Walking through a quilt shop is a feast for the eyes, but have you ever stopped in front of a large, beautifully illustrated piece of fabric and wondered, "What would I even do with that?" Don't worry, you aren't alone - many quilters admire this type of material, known as a fabric panel. The good news is that its potential is nearly limitless! Far more than just a shortcut, a panel is a versatile foundation for all sorts of creative projects. It can be the star of a quilt, a quick piece of wall art, a stylish tote bag, or a set of decorative pillows. This guide will show you all the amazing things you can create with fabric panels.

Key Takeaways

• ➤Use a Panel as a Creative Head Start: Fabric Panels provide a beautiful, ready-made centerpiece for your project. This saves you time on intricate piecing, making them perfect for crafting quick gifts or for anyone new to quilting.
• Always Prep Before You Cut: The secret to a polished finish is preparation. Take a moment to press your panel, measure the actual printed design, and square it up to ensure any borders you add will fit perfectly.
• Think Beyond the Quilt Frame: A single panel is incredibly versatile. Use one to create custom home decor like pillows and wall art, sew a stylish tote bag, or craft an adorable cut-and-sew stuffed toy.

What is a Fabric Panel?

Have you ever come across a stunning piece of fabric that tells a story all on its own? That is the magic of a fabric panel! Think of it as the perfect launching pad for your next creative project. Essentially, fabric panels are pre-printed sections featuring exquisite designs, illustrations, or harmonized patterns, just waiting for your unique flair to make them shine.

These panels often showcase themed artwork, from charming holiday scenes and whimsical animals to breathtaking landscapes and intricate floral motifs. Instead of spending hours piecing together tiny squares to create an image, the picture is already there. All you have to do is add your unique creative touch with borders, quilting, and other fun embellishments. They’re a quilter’s best friend for making a big impact with less piecing, giving you a stunning centerpiece that looks like it took ages to create. Whether you're making a quilt, a wall hanging, or even a set of decorative pillows, a panel gives you a beautiful foundation to build upon.

A Picture-Perfect Start to Your Project

Fabric panels are a dream come true for anyone looking for a quick and satisfying project. Because the panels already feature beautiful artwork, you just need to add the finishing touches! It’s a wonderful way to quickly turn panels into throw quilts and wall hangings without spending weeks on intricate piecing. This makes them perfect for beginners who want to create something stunning right away, or for experienced quilters who need a lovely handmade gift in a jiffy. The central image provides a fantastic focal point, allowing you to play with coordinating fabrics for borders and backing to make it uniquely yours.

Common Panel Sizes and Shapes

Just like quilts, fabric panels come in all sorts of sizes and shapes, so you can always find one that fits your vision. You’ll commonly find rectangular panels that are 24 by 44 inches—the width of a standard bolt of fabric—but they can also be 36 inches long or even larger. It’s always a good idea to check the product description for the exact dimensions before you buy. You can browse our collection of fabric panels to see the variety for yourself! Some panels even come printed to look like a fully pieced quilt top, often called a "cheater" fabric panel, which is the ultimate shortcut to a beautiful finish.

Find a Theme You'll Love

One of the most delightful parts of working with fabric panels is choosing a theme that truly speaks to you. Think of it as selecting the perfect piece of art to build your quilt around. The image on the panel sets the tone for the entire project, guiding your choices for coordinating fabrics, quilting patterns, and even the final purpose of the quilt. Whether you’re crafting a gift for a loved one or a special piece for your own home, the theme is where the story begins. It’s the central idea that ties everything together, transforming a collection of fabrics into a cohesive and meaningful creation.

The variety of themes available is simply astounding. You can find panels that capture the serene beauty of a forest landscape, the whimsical charm of a children’s storybook, or the festive spirit of a holiday. This incredible selection means there’s a panel for every personality, occasion, and style. Are you a traditionalist who loves classic floral prints? There’s a panel for that. Do you prefer modern, graphic designs? There’s a panel for that, too. Exploring the different themed fabric panels is like walking through an art gallery, searching for that one piece that makes your heart sing. It’s an invitation to let your imagination run wild and find a design that perfectly matches the project you envision.

