Celtic Seasons Wall Hanging Pattern

Category:

Quilting

Type:

Home Decor

Item:

Wall Hanging

Skill Level:

Beginner

Basic Skills Necessary:

• Basic sewing, fusing, decorative top-stitching

Pattern Description:

Several years ago my husband and I made our first trip to Ireland. It was a magical journey that didn't last long enough!

Upon returning home, I wanted to commemorate our visit by making a small wall hanging. But I wanted something more elegant and less commercial than the ubiquitous shamrock which brands all things Irish. When I discovered the beautiful Five Circle symbol, I knew I had the makings for a special project.

The Five Circle symbol represents the ancient Celts' knowledge of and reverence for Nature. They divided the year into eight segments which mirrored the agricultural cycles and progression of the seasons.The four outer circles of this design represent the winter and summer solstice and the spring and autumn equinox. The "cross-quarter days" of Imbolc, Beltaine, Lughnasadh, and Samhain occur midway between the four seasonal demarcations, and appear diagonally at each point where the circles join, forming a petal shape.

The Celtic Seasons wall hanging is easy and fun to make. The background fabric is made of random-sized strips of fabric sewn together. The center applique is quilted with decorative satin-stitching, and then lightly stuffed from the back to give it added dimension. If desired, you can stipple or hand-embroider in the "negative spaces" outside the applique.

These instructions suggest using a palette of analogous greens (a classic combination for St. Patrick's Day), but you can use any colors you like to represent winter, spring, summer, and fall.