zozee

A few ideas cross my mind here:

For the Minnie quilt, curved lines from corner to corner in each blue block. a big X through each 4-patch. You can draw the curves on using a paper plate cut into a semicircle template. Draw with chalk Or Crayole Ultra Washable marker.

For the patriotic one, a large serpentine stitch going horizontally to mimic a waving flag.Or stars all over, of varying size. They are easy to FMQ and forgiving when done in various sizes all over, connected by loose curvy lines.

klswift

I like to do a diamond pattern. I think it has the least bulk for the harp. And, if you are not using a batting (which I assume since you are having a fleece backing), you might be able to do every other block with the diamond. Try it that way first because you can always go back and add the other rows. As for the fleece, good luck. I dislike working with fleece on anything because of its willingness to stretch every which way.

Chris G

I use fleece backing for all of my donation quilts. I use a regular length quilting stitch, but loosen the tension a little. Any straight line quilting works best...and the serpentine stitch comes out fabulous.

wildyard

I also use fleece backing on all my comfort quilts. I lengthen my stitch to 3, and I adjust the pressure foot to a lower setting. If I have to piece the fleece backing, I use a very narrow and long zigzag stitch to prevent the thread from breaking should it accidentally be stretched. I usually go with width of 1 and length of between 3 and 4. Since the fleece is fluffy, this slight zigzag is not noticeable at all in the final seam.

DJ

I see you got your ideas nailed down. The quilts are so nice!

Taughtby Grandma

I like both tops, very pretty.

yolajean

If you do the "inner" curve on each square, you may do the pattern in a long row and then turn and come back doing the same thing. Then do the same going in the next direction. Very easy but looks like a flower with 4 petals around each seam. Good luck. They are beautiful.