patchwork – Blue Bear Quilts

Posted on September 21, 2023September 20, 2023 by Reed — 2 Comments

Island Batik Ambassador- September 2023 Project- Out of This World Quilt- Part of the Pieced To Perfection Blog Hop

This month’s blog hop is called Pieced To Perfection as the Island Batik Ambassadors will all be making a quilt project using different upcoming fabric collections from Island Batik and paper piecing. I am looking forward to seeing all the wonderful projects that will be created during this month’s Island Batik blog hop, as paper piecing allows such perfect points in your piecing. If you dread paper piecing because of all the paper you have to rip out, be sure to read this month’s post and watch my accompanying YouTube video to see how to do a method that uses freezer paper and then there is no paper that needs to be removed later. This is game changing! Since this month is a blog hop, you can check out the Island Batik blog and enter each week to win a fat quarter bundle of some of the fabrics the Ambassadors are using in their projects. I will show the other fabric collections later in this blog along with a link to the giveaway from Island Batik and links to other ambassador’s blogs.

Check out the fabric I was given to use: Pin Dot Floral by Kathy Engle from Island Batik. Just look at this gorgeous pastel collection of batik fabrics with a floral theme. The Pin Dot Floral collection may be found at your local quilt shop that carries Island Batik, such as Boutique4quilters in Melbourne, FL and Fabric Smart in St. Petersburg FL. This collection should be in your local quilt shop this Fall. You may find them online at https://www.boutique4quilters.com/ or call them at (321) 768-2060 or www.fabric-smart.com or call them at (727) 914-8850. Another online option for you to shop for this fabric would be Hancocks of Paducah: Hancocks of Paducah

The quilt I made is 57″ x 57.” It has various shades of pink, blue and green, along with black and white. The Pin Dot Floral collection has many floral elements like leaves, ferns, berries, flowers and butterflies. I named this project “Out of This World”, as it has a retro spaceship feel to it and there is an optical illusion that gives the quilt a rounded or global image. Making this quilt was easy and fun using the freezer paper piece method. I will have a pattern for the Out of This World quilt available on my website later this fall.

Here is a closeup of the Pin Dot Floral batik bundle I was provided. Aren’t these fabrics just glorious?

I used Electric Quilt 8 software to design this quilt, which is shown in the 1st photo below. The second set of 4 photos, below, are alternative versions of the quilt which I thought of making and they all use the same block. This block is so easy to work with and you can see that it created a stunning array of quilts. The 6th photo, below, is a recolored version of a Quilt of Valor I designed for Love of Quilting magazine a few years ago, which can also be made with the freezer paper piecing method.

The first thing to get started on this project is to get your supplies and tools all lined up. You of course will need some beautiful batiks like the Pin Dot Floral collection from Island Batik. Some Aurifil 50 wt. cotton thread will do a good job of piecing and quilting later on. You will also need pins, a ruler, rotary cutter, cutting mat and some snips. You will need Reynolds Freezer Paper, the plastic coated kind, and an ink jet printer. A nice firm postcard will allow you to fold the template on the line with a nice sharp crease and will provide an edge for the Add-A-Quarter ruler to butt up against. Finally, two optional tools are the Add-a-Quarter ruler and a light box so you can see the lines through the paper for the placement of your fabric. If you want to see, in detail, a demonstration of me using these supplies to make the Out of This World quilt, I will provide a link below to a YouTube video where I show how I made this quilt.

Below is a photo of a completed block. Notice the sharp, skinny, black points you are able to achieve with this method of paper piecing.

It is important that you cut pieces that are large enough to cover the shapes in the block. I measured how big the shape was for covering the first batik piece and then cut strips that size. The upcoming pattern will have the measurements for these strips that need to be cut from the colored batiks and the black and white fabrics.

Next, you press the block pattern, which has been printed onto the paper side of the freezer paper, with the plastic coated side onto the wrong side of the batik. This is what holds the fabric in place while you are sewing. The plastic on the back of the freezer paper template is easily removed later and does not leave a residue on the fabric.

It helps to pre-crease the lines on your block pattern template. You fold the freezer paper template on the first line, on the paper side, with your postcard edge on the line, and then trim the fabric that is sticking out with either an Add-A-Quarter ruler or the 1/4″ line on a regular ruler. This creates a straight edge for you to line up the next piece. The beauty of the Add-A-Quarter ruler is that it butts up nicely against the folded edge of the freezer paper and postcard.

Line up the straight edge of the next black piece with the straight edge of the green piece you just trimmed. I pin it in place so that it does not shift when sewing. The green piece is adhered to the freezer paper, but the black piece is just floating on top of it.

Flip the block upside down so the fabric is now on the bottom and the freezer paper is on top. Fold the freezer paper back so that the trimmed edge of the green is showing. You this stitch along that folded line, right next to the freezer paper template, but not sewing through the freezer paper. The closer you can get your needle to the folded edge of the freezer paper, without the needle piercing the template, the more accurate your finished block will be. Also the more accurate you are in folding the freezer paper template, on the various lines, the more accurate your finished block will be.

Now you press the black onto the plastic side of the template, which will temporarily adhere the black piece to the template.

Next you fold back the template from the paper side, over the edge of the postcard, on the next line in the pattern, which will allow you to trim the black piece so you can add the next green piece.

Repeat across the block until all the pieces are in place. This is what the block looks like before it is trimmed up.

It’s time to square up the block with your straight edge ruler.

Once the block is trimmed up, you can easily peel the template off of the back of the block and reuse the template as many times as it will stick to fabric.

Here’s the block all trimmed up. Now we just need to make 41 more blocks. You can speed up the process by printing multiple templates and then chain piece each of the various steps. These blocks will be done in no time flat.

Once all of your blocks are complete, you will want to lay them out on a bed, or the floor, in a fashion that is pleasing to you. From the alternate quilts I showed above, you can see that this is a versatile block and it can make a variety of interesting quilts.

The absolute best way to paper piece is to actually sew on the lines of the paper, which will give you those perfectly sewn blocks assuming you can sew straight on the lines and don’t mind picking out small bits of paper. This freezer paper method comes pretty close, but these is the possibility of a small margin of error as your 1/4″ may be off or the fabric may slip, etc. Since these blocks have points that need to match up, I wanted to put sashing in the quilt as that would make any slight imperfections not be as noticeable. There is black sashing between the blocks and a row of sashing with cornerstones in between the rows.

The blocks are sewn together in rows with black sashing in between them. Then the strip of sashing with the cornerstones is sewn to the top of the rows.

Then the rows are sewn together in pairs.

Finally the row pairs are sewn together and borders are added and your quilt top is done. Now it is time to quilt it. I wanted to use my walking foot on my Janome 6500. I also wanted to start and stop as little as possible, so I decided to quilt following the design of the black spike triangles with black Aurifil thread.