Celebrate the Seasons

There’s something so special about creating quilts that reflect the time of year. Seasonal fabric panels make it easy to stitch up a bit of holiday cheer or celebrate the beauty of nature’s changing cycles. You can find gorgeous panels for every occasion, from spooky Halloween scenes to heartwarming Christmas motifs featuring Santa Claus or serene nativity scenes. Imagine a beautiful autumn-themed quilt draped over your couch, filled with rich colors of falling leaves and plump pumpkins. These panels are perfect for creating festive wall hangings, cozy lap quilts for chilly evenings, or memorable gifts that will be treasured every year when the season rolls around.

Designs Inspired by Nature

Bring the beauty of the great outdoors into your home with nature-inspired fabric panels. These designs are perfect for anyone who loves spending time outside, whether it’s gardening, hiking, or simply admiring the wildlife. You can find breathtaking panels featuring everything from majestic mountain ranges and peaceful woodland scenes to vibrant floral bouquets and intricate botanical prints. Animal-themed panels are also incredibly popular, showcasing everything from noble wolves and colorful birds to charming farm animals. A nature panel can be the perfect focal point for a quilt in a rustic cabin, a sunroom, or any space that could use a touch of natural serenity.

Sweet Themes for Little Ones

Creating a quilt for a baby or child is a true act of love, and a fabric panel can provide the perfect starting point. Panels designed for little ones are filled with sweetness and whimsy, featuring adorable animals, playful alphabet blocks, and scenes from beloved nursery rhymes. These designs make it simple to whip up a quick baby quilt for a shower gift or a cozy blanket for a toddler’s first big-kid bed. Using a kids and baby fabric panel saves time on intricate piecing, allowing you to focus on the quilting and finishing touches that will make it a cherished keepsake for years to come.

Fun with Favorite Characters

Add a dash of fun and nostalgia to your projects with panels featuring licensed characters from movies, books, and television shows. These panels are a fantastic way to create a truly personalized gift for a fan of any age. Imagine the smile on a child’s face when they receive a quilt featuring characters from their favorite storybook, or the delight of a friend who gets a wall hanging celebrating a classic film. From holiday favorites like Dr. Seuss’s The Grinch to timeless storybook friends, novelty fabric panels let you share the things you love through your craft, creating fun and functional fan art.

How to Use Fabric Panels in Quilts

Fabric panels are a fantastic shortcut to a beautiful quilt. Instead of piecing a complex center, you start with a single piece of printed art. But a panel is more than just a time-saver—it’s a canvas for your creativity! Whether you’re making a large bed quilt, a piece of wall decor, or a quick baby gift, a panel provides the perfect starting point. Let’s look at a few of our favorite ways to turn these printed treasures into finished projects you’ll be proud of.

Create a Stunning Centerpiece

Let your fabric panel be the star of the show! Use it for the quilt center and add an inspired border that complements the theme. This is your chance to play with color and texture. Pull your favorite shades from the panel’s artwork to choose coordinating fabrics for your borders. You can add a simple frame or get creative with multiple borders, cornerstones, or even a pieced design like flying geese. It’s a wonderful way to showcase the panel’s artwork and create an impressive quilt with ease.

Make a Statement with Wall Art

Why limit your quilting to blankets? Fabric panels make beautiful wall hangings by simply adding a backing and quilting around the design. This is a fantastic way to add a personal touch to your home decor. You can practice your free-motion quilting by tracing the printed lines or using straight-line quilting for a modern feel. Once it’s quilted and bound, just add a hanging sleeve to the back for easy display. It’s a quick project that delivers a big impact, perfect for brightening up a sewing room or entryway.

Whip Up a Quick Baby Quilt

When you need a heartfelt gift in a hurry, a panel quilt is a lifesaver. Start with a fabric panel featuring a cute baby design, and add borders to create a quick and easy baby quilt. Many are already the perfect size for a crib or playmat, so you don’t need much extra fabric. Just add a simple border to frame the sweet illustration, layer it with soft batting, and choose a cuddly backing like Minky. You’ll have a thoughtful, handmade gift finished in an afternoon.

