PANTOGRAPH DESIGNS
My pantograph designs are created with quilting in mind - how a design moves at the frame, how it feels to stitch and how it sits across a finished quilt.
They’re informed by observation, repetition and everyday patterns. Some are playful, some quieter, but all are designed to be usable, adaptable and satisfying to quilt.
My panto portfolio is a growing body of work, shaped by time at the frame and by the quilts themselves.
I design primarily for computerised quilting, while continuing to develop pantographs specifically designed for hand-guided quilting.
How I Design
I design pantographs with quilting in mind - how a line stitches, how it repeats and how it behaves across a finished quilt. Some designs are quick and forgiving, others more detailed or decorative, and each has its own character and rhythm. Over time, I’ve found it helpful to think about the designs in a few broad groups. These aren’t rigid categories, but ways of describing how different patterns tend to quilt and where they feel most at home.
Flowing & Organic designs are defined by continuous movement and softer lines. They create even texture and a gentle rhythm across a quilt and are often a good fit when you want the quilting to support the patchwork without dominating it.
Geometric & Structured designs centre around repeating shapes, clear rhythm, and ordered pattern. They bring structure and balance to a quilt and work well when you want the quilting to echo the piecing or introduce a stronger sense of pattern. These designs are especially well suited to modern and contemporary quilts.
Decorative & Illustrative pantographs feature more playful motifs and decorative patterning. They bring personality and presence to a quilt and suit projects where the quilting plays a visible, expressive role.
There is also a fourth group that I think about slightly differently.
Seasonal & Occasion-led designs overlap with the other groups, but are created with specific moments in mind - from winter and festive quilts to heart-led designs for celebratory or gift projects. These are intended to be used thoughtfully and returned to when the season feels right.
Exploring Designs
Choosing a pantograph isn’t always about finding the perfect design - it’s about finding one that suits the quilt in front of you, the time you have and how you want the quilting to feel.
It’s also worth thinking about your current skill level and machine setup as well. Some designs are more forgiving than others and some rely on more precise setup. When a design matches where you are right now, the quilting process tends to feel calmer, more enjoyable, and more satisfying.
If you’d like a little extra support, I’ve put together a short, practical guide that shares how I approach choosing pantograph designs in real studio practice - including what to look for, and what to leave for another time. Download: The Panto Buying Checklist
Pantograph Portfolio
This website is a studio space rather than a shop. You’re welcome to explore the pantograph designs here, and if something resonates, you can follow the links through to my Etsy shop
NO BACKTRACK
These pantograph designs are created for smooth, efficient quilting at the frame. Built around continuous lines and minimal backtracking, they stitch cleanly and flow easily, making them well suited to projects where time, rhythm, and consistency matter.
They’re a practical choice for everyday quilting, offering reliable results without unnecessary complexity while still creating satisfying texture across the quilt surface.
LEAFY & FLORAL
These pantograph designs are inspired by plant forms, natural growth and the gentle irregularity found in leaves, stems, and floral motifs. They bring a softer, more organic feel to a quilt and create texture that feels lively without becoming busy.
This collection works well when you want the quilting to echo natural movement, add visual interest and sit comfortably alongside both traditional and contemporary patchwork.
GEOMETRIC & MODERN
These pantograph designs are built around repeating shapes, clean lines, and clear rhythm. They bring structure and order to a quilt, creating texture that feels deliberate and balanced.
This collection works particularly well when the quilting is used to echo piecing, reinforce geometry, or introduce contrast through repetition and scale. Designs here can feel bold or subtle depending on how they’re used, making them a versatile choice across many quilt styles.
CELTIC
These pantograph designs draw on traditional cable forms, interlacing lines, and decorative patterning often found in architectural and historical ornamentation. They bring structure and rhythm to a quilt and suit projects where the quilting is intended to play a visible, decorative role. Stitched with care, these designs create strong surface interest while maintaining a sense of balance and continuity across the quilt.
WHIMSICAL
These pantograph designs have a lighter, more playful quality, often featuring characterful motifs or unexpected details. They’re well suited to quilts where a sense of personality and fun is part of the story, while still working as repeat designs that stitch smoothly and sit comfortably across the quilt surface.
HOLIDAY
These pantograph designs are created for festive and holiday quilting, drawing on seasonal motifs, rhythm, and repeat rather than one-off novelty. They’re well suited to quilts made for winter celebrations, gifting, or annual use - designs you can return to year after year. Used thoughtfully, they add seasonal character while still supporting the overall structure and feel of the quilt.
ALL PANTOGRAPHS
SEE ALL PANTOGRAPH DESIGNS IN ETSY
FREE DESIGNS
FREE PANTOGRAPH DESIGNS
NEW DESIGNS
SEE ALL THE LATEST DESIGNS
Work with me
Alongside my existing collections, I take on a small amount of custom pantograph work.
If you have a project in mind, you're very welcome to get in touch with me.