You own an embroidery machine, and you want to make a quilt. But finding machine embroidery designs that actually work for quilting can be frustrating. Many patterns are too small, lack clear instructions, or don’t fit your hoop. You end up spending more time figuring out the process than sewing.
The best quilt designs for embroidery machine projects combine clear step-by-step directions, multiple file formats, and techniques like stitch-and-flip or edge-to-edge quilting. They save you time and produce professional results. A good design also accounts for fabric choices and hoop sizes upfront.
We’ve tested five top options. They range from complete in-the-hoop quilt projects to books of designs and edge-to-edge patterns. Whether you’re a beginner wanting a finished wall hanging or an experienced quilter looking for continuous designs, there’s something here for you.
Here is a quick comparison of key specs to help you decide.
| Features | Home Town Quilt | Autumn Love Quilt | Piece in the Hoop Book | Cup of Cheer | Edge-to-Edge Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Complete in-the-hoop quilts | Three sizes, seasonal theme | 20 projects, 40 designs | Holiday advent calendar quilt | Edge-to-edge quilting patterns |
| Quilt Sizes | Wall 37.5×42, Lap 55.75×63 | Wall 37.5×42.5, Lap 56×63.5, Full 65.25×74 | Various small to lap | 42×58 inches | Depends on hoop size |
| Hoop Sizes Req. | 6×10 or 8×12 | 6×10, 8×12, 9×14 | Mixed up to 8×12 | 4×4, 5×7 | 5×9, 6×11, 7×13 |
| Formats | 8 formats (PES, DST, etc.) | 8 formats (PES, DST, etc.) | Not specified | 9 formats + SVG | ART, DST, EXP, HUS, JEF, PES, VIP, VP3 |
| Technique | Stitch & Flip, machine applique | Stitch & Flip, embossing | Piece in the hoop | Applique, glitter, 3D features | Edge-to-edge quilting |
Lori Holt Home Town Quilt
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Lori Holt Home Town Quilt – in-The-Hoop Machine Embroidery Project – 2 Quilt Sizes Included – Customized Embroidery Stitches & Quilting Techniques – Formats: DST, EXP, HUS, JEF, PES, VIP, VP3, XXX
CREATE TWO GORGEOUS QUILTS IN-THE-HOOP – Make both a Wall Quilt (37.5" x 42") and a Lap Quilt (55.75" x 63") using your embroidery machine. Choose the size that fits your hoop: 6x10 or 8x12 maximum stitch area required.
Buy on AmazonThis project is for quilters who want a complete, structured in-the-hoop experience. You stitch each block using the stitch-and-flip technique, then assemble the whole quilt on your domestic machine. The two included sizes let you start with a wall quilt (37.5×42) and move up to a lap quilt (55.75×63) if your hoop allows.
The standout feature is the custom embroidery stitches by Lori Holt. They add real dimension with quilt block fills, embossing, and decorative stitching that typical applique can’t match. The files are pre-digitized with 8 formats covering most machine brands, so you likely won’t face compatibility issues.
The trade-off is hoop size. You need a 6×10 or 8×12 maximum stitch area. If your machine only takes a 5×7 hoop, this won’t work. Also, the final assembly requires a sewing machine – it’s not fully in-the-hoop. But that’s standard for this type of project.
- Two quilt sizes: wall 37.5×42, lap 55.75×63
- Requires 6×10 or 8×12 hoop (max stitch area)
- 8 file formats: DST, EXP, HUS, JEF, PES, VIP, VP3, XXX
- Custom decorative stitches by Bee in My Bonnet
- Uses stitch-and-flip and machine applique techniques
Best for: Sewists who want a reliable in-the-hoop project with exclusive embroidery designs and clear steps.
Lori Holt Autumn Love Quilt
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Lori Holt Autumn Love Quilt – in-The-Hoop Machine Embroidery Project – 3 Quilt Sizes Included – Stitch & Flip Technique + Embossing Details – Formats: DST, EXP, HUS, JEF, PES, VIP, VP3, XXX
CREATE THREE QUILT SIZES COMPLETELY IN THE HOOP – Includes wall (37.5" x 42.5") using a 6x10 hoop, lap (56" x 63.5") using an 8x12 hoop, and full (65.25" x 74") using a 9x14 hoop.