Next I layered the quilt top, with some Hobbs Tuscany Cotton Wool Blend batting. I love this batting as it lays so nicely and is easy to quilt on a domestic machine, especially when using a brand new Schmetz quilting needle. The Hobbs batting also gives the quilt a nice drape and doesn’t retain any fold creases.

Here are a few more images of the completed Out of This World Quilt.

Below is the image of my YouTube video for making this quilt. Here is a link to the video if you would like to watch it and see more detail of how I made the quilt: Out of This World- Paper Piecing With Freezer Paper

If you like the video, please be sure to give it a thumbs up, share it with your friends and subscribe so you don’t miss any upcoming videos.

The supplies I used to make this project were provided by:

Island Batik Pin Dot Floral collection

Aurifil 50 wt Thread

Schmetz 70/10 Quilting needle

Hobbs Batting Tuscany Collection Cotton Wool Blend Batting

Thank you Island Batik, Hobbs Batting, Aurifil Thread and Schmetz Needles.

Hobbs Batting

If you are on TikTok, be sure to check out the video I have posted about the quilt. (Look for Blue Bear Quilts)

Blue Bear hopes you like this quilt. Please let him know how much you love the this quilt by writing to him in the comments!

The other amazing Island Batik Ambassadors are also posting their September Blog Pieced To Perfection projects. Check out their projects by clicking on the links next to their names to be directed to their blog posts.

WEEK 1

September 5

Elita Sharpe, Busy Needle Quilting

Denise Looney, For the Love of Geese

September 6

Sarah Pitcher, Pitcher’s Boutique

Sandra Starley, Textile Time Travels

September 7

Brenda Alburl, Songbird Designs

Preeti Harris,Sew Preeti Quilts

Connie Kauffman, Kauffman Designs

September 8

Blog Hop Round-Up Week 1 and Giveaway

WEEK 2

September 11

Brittany Fisher, Bobbin with Brittany

Gail Sheppard, Quilting Gail

September 12

Maryellen McAuliffe, Mary Mack Made Mine

Susan Deshensky, Lady Blue Quilts

September 13

Emily Leachman, The Darling Dogwood

Jennifer Thomas, Curlicue Creations

Anorina Morris, Samelia’s Mum

September 14

Claudia Porter, Create with Claudia

Victoria Johnson, Forever Quilting for You

September 15

Blog Hop Round-Up Week 2 and Giveaway

WEEK 3

September 18

Lana Russel, Lana Quilts

Lisa Pickering, Lisa’s Quilting Passion

September 19

Randi Jones, Randi’s Roost

Suzy Webster, Websterquilt

September 20

Pamela Boatright, Pamela Quilts

Leah Malasky, Quilted Delights

Mania Hatziioannidi, Mania for Quilts

September 21

Reed Johnson, Blue Bear Quilts Thanks for stopping by!

Renee Atkinson, Pink Tulip Quilting

September 22

End of Blog Hop + Final Round Up

The final of the Pieced to Perfection Blog Hop giveaways, from Island Batik, started on Sunday, September 17th!

Two lucky winners will each receive a bundle of new collections that will be featured this week – Pin Dot Floral or Park Avenue. Don’t miss out on your chance to add these beautiful batiks to your stash. Enter now during the Pieced to Perfection Blog Hop:

To enter for your chance to win one of the two prizes above, follow the simple Rafflecopter prompts below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway ends on September, 22nd at 11:59 pm PDT. Two random winners will be notified by email on September, 23rd and announced on the Island Batik Facebook page on September, 26th. If the winners do not respond within the first three days after being notified, two new random winners will be chosen. Please check your spam folders! If the winners do not respond within the first two days after being notified, two new random winners will be chosen and notified.

Make sure to follow Island Batik on social media to hop along with the Pieced to Perfection Blog Hop. Be sure to check out the Island Batik Blog.

#islandbatikambassador #islandbatik #paperpiecing #iloveislandbatik #hobbsbatting #aurifil #aurifilthread #schmetzneedles #doyoueq #Janome #tool crazebloghop #electricquilt #eq8 #HancocksofPaducah #fabricsmart #freezerpapermethod.

Posted on May 8, 2023May 7, 2023 by Reed — 9 Comments

Island Batik Ambassador- May 2023 Project- Island Pop Quilt- Part of the Tool Craze Blog Hop

This month’s blog hop is called Tool Craze as the Island Batik Ambassadors will all be making any size project using different upcoming fabric collections from Island Batik and a provided Studio 180 Design tool. I am looking forward to seeing all the wonderful projects that will be created during this month’s Island Batik blog hop. Since this month is a blog hop, you can check out the Island Batik blog and enter each week to win a fat quarter bundle of some of the fabrics the Ambassadors are using in their projects. I will show the other fabric collections later in this blog along with a link to the giveaway from Island Batik and links to other ambassador’s blogs.

I love the fabric I was given to use: Maple Island by Kathy Engle. Just look at this gorgeous collection of blue and green batik fabrics with a woodland theme. The Maple Island collection may be found at your local quilt shop that carries Island Batik, such as Boutique4quilters in Melbourne, FL and Fabric Smart in St. Petersburg FL. This collection should be in your local quilt shop this summer. You may find them online at https://www.boutique4quilters.com/ or call them at (321) 768-2060 or www.fabric-smart.com or call them at (727) 914-8850. Another online option for you to shop for this fabric would be Hancocks of Paducah: Hancocks of Paducah

The table runner I made is 22″ x 46.” It has various shades of blue and green, along with white. The Maple Island collection has many natural elements like leaves, ferns, berries, pinecones and tree bark. I originally was going call this project “Into the Woods”, but ultimately decided to call it “Island Pop” to incorporate the Corner Pop tool into the name. Making this table runner was easy and fun thanks to the Studio 180 Design tools.

Here are several closeups of the Maple Island batik bundle I was provided. The first photo shows the bundle with the Corner Pop tool and the second photo is from one of my Tik Tok videos I made about this quilt. My username on TikTok is BlueBearQuilts.

I used my Electric Quilt 8 software to design this table runner. The first photo is a quilt I thought of doing which uses the Studio 180 Design Split Rects and Corner Pop tools. I decided to go with the table runner in the second photo, which was made with the V Block tool and the Corner Pop tool, as it had less pieces and I think it showcases the Maple Island Collection nicely. I also like the 3d effect that the Corner Pop tool created in the dark green background. Also, another aspect of this project was to make the blocks in various sizes using the Studio 180 Design tools. I really liked how the smaller version of the blocks looked in the border.

The first step in making this table runner is to make the V Blocks aka triangle in a square blocks. Below are the completed V blocks. Don’t they look lovely in the Maple Island Collection? If you want to see in detail a demonstration of me using the Studio 180 Design tools, I will provide a link below to a You Tube video where I show how I made this runner.

