One of the things I love most about quilting is how each quilt tells a story. Today, I’m thrilled to share a particularly special memory quilt with you.
Katie G., a talented maker in the Whole Circle Studio community, recently finished a beautiful throw-size quilt using my popular Bzzzzzz Bee Quilt Pattern. But instead of making a single mini quilt, she stitched together multiple bee blocks to form a larger quilt—and it’s absolutely buzz-worthy!
All photos courtesy of Katie G.
A Modern Memory Quilt
What makes this quilt extra meaningful is the fabric itself. Katie carefully pieced it together using pastel shirts once worn by her sister-in-law’s three sons. Talk about stitching memories into every seam! She even kept the original shirt buttons in the binding, giving the quilt incredible texture and a sweet nod to the origin of the fabric.
In Katie’s words:
“I made the quilt for my sister-in-law using shirts her three sons have worn. The backing fabric was a sheet that matches her favorite childhood bedding — I spotted the vintage sheet on Instagram and was able to buy it from the maker who posted it”
The result? A modern, graphic bee quilt made with recycled fabric that carries deep sentimental value and a soft, vintage-inspired color palette. It’s a cozy, modern quilt full of charm, and memories—proof that recycled fabric can tell a whole new story.
Details That Make This Memory Quilt Sing
Here’s what I especially love about this version of the Bzzzzzz quilt and what makes it a beautiful memory quilt:
- The multiple blocks give it a bold, graphic repeat while still feeling airy and soft.
- The pastel tones from the recycled shirts give it a dreamy, almost watercolor vibe.
- Including shirt buttons adds dimension and charm—such a clever design touch!
- The backing sheet, with its personal backstory, is the cherry on top.
- Longarm quilting by the amazing Mindy of Wild Phil Quilting brings it all together beautifully.
If you’ve ever considered making a memory quilt using repurposed fabric, let this be your inspiration. Katie’s thoughtful approach shows how a modern quilt pattern like Bzzzzzz can be adapted into something truly one-of-a-kind.
Make Your Own Modern Bzzzzzz Bee Quilt
Ready to make your own version of the Bzzzzzz Bee Quilt—as a mini or a throw-size like Katie’s? Whether you’re using brand-new yardage or meaningful scraps from your stash, this modern quilt pattern is a fun and rewarding project for quilters of all levels.
Have you made your own Bzzzzzz quilt?
I’d love to see it! Email me a photo of your quilt when you’re ready to share!
Big thanks again to Katie G. for sharing this heartwarming quilt—and for reminding us that the fabric we use can be full of love and history.
