In a recent post, I shared what sorts of items
I save in my Orphan Block Suitcase. So today, I thought I would share a bit about how I get started on an Orphan Block quilt. I don't want this post to get to long so I will share later the steps to actually putting together a quilt top.
In case you want to get started on one of your own, I will share how I initially get inspired.
I usually start the process by sorting my quilt blocks (not the other bits you might save) so I can see exactly what I have. I think this will helps to determine how you want to approach your quilt.
First I sort by block size. If you have blocks that are slightly bigger, consider if they can be trimmed to work in a smaller size stack. Depending on the type of quilts you generally make, you might find you have a large portion of blocks that are all one size and putting together a quilt with just some simple sashing will be really easy.
You might also find that you have blocks in sizes that fit together easily (e.g, 4", 8", and 12" or 3", 6" and 12"). You can simply put them together like I did
my RSC16 sampler.
They will fit together like one big puzzle!
While sorting your blocks you might decide to put together a "kitchen sink" orphan block quilt. Jo shared with me her friend's "Blocks on Parade" quilt that she made with her blocks. Anything goes in these quilts!
But if you sort your blocks by size and are not inspired by anything you are seeing or...if you are like me, your block sizes are all over the place, think about sorting your blocks by color scheme. I did that to mine and quickly saw I had three great options for putting together quilts. On the top are blocks in warm browns, oranges and golds. On the left, I stacked up any blocks that had a novelty theme or were more kid appropriate. The stack on the bottom right is where I put all my blocks in bright colors. Once I started sorting my blocks this way, I found myself really getting inspired. It felt like putting together three fabric pulls!
Now that I have these blocks in defined stacks, I can sort all the rest of the bits in my suitcase into the appropriate pile. Time to just grab a stack and start playing - So I thought I would start with the stack of brights!
For those who want to get started on your own orphan block quilt, I begin by looking for a focus block(s) to get me going. This helps set the tone of the quilt.
Hmm...a star and some drunkard path blocks.
Maybe starting with these blocks and creating an asymmetrical design. I can always trim these blocks to change their appearance slightly. Maybe....
A big giant 18" block. Starting with this is a possibility too.
I am going to make you wait to see how I moved forward. (Sorry) In a future post, I will share the entire progression of my quilt top so you can see it come alive.
I know you will start saving those orphans :)
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I look forward to seeing how you are using your scraps. Here are the details for linking up:
- This linky party is for any scrappy project - It can be in-process or a finished piece.
- You can link up your blog post (not your homepage please) or Instagram photo from the past week that features your use of scraps.
- If you are linking to a blog post, I ask that you link back to my blog somewhere in your post. So if you are writing about scraps, just get into the habit of including a link as there will be a linky party available every week!
- If you are using Instagram, please use the hashtag #ohscrap.
- This is a party so remember to socialize and comment on the posts of others.
- Following my blog is not necessary but it sure would be great if you do!