The Studio 180 Design V block tool makes it so easy to make these blocks in multiple sizes. The instructions tell you what size strip to cut for the various finished sized blocks. The triangles are cut out extremely accurately using the V block tool. Look how nice this cut out triangle looks.

Next, you cut out the side triangle pieces. they are cut from strips that are the same size as the triangle. When you have the folded strip right sides together you will get the required mirrored image pieces that you need to make the V block.

Cutting triangle sides with V Block tool

It is important to lay out the block before sewing so that you have the left and right side triangle pieces in the correct location. This is not as necessary with batiks, but it is something to be mindful of. A little known fact is that there really is a right side to batik fabrics. You can keep track out the right side of a batik fabric by being mindful of the fold as it comes off of the bolt. The fabric is always folded with the right side on the outside of the folded fabric.

The pieces are easily sewn together by matching the tips on both ends and then sewing 1/4″ along the edge. I pressed mine toward the dark green fabric.

The V blocks are oversized and are easily trimmed up with the tool. Below are pictures of the large and small V blocks all trimmed up. You wouldn’t believe how easy it was to make these blocks in several sizes using the Studio 180 Design V Block tool.

Now it is time to use the Corner Pop tool, from Studio 180 Design, to give the V Blocks some pop in the corners.

The Corner Pop tool has two sections to it. The first section is where you trim off a corner of a previously made block. In my case, the V blocks. This is similar to a stitch and flip method, but with less waste of the fabric. If you know what size square you need to do a stitch and flip, the instructions tell you which line to use to cut off the corners of the block. The instructions also tell you what size squares to cut out and then cut in half diagonally to make the oversized half square triangle corners. You cut the corners off with the ruler and then sew the oversized triangles onto the corners. It is easy to sew these corner triangles on as they are centered over the edge that you trimmed off the block.

After you have sewn the corners on, it is necessary to trim up the block as the corner triangles are oversized. This trimming up allows you to have a perfect sized block when putting the quilt together.

Here is what the block looks like after is is all trimmed up.

Once the blocks are trimmed up, they are ready to be sewn together to make the quilt top.

Next I layered the quilt top, with some Hobbs Premium wool batting. I love this batting as it gives the quilt some puffy definition and is so easy to quilt with. It also gives the quilt a nice drape and doesn’t retain any fold creases.

Here are a few more images of the completed Island Pop Table Runner.

Below is the image of my You Tube video for making this quilt. Here is a link to the video if you would like to watch it and see more detail of how I made the quilt: https://youtu.be/x2aNL1xX5Uo

If you like the video, please be sure to like it, share it with your friends and subscribe so you don’t miss any upcoming videos.

The supplies I used to make this project were provided by:

Island Batik Maple Island collection

Studio 180 Design Corner Pop tool

Aurifil 50 wt Thread

Schmetz 70/10 Quilting needle

Hobbs Batting Heirloom Wool Batting

Thank you Island Batik, Studio 180 Design, Hobbs Batting, Aurifil Thread and Schmetz Needles.

Studio 180 Design

Hobbs Batting

If you are on TikTok, be sure to check out the video I have posted of the table runner. (Look for Blue Bear Quilts)

Blue Bear hopes you like this table runner. Please let him know how much you love the this table runner by writing to him in the comments!

The other amazing Island Batik Ambassadors are also posting their May Blog Hop Tool Craze projects. Check out their projects by clicking on the links next to their names to be directed to their blog posts.

WEEK 1

May 1

Susan Deshensky, Lady Blue Quilts

Randi Jones, Randi’s Roost

May 2

Elita Sharpe, Busy Needle Quilting

Mania Hatziioannidi, Mania for Quilts

May 3

Brittany Fisher, Bobbin with Brittany

Pamela Boatright, Pamela Quilts

May 4

Denise Looney, For the Love of Geese

Connie Kauffman, Kauffman Designs

May 5

Blog Hop Round-Up Week 1 and Giveaway

WEEK 2

May 8

Reed Johnson, Blue Bear Quilts Thanks for stopping by!

Sandra Starley, Textile Time Travels

May 9

Gail Sheppard, Quilting Gail

Lana Russel, Lana Quilts

May 10

Emily Leachman, The Darling Dogwood

Claudia Porter, Create with Claudia

Anorina Morris, Samelia’s Mum

May 11

Brenda Alburl, Songbird Designs

Jennifer Thomas, Curlicue Creations

May 12

Blog Hop Round-Up Week 2 and Giveaway

WEEK 3

May 15

Victoria Johnson, Forever Quilting for You

Maryellen McAuliffe, Mary Mack Made Mine

Leah Malasky, Quilted DelightsLisa Pickering, Lisa’s Quilting Passion

May 16

Sarah Pitcher, Pitcher’s Boutique

Renee Atkinson, Pink Tulip Quilting

May 17

Preeti Harris, Sew Preeti Quilts

Suzy Webster, Websterquilt

Lisa Pickering, Lisa’s Quilting Passion

May 18

End of Blog Hop + Final Round Up

The first of the Tool Craze Up Blog Hop giveaways, from Island Batik, started on Sunday, April 30th!

Two lucky winners will each receive a bundle of new collections that will be featured this week – Sorbet by Claudia Pfeil of Claudia Pfeil Design or Sea Cookies, designed Kate Colleran by Kate Colleran Designs, LLC. Don’t miss out on your chance to add these beautiful batiks to your stash. Enter now and every week during the Tool Craze Blog Hop:

To enter for your chance to win one of the two prizes above, follow the simple Rafflecopter prompts below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway ends on May, 12th at 11:59 pm PDT. Two random winners will be notified by email on May, 13rd and announced on the Island Batik Facebook page on May, 16th. If the winners do not respond within the first three days after being notified, two new random winners will be chosen. Please check your spam folders! If the winners do not respond within the first two days after being notified, two new random winners will be chosen and notified.

Make sure to follow Island Batik on social media to hop along with the Tool Craze Blog Hop. Be sure to check out the Island Batik Blog.

#islandbatikambassador #islandbatik #studio180design #iloveislandbatik #hobbsbatting #aurifil #aurifilthread #schmetzneedles #doyoueq #Janome #tool crazebloghop #electricquilt #eq8 #HancocksofPaducah #fabricsmart

Posted on October 5, 2021February 10, 2022 by Reed — Leave a comment

Quilt Block Mania-Fall Prism- Complimentary Block Pattern for October 2021

Quilt Block Mania is blinded by science this October and you will be able to make a fun science themed quilt this month. Our complimentary block of the month for Quilt Block Mania, during the month of October, Fall Prism, shows you the science of light and color in a fall perspective. If you like receiving the complimentary blocks from Quilt Block Mania, please share this with your quilting friends on social media (please ask them to sign up for their own copy) so the designers can continue to do this every month.

