fresh and modern look.

To introduce you to the possibilities, we've hunted down some simple modern quilt patterns.

We love their innovative designs that unlock new levels of creativity.

What's In This Article

Quilts=Art=Quilts 2023

Quilts=Art=Quilts is an international juried quilt exhibition at the Schweinfurth Art Center in Auburn, New York. The Art Center has been a longstanding proponent of quilts as a visual arts medium and has been presenting quilts in a gallery setting since 1981.

Jurors select quilts based on overall quality of design, visual impact and originality. Prizes are awarded, including 400,000 for Best of Show.

Participating Artists

The Schweinfurth Art Center provides creative opportunities and transformational experiences through the arts, for all people. We believe in public access to the arts and are committed to integrity; diversity, equity, access, and inclusion; excellence; understanding with generosity of spirit; and lifelong learning.

Address: 205 Genesee St. Auburn, NY 13021, United States.

Schweinfurth Art Center is funded, in part, by New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature

Modern Quilt Patterns for Beginners

1. Maypole Quilt Pattern

Among simple modern quilt patterns, the Maypole is a clear example. It is minimalist almost to an extreme.

The rotation of a half square triangle builds a dynamic display.

The design presents you with an open invitation to experiment with color and fabric.

Imagine the sense of three-dimensional space that you could achieve when you select different color shades and tints for this pattern.

2. Collection of 10 Simply Modern Patchwork Quilts

The book provides step-by-step instructions for quilt designs that have a contemporary flair. Beginners will find projects that meet their skill level.

Lovely photos of finished quilts accompany clear directions. This is a superb resource for getting started with simple modern quilt patterns.

After browsing the patterns, think about how you can choose colors to fit your home decor.

3. RetroBlock Quilt Pattern

Five columns of alternating blocks connected by thick lines form a pattern that would fit right in on the set of Mad Men.

The mid-century modern design marks a clear shift away from the traditional patchwork of earlier eras.

Solid colors and liberal use of negative space summon a high-tech vibe that remains trendy in our new millennium.

4. Collection of 12 Modern Blocks

Beginners can sharpen their quilting skills while sewing stunning modern designs. One or two block designs are the framework for each project.

Although you'll be working with some traditional block patterns, the manual encourages you to apply modern twists through alternative color choices.

The projects produce results that appeal to contemporary tastes, and the directions are easy to follow.

5. Modern Flying Geese Pattern

Are they Vs of migrating geese or phalanxes of space ships from a sci-fi adventure?