Buy on AmazonThis is a great pick if you want more size options. It includes three quilt sizes: wall (37.5×42.5), lap (56×63.5), and full (65.25×74). The full size requires a 9×14 hoop, which is less common, but the lap and wall sizes work with standard 6×10 or 8×12 hoops.
The autumn theme features warm colors and the same high-quality custom stitches as Home Town. You get stitch-and-flip applique plus embossing details that give each block a handcrafted feel. The files come in 8 formats, so compatibility is broad.
One limitation: the full size version needs a large hoop. If your machine can handle it, you save hours of piecing time. But many home machines top out at 8×12, so check your hoop before buying. Also, like all in-the-hoop projects, you finish assembly on a sewing machine.
- Three sizes: wall, lap, full (up to 65.25×74)
- Requires 6×10, 8×12, or 9×14 hoop
- Same 8 file formats as Home Town
- Custom embroidery stitches with embossing
- Stitch & Flip applique technique
Best for: Quilters who want a larger finished quilt and prefer autumn colors.
Piece in the Hoop Book
Krause Publications
Piece in the Hoop: 20 Quilt Projects + 40 Machine Embroidery Designs
Buy on AmazonThis book from Krause Publications offers 20 quilt projects and 40 machine embroidery designs. It’s aimed at beginners who want to learn in-the-hoop piecing without committing to a large quilt. The projects are smaller – likely wall hangings and toppers – so you can practice on a modest budget.
The value is the variety. Twenty different projects means you can try different block patterns and techniques. The book format provides printed instructions, which some people prefer over digital files. The designs probably come on a CD or as a download code, but the Amazon listing doesn’t specify formats, so check the product details before purchase.
A trade-off: you may need to buy stabilizer and fabric separately. Also, the designs may not be as elaborate as the Lori Holt collections. But for someone just starting out or wanting quick projects, this is a solid choice.
- 20 quilt projects and 40 embroidery designs
- From Krause Publications
- Suitable for various hoop sizes (check specific designs)
- Digital files likely on CD (verify format compatibility)
- Covers piecing in the hoop technique
Best for: Beginners who want multiple small projects to build skills.
Kimberbell Cup of Cheer
Kimberbell
Kimberbell Cup Of Cheer Featured Quilt Machine Embroidery Design CD, 25 Interactive Designs, Complete Size 42x58”, 14 Advent Pieces, Easy Step-By-Step Instructions, Hoop Sizes: 4x4 & 5x7”, Made in USA
EMBROIDERY PROJECT: 42 x 58” Cup of Cheer design. Celebrate the wonder of the holiday season with a quilted advent calendar!
Buy on AmazonThis is a specialized holiday advent calendar quilt measuring 42×58 inches. It includes 25 interactive designs, one for each day of December. The techniques go beyond basic applique: you’ll work with glitter, velveteen, leather, felt, ribbon, and even 3D features like buttons and bells.
The CD provides 9 embroidery file formats plus SVG files for electronic cutting machines. That SVG bonus is rare and useful if you own a Cricut or similar device. The project is designed for 4×4 and 5×7 hoops, which almost all embroidery machines support.
The catch is the embellishment kit, sold separately, that adds the specialty materials. Without it, you’ll need to source your own glitter fabric, velveteen, and notions. Also, the design is very Christmas-specific. If you want a year-round project, look elsewhere.
- Finished size 42×58 inches
- Requires 4×4 and 5×7 hoops
- 9 embroidery formats + SVG for cutting machines
- Techniques: applique, glitter, velvet, leather, felt, 3D
- Made in USA
Best for: Holiday enthusiasts who want a detailed advent calendar with mixed media.
Edge-to-Edge Quilting Book
This 2nd edition from Amelie Scott Designs is different from the others. It provides edge-to-edge quilting patterns, not block designs. You use it to quilt a finished top using your embroidery machine. The designs come in three sizes: 5×9, 6×11, and 7×13, matching common large hoops.