In October, we are offering 20% off three digital download patterns with a spectrum of color to help you with your holiday gifts. They are Marble Merger, Celebrity Squares and Cowboy Claus. Isn’t it time to brighten up your world? The link to these patterns is here: downloadable-patterns/

Quilt Block Mania has 12 talented quilt designers creating blocks for this month’s theme- science. Here are the theme colors for this month.

This is the Fall Prism block. You can use this block on its own or combine it with other blocks from this month for a science themed quilt.

This block features shades of green and brown filtering through a light tan prism.

Here is a photo of the Fall Prism block that has been sewn with fabrics from my stash.

The Fall Prism block makes a fun 56 x 20″ table runner with 4 Fall Prism blocks and a 1″ finished dark green inner border and a 3″ medium green outer border.

This block also makes a beautiful 56 x 56″ lap quilt when you combine 16 blocks and add 1″ finished medium green and 3″ finished dark green borders. The pattern shows you other potential layouts for this block, and the Alternate block, which is made at the same time.

Finally, switching to a rainbow of colors, the block could make a great 56″ square quilt when you combine 16 Fall Prism blocks and add 1″ finished light gray and 3″ finished black borders.

How to get the block

If you are new to our website and are interested in downloading a complimentary PDF pattern of our Fall Prism block for October, all you have to do is look for the box on our blog, on the right hand side, that says “Like this content? Sign up for free updates” and sign up to receive our newsletter. When you have done that, you will receive a welcoming email from us that will contain a coupon code and a link back to the complimentary pattern. You will act as though you are purchasing the pattern and in the cart, you will apply the coupon code, which will make the pattern free. You will need to fill out contact information, but no payment method will be necessary. Don’t worry, we do not send out newsletters very often and we never sell email addresses or contact information. Here is what the pattern looks like. It is in a format very similar to most Blue Bear Quilt patterns, so if you see what you like in this complimentary pattern, you will like our other patterns as well.

Please note: This pattern will only be complimentary during the month of October 2021.

Current newsletter subscribers, don’t despair! You will be able to download the complimentary pattern as well. You have already been sent a newsletter on October 5th which gave you the coupon code.

Be sure to follow us on our Instagram page, @bluebearquilts, as that is where we occasionally have giveaways, like last month where we gave away a fat quarter bundle of QT Fabrics Origins line. The winner was @arbandwife.

Also, please check out our Tik Tok and YouTube Channels (Blue Bear Quilts) for more quilting fun and inspiration.

We are so happy that you stopped by to visit us in the Quilt Block Mania hop and we hope that you like our block. Please stop by to see all of the other designer’s wonderful blocks.

You can click on the links to the other blocks here.

Rocket Ship Quilt Block by Carolina Moore
Using Fibonacci in Quilts at Scrapdash
Microscope & Test Tubes by Appliques Quilts and More
Test Tubes FPP Block at Penny Spool Quilts
Benzene Ring from QuiltFabrication
Erlenmeyer flask at Patti’s Patchwork
Fall Prism at Blue Bear Quilts
Atomic at Pretty Piney Quilts
Test Tubes by Mom and Me Quilting Co
Discovery by Inquiring Quilter
Molecules at Perkins Dry Goods
Gravity at Duck Creek Mountain Quilting

Posted on September 7, 2021February 10, 2022 by Reed — Leave a comment

Quilt Block Mania-Pinwheel Pizzazz- Complimentary Block Pattern for September 2021

Quilt Block Mania is having a twist on traditional blocks for the month of September and there are so many unique blocks for you to be able to create a special project with your own twist. Our complimentary block of the month for Quilt Block Mania, during the month of September, Pinwheel Pizzazz, is having a twist with the pinwheel block.

In September, we are offering 20% off two digital download patterns that are brightly colored. They are Ring Bling and Scarborough Fair. Isn’t it time to brighten up your world? The link to these patterns is here: downloadable-patterns/

Testers and Checkers wanted!

Blue Bear is still looking for some additional quilt pattern testers and checkers. Testers and checkers receive a preliminary pattern before it is released. Testers actually make the quilt out of their stash and let the designer know if there were any issues with the pattern. Checkers also receive a preliminary copy of a new pattern before it is released. They review the pattern for any errors or things that may be confusing. Both are volunteer activities. An email is sent out telling you about the upcoming pattern and you can then let us know that you are interested in participating. Testers and checkers receive a digital download version of the final pattern; get photos of their work shared on Blue Bear’s social media; receive a free digital download pattern from our web store and occasionally other goodies like fabric. If you are interested in participating in our tester/ checker program, please send me an email at reed@bluebearquilts.com

This Moonlit Garden panel quilt, made with Lantern Song fabric from QT Fabrics, is a recent pattern that was tested and will be showing up at quilt shops near you soon.

Here are some of the awesome items the testers made from the pattern. They couldn’t make the entire quilt as the fabric was not available. I appreciate so much all of the wonderful work that the Blue Bear Quilts pattern tester/checkers do. I am so grateful for all your time and effort. I love the runner that Gail made and how nice it looks on her table.

I love all the bright colors that Jogi put into her runner.

Randi’s table runner, if you look closely, has sashiko stitches on the lanterns and bird embroidery in the center of the knots. Well done everyone!

We are participating in another year long sew along and this time it is called Sew Much Fun. Many quilt designers will be proving a sewing themed 6″ block every Sunday stating on August 1st. So you can get in on this one right from the beginning. Here is where you go to get the blocks: www.blockofthemo.com Our block won’t be for a while, but I know that you will enjoy participating in this sew along.

Sew Much Fun Tour

Quilt Block Mania has 17 talented quilt designers creating blocks for this month’s theme- traditional with a twist. Here are the theme colors for this month.

This is the Pinwheel Pizzazz block. This is a twist on the traditional pinwheel block with added piecing and fun colors. This block is sure to add a twist and some fun to any project you make with it.

This block features a lime background square with pink accents and a blue and dark purple pinwheel dancing on the top.

Here is a photo of the Pinwheel Pizzazz block that has been sewn with fabrics from my stash.

The Pinwheel Pizzazz block makes a fun 56 x 20″ table runner with 4 blocks and a 1″ finished lime inner border and a 3″ dark purple outer border.

This block also makes a beautiful 46 x 70″ lap quilt when you combine 15 blocks and add 1″ finished lime and 4″ finished dark pink borders.

Finally, the block makes a great 32″ square baby quilt when you combine 4 blocks and add 1″ finished lime and 3″ finished dark purple borders.