Think Beyond the Quilt: More Panel Projects

While fabric panels make for a fantastic quilt centerpiece, their uses don’t stop there! Think of them as a creative head start for all sorts of wonderful projects. They’re perfect for when you want to make something beautiful without spending weeks on intricate piecing. From adding a splash of personality to your living room to whipping up a thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gift, a fabric panel can be your secret weapon for a quick and satisfying finish. Let’s look at a few fun ideas that take these printed treasures beyond the quilt frame.

Spruce Up Your Home Decor

Have a blank wall that needs a little love? A fabric panel can become an instant piece of art. Many designs are so lovely that they can be stretched over a canvas frame or simply finished with a binding and a hanging sleeve. It’s a wonderful way to add color and personality to any room. You can also use panels to create decorative pillows. Simply choose a panel with a motif you adore, add a simple backing, and stuff it to create a custom pillow that perfectly complements your decor. It’s an easy project that makes a huge impact.

Sew Stylish Totes and Bags

Carry a piece of art with you by turning a beautiful fabric panel into a stylish tote bag or purse. This is a fantastic way to showcase a larger design that you just can’t bear to cut up. By adding some sturdy interfacing for structure, you can create a durable bag that’s perfect for trips to the farmers market, the library, or your weekly quilt guild meeting. A panel-based tote also makes a thoughtful and personalized gift for a friend. Just add some simple straps, and you have a unique accessory that’s both practical and pretty.

Dress Up Your Dinner Table

Bring a handmade touch to your dining room by transforming fabric panels into charming table decor. A long, rectangular panel can easily become a stunning table runner with just a bit of backing and binding. It’s a simple way to celebrate the seasons or add a festive touch for special occasions. You can also cut larger panels into smaller sections to create a matching set of placemats. Imagine how delightful your table will look with a coordinated set that reflects your personal style. It’s an easy project that will surely impress your dinner guests.

Craft Adorable Stuffed Toys

Some of the sweetest fabric panels are designed to become cuddly friends. Often called cut & sew panels, these prints have all the pattern pieces for a stuffed animal or doll laid out for you. All you have to do is cut along the lines, stitch the pieces together, and add stuffing. It’s a nearly foolproof way to create an adorable toy, making it a perfect project for beginners or a fun activity to do with children or grandchildren. These delightful doll panels make for treasured, handmade gifts that little ones will love for years to come.

Tips for Quilting with Panels

Fabric panels are a joy to work with, but they do have their own quirks. A few simple tricks can make all the difference between a project you love and one that causes frustration. Taking a moment to prepare your panel and plan your design will set you up for success. From squaring up a skewed print to choosing the perfect frame, these tips will help you turn any panel into a masterpiece.

Plan Your Project Before You Cut

Hold those scissors! The most important step is to plan everything out before you cut. Panels can be printed a little off-grain or have different dimensions than listed. Start by pressing your panel and measuring the actual printed design to get its true dimensions. Once you have your measurements, decide how to feature it. Will you add simple borders or incorporate it into a larger quilt top with some pieced blocks? Sketching a quick plan helps you see how all the pieces will fit together and ensures you have enough coordinating fabric.

Frame Your Art with Borders

Think of your fabric panel as art—and every great piece of art needs a beautiful frame! Adding borders is the easiest way to make your panel pop and increase your quilt's size. Choose fabrics that complement the panel without overpowering it by pulling colors directly from the print. A simple, solid border provides a quiet space for the eye to rest, while a fun print adds personality. You can even get creative with pieced borders to give your project a custom finish. The right border turns a panel into a stunning centerpiece.

Common Panel Pitfalls to Avoid

Fabric panels are a joy to work with, but even the most straightforward projects can have a few little hiccups. It’s so easy to get swept up in the excitement of a beautiful new panel and jump right in, but a little patience can make all the difference between a project you love and one that causes a bit of frustration. Taking a moment to plan your cuts, prep your fabric, and dream up a creative layout will ensure your finished quilt is something you’ll be proud to show off. Let’s walk through a few common pitfalls and how to sidestep them with ease.

