Last year, I was scrolling Facebook and saw a call for quilts from AQS for a special exhibit in 2026, "Stars, Stripes and Stitches" featuring patriotic quilts and knew that I wanted to create something special for this challenge.  I started scrolling patriotic quilts on Pinterest to see if anything inspired me and found my inspiration.  The image I found had no watermark, the link lead to no where, but I liked that general idea that was displayed.  It was a cross in front of an American flag, but the cross was hourglass blocks, the stripes were all scrappy and the stars were Ohio star blocks.  I liked the idea of it, but wanted to make it something different, something my own.  

So, I got to work in EQ8 and started designing.  I wanted five point stars that had depth. I wanted the cross to have dimension.  I wanted it to speak of not only my patriotic heart, but also my love for Jesus.  

As I was designing this one, my son saw it and asked if he could have it when I finished making it.  He had just turned 20 and was struggling with finding direction in life.  I told him that if he joined the military, then it would be his.  

Wouldn't you know it, he actually joined!  He chose the US Coast Guard and survived boot camp.  He's now loving his job and this has been a great move for him.  He's planning to go into Aviation Mechanics.  Eventually, the quilt will be his.  I plan to keep my word.

As I was working on it, I had quite a few people ask if I planned to write a pattern for it.  I'm relatively new to pattern designing, but I am pleased to say that the pattern for One Nation Under God is complete!  It is currently available as a PDF download and I plan to have physical copies available at my upcoming shows.  

I entered it in the Texas Star Quilter's Guild Show and walked away with the most decorated quilt in the show.  First place in it's division, Press Award, Father Jesu Award, Best Computerized Quiltinng (a HUGE thank you to my amazing quilter, Erika of Off the Frame Quilting), and Viewer's Choice both days of the show.  

Be sure to get a copy of this beautiful quilt pattern today!  A portion of the proceeds will go to benefit Quilts of Valor, in honor of our amazing veterans.  

Stay Creative, y'all!

~Krista