June has been a busy month around here. A lot going on, and my sewing table is emblematic of the busy-ness with a broad variety of projects I've been working on as well as yet-to-be-started. We've had stunning weather and I've been trying to get out and soak it up as much as I can. It's definitely a worthy distraction!
Sewing Projects: Quilt Block Challenge Update
I've finally started putting my 2023 RBD Quilt Block Challenge blocks together into a sampler quilt. As you can see, I'm coming up with my own layout.
I really like how it's going - but I was having second thoughts about the red chain blocks, wondering if I should have used the pewter colored gingham instead so that the neutral would have let the blocks pop a little more.
After stewing about it for a whole night, wondering if I should unpick all of my progress, I gave it a fresh look in the morning and decided to leave it. I'll probably do blue borders to off-set the red heaviness.
I plan to write up the instructions and share them - but give me another month to get it finished, quilted and those instructions written.
The July Perfectly Pieced box from ME Time Delivered arrived this week. This month's fabric bundle includes a custom curated charm pack and coordinating yardage.
You can see the July box preview and block + project ideas here. I'm planning to start playing with them today. I'll share what I've made next week!
Another fun project kit from Baby Lock on my cutting table right now is a new Lori Holt mini quilt using her Bee Ginghams collection. I'll be sharing the finish + more details on this one too.
Also on my cutting table is this basket of orange peel applique quilt blocks that I've been working on every summer for over a decade. They are laid out and stacked in rows ready to sew. All I need to do at this point is sew them together.
I keep saying this year after year, but THIS is the year I'm really going to finish this quilt!
And here is the reason (well, one of them) why I'm behind on so many other things:
my improv log cabin squirrel project. (You can see the block origins here.) These blocks are the funnest way to use up scraps and they're SO dang addicting!
I started these blocks using the scraps left over from my latest Fast Churn Dash Quilt.
We've had the most gorgeous weather you could ask for. Not too hot - absolutely perfect. This is another reason my sewing room has been a little bit neglected. I've been trying to get out into the foothills and mountains to enjoy the amazing scenery that's going on right now.
We had an exceptional amount of snowfall this past winter - which was much needed. As a result, the hills are extra green and the wildflowers are especially abundant. It's so beautiful! We also still have snow-capped peaks because the temperatures haven't heated up too fast. (That will likely change next week though.)
This is a spot in the foothills a few miles from my house. It's the site of an abandoned homestead from a century ago. The owners planted poppies near their home and they've gradually spread through the surrounding hills. This year the poppies were extra plentiful and beautiful.
So naturally I took a quilt with me on our hike to the poppies. As one does. 😉 Because how can you pass up on a backdrop like that?
You can read more about the Fast Churn Dash quilt here and find links to the pattern. Fast Churn Dash pattern available in PDF and Paper options.
So, while I'm in the mood to sew, I'm also allowing myself to soak up the summer loveliness this time of year - especially before the heat rolls in. Because then it's back to staying inside again. And more time to sew. 😉
Nancy says
Hi Amy, I completed the "Fly the Flag" quilt and now I'm currently working on the free pillow pattern you offered. I'm using the leftovers. Thank you for the free pattern.
Amy says
Oh, that's awesome! I'm so glad to hear!
Patricia England says
Your Riley Blake quilt is lovely. I have all my blocks done and I like your layout as the bedrunner is not something that I want to do.
Judy Kopp says
I love your blog. Thanks you so much for the free patterns, as well as your sale patterns. I have bought several, and am very happy with them. I also like your family stories and your positive attitude. Thank you so much for being you.
Amy says
Thank you, Judy! That means a lot. xo
Janet Taber says
Oh, those poppies with snow-topped mountains in the background — what an AMAZING setting for the churn-dash quilt! If I as in Utah, I’d have to see that sight over and over again!!! I love your red chain setting - it doesn’t photograph as being dominant. Not at all! Beautiful work!
Amy says
That's great feedback. I think I can always use another set of eyes. Thanks Janet!
Nancy says
I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the red chain block with the blue center! It’s perfectly beautiful! 🤩 I’m working on the blocks using your delightful Portsmouth fabric too. And I’m making a throw quilt instead of the bed runner. I’ll have to show you when I’m finished ❤️. Thank you for designing this fabric for me to enjoy! God Bless!
Cecilia Young says
Spectator flowers and scenery!!
Kathy L ENSMINGER says
Happy 4th of July! This is a beautiful version of the blocks. I am looking forward to seeing your finished work! I plan to use your layout and looking forward to the instructions! Thank you for sharing your project 😊 Kathy
Sheri says
I am in Salt Lake County - can you share where the red poppies are located or is it private property?
Amy says
It's in the foothills in Alpine. We parked at the Lambert Park North Trailhead (you can find it on Google maps). They're usually at their peak in June, so they may be past their prime by now. But definitely put it on your calendar for next year!
Sheri says
Thank you