How to get the block

If you are new to our website and are interested in downloading a complimentary PDF pattern of our Pinwheel Pizzazz block for September, all you have to do is look for the box on our blog, on the right hand side, that says “Like this content? Sign up for free updates” and sign up to receive our newsletter. When you have done that, you will receive a welcoming email from us that will contain a coupon code and a link back to the complimentary pattern. You will act as though you are purchasing the pattern and in the cart, you will apply the coupon code, which will make the pattern free. You will need to fill out contact information, but no payment method will be necessary. Don’t worry, we do not send out newsletters very often and we never sell email addresses or contact information. Here is what the pattern looks like. It is in a format very similar to most Blue Bear Quilt patterns, so if you see what you like in this complimentary pattern, you will like our other patterns as well.

Please note: This pattern will only be complimentary during the month of September 2021.

Current newsletter subscribers, don’t despair! You will be able to download the complimentary pattern as well. You have already been sent a newsletter on September 7th which gave you the coupon code.

Be sure to follow us on our Instagram page, @bluebearquilts, as that is where we occasionally have giveaways, like this month where we are giving away a fat quarter bundle of QT Fabrics Origins line.

Also, please check out our Tik Tok and YouTube Channels (Blue Bear Quilts) where we are making videos of how to make our Ring Bling Quilt with this fabric.

We are so happy that you stopped by to visit us in the Quilt Block Mania hop and we hope that you like our block. Please stop by to see all of the other designer’s wonderful blocks.

September - Traditional with a Twist — September – Traditional with a Twist

You can click on the links to the other blocks here.

Starry Steps Quilt Block by Carolina Moore
Log Cabin with a Twist by Appliques Quilts and More
Faux Log Cabin by PhoebeMoon Designs
Twisted Irish Chain by Inquiring Quilter
Pinwheel Pizzazz at Blue Bear Quilts
Rail Fence Roundabout at Perkins Dry Goods
Twirling Star by Mom and Me Quilting Co
Neon Churn Dash by Pretty Piney Quilts
Pinwheel Twist by QuiltFabrication
Quilt Block Exhibit
String of Stars by Orange Blossom Quilt Design Studio
log cabin twist by Duck Creek Mountain Quilting
Twisted Log Cabin at Penny Spool Quilts
Wonky Star by Patti’s Patchwork
Modern Churn Dash at The Quilting Room with Mel
Wonky Log Cabin by Love to Color My World
Shoo Two by Oh Kaye Quilting

Posted on August 3, 2021February 10, 2022 by Reed — Leave a comment

Quilt Block Mania-Picnic Bouquet- Complimentary Block Pattern for August

Quilt Block Mania is having a BBQ or Picnic for the month of August and there are so many fun blocks for you to be able to create that special summer quilt. Our complimentary block of the month for Quilt Block Mania, during the month of August, Picnic Bouquet, may be incorporated with some of the other blocks, or used as a stand alone project.

In August, we are offering 20% off two digital download patterns that have that summery feel to them. They are There’s a Bear in My Watermelon Patch and THere’s a Bear in My Watermelon Patch 2. I hope a bear won’t crash your Picnic when using these beautiful summer quilts. The link to these patterns is here: downloadable-patterns/

There's a Bear 2 Quilt cover — There’s a Bear 2 Quilt cover

Testers and Checkers wanted!

Sew Much Fun Tour

Quilt Block Mania has 15 talented quilt designers creating blocks for this month’s theme- Picnic/BBQ. Here are the theme colors for this month.

This is the Picnic Bouquet block. When you are going on a fancy, or romantic, picnic, it is an absolute must to have a bouquet of beautiful flowers. Maybe if you don’t want to bring any real flowers, this beautiful bouquet in a quilt will suffice.

This block features red and orange flowers with green stems on a charcoal background with a light tan frame. This is a traditional block sewn with a modern method of stitch and flip for the flying geese units.

Here is a photo of the Picnic Bouquet block that has been sewn with fabrics from my stash.

The Picnic Bouquet block makes an awesome table runner. You could also make cool placemats to go with the table runner.

This block also makes a beautiful quilt when you combine 16 blocks and add 1″ finished tan and charcoal borders. The cool thing about this block is that it creates it’s own sashing which makes sewing the blocks together so easy as there are no seams.

How to get the block

If you are new to our website and are interested in downloading a complimentary PDF pattern of our Picnic Bouquet block for August, all you have to do is look for the box on our blog, on the right hand side, that says “Like this content? Sign up for free updates” and sign up to receive our newsletter. When you have done that, you will receive a welcoming email from us that will contain a coupon code and a link back to the complimentary pattern. You will act as though you are purchasing the pattern and in the cart, you will apply the coupon code, which will make the pattern free. You will need to fill out contact information, but no payment method will be necessary. Don’t worry, we do not send out newsletters very often and we never sell email addresses or contact information. Here is what the pattern looks like. It is in a format very similar to most Blue Bear Quilt patterns, so if you see what you like in this complimentary pattern, you will like our other patterns as well.

Please note: This pattern will only be complimentary during the month of August 2021.

Current newsletter subscribers, don’t despair! You will be able to download the complimentary pattern as well. You have already been sent a newsletter on August 3rd which gave you the coupon code.

Be sure to follow us on our Instagram page, @bluebearquilts, as that is where we occasionally have giveaways.

Also, please check out our You Tube Channel (Blue Bear Quilts). We are so happy that you stopped by to visit us in the Quilt Block Mania hop and we hope that you like our block. Please stop by to see all of the other designer’s wonderful blocks.

Picnic Theme - August — Picnic Theme – August

You can click on the links to the other blocks here.

Hamburger Block at Always Expect Moore
Popsicle Picnic at Slice of Pi Quilts
Picnic in the Park
Let’s Fly a Kite at PhoebeMoon Designs
Picnic by Inquiring Quilter
Picnic Bouquet by Blue Bear Quilts
Kebabs at Patti’s Patchwork
BeeHive by Mom and Me Quilting Co.
Picnic Basket at The Quilting Room with Mel
Watermelon Wedge from QuiltFabrication
Labor Day Picnic
I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing
Picnic Fun at Perkins Dry Goods
“Cheers!” at Duck Creek Mountain Quilting
Lemonade FPP Block at Penny Spool Quilts

Posted on July 6, 2021February 10, 2022 by Reed — Leave a comment

Quilt Block Mania-Treasure Chest Star- Complimentary Block Pattern for July

Quilt Block Mania is traveling for the month of July and there are so many wonderful blocks for you to be able to commemorate a special trip. Our complimentary block of the month for Quilt Block Mania, during the month of July, Treasure Chest Star, may be incorporated with some of the other blocks, or as a stand alone project.

In July, we are offering 20% off two digital download patterns that are patriotic. They are Patriotic Polka and Sparkles on Liberty Square. These quilts are great for summer nights and those patriotic summer holidays. The link to these patterns is here: downloadable-patterns/

Sparklers Cover — Sparklers Quilt Pattern

Testers and Checkers wanted!

