TQC Journal | issue 142

That was sew fun! I hope you thought so too. 
Just a few more blocks to make and then it is time to put things together. 

  - - - - - - - - - - Flying Geese - - - - - - - - - -

Cutting the block
From first print, cut: 2 rectangles, 2-1/2" x 4-1/2"
from second print, cut: 4 squares, 2-1/2" x 2-1/2"

Making the Block

Draw a diagonal line from corner to corner on the 
wrong side of 2-1/2" squares. Place the marked square on
one corner of rectangle, trim 1/4" seam allowance and press. 
Repeat on opposite corner with remaining square.
Block should measure 2-1/2" x 4-1/2"
including seam allowances.

Join two flying geese blocks together.
Block should measure 4-1/2" square, including seam allowances.

Add 1-1/4" cut borders to each side of block,
press and add top and bottom borders. 
Finish by machine or hand quilting and bind using 
single thickness binding. 

 - - - - - - - - - -Sawtooth Star  - - - - - - - - - -

Cutting the block
From first print, cut: 1 square, 2-1/2" x 2-1/2"
From second print, cut: 4 squares, 1-7/8" x 1-7/8" cut once diagonally 
From background print, cut: 1 square, 3-1/4" x 3-1/4" cut twice diagonally 
             4 squares, 1-1/2" x 1-1/2"

Making the Block

Sew the small triangle to the short side of the larger triangle; press.
Sew another small triangle to the other short side to make a
flying geese unit. The unit should measure 1-1/2" x 2-1/2",
including seam allowances. Make a total of four units.

Arrange the flying geese, 2-1/2" square and four 1-1/2" squares
in three rows. Sew the units and squares together into rows. 
Join the rows to make a Sawtooth Star block measuring
4-1/2" square, including seam allowances.

Add 1-1/4" cut borders to each side of block,
press and add top and bottom borders. 
Finish by machine or hand quilting and bind using 
single thickness binding. 

 - - - - - - - - - - Hourglass - - - - - - - - - -

Cutting the block
From 2 different prints, cut: 2 square, 3-1/2" x 3-1/2"
Cut each square diagonally to yield 4 triangles.

Making the Block

Layout block as pictured above.
Sew triangles together in each row.
Join rows together alternating seams at intersection.

Blocks should measure 2-1/2" square,
including seam allowances.

Layout two blocks in two rows. 
Join rows together, alternating seams at intersections.
Blocks should measure 4-1/2" square, 
including seam allowances. 

Add 1-1/4" cut borders to each side of block,
press and add top and bottom borders. 
Finish by machine or hand quilting and bind using 
single thickness binding. 

 - - - - - - - - - - Harvest Hot-pad Side Border - - - - - - - - - -

Today we are making a simple border.
Cut 46 squares, 1-1/2" x 1-1/2"
Sew them together in a checkerboard. 

Do some simple hand quilting
Bind using a single thickness binding. 
You should have twelve blocks and one side border strip. If you have
 been quilting and binding as you go finishing up is pretty easy. I used this
  simple ladder stitch video to join everything together.

 If you did not use the potholder method my suggestion would be to
add a 3/4" cut border to each block in different prints to give the 
look of binding and then join your blocks together. Quilt as 
desired and bind using a single thickness binding.

Want to keep going? Check out my Holiday Hot-pad Stitch Along
from a few years ago. I think you will like that one too. 

TQC Journal | issue 139

This edition of the TQC Journal is full of some fun stuff. First up
the 2026 Mini-a-Month Postcard Collection is finally here!
You can read all the details and place an order here. 
-  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -
Count up your quilty friends and take advantage of the
quantity discounts for all your holiday gifting needs.
-  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -  -
Please note: When you receive your postcard collection you will
notice that the November postcard ( Log Cabin) is mistakenly labeled
May. All patterns are correct and you will still have loads of fun
stitching these little cuties. So sorry, thanks for understanding. 

