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A tree is a perfect symbol for a family; it shows the deep roots of the past as well as the new branches reaching into the future. Katy here from KatyQuilts to show you how I used the GO! Tree of Life-14" Finished Die to make a Family Tree of Life quilt for my mom.
How to Make the Family Tree of Life Quilt
I started by downloading the pattern for the GO! Tree for All Seasons pattern.
I made a few changes to the design. First of all, I made five blocks instead of four. Also, I used all red and white background fabric for the trees and a blue print fabric surrounding the tree blocks.
To make a quilt like mine, this is what you will need:
- GO! Tree of Life Die-14" Finished Die
- GO! Strip Cutter-2 1/2” (2" Finished) 3 Strips Die (for the binding)
- 1 yard of background fabric
- 1 1/2 yards of solid red fabric
- 2/3 yards of a blue print fabric
- GO! A Tree for All Seasons pattern
- Fabric pen/marker
To create each block, follow the pattern, substituting a fifth tree block in place of a solid background block.
I chose to piece five blocks, one for my parents and one for each of their children. The center tree is the block for my mom and dad. My name and my siblings’ names are on the leaves. The year of their marriage is below the tree. Then, each of the four outer trees represents one child - plus, their spouse, children, and grandchildren.
The block for my brother’s family is pictured below. His name and his wife’s name are at the base of the tree and their children and grandchildren are in the leaves. I followed the same format for all four outer blocks.
Before I began writing on the blocks, I pieced an extra tree trunk so that I could try out the placement of names and test out my fabric markers.
I put a scrap of freezer paper on the back to stabilize the fabric while writing on it.
These are the pens I use most often for writing on fabric. I do not recommend Sharpie markers as they may run. I heat set all writing with a dry iron.
By writing the names in, it will be easy to add more names as the family grows. The GO! Tree of Life-14" Finished Die has a lot of leaf shapes, making it perfect for a project like this!
What Does Your Family Tree of Life Quilt Look Like?
My mom was thrilled with her Family Tree of Life quilt, and I hope she enjoys it for many years to come. It's a wonderful way to document a growing family and makes a perfect heirloom gift.