The book includes a serial number to download files in 8 common formats. Expansion packs let you add more designs later. If you have a pieced quilt top and want to do the quilting yourself without a longarm, this is a smart solution. The edge-to-edge method saves time because you don’t reposition the hoop as often.
But it’s not for beginners. You need to know how to hoop large quilt sandwiches and stabilize them properly. Also, the designs are continuous patterns, not individual blocks. If your goal is to make a full quilt from scratch, you’ll still need a separate design for the piecing.
- 2nd edition, Amelie Scott Designs
- Three pattern sizes: 5×9, 6×11, 7×13
- File formats: ART, DST, EXP, HUS, JEF, PES, VIP, VP3
- Expansion packs available separately
- Focus on edge-to-edge quilting technique
Best for: Quilters who already have a pieced top and want to finish it with machine quilting.
How We Chose These Products
We focused on practical value for the average home embroiderer. Every product had to offer clear instructions, multiple file formats, and a technique that saves time over traditional quilting. We looked at both paid designs and free alternatives, but found that free designs often lack the detailed steps and size options that these paid options provide.
The variety of techniques mattered. In-the-hoop projects suit people who want complete block assembly. Edge-to-edge patterns appeal to those who already have quilt tops. We also considered hoop size requirements and format compatibility, because nothing is more frustrating than buying a design that doesn’t fit your machine.
Buying Guide: What Really Matters
Hoop size is the first thing to check. Most embroidery machines come with a 4×4 or 5×7 hoop. In-the-hoop quilt blocks need at least a 6×10 hoop. If your machine takes only a small hoop, stick with the Kimberbell or smaller projects from the Piece in the Hoop book. For edge-to-edge quilting, you need a hoop that matches the pattern dimensions.
File format is another key factor. The big three are PES (Brother/Babylock), DST (Tajima), and JEF (Janome). Most products now include all major formats, but always verify before purchase. Fabric choices also matter – use lightweight cotton for piecing and a good cut-away stabilizer for hooping. Avoid heavy fabrics that shift during stitching.
A common mistake is hooping too tightly. For in-the-hoop quilting, the fabric should be taut but not stretched. Also, always use a fresh needle and test stitch on scrap first. Resources for custom designs include your own digitizing software or sites like Urban Threads and Embroidery Library, but be prepared to pay for quality.
Our Top Recommendation
The Lori Holt Autumn Love Quilt is our top pick. It offers three sizes, exclusive embroidery stitches, and a seasonal theme that appeals to many quilters. The instructions are clear, and the file formats cover nearly every machine. If you have a 9×14 hoop, you can even make a full-size quilt entirely in the hoop.
For a different budget or need, consider the Edge-to-Edge Quilting book if you already have a pieced top. Or go with the Kimberbell Cup of Cheer if you love holiday projects and want to try mixed media. For beginners, the Piece in the Hoop book provides low-risk practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What hoop size do I need for in-the-hoop quilts?
Most in-the-hoop quilt projects require a minimum 6×10 hoop for wall quilts and up to 8×12 or 9×14 for larger sizes. The Lori Holt Home Town and Autumn Love specify these sizes. The Kimberbell Cup of Cheer works with 4×4 and 5×7 hoops.
2. Can I use these designs on any embroidery machine?
Yes, if the file format is compatible. All products here include at least 8 common formats, including PES and DST. But always download a sample file first if the seller offers one, or check your machine’s manual.
3. How do I choose fabric for in-the-hoop quilting?
Use lightweight to medium-weight 100% cotton. Pre-wash to avoid shrinkage. For applique, use a fusible back. Use cut-away stabilizer for hooping – tear-away can distort the stitches. Test the combination on a small sample before starting the real project.
4. Are there free quilt designs for embroidery machines?
Yes, sites like EmbroideryDesigns.com, Urban Threads, and some brand-specific libraries offer free designs. But free designs often lack size options, detailed instructions, or multiple file formats. Paid designs like the ones in this roundup save time and reduce frustration. Use free designs for practice, but invest in paid sets for finished projects.