Quilt Inspiration: Celtic Whimsy

Monday, March 9, 2026

Celtic Whimsy

Celtic quilts are a unique art form. They are characteristized by flowing, curvilinear forms — spirals, scrolls, S-shapes, tendrils, and plant-like motifs, made with narrow bias strips. In honor of March and St. Patricks' Day, here are some beautiful Celtic designs (also scroll down for some FREE celtic knot patterns!)

p.s. Check out our E-Bay shop for great bargains on jewelry, clothing, and collectibles! For continuous free quilt patterns, please follow us on Twitter !

Celtic Whimsy, 2027 opportunity quilt by the Tucson Quilters Guild

Winner of Best of Show at the 2026 Quilt Fiesta, along with 1st Place in the Group Quilts category. This fabulous medallion quilt is the 2027 opportunity quilt by the Tucson Quilters Guild! The original design features machine appliqued Celtic knots and scrollwork.

Celtic Whimsy was created by Caroline Ellermann, JoAnn Hinchliffe, Karen Kelter, Chris Nelson, Stephanie Nordlin and Beverly Reiter, with binding by Helen Frost and quilting by Penny Boese.

Osgoode Hall by Jean Biddick & Jo Cady-Bull (2006).

Winner of Best of Show at the 2006 Tucson Quilters Guild show, this design is based on a floor in an historic court building in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. There are 4,205 pieces of fabric, 20 yeards of 1/4" bias for the Celtic applique, and 500 painted squares (each with three coats of ink to get the right color!) The makers, Jean Biddick & Jo Cady-Bull, say: "The best memories are of working together and winning together."