The Splendid Sampler - Blocks 6 to 12

What a lovely sew-along The Splendid Sampler is turning out to be.  It is a real mixture of embroidery, patchwork and applique.

Block 6 – ‘Focal Point’ is a patchwork block that reminds me of an open parcel – a clever design from Natalia Bonner.

The Splendid Sampler Block 6 - Focal Point

Block 7 – ‘Snug as a Bug’ is a mixture of applique and embroidery.  Designed by one of my most favourite designers, Amy Sinibaldi, this was a lovely block to make.  Embroidery is not my strong suit but this block was simple.

The Splendid Sampler Block 7 - Snug as a Bug 

Block 8 – ‘Friends around the Square’.  The name of this patchwork block, designed by Julie Karasek, invoked images of friends sat around a picnic blanket high on the South Downs.  Bliss.

The Splendid Sampler Block 8 - Friends around the Square

Block 9 – ‘Local Quilt Shop’.  If only there was a local quilt shop near me but alas there isn’t.  But that doesn’t stop me day-dreaming with the help of designer Jane Davidson.  (I made the door slightly taller to distinguish it from the windows.)

The Splendid Sampler Block 9 - Local Quilt Shop

Block 10 – ‘Iowa’.  This patchwork ring reminds me of a very pretty Easter doughnut – covered in different coloured icing and sprinkles – lots of sprinkles.  Design by that lovely Sherri McConnell.

The Splendid Sampler Block 10 - Iowa 

Block 11 – ‘Crocheted Thoughts’.  I had to look carefully at the embroidery stitch for this block and even then, I think I may have made mine too small.  I didn’t have enough confidence to add the crochet hook as this block, designed by Alyssa Thomas, turned out so pretty I was afraid I might ruin it.

The Splendid Sampler Block 11 - Crocheted Thoughts

Block 12 – ‘Checkerboard’.  I grew up on blocks like this one – introduced to quick piecing by the likes of Debbie Mumm and Thimbleberries.  So when Pat Sloan’s patchwork block came along I just grabbed my 1½” scrappy squares and got sewing. 

The Splendid Sampler Block 12 - Checkerboard

So there you have it.  I have made a few more since these but more about that another time .......