The 2025 Mini-a-Month Projects are coming to end.
This months quilt is full of fall charm and will go together with ease. 
Be ready to stitch along with me next year and grab your set
of the 2026 Mini-a-Month Postcard Collection here. 
Harvest Hot-pad Stitch Along

Welcome to my newest Stitch Along. I am so glad you are joining me. 

Obviously I have stitched ahead but I will be sewing along with you in spirit.

Here are a few details for you to keep in mind. 

1. I will be posting three blocks every other week. This project will be 

completed by November 17th. 

2. The Potholder style allows you to quilt as you go. Once you
have completed a block finish it off with a little hand quilting
and a single thickness binding. Check out my tutorial 
on finishing a small quilt for details instructions. 
Find the video here. 

3. If you would prefer to finish your quilt in a more traditional 
style, join the blocks using 1-1/4" x 6 sashing strips
and 1-1/4" square cornerstones.  

  - - - - - - - - - -Framed Four Patch  - - - - - - - - - -

Cutting the block
From 2 different prints, cut: 4 squares, 1-3/4" x 1-3/4"
From 2 different prints, cut: 2 strips, 1-1/4" x 3"
2 strips, 1-1/4" x 4-1/2"

Making the Block

Make Four Patch blocks using 1-3/4" squares.
Add 1- 1/4" x 3" strips to opposite sides
of four patch, then add 1-1/4" x 4-1/2" to 
remaining sides. Block should measure
 4-1/2" square, including seam allowances. 

Add 1-1/4" cut borders to each side of block,
press and add top and bottom borders. 
Finish by machine or hand quilting and bind using 
single thickness binding. 

  - - - - - - - - - - Broken Dish - - - - - - - - - -

Cutting the block
From 2 different prints, cut: 2 squares, 3"x 3"

Making the Block

Draw a diagonal line from corner to corner on the

wrong side of the lighter square from each pair.

Place the marked square on the darker square, right

sides together. Sew 1/4" from both sides of the drawn

line. Cut on the line to yield two half-square-triangle

units; trim them to 2-1/2" square. 

Lay out half-square-triangles in two rows,

join the units in each row together, nesting

seam allowances. Sew the two rows together. 

Block should measure 4-1/2" square, including seam allowances.

Add 1-1/4" cut borders to each side of block,
press and add top and bottom borders. 
Finish by machine or hand quilting and bind using 
single thickness binding. 

- - - - - - - - - - Bowtie - - - - - - - - - -

Cutting the block
From first print, cut: 2 squares, 2-1/2" x 2-1/2
2 squares 1-1/2" x 1 1/2"
From second print, cut: 2 squares, 2-1/2" x 2-1/2"

Making the Block

Draw a diagonal line from corner to corner on the 
wrong side of 1-1/2" squares. Place the marked square
on the opposite square in one corner, right sides together.
Sew on line and trim 1/4" from stitch line. Press. 
Layout units in two rows, sew units together.
Join rows alternating seams at intersection.
Blocks should measure 4-1/2" square,
including seam allowances.

Add 1-1/4" cut borders to each side of block,
press and add top and bottom borders. 
Finish by machine or hand quilting and bind using 
single thickness binding. 

TQC Journal | issue 134

It is finished! Today is the last step for the Secret Scrappy Stitch Along. 
I love all the scrappy goodness, I hope you do too. Thanks for joining me.
If you missed out you can catch up here. 
Add the last border with the instructions below and you are ready
for quilting. I had mine long-armed with an all over meander. I think
it is perfect for a project full of so my wonderful fabrics. 
= = = = = = = Secret Scrappy Stitch Along = = = = = = =
Lets make some Brick blocks. You will
need a variety of light, medium and dark prints. 

= = = = = = = Pinwheel Cutting = = = = = = =
From a variety of prints, cut: 
50 rectangles , 2-1/2" x 5-1/2"
50 sets of four squares, 1-1/2" x 1-1/2"

= = = = = = = Making the Block = = = = = = =
1. Draw diagonal lines on wrong side of each 1-1/2" square. 
 