Cutting Too Soon Without a Plan

The number one rule of working with a fabric panel is to resist the urge to cut it right away! Before that rotary cutter even touches the fabric, it’s essential to have a clear vision for your project. Think about what size you want the final quilt to be and how you’ll get there. Will you be adding simple borders, or do you have a more complex patchwork design in mind? Once you make that first cut, there’s no going back. It’s always a good idea to lay your panel on a flat surface, audition some coordinating fabrics for borders, and take a few measurements. A solid plan for your quilt will save you from any cutting-related regrets.

Skipping Essential Prep Steps

Just like any other piece of quilting cotton, your fabric panel needs a little prep work before it’s ready to shine. A good press with a hot iron will smooth out any wrinkles or creases from shipping, giving you a perfectly flat surface to work with. Sometimes, a panel can be printed slightly off-grain, making it look a bit skewed or “wonky.” Don’t worry, this is an easy fix! As the experts at American Patchwork & Quilting suggest, you can gently stretch the panel along the bias in the opposite direction to help straighten it out. Taking a few moments to press and square up your panel ensures every border you add will fit like a dream.

Missing Creative Layout Ideas

A fabric panel is a fantastic starting point, but it doesn’t have to be the whole story. While adding a few simple borders is a classic approach, there are so many other ways to make your panel quilt unique. Think of the panel as the stunning centerpiece of your quilt and design an inspired border that pulls in colors or themes from the main print. You could frame it with a series of patchwork blocks, like log cabins or flying geese, to create a more dynamic look. There are dozens of creative ways to use fabric panels, so let your imagination run wild! This is your chance to play with different layouts and turn a simple panel into a true work of art.

Our Favorite Fabric Panel Brands

When you start looking for quilt fabric panels, you’ll quickly discover a whole world of wonderful designers and brands. It can be a little overwhelming to know where to start! While there are so many talented creators out there, a few brands consistently deliver beautiful, high-quality panels that are a joy to work with. Think of these as the tried-and-true friends you can always count on for a great project. Whether you’re looking for something sweet and simple for a baby quilt or a bold, artistic design for a wall hanging, these fabric companies are a fantastic place to begin your search. They are beloved in the quilting community for their reliability, gorgeous prints, and fabrics that feel as good as they look.

Quilt Fabric Panels at Missouri Star

Our curated collection of fabric panels for quilting has a little something for everyone! We source designs with every quilter in mind, especially those who are just starting out. You’ll find everything from adorable baby quilt panels that are perfect for a last-minute gift to beautiful seasonal designs that make decorating a breeze. We believe that making a beautiful project should be accessible and enjoyable, and our fabric panel collection is curated to help you do just that!

Robert Kaufman Fabrics

Robert Kaufman Fabrics is renowned for offering a diverse and high-quality selection of quilt fabric panels that serve as stunning focal points for any sewing project. These panels feature a wide array of artistic styles, ranging from intricately detailed digital prints and scenic landscapes to whimsical holiday themes and licensed character designs. Often printed on premium Kona® Cotton fabric, they provide quilters with an efficient way to create visually impressive quilts, wall hangings, or home decor items without complex piecing.

Windham Fabrics

For panels with a touch of charm and whimsy, look no further than Windham Fabrics. This brand offers a delightful variety of designs, from playful patterns that kids will adore to classic motifs that feel timeless and elegant. Windham is known for its high-quality cotton and clear, crisp prints that make each detail pop. Their panels are a joy to work with and are perfect for a wide range of projects, whether you’re making a cozy lap quilt or a decorative pillow. They strike a wonderful balance between classic appeal and fresh, fun designs.

Henry Glass & Co.

When you’re looking for a fabric panel that’s full of personality, Henry Glass & Co. is a fantastic choice. This brand excels at creating fun, themed collections, especially for holidays and seasons. Their playful designs are perfect for crafting unique gifts, festive home decor, and cheerful quilts that are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. The quality of Henry Glass panel fabrics means your creations will not only look great but will also stand the test of time, ready to be brought out year after year. Their panels make it easy to add a splash of seasonal fun to your home.

