Today I’m excited to share that the Diffraction digital quilt pattern is complete and available in the Quilting Jetgirl digital pattern shop.
The Diffraction pattern includes instructions to make two versions of the baby size (40″ x 40″) cover quilt as well as 2 alternate baby quilts, a large lap quilt, and a queen size quilt.
Inspired by an improv mini quilt I made in June 2018, I wanted to challenge myself to expand the idea and achieve greater piecing precision. The solid, two color, high contrast palette strips down the design for maximum graphic impact.
Fabrics & Materials
To make my version of the Diffraction quilt, which I entered into the two color challenge at QuiltCon 2019, I used Kona Cotton in Nightfall and White and coordinating 50wt Aurifil thread #2784 (Dark Navy) and #2024 (White).
Quilting
I quilted ribbon candy between the rays of the Diffraction Block. To help emphasize the central “X” shape that is created, I quilted vertical lines to help separate the shape. Echo quilting in the corners helped fan out the design. But most importantly, I quilted around each “ray” line to stabilize the quilt as a first step, which was also very beneficial for tackling the bulky corners where 3 blocks join together.
Diffraction Pattern Details
The Diffraction quilt pattern creates a modern two-color baby quilt while helping you hone your precision piecing skills. The pattern offers a detailed, step by step piecing tutorial and also includes additional layout options to inspire you to make larger, dynamic quilts. The possibilities with the Diffraction block are almost endless! In addition to the cover quilt option, the pattern also includes materials and cutting instructions for 2 alternate baby quilts, a large lap quilt, and a queen size quilt.
Diffraction is on sale in my pattern shop as a digital pattern at a special introductory price of $10 through Friday, April 9th. Once you make a Diffraction quilt of your own, you can share it via social media using the hashtag #DiffractionQuilt.
THANK YOU!
I would like to thank Cheryl from Meadow Mist Designs for her technical editing, advice, and consultation throughout the pattern writing process. When I was testing out the idea, Cheryl made a test block which really showcases the fun possibilities of the design (see below).
Alternate Options

Diffraction Block by Cheryl Brickey
Diffraction is made using traditional piecing methods. Because the slice and insert method used inserts 1″ strips, it’s a perfect design for featuring fun background prints, like the test version of the block that Cheryl @meadowmistdesigns made above. Cheryl also opted to use a gradient of colors for the pieced rays, creating additional interest to her version!

Diffraction – Ardell @rosecityquilter
Ardell @rosecityquilter‘s version of the Diffraction quilt also showcases a fun background print!
Remember, you can get the Diffraction pattern on sale in my pattern shop for only $10 through Friday, April 9th.
Isn’t it such a feeling to see your design interpreted by others? I would never have thought about a patterned background but wow, Cheryl’s sure made my brain explode! I love the various layouts you show on the pattern back—lots of possibilities and well, b&w with lime as Ardell did (whose shop I’ve frequented when I lived in Alberta) is awesome every single time!
waouh, great!!! big choice for the layouts!
Wow that is so beautiful. Is it paper pieced? It looks really hard, but I’m sure you provide good instructions. I love the cyberpunk look of the Rose City Quilter’s version!
I have just been looking at fireplace tiles with a similar design – there is something eye-catching and pleasing about those fine lines radiating outwards. Isn’t it cool to see how much fabric choices can change the feel of your design?
Very fun pattern! Using a patterned background gives the block a very different look. Congrats on the new pattern release.
I really love this – all the possibilities!!