ABC Challenge

Two ABC Challenge Blocks
Two ABC Challenge Blocks

I really did want to do the Farmer’s Wife Quilt-a-Long, the Summer Sampler Series and the ABC Challenge at BAMQG, but decided that I can’t do everything. I have other projects to get busy on, too. As much as I would like to just make blocks forever, I have to do other things. The most important group block project right now to me is the guild’s ABC Challenge. The group is doing two 12″ blocks every month. I am doing one 6″ block.I want to support the BAMQG, so, finally, after getting behind by 2 letters, I sewed two blocks on Sunday.

I might do two if I have time and find two block patterns I like, then I will do two. For now my parameters are:

  • 6″x6″ blocks
  • One per month
  • Pat Bravo Pure Elements solids
  • Riley Blake Sweet Nothings by Zoe Pearn dot

I didn’t find any blocks I felt like making in my favorite block book, Around the Block, so I pulled out Around the Block Again and Once More Around the Block and found the two blocks I made in the former. I was shocked to find that some of the directions included ‘T5’ and ‘T42’ rather than a number of how to cut the patch. It turns out that there are templates in the back. I assume the author intends me to cut them out and use them that way. Instead I measured them and realized that she used templates, because the sizes are weird: 1 5/8, 2 7/8, somewhere in between 3 5/8 and 3 3/4, etc. I just cut to the nearest larger size and trimmed as I was making the blocks. Perhaps that is why I haven’t used this book much until now?

Basement Window
Basement Window
Air Castle
Air Castle

 

 

 

Yes, the blocks are bright. I want bright and I want to use some of the new fabric I have purchased recently. I may add other prints. I will use more of the Riley Blake/Zoe Pearn dots. For now, I am still experimenting with how much white works and how the solids I have look with each other. The next block may be different.

Some of the blocks that other members made are below.

BAMQG ABC Challenge Blocks
BAMQG ABC Challenge Blocks
BAMQG ABC Challenge Blocks
BAMQG ABC Challenge Blocks
BAMQG ABC Challenge Blocks
BAMQG ABC Challenge Blocks

I have always enjoyed making blocks. I don’t do it enough. As I have been walking past these blocks all week (they are displayed on my design wall) they are making me feel happy. Perhaps they don’t have as much interest as some blocks with other fabrics would, but they are really cheerful and are making me itch to get back to the sewing machine. I wonder what block is next?

Author: Jaye

Quiltmaker who enjoys writing and frozen chocolate covered bananas.

2 thoughts on “ABC Challenge”

  1. Wondering what block is next is one of the most fun parts for me. I have been pouring over Jinny Beyer’s Quilter’s Album of Patchwork Patterns and the Judy Hopkins 501 blocks books flagging pages like crazy. Oh, not to mention how much time I spend on Quilter’s Cache going through those patterns too.

    I love how your blocks came out and can’t wait to see what you make next!

    1. I really enjoy making blocks so this is fun. I am limiting myself to certain books, so I can decide. I can’t wait to see what you come up with next, either!

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