What to Expect to Pay for Panels

One of the best things about fabric panels is that they offer a huge visual impact without a huge price tag. They are a wonderfully affordable way to start a new quilt, especially when you’re short on time. The cost of a panel can vary depending on its size, design complexity, and fabric brand, but most are quite budget-friendly. This makes them perfect for quilters of all experience levels, from those just starting their creative journey to seasoned stitchers seeking a quick, satisfying project. Thinking about the cost ahead of time helps you plan your project and maybe even leaves a little extra room in the budget for some fun coordinating fabrics!

Understanding Panel Pricing

When you start shopping for fabric panels, you’ll notice prices can range quite a bit. Generally, you can expect to find panels priced anywhere from about $5 to over $20. Most fall comfortably in the $9 to $20 range, which is a fantastic value for what is often the centerpiece of an entire quilt. This variety in pricing means you can almost always find a beautiful design that fits your budget. Whether you’re looking for a simple, sweet panel for a baby quilt or a large, intricate one for a wall hanging, there’s an option out there for you. You can explore a wide variety of fabric panels to get a feel for what’s available at different price points.

How to Snag a Great Deal

Who doesn’t love a good bargain? If you’re looking to build your fabric stash without breaking the bank, it pays to be a savvy shopper. Many quilt shops have special sections on their websites dedicated to sale items, where you can find gorgeous panels at a discount. It’s always a good idea to check these pages regularly, as the inventory is constantly changing. Another great tip is to sign up for your favorite shop’s newsletter. This way, you’ll be the first to know about upcoming sales and special promotions. Finding a great deal on a panel feels almost as good as finishing the quilt itself!

Tips for Saving on Shipping

After you’ve filled your online cart with beautiful panels and fabrics, the last thing you want is a surprise shipping fee. Luckily, many online fabric stores offer ways to save. A common incentive is free shipping on orders that reach a certain subtotal (hint: we offer free shipping on orders of $59 or more!). This is a perfect excuse to stock up on everything you need for your next few projects at once. Think about grabbing not just your panel, but also the backing, binding, and thread you’ll need. Bundling your purchases is a simple and effective way to get more fabric for your money and have it delivered right to your door for free.

How to Choose the Perfect Fabric Panel

With so many beautiful options, picking just one quilting fabric panel can feel like choosing a favorite star in the sky! But don't you worry, finding the perfect one is a joyful part of the creative process. A great panel sets the stage for the entire project, inspiring your color choices, quilting designs, and the overall mood of your finished piece. When you're browsing, keep a few key things in mind, from the fabric's quality to the print's vibrancy. These simple considerations will help you select a panel that is not only stunning but also a dream to work with.

Feel the Difference: Fabric Quality

The foundation of any beautiful quilt is high-quality fabric, and your panel is no exception. Since it’s the centerpiece, you want a fabric that feels as good as it looks and can stand the test of time. Look for panels made from 100% cotton with a smooth, soft hand and a nice weight; it shouldn't feel flimsy or coarse. These pre-printed fabric sections feature detailed designs, so the cotton needs to be a worthy canvas. A high thread count ensures the fabric holds its shape through cutting, piecing, and quilting, giving you a professional-looking finish.

Look for Crisp, Vibrant Prints

A panel’s main job is to provide a gorgeous, ready-made image for your project, so the print quality is paramount. Before you buy, take a close look at the design. The colors should be rich and saturated, and the lines ought to be crisp and clear. Avoid panels with printing that looks blurry, faded, or pixelated, as these issues will only become more noticeable once quilted. Whether you’re drawn to a delicate floral or a bold modern graphic, a high-quality print will make the artwork pop. Many modern digital print panels offer incredible detail and a stunning range of colors, bringing your project to life.

Find Coordinating Fabrics

A fabric panel rarely stands alone; it needs a supporting cast of coordinating fabrics to truly shine! The best way to create a cohesive quilt is to pull colors directly from the panel itself. Hold potential coordinating fabrics up to the panel to see how they interact. Do they complement the main image or compete with it? You can use a fabric panel for the quilt center and add an inspired border that incorporates a theme from the design. Look for blenders, solids, or small-scale prints that match the colors and style of your panel to build a palette that makes your centerpiece the star of the show.

