Machine Quilting a La Petite École Quilt: Custom Quilting Course
By Piece N Quilt | Published: 2026-11-02
Category: How-to Guides
Learn a repeatable custom quilting plan for the La Petite École Quilt, with a step-by-step approach from Natalia Bonner's PNQ Academy course.
Quick answer
Use a custom quilting plan that enhances the La Petite École Quilt's playful details with texture and movement. Start by watching Natalia Bonner's PNQ Academy course, then follow the ordered steps below to apply her approach to your own quilt.
Why a custom plan matters for this quilt
The La Petite École Quilt, designed by Natalia for Moda Fabrics, features whimsical fabrics from French General and delicate details. A custom plan lets you emphasize those elements instead of covering them with an allover pattern.
Natalia's course shows her quilting this specific quilt in her studio, so you see how texture and movement can tell the quilt's story. That makes it a practical reference for your own custom work.
When a custom plan is the right choice
Custom quilting takes more time than an edge-to-edge design, so it suits quilts where you want to highlight specific areas or fabrics. If you prefer a faster finish, an allover pattern may be a better fit.
This course is best for quilters who already have basic machine quilting experience and want to see a full custom plan in action. Beginners may find it helpful but should expect a learning curve.
Your step-by-step custom quilting plan
- Watch the course once without quilting: View the entire video to understand Natalia's overall plan for texture, movement, and detail before you start your own quilt. Note the sections where she changes designs; these are your key decision points.
- Map your quilt's focal points: Identify the areas of your La Petite École Quilt that deserve special attention, such as feature fabrics or prominent blocks. Mark these on a sketch or photo so you don't forget them once quilting begins.
- Choose designs that enhance, not overpower: Select quilting motifs that complement the whimsical details and delicate charm of the fabric collection. Test each motif on a small sample sandwich to check scale and thread contrast.
- Plan the quilting path: Decide the order you'll quilt each area to minimize travel and stitch-in-the-ditch where needed. A common mistake is leaving the border until last without planning how to reach it; sketch your path first.
- Quilt in manageable sections: Work through one area at a time, following your plan and adjusting only if the quilt tells you something different. Stop periodically to check the back for tension and stitch quality.
Course details
- Bring the La Petite École Quilt to Life with Custom Machine Quilting: Exclusive PNQ Academy video shows Natalia custom machine quilting the La Petite École Quilt in her studio. You see the actual quilt and fabric collection being quilted, so you can follow her design decisions in context.
Bring the La Petite École Quilt to Life with Custom Machine Quilting
