Independence – Converging Paths Quilt

History, symbolism, and storytelling have long been woven into textiles, and this collection reflects that tradition with care and intention. Created in anticipation of the United States’ upcoming 250th birthday(the Semiquincentennial), the Independence fabric collection looks back to the nation’s beginnings with respect.

Inspired by the founding of the United States of America and the imagery of the American Revolution, the Independence fabric collection honors the past while offering a style that feels timeless and relevant for today’s makers.

Hey there, it’s Kelly Renay here. To let the fabric take the lead, I paired the Independence fabrics with my upcoming quilt pattern, Converging Paths. The design was chosen to quietly support the collection’s imagery, color story, and sense of unity, while allowing the center panel to remain the focus.

A Timeless Palette

The Independence collection blends red, white, and blue in refined, modern tones that feel grounded and intentional. A rich red is paired with shades of blue ranging from a cool-toned navy to a lighter blue-gray, alongside soft gold, ivory, and cream accents. Used together, the palette creates contrast and clarity while maintaining a timeless, heritage-inspired feel.

Iconic Imagery of the American Revolution

The collection features a wide range of historically inspired imagery, including Revolutionary-era soldiers and cannons, the Liberty Bell, a Continental Navy ship, the 1776 U.S. flag, the American Eagle, war drums, and bugles. Plus architectural landmarks such as Mount Vernon, Independence Hall, Monticello, and the Three Sisters. Elements like the “United We Stand” ribbon, the Declaration of Independence scroll, and a crest marked 1776 are woven throughout the prints, creating a cohesive tribute to the nation’s beginnings.

Center Focus: The American Eagle Panel

At the center of this Converging Paths quilt is the American Eagle panel, used in place of the traditional center block. Set against a deep blue background and framed like a seal, the panel is anchored by a United We Stand ribbon and dated July 4th, 1776. It provides a strong yet understated centerpiece, allowing the symbolism to remain clear while the surrounding piecing adds structure and movement.

Showcasing the Fabric Through Design

The Converging Paths quilt layout was chosen to support the fabric rather than compete with it. The Converging Paths Quilt Pattern will be releasing in late February and includes an alternative center option for showcasing panels like the American Eagle used here.

Strips radiate inward from all four sides, creating visual pathways that lead the eye toward the center. While the corner blocks form eight-pointed stars that echo outward from the panel’s edges. The result is a balanced, symmetrical design that highlights both the structure of the quilt and the story within the fabric.

The Independence collection serves as a meaningful tribute. An invitation to explore the history of the United States of America, created in recognition of the nation’s upcoming 250th birthday.

Through timeless color, carefully illustrated imagery, and symbolic details, the fabrics honor the past while remaining versatile for modern quilting projects. This Converging Paths quilt is one way to showcase the collection’s story. What will you make with the Independence collection?