2. Sew a coordinating square to each corner of a 2-1/2" x 5-1/2"
rectangle. Trim and press corners as you go. 

3. Make 50 Brick blocks that measure, 

2-1/2" x 5-1/2", including seam allowances.

= = = = = = = Adding the Brick Borders = = = = = = =

Using the photo and diagram layout and piece the Brick borders. 
Add the Brick Borders to the top and bottom of quilt center. 

Cut the following borders and add to Quilt Center.

From brown print, cut: 
2 strips, 1-3/4" x 50-1\2"

Center Medallion should measure 50-1/2" x 63" square, including seam allowance. 

Quilt as desired and bind. I hope you enjoyed the Secret Scrappy Stitch Along.
If you missed out and would like the details you can find them here. 

Who doesn't love a free pattern. I have made the decision to 
move the free patterns I offer to my website to avoid the escalating
prices of the PDF delivery service. You can now find all my free
patterns here. If you can't find something you are looking please
reach out and I will do my best to get it added. 

One last thing. A little sneak peek of my next collection for
Marcus Fabrics. Ultimate Umbers will be arriving in September
and pre orders will start in August. I am working on several 
projects including a new potholder stitch along :)
Take a closer look and download the free Four Patch Favorites
pattern here and yes I will have kits available in the pre orders. 

TQC Journal | issue 117

It is an exciting day for the TQC Journal. There is a lot to talk about.

Today is the release of the 2025 Mini-a-Month Postcard Collection!

Twelve all new quilts presented in a postcard  format, makes this
 a simple way to start or continue your mini quilt making journey.

Each set includes twelve postcards with a full color photo
on the front and complete color instructions on the back.

You can order one or take advantage of the quantity discounts here.
They make a great gift for all your quilty friends.
This week is the last installment of the Patchwork Potholder Project.
This has been such a fun project. I hope you stuck it out and are
ready to put it this project all together. Thanks for joining me. 

 Patchwork Potholder Project - Block Twenty Four
=  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =
from light print, cut:
1 square, 3" x 3"
4 strips, 1-1/4" x 4"
from navy print, cut:
2 strips, 1" x 3"
2 strips, 1" x 4"
2 squares, 1-3/4" x 1-2/4"
from brown print, cut:
2 squares, 1-3/4" x 1-3/4"
2 strips, 1" x 5-1/2"
2 strips, 1" x 6-1/2"

Making the block
1. Use 1-3/4" navy and brown squares to make four
half-square-triangles. Trim each unit to 1-1/4" square.

2. Layout block and piece together by adding each
border to the center 3" light square. 

3. Layer block, batting and back together. Machine or hand
quilt. Important note - Once your block is quilted trim to
6-1/2" square. Bind using single thickness binding.
=  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =
Catch up on all the Patchwork Potholder Project details here. 
 Patchwork Potholder Project - Block Twenty Five
=  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =
from pink print, cut:
12 squares, 1-1/2" x1-1/2"
4 square, 2" x 2"
4 strips, 1-1/4" x 5"
from red print , cut:
1 square, 1" x 1"
from light print, cut:
4 squares, 1-1/4" x 1-1/4"
4 strips, 1" x 2-1/2"
4 squares, 1" x 1"
12 squares, 1-1/2" x 1-1/2"

Making the block
1. Using1-1/2" pink and light squares, make 24 half square
triangles. trim units to 1" square.

2. Layout four blocks using 2" pink squares, 1" light squares
and half-square-triangles. Piece four blocks measuring 
2-1/2" square, including seam allowances. 

3. Layout block as diagrammed. Sew units together.

4. Layer block, batting and back together. Machine or hand
quilt. Important note - Once your block is quilted trim to
6-1/2" square. Bind using single thickness binding.
=  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =
Catch up on all the Patchwork Potholder Project details here. 