Where to Find Beautiful Fabric Panels

Once you’ve been bitten by the fabric panel bug, the hunt for the perfect design is half the fun! Whether you’re searching for a specific theme or just waiting for a print to speak to you, there are wonderful options available both online and in your own neighborhood. Knowing where to look can help you find that just-right panel to be the star of your next project. From the endless aisles of the internet to the cozy corners of a local shop, your next masterpiece is waiting to be discovered.

Shop Your Favorite Online Retailers

Shopping for fabric panels online opens up a world of possibilities right from your sewing room. The selection is vast, and you can browse collections from designers all over the globe. Here at Missouri Star, we have a delightful assortment of fabric panels featuring everything from seasonal motifs to gorgeous florals and whimsical critters. Online stores make it easy to filter your search by theme, designer, or color, so you can find exactly what you’re looking for in a snap. It’s the perfect way to discover new arrivals and see what’s popular with fellow quilters without ever leaving home.

Visit Your Local Quilt Shop

There’s a special kind of magic in visiting a local quilt shop. You get to see the colors and prints in person and, most importantly, feel the quality of the fabric. Walking through the aisles can spark so much inspiration, and you might even stumble upon the perfect coordinating fabrics for your panel right on a nearby shelf. The friendly faces at your local shop are also a wonderful resource. They can offer brilliant advice on how to use a panel and might even know about unique panels that aren't widely available online. It’s a wonderful way to support a small business and connect with your local quilting community.

What to Know Before You Buy

Before you click “add to cart” or carry a panel to the cutting counter, there are a few things to keep in mind. Panel prices can vary, typically ranging from around $8 to over $20, depending on the size, designer, and complexity of the print. Always double-check the listed dimensions to ensure the panel fits your project plans. When shopping online, keep an eye out for shipping costs and look for special promotions, like our Quilting Daily Deal, to get the best value. It’s also a great idea to see if there are coordinating fabrics in the same collection, which makes building a beautiful quilt top a breeze.

Related Articles

• ➤A Quilter's Guide to Robert Kaufman Textiles
• ➤Color Commentary: The Quilter’s Guide to Choosing Colors with Confidence
• ➤Pro Tips for Buying Quilting Fabric Online
• ➤New Year, New Quilts: Clearing Your 2026 Quilt Pile

Frequently Asked Questions

My fabric panel looks a little crooked. What should I do?

Don't you worry, this is a common occurrence with printed fabrics! Before you do anything else, give the panel a good press with some starch to help stabilize it. If the print is just slightly skewed, you can gently pull the fabric on the diagonal to help straighten it out. When it comes time to trim, focus on squaring up the printed design itself, not the raw edge of the fabric. This ensures the picture will be perfectly straight in your finished project.

How do I choose the right fabrics to match my panel?

The best way to find coordinating fabrics is to let the panel be your guide. Look closely at all the different shades in the print, from the boldest colors to the tiniest accent hues. Take the panel with you to the fabric store, or lay it out with your stash, and pull fabrics that match those colors. A multi-colored print that includes several shades from your panel can be a perfect choice for a border, as it helps tie the whole quilt together.

Is it okay to cut a fabric panel into smaller pieces?

Absolutely! While using a panel as a single centerpiece is a classic approach, there are no rules that say you can't cut it up. You can fussy cut specific elements from the design to feature in the center of patchwork blocks, or you could slice a scenic panel into sections to create a triptych-style wall hanging. Think of the panel as a beautiful, large-scale print that you can use in any way that sparks your creativity.

What's the simplest project I can make with a panel?

For a quick and satisfying finish, a simple wall hanging is a fantastic choice. All it takes is layering the panel with batting and a backing fabric, adding some simple quilting to secure the layers, and finishing the edges with binding. It’s a wonderful project for an afternoon and a great way to add a personal touch to your home decor without committing to a large quilt.

How do I figure out the final size of my panel quilt?

Start by measuring the actual printed image on your panel, as this will be the foundation of your quilt top. Once you have those dimensions, you can decide on the width of your borders. To calculate the final size, simply add the width of your borders to your panel's measurements. Remember to add the border measurement to the width for both the left and right sides, and to the length for the top and bottom.