Hi friends!
A couple of weeks ago I posted about a couple of sew alongs- or quilt alongs- and I have been having a lot of fun making my Stitch Pink blocks (click here for all the Quilt Alongs I am taking part in).
Block 15 – lots of pink quilt colors
Moda is posting a new block every day this month and because of that, I get to sew a little bit every day. In spite of having a quilt business, I don’t always get to sew everyday. Sometimes it can be a week before I can get back into the sewing room!
Of course, right now, I have a HUGE pile of quilts that I have to get done in the next month and yet, this is when I decided to jump in on a sew along and make a new block everyday!
Block 17 – strong value contrast
One of things that I have learned while making these blocks, is that they are a great way to experiment with quilt color and value.
This block has a strong contrast in value between the medium and dark and the light but less between the medium and dark.
Block 14 – purple quilt colors
The instructions for each block shows the fabrics and colors that the block designer used. I am using a primarily pink and white color scheme in honor of the theme of blocks for breast cancer awareness, but I am using lots of variation to that color scheme. Like purple and coral.
On Instagram, one person said my version of block 14 reminded them of the Cheshire Cat!
And I don’t always follow the block plan exactly. This last block I made is a prime example!
Block 20 – an experiment in value!
This is the block as it was designed. It uses more than 3 fabrics but has 3 values, light, a light medium and a dark.
The dark fabric really stands out and you can see the strong diagonal design.
I used 3 quilt colors; a light, a medium and a dark. But my medium is more dark than light and it totally changes the look of the block!
My medium and dark blended almost into one element and created this boxy feel to the design. The strong diagonal element from the original block is less noticeable.
I wasn’t sure at first if I liked my version or not. I decided that I do!
Since, for this sew along, I am using bits of fabrics from my stash, I have allowed myself to experiment or not, depending on my mood and the block! And, if the block does not turn out in a way that really thrills me, oh well, I learned from it. It’s still a good block and will look great in this sampler quilt!
This is a great way to play with color and value and see how it changes the look of a block. I am allowing myself to play, to experiment and to fail!
Though I am not trying to fail. I am just allowing the idea that each block doesn’t have to be the most amazing block ever.
So, if you feel you need to practice with quilt colors and value and don’t want to practice with a whole quilt design, using your stash with a few free sew along blocks and experimenting with each block is a great way to play!
Do you participate in sew alongs? Do you chose all the fabrics ahead or use your stash? Post your thoughts in the comments!
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happy quilting!
Kate