Blue Bear is looking for some additional quilt pattern testers and checkers. Testers and checkers receive a preliminary pattern before it is released. Testers actually make the quilt out of their stash and let the designer know if there were any issues with the pattern. Checkers also receive a preliminary copy of a new pattern before it is released. They review the pattern for any errors or things that may be confusing. Both are volunteer activities. An email is sent out telling you about the upcoming pattern and you can then let us know that you are interested in participating. Testers and checkers receive a digital download version of the final pattern; get photos of their work shared on Blue Bear’s social media; receive a free digital download pattern from our web store and occasionally other goodies like fabric. If you are interested in participating in our tester/ checker program, please send me an email at reed@bluebearquilts.com

Quilt Block Mania has 18 talented quilt designers creating blocks for this month’s theme- Travel. Here are the theme colors for this month.

This is the Treasure Chest Star block. Many tears ago, travelers used stars to navigate their way and often they were in search of treasure. Perhaps this block will set you on some travels of your own in search of treasure.

This block features a gray star emanating from a treasure chest in Celery green, hunter green, sky blue, black and tan. This is a traditional block sewn with a more modern method of strip tubes.

Here is a photo of the Treasure Chest Star block that has been sewn with fabrics from my stash.

The Treasure Chest block makes an awesome table runner. You could also make cool placemats to go with the table runner.

This block also makes a beautiful quilt when you combine 16 blocks and add a 2″ finished black border. The quilt appears to create an optical illusion of the blocks moving as your eyes dance all over the quilt.

How to get the block

If you are new to our website and are interested in downloading a complimentary PDF pattern of our Treasure Chest Star block for July, all you have to do is look for the box on our blog, on the right hand side, that says “Like this content? Sign up for free updates” and sign up to receive our newsletter. When you have done that, you will receive a welcoming email from us that will contain a coupon code and a link back to the complimentary pattern. You will act as though you are purchasing the pattern and in the cart, you will apply the coupon code, which will make the pattern free. You will need to fill out contact information, but no payment method will be necessary. Don’t worry, we do not send out newsletters very often and we never sell email addresses or contact information. Here is what the pattern looks like. It is in a format very similar to most Blue Bear Quilt patterns, so if you see what you like in this free pattern, you will like our other patterns as well.

Please note: This pattern will only be complimentary during the month of July 2021.

Current newsletter subscribers, don’t despair! You will be able to download the complimentary pattern as well. You have already been sent a newsletter on July 6th which gave you the coupon code.

Be sure to follow us on our Instagram page, @bluebearquilts, as that is where we occasionally have giveaways.

You can click on the links to the other blocks here.

Bridge Quilt block by Carolina Moore
Lucky is on the road again at Puppy Girl Designs
Scenic Route by Slice of Pi Quilts
Travel to the Woods by Oh Kaye Quilting
Embark by Inquiring Quilter
Delectable Mountains at PhoebeMoon Designs
Treasure Chest Star by Blue Bear Quilts
Wanderlust by Heidi Pridemore
On the Water by Patti’s Patchwork
Come Sail Away by Mom and Me Quilting Co.
Wish You Were Here at Pretty Piney Quilts
Pack It Up by QuiltFabrication
Me and Bobby McGee at Orange Blossom Quilt Design Studio
Wild Blue Yonder at Perkins Dry Goods
Take a Hike by Devoted Quilter
Into the Blue at Duck Creek Mountain Quilting
T-Shirt Fun at The Quilting Room with Mel
Stitch and Flip Mountain Block

Posted on June 1, 2021February 10, 2022 by Reed — Leave a comment

Quilt Block Mania-World’s Fair- Complimentary Block Pattern for June and other news

Quilt Block Mania is going international for the month of June and there are so many cool blocks for you to be able to make something special on a global scale. Our complimentary block of the month for Quilt Block Mania, during the month of June, World’s Fair, can get your quilting creativity going to make some beautiful projects.

In June, we are offering 20% off two digital download patterns that we designed for Timeless Treasures Fabric. They are Celebrity Squares and There’s a Bear in My Watermelon Patch 2. These quilts are great for summer nights and perhaps a picnic or two. The link to these patterns is here: downloadable-patterns/

Testers and Checkers wanted!

Blue Bear is looking for some additional quilt pattern testers and checkers. Testers and checkers receive a preliminary pattern before it is released. Testers actually make the quilt out of their stash and let the designer know if there were any issues with the pattern. Checkers also receive a preliminary copy of a new pattern before it is released. They review the pattern for any errors or things that may be confusing. Both are volunteer activities. An email is sent out telling you about the upcoming pattern and you can then let us know that you are interested in participating. Testers and checkers receive a digital download version of the final pattern; get photos of their work shared on Blue Bear’s social media; receive a 20% off coupon for digital download items in our web store and occasionally other goodies like fabric. If you are interested in participating in our tester/ checker program, please send me an email at reed@bluebearquilts.com

Collaboration with Redfin.

Before we get to the block this month, we wanted to tell you about a collaboration we recently participated in with the real estate brokerage firm, Redfin. Have you ever wanted to create a quilting studio in your home?

For every quilt maker, having a dedicated space in your home to sew can foster creativity and provide uninterrupted concentration. While having a large space comes in handy, any small area in your home which can accommodate fabric storage, machinery, craft tables, and working space is all you need.

If you are looking to create a quilting room in your home, here are some great tips for you. Redfin reached out to quite a few quilting experts, including myself, to get our best tips on creating the ultimate quilting room. Click here to see what we had to say.

We are published again.

Check out who’s on the cover of McCall’s Quilting magazine for the July/ August 2021 issue. This is our Boom! quilt, so aptly named as it looks like a large exploding firework. We also had our quilt, Camp Camden, featured in Quiltmaker magazine for the July/ August 2021 issue. This quilt was named after a grand nephew.These issues should be on newsstands now.

Quilt Block Mania has 19 talented quilt designers creating blocks for this month’s theme- International. There were no theme colors this month.

We used the fabric from our first fabric line with QT Fabrics called Coco Chic to design this block.

This is the World’s Fair block. It doesn’t get more international than that. I went to the World’s Fair in Knoxville, TN in 1982. It was such an awesome experience. I wish they still had world fairs today.

This block features what appear to be 4 lanterns, in light purple, yellow, orange, and dark purple, encircled by squares on a dotted white background. This is a modern looking traditional block and is representative of the modern exhibits one might see at a world fair.

Here is a photo of the World’s Fair block that has been sewn with fabrics from our very first fabric line with QT Fabrics, which is called Coco Chic. The fabrics were derived from authentic 1920’s fabrics from the QT Fabric’s archieves. This fabric line is currently available in shops that sell QT Fabrics. If your local shop doesn’t have it, or is running low, please ask them to order it for you.

You could turn this block into a pillow. Here it is shown with a 2″ finished black border. Our Wonky Hearts pillow pattern shows you how to turn a 12″ finished block into a pillow cover like the one that is shown here. This pillow is shown as an example of how you could turn this block into a gift or decoration for your home.

