Sewing a Seahorse Collage Wall Hanging with Ebba

By Quilt in a Day - Helping Quilters Since 1978 | Published: 2026-10-21

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to sew the Ebba Seahorse Collage by Laura Heine into a stunning fabric art wall hanging, with step-by-step guidance and common pitfalls to avoid.

Quick Answer

To sew a seahorse collage wall hanging with Ebba, start by gathering the pattern and a variety of fabrics, then follow the pattern's layering instructions, using a fusible web to secure pieces before stitching. This project is ideal for quilters comfortable with raw-edge appliqué.

Why Choose a Collage Quilt for a Wall Hanging

Collage quilts, like Laura Heine's Ebba seahorse pattern, offer a painterly approach to fabric art. Instead of precise piecing, you build the image with overlapping fabric scraps, which makes each piece unique and forgiving of imperfections.

A wall hanging is the perfect format for a collage quilt because it doesn't need to withstand the wear of a bed quilt. You can use a variety of fabrics, including silks, sheers, and novelty prints, without worrying about durability, and you can finish it with a simple sleeve.

Understanding the Ebba Pattern

The Ebba Seahorse Collage pattern includes a full-sized pattern and complete instructions to finish a 23 x 42 collage quilt. This means you don't need to enlarge or resize—just trace the sections directly onto your fusible web.

Because the pattern is full-sized, it's easier to visualize how the seahorse will come together. However, the size may be larger than a typical wall hanging, so consider whether you want to trim the design or adjust the proportions to fit your space.

Step-by-Step Sewing Process

Gather Materials: Collect the Ebba pattern, a variety of fabrics (cottons, silks, sheers), fusible web, a pressing cloth, and a sewing machine with a walking foot. Ensure you have a design wall or large flat surface to lay out pieces. Check that all fabrics are prewashed if you plan to wash the finished piece; otherwise, use unwashed fabrics to avoid fraying.
Prepare the Pattern and Fusible Web: Trace each section of the full-sized pattern onto the paper side of the fusible web, leaving a small margin. Roughly cut out each piece, then iron the fusible web onto the back of your chosen fabrics, following the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid ironing too long, which can cause the adhesive to bleed through and gum up your iron.
Cut and Arrange the Fabric Pieces: Cut out the fabric pieces along the traced lines. On your design wall, arrange them over the pattern to see how the seahorse forms. Overlap edges slightly to create depth and texture, and trim as needed. Step back and view the arrangement from a distance; this helps catch imbalances before you fuse.
Fuse the Layers: Once satisfied, fuse the pieces to the background fabric using a pressing cloth. Work from the bottom layer up, pressing each piece firmly for the recommended time. Use a dry iron and no steam, as moisture can distort the adhesive.
Stitch the Collage: Using a straight or zigzag stitch, sew around the edges of each fused piece to secure them. You can also add decorative stitching for texture. Work slowly and use a walking foot to prevent shifting. Test your stitch on a scrap first to adjust tension and stitch length.
Quilt and Finish: Layer the top with batting and backing, then quilt as desired—simple straight lines or free-motion echoing the seahorse shape. Trim and bind the edges, then add a hanging sleeve. If you're new to free-motion quilting, practice on a small sample first to build confidence.

Product Spotlight

Ebba Seahorse Collage by Laura Heine: Ebba the seahorse collage pattern by Laura Heine includes full sized pattern and complete instruction to complete the 23 x 42 collage quilt. This means you can start sewing immediately without needing to scale or draft the design, making it ideal for quilters new to collage.
Ebba Seahorse Collage by Laura Heine