The Story Behind Kisses from Norway
If you've been following Scandiquilts for a while, you probably know that I love finding inspiration in traditional Norwegian knitting patterns. And my new quilt pattern, Kisses from Norway, is no exception!
Inspired by Norwegian knitting traditions
Traditional Norwegian sweaters are often knitted using two contrasting colors, with small geometric motifs repeated in rows to create decorative borders. Some of these patterns have been passed down through generations and are still widely used today.
One of the most iconic examples is the Setesdal sweater, which has its roots in the traditional men's folk costume (bunad) from the Setesdal valley in southern Norway.
(Photo: Norwegian man in Setesdal bunad, photographer: Anders Beer Wilse / Norsk Folkemuseum. Public domain)
Among its many decorative patterns is a simple border of Xs and Os. And the funny thing is, you'll find variations of this motif in traditional textiles and decorative arts all over the world! It's such a simple, repetitive design that it almost feels like a universal building block of pattern making.
And of course, XOXO is also a familiar way of saying "hugs and kisses" in English! I loved the idea of combining this sweet little expression with a traditional Norwegian pattern, and that's how the name Kisses from Norway came about.
And wouldn't it make a lovely gift for someone you love?
From knitting stitches to quilt blocks
To recreate the Xs and Os, I started with one of my all-time favorite quilt blocks: the nine-patch. It's simple, versatile, and so much fun to play with!
The blocks are made using strip piecing, a technique that makes the sewing both quicker and more accurate. Once the blocks are finished, they're joined with sashing strips to create the repeating borders inspired by Norwegian knitwear.
The result is a quilt that's beginner-friendly and surprisingly quick to put together. I cut all my fabrics for the small throw on a Saturday and pieced it the next day. A fun weekend project.
Every fabric gets its turn!
One of my favorite things about this pattern is how the fabrics take turns playing different roles.
Each fabric is used as the background in one row and as the X and O motifs in another. This means you'll need the same amount of each fabric, making fabric shopping and planning wonderfully straightforward.
You can go bold with contrasting colors to really make those Xs and Os pop, or choose fabrics with similar values for a softer, more subtle look.
Kisses from Norway comes in three sizes: Baby, Small Throw, and Bed, and I can't wait to see all the different fabric combinations you come up with!
Whether you're making it for yourself or someone special, I hope your quilt brings a little extra warmth, comfort, and love.
Hugs and kisses from Norway! ❤️