World's Fair Pillow — World’s Fair Pillow

World's Fair Table Runner — World’s Fair Table Runner

The World’s Fair block makes an awesome table runner. Wouldn’t this be a nice additional to your table if you were having guests over for a meal of international flair?

This block also makes a beautiful quilt when you combine 16 blocks and add a 1″ finished black border. The quilt appears to create an optical illusion of the blocks moving as your eyes dance all over the quilt.

If you are new to our website and are interested in downloading a complimentary PDF pattern of our World’s Fair block for June, all you have to do is look for the box on our blog, on the right hand side, that says “Like this content? Sign up for free updates” and sign up to receive our newsletter. When you have done that, you will receive a welcoming email from us that will contain a coupon code and a link back to the complimentary pattern. You will act as though you are purchasing the pattern and in the cart, you will apply the coupon code, which will make the pattern free. You will need to fill out contact information, but no payment method will be necessary. Don’t worry, we do not send out newsletters very often and we never sell email addresses or contact information. Here is what the pattern looks like. It is in a format very similar to most Blue Bear Quilt patterns, so if you see what you like in this free pattern, you will like our other patterns as well.

Please note: This pattern will only be complimentary during the month of June 2021.

Current newsletter subscribers, don’t despair! You will be able to download the complimentary pattern as well. You have already been sent a newsletter on June 1st which gave you the coupon code.

Be sure to follow us on our Instagram page, @bluebearquilts, as that is where we occasionally have giveaways.

We are so happy that you stopped by to visit us in the Quilt Block Mania hop and we hope that you like our block. Please stop by to see all of the other designer’s wonderful blocks.

You can click on the links to the other blocks here.

Holland Windmill by Carolina Moore
Dutch Mill Tulips by Perkins Dry Goods
International Airport by The Quilted Diary
Three Amigos by Heidi Pridemore
Making Memories by Blue Heron Quilting
World’s Fair by Blue Bear Quilts
Highlander by Orange Blossom Quilt Design Studio
Love One Another by Faith and Fabric
International Space Station by Duck Creek Mountain quilting
Friends by QuiltFabrication
World Trip by Patti’s Patchwork
Hollyhock Flower by PhoebeMoon Designs
Olympic Rings by Slice of Pi Quilts
All Together Now by Inquiring Quilter
Butterfly Block by Oh Kaye Quilting
Coming Together by Cotton Street Commons
Friends Around the World by Appliques Quilts and More
Greek Cross by Mom and Me Quilting Co
Caracalla by Pretty Piney Quilts
Walking Together
Mystery Quilt: The Kids

Posted on May 4, 2021February 10, 2022 by Reed — Leave a comment

Quilt Block Mania-Wise Owl- Complimentary Block Pattern for May

It’s time to graduate. Yay! The theme of Quilt Block Mania for May is graduation and there are so many great blocks for you to be able to make something special for your graduate. Our complimentary block of the month for Quilt Block Mania, during the month of May, Wise Owl, has an adorable owl graduate with the year on it.

During the month of May, we are offering 20% off of our digital download Southwest Flair and Greek Isles Modern patterns. These quilts make great Father’s Day and Graduation gifts. Greek Isles Modern could be done in your graduate’s school colors. The link to these patterns is here: downloadable-patterns/

Quilt Block Mania has 19 talented quilt designers creating blocks for this month’s theme of graduation. Here is a picture of the theme colors.

These colors look very regal for a graduation.

This is the Wise Owl block.

It features a cute plum owl with a black graduation cap and a plum tassel. It also features the current year of 2021 in red. They are placed on an off-white background. This adorable block is a proud tribute to salute your graduate in style.

Here is a photo of the Wise Owl block that has been sewn with fabrics from my stash.

You could turn this block into a pillow. Here it is shown with a 2″ finished light gray border. Our Wonky Hearts pillow pattern shows you how to turn a 12″ finished block into a pillow cover like the one that is shown here. This pillow is shown as an example of how you could turn this block into a gift or decoration for your home.

The Wise Owl block makes an awesome table runner, which could be used at graduation parties. I have included all number templates with this pattern, so you can make this block for graduates until the year 9999 and beyond!

I have shown the table runner in a couple of different color schemes using a simple square in a square block on either side. These pictures also show what a quilting design may look like in the alternate plain blocks.

If you are new to our website and are interested in downloading a complimentary PDF pattern of our Wise Owl block for May, all you have to do is look for the box on our blog, on the right hand side, that says “Like this content? Sign up for free updates” and sign up to receive our newsletter. When you have done that, you will receive a welcoming email from us that will contain a coupon code and a link back to the complimentary pattern. You will act as though you are purchasing the pattern and in the cart, you will apply the coupon code, which will make the pattern free. You will need to fill out contact information, but no payment method will be necessary. Don’t worry, we do not send out newsletters very often and we never sell email addresses or contact information. Here is what the pattern looks like. It is in a format very similar to most Blue Bear Quilt patterns, so if you see what you like in this free pattern, you will like our other patterns as well.

Please note: This pattern will only be complimentary during the month of May 2021.

Current newsletter subscribers, don’t despair! You will be able to download the complimentary pattern as well. You have already been sent a newsletter on May 4th which gave you the coupon code.

Be sure to follow us on our Instagram page, @bluebearquilts, as that is where we occasionally have giveaways.

We are so happy that you stopped by to visit us in the Quilt Block Mania hop and we hope that you like our block. Please stop by to see all of the other designer’s wonderful blocks.

You can click on the links to the other blocks here.

Award Ribbon by Carolina Moore
Graduation Day by Sarah Marcina
Super Grad by Heidi Pridemore
Class of 2021
Wise Owl by Blue Bear Quilts
Dear Mr. Vernon . . .
Graduation scroll by Duck Creek mountain Quilting
Grad Cap by QuiltFabrication
Graduating Steps by Patti’s Patchwork
Butterflies are Free by PhoebeMoon Designs
Lucky graduates from Puppy Academy
Party Banner by Slice of Pi Quilts
Success by Inquiring Quilter
Hooray for Me!
Graduation Cap at Oh Kaye Quilting
Up, Up, & Away by Pretty Piney Quilts
I DID IT by Cotton Street Commons
Owl Graduate by Appliques Quilts and More
Shining Star by Color My World

Posted on April 6, 2021February 10, 2022 by Reed — Leave a comment

Quilt Block Mania-Gray Skies Are Gonna Clear Up- Complimentary Block Pattern for April

Spring is here! The April showers are going to bring all those beautiful May flowers. Our complimentary block of the month for Quilt Block Mania, during the month of April, Gray Skies Are Gonna Clear Up, has got you covered for all that rain.

