Part 1: American Beauty Block of the Month

As many of you know, it’s been a harsh winter in the Dakotas so far. I don’t know about you, but I’m ready for spring!

Unfortunately, spring won’t come on command. So, in the meantime, I plan to immerse myself in pleasant “spring” fabrics, bursting with pretty florals in soft pastel shades. I’m also ready to “stretch my wings” a little bit… with some new techniques and piecing challenges.

I hope you’ll join us in this fun and exciting project, the “American Beauty Block of the Month”, designed by Marti Michell.

First some background. Marti is a quilting legend. In addition to her talents as a fabric & pattern designer, she teaches a technique called the“Perfect Patchwork Quilting System.” Even the most intricate & difficult appearing blocks can be subdivided into units suitable for one of her template sets, and pieced with ease.

Templates? Have no fear… She has it all figured out for us. All we have to do is relax and enjoy the process of piecing perfect blocks, every time, as long as we follow her excellent instructions.

But first, some basic information about the project:

Finished Size: 85" x 105"
Block Size: 12"
Skill Level: Intermediate

A beautiful sampler quilt is created with (12) 12" blocks, set on point. In general, the complexity of the piecing progresses from easier to more complex. The blocks are framed, set on point, and a unique star accent is added to the sashing. The crowning touch is created with inner & outer borders.

Soft White Color Option~ Elegant Black Color Option

The blocks, sashing and sashing star fabrics are the same for both the white and black version of the quilt. Only the setting triangles and borders vary.

Plus, to celebrate the launch of the program, we’re offering a wonderful prize. On March 15st, we’ll review the names of everyone who has signed up by midnight on March 14th, (MST). We’ll randomly draw one name from the list, and that quilter will receive a free American Beauty quilt top kit in the colorway of their choice. Also included, all patterns, rulers, and shipping to a USA address.

Not included: backing fabric. The winner will be notified privately, and with their permission their name will be posted on the blog. The drawing is only applicable to those customers (online or in-store) who have joined the American Beauty block of the month.

Here’s a photo of a complete quilt kit in the “Elegant Black” colorway. Sorry, I don’t have a picture of a complete quilt kit in white… I unwrapped it so quickly when we received it, I forgot to take a picture for the blog.

Click here to learn more about the cost, shipping, recommended & optional tools, and to sign up for the block of the month.

Plus, as supplies last, every member will receive this beautiful Maywood studios “Wild Rose” tote bag, made from recycled material with handy inner pockets and sturdy web handles It’s a perfect size for storing your quilting supplies, or using at the market.