Here’s the surprise gift we promised...

Hi there,

We promised you a surprise gift, and today, we’re excited to deliver! 

We have a free pattern and coordinating quilt block to help you celebrate the quintessential summer holiday – Independence Day! July 4th is just around the corner, but these sweet projects should only take you a few hours to complete. 

Freedom Block Table Runner Pattern and Coordinating Block

July 4th is all about celebrating our country's independence, so in the spirit of freedom, we’ve chosen a freedom block from the Underground Railroad designs.

The Underground Railroad quilt blocks were a covert means of communication used by enslaved African Americans seeking freedom in the 19th century.

These quilt patterns, crafted with intricate designs, carried hidden messages and codes to guide escapees along the Underground Railroad—a network of secret routes and safe houses leading to free states and Canada. 

Each block held specific meanings: for example, the "Monkey Wrench" signaled escape preparations, while the "Log Cabin" indicated a safe house.

These quilts were discreetly displayed on clotheslines or fences, blending seamlessly into daily life to avoid suspicion from slaveholders and authorities. 

The use of quilt blocks highlights the ingenuity and resilience of those fighting for freedom, serving as silent beacons of hope and direction.

Independence Day Table Runner Pattern

For our gorgeous, modern table runner, we’ve used the Bear Paw pattern, which was sometimes used to help fugitives follow the path of the bear, and to identify landmarks on the edge of the plantation.

We’ve created a red, white, and blue interpretation of the Bear Paw that will look stunning on your holiday table. 

Bonus Gift: Independence Day Quilt Block Pattern

Simply share our newsletter with a friend and you’ll instantly receive an email with your Independence Day Quilt Block Pattern.

Our coordinating Independence Day quilt block is an interpretation of a North Star pattern designed to instruct slaves to follow the North Star to Canada and freedom.

You can use this block for a lovely patriotic quilt, but we think it’s perfect for a potholder or hot plate pad to complement the table runner. 

NOTE: If you’d like to make the Independence Day quilt block into a potholder, here’s a simple tutorial that will take you just a few minutes to follow. 

If you decide to make either of these projects, we’d love to see your final product! Please send us pictures to [email protected].

Peace, Love, and Quilting,

The Quiltdom Press Team