During the month of April, we are offering 20% off of our digital download Sea Swirls and Contemporary Cadence patterns. The link to these patterns is here: downloadable-patterns/

Quilt Block Mania has 24 talented quilt designers creating blocks for this month’s theme of rain. Here is a picture of the theme colors.

These colors are so soft and gentle like a fresh spring rain.

This is the Gray Skies Are Gonna Clear up block.

It features 8 umbrellas, in shades of green and blue on a light tan background. This adorable block is sure to clear up those gray skies and brighten your day.

Here is a photo of the Gray Skies are Gonna Clear up block that has been sewn with fabrics from my stash.

This block also looks fantastic created with rainbow colors and set against a dark background. You could turn this block into a pillow. Here it is shown with a pieced tan and green border. Our Wonky Hearts pillow pattern shows you how to turn a 12″ finished block into a pillow cover, just not as fancy as the one that is shown here, which is just to spur your creative mojo.

The Gray Skies Are Gonna Clear Up, in the rainbow colors makes an awesome spring table runner. The rainbow version also creates a colorful quilt that looks like one of those fancy Hermes scarves. This quilt is sure to brighten up any room in your house.

I have also shown what the table runner looks like with the light tan or a gray background. Finally, there is a picture of the block set in a quilt with the light tan background, and another quilt setting that shows a quilting design on alternate plain blocks.

If you are new to our website and are interested in downloading a complimentary PDF pattern of our Gray Skies Are Gonna Clear Up block for April, all you have to do is look for the box on our blog, on the right hand side, that says “Like this content? Sign up for free updates” and sign up to receive our newsletter. When you have done that, you will receive a welcoming email from us that will contain a coupon code and a link back to the complimentary pattern. You will act as though you are purchasing the pattern and in the cart, you will apply the coupon code, which will make the pattern free. You will need to fill out contact information, but no payment method will be necessary. Don’t worry, we do not send out newsletters very often and we never sell email addresses or contact information. Here is what the pattern looks like. It is in a format very similar to most Blue Bear Quilt patterns, so if you see what you like in this free pattern, you will like our other patterns as well.

Please note: This pattern will only be complimentary during the month of April 2021.

Current newsletter subscribers, don’t despair! You will be able to download the complimentary pattern as well as you have already been sent a newsletter on April 6th which gave you the coupon code.

Be sure to follow us on our Instagram page, @bluebearquilts, as that is where we occasionally have giveaways.

We are so happy that you stopped by to visit us in the Quilt Block Mania hop and we hope that you like our block. Please stop by to see all of the other designer’s wonderful blocks.

You can click on the links to the other blocks here.

Rainbow of raindrops by Carolina Moore
Raindrops by Perkins Dry Goods
Rainy Day Walk Home by The Quilted Diary
Raindrop by Blockofthemodotcom
I Love Rainy Days by Heidi Pridemore
Petrichor by Althea Gyde
Gray Skies are Gonna Clear Up by Blue Bear Quilts
Rain from Heaven by Faith and Fabric
Umbrella and Gumboots by Duck Creek Mountain Quilting
April Showers by QuiltFabrication
Pouring Rain by Patti’s Patchwork
Spring Crocus by PhoebeMoon Designs
Playing in the Rain by Puppy Girl Designs
Rainy Day by Studio R Quilts
Rain Showers by Slice of Pi Quilts
Rain by Oh Kaye Quilting
Doves in the rain by Sara Flynn
April Showers by Inquiring Quilter
Rain Will Make the Flowers Grow by Devoted Quilter
I’ve Got Sunshine on a Rainy Day
Let it Rain
Splish-Splash by Pretty Piney Quilts
April Showers by Cotton Street Commons
Rain on the Window

Posted on March 2, 2021February 10, 2022 by Reed — Leave a comment

Quilt Block Mania- Spring Posies- Complimentary Block Pattern for March

Spring is coming! The sun will be shining and those gentle April rains will bring the beautiful May flowers. Our complimentary block of the month for Quilt Block Mania, Spring Posies, will definitely get you in the mood for spring.

During the month of March, we are offering 20% off of our digital download Faith Hope and Love quilt and Spring Friends Table Runner patterns. The link to these patterns is here: downloadable-patterns/

Quilt Block Mania has more than 25 talented quilt designers creating blocks for this month’s theme of flowers. Here is a picture of the theme colors.

These colors got my designer mojo going and I was really in the mood for making something fun and springy!

This is the Spring Posies block.

It features 3 posies, in pink, plum and tomato red on a light grey background. This block is part of our Spring Friends Table Runner pattern and you are able to get a complimentary PDF of the Spring Posies block this month. If you would like to make the Spring Friends Table Runner, you are able to purchase that downloadable pattern at 20% off, or for $9.60 this month. This adorable block, or table runner, is sure to brighten up your home and get you excited for spring.

Here is a photo of the Spring Posies block that has been sewn with fabrics from my stash.

This block also looks fantastic set again a dark background. You could turn this block into a pillow. Here it is shown with a tan and green border. Our Wonky Hearts pillow pattern shows you how to turn a 12″ finished block into a pillow cover.

The Spring Posies Block is part of our Spring Friends Table Runner pattern. Spring Bunny and Spring Chick love that the posies are blooming so, they have adorned themselves with posie wreaths to celebrate. The blocks look awesome set against the dark plum background. Here is a picture of the table runner made with fabrics from my stash. The Spring Friends Table Runner pattern also has templates so that the plum flower can be right facing as well, which allows you to make the table runner longer as in these two examples. It also looks great as a vertical wall hanging.

Spring Friends Table Runner with pink border

If you are new to our website and are interested in downloading a complimentary PDF pattern of our Spring Posies block for March, all you have to do is look for the box on our blog, on the right hand side, that says “Like this content? Sign up for free updates” and sign up to receive our newsletter. When you have done that, you will receive a welcoming email from us that will contain a coupon code and a link back to the complimentary pattern. You will act as though you are purchasing the pattern and in the cart, you will apply the coupon code, which will make the pattern free. You will need to fill out contact information, but no payment method will be necessary. Don’t worry, we do not send out newsletters very often and we never sell email addresses or contact information. Here is what the pattern looks like. It is in a format very similar to most Blue Bear Quilt patterns, so if you see what you like in this free pattern, you will like our other patterns as well.

Please note: This pattern will only be complimentary during the month of March 2021.

Current newsletter subscribers, don’t despair! You will be able to download the complimentary pattern as well as you have already been sent a newsletter on March 2nd which gave you the coupon code.

On our Instagram page, @bluebearquilts, we had our fat quarter bundle giveaway with QT Fabrics and the lucky winner was mamma_sews. Sign up to follow us on Instagram and watch for future giveaways.

We are so happy that you stopped by to visit us in the Quilt Block Mania hop and we hope that you like our block. Please stop by to see all of the other designer’s wonderful blocks.