That was sew fun. I hope you enjoyed this project too!
Finish up your quilt by using a ladder stitch to connect
all your special little blocks. Enjoy!

I am really happy with the way this project came out. 
If you did not join us but would like to get started
you can find all the details here. 

Lets kick off the holiday season with another fun sew along.
 I am getting things in order and you will be able to purchase and
download the pattern in the next issue of the TQC Journal. In the
  meantime you have a little time to select a size and gather your fabric.
Check out the size options and fabric requirements below. 
I hope you will join me!

Visit the free pattern page on my website
to download the pattern for this project. Enjoy!

Woven | Bethlehem Star | Small
Finished Quilt 43" x 43"
= = = = = = = = = = = = 
2-1/2 yards light green print

1/2 yard dark green print

1/2  yard light  print

1  yard red print

2 yards | backing

Woven | Bethlehem Star | Medium
Finished Quilt 65 x 65""

= = = = = = = = = = = = 

4-1/2 yards light green print

3/4 yard dark green print

3/4 yard light  print

2  yards red print

4 yards | backing

Woven | Bethlehem Star | Large
Finished Quilt 64-1/2" x 86-1/2"
= = = = = = = = = = = = 

6 yards light green print

1 yard dark green print

1 yard light  print
2-1/2 yards red print

5 yards | backing

 

TQC Journal | issue 116

 Patchwork Potholder Project - Block Twenty Three
=  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =
from red print, cut:
8 squares, 1-11/16" x 1-11/16"
from light print, cut:
2 squares, 1 3/4" x 1-3/4" cut diagonally once
2 squares, 3" x 3" cut diagonally twice
2 squares, 1-11/16" x 1-11/16"
1 rectangle, 1-11/16" x 4-1/16"
2 strips, 1-1/4" x 5-1/2"
2 strips, 1-1/4" x 7"

Making the block
1. Lay out block in diagonal rows. Sew the units in each row
together. Join the rows alternating seams at intersections.
Add corners last. 

2. Add side borders and top and bottom borders. 
Borders are slightly oversized. Trim block to 6-1/2" square

3. Layer block, batting and back together. Machine or hand
quilt. Important note - Once your block is quilted trim to
6-1/2" square. Bind using single thickness binding.
=  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =
Catch up on all the Patchwork Potholder Project details here. 

TQC Journal | 115

Here is a little sneak peak at my next fabric collection, Woof + Warp.
I am working on a fun project using half-square-triangles, my favorite. 
Woof + Warp will be shipping to your local quilt shop in December
and I will be taking pre-orders in November. 

 Patchwork Potholder Project - Block Twenty Two
=  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =
from pink print, cut:
2 squares, 1-5/8" x 1-5/8" cut diagonally once
3 squares, 2-3/4" x 2-3/4" cut diagonally twice
1 rectangle, 1-9/16 x 3-11/16
2 squares, 1-9/16" x 1-9/16"
from brown plaid, cut:
2 rectangles, 1-9/16" x 3-11/16"
6 rectangles, 1-9/16" x 2-5/8"
2 squares, 1-9/16" x 1-9/16"

Making the block
1. Lay out block in diagonal rows. Sew the units in each row
together. Join the rows alternating seams at intersections.
Add corners last. 

2. Layer block, batting and back together. Machine or hand
quilt. Important note - Once your block is quilted trim to
6-1/2" square. Bind using single thickness binding.
=  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =
Catch up on all the Patchwork Potholder Project details here. 
This sweet project was always a favorite of customers when
they visited my brick and mortar. I thought you might like to 
be reminded of it too. Summer Spools was a great little sew
along ten years ago, wow! You can find all the details here. 

TQC Journal | issue 114

Patchwork Potholder Project - Block Twenty One
=  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =
from light print, cut:
1 square, 6-1/2" x 6-1/2"

Making the block
1. Download the free pattern below. Pattern
include details necessary to complete block.

This pattern will be used for several blocks
that require English Paper Piecing and Applique. 

Visit the free pattern page on my website
to download the pattern for this project. Enjoy!

2. Layer block, batting and back together. Machine or hand
quilt. Important note - Once your block is quilted trim to
6-1/2" square. Bind using single thickness binding.
=  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =
Catch up on all the Patchwork Potholder Project details here. 
Bygone Baskets is another favorite (can you have too many?)
Take advantage of this Scrappy Savings and grab a copy of the pattern.
It would make the perfect project to fill the cozy fall days ahead. 

Bygone Baskets
Finished Quilt 54" x 71"
Email me for availability 
I would love to help

TQC Journal | issue 113

 
September is here! How is that possible. This months mini is
pretty simple but darling none the less. Grab your postcard
collection and a few scraps and get to work. I have a limited 
number of 2024 postcards left. Place an order here.  
= = = = = = = = = = 
Get ready. The 2025 Mini-a-Month Postcard Collection will
be released next month. 12 all new mini quilts featuring
historical reproduction fabric from my collections with
Marcus Fabrics. If this sounds right up your alley, stay tuned.
 Patchwork Potholder Project - Block Twenty
=  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =
from black print, cut:
4 strips, 1-1/4" x 5"
from light print, cut:
4 squares, 1-1/4" x 1-1/4"
1 square, 1-5/8" x 1-5/8"
from gold print, cut:
1 square, 4-1/4" x 4-1/4" cut diagonally twice
from brown print, cut:
4 strips, 1-5/8" x 4-1/2"

Making the block
1. Layout block center. Sew gold triangles to each side of two
brown strips. Add brown strips to center 1-5/8" light square.

2. Join three pieces together alternating seams at intersections.
Trim center unit to 5" square, including seam allowances.

3. Add black border to each side of block center. Sew a 1-1/4"
light square to each end of remaining black strips. Sew
to block, alternating seams at intersections.

4. Layer block, batting and back together. Machine or hand 

quilt. Important note - Once your block is quilted trim to 
6-1/2" square. Bind using single thickness binding. 
=  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =

Catch up on all the Patchwork Potholder Project details here. 

TQC Journal | issue 112

 
 Patchwork Potholder Project - Block Nineteen
=  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =
from yellow print, cut:
1 bias strip, 3/4" x 9"
1 square, 3-1/4" x 3-1/4" cut diagonally twice
1 square, 7-1/4" x 7-1/4" cut diagonally twice
from light print, cut:
1 rectangle, 3-1/2" x 6-1/2"
1 square, 3-3/4" x 3-3/4" cut once diagonally. 

Making the block
1. Make basket handle by turning under each long edge of bias strip 1/4". 

2. Position handle to 3-1/2" x 6-1/2" light rectangle. Stitch in place.

3. Piece basket body using remaining pieces. Add basket handle
section to basket body section. Block should measure 6 1/2"
square, including seam allowances. 

4. Layer block, batting and back together. Machine or hand 

quilt. Important note - Once your block is quilted trim to 
6-1/2" square. Bind using single thickness binding. 
=  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =

Catch up on all the Patchwork Potholder Project details here. 

TQC Journal | issue 111

This months mini is the perfect summer project. I love the little
nine patches and a green setting fabric. Grab your Mini-a-Month
Postcard Collection and pick a few of your favorite scraps and 
get started! If you still need a set of postcards you can order here. 

 Patchwork Potholder Project - Block Eighteen
=  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =
from red print, cut:
2 squares, 3-1/2" x 3 1/2" cut diagonally twice
1 square, 2-1/2" x 2-1/2"
from light print, cut:
2 squares, 3-1/2" x 3 1/2" cut diagonally twice
4 squares, 2-1/2" x 2-1/2"

Making the block
1. Make four hourglass blocks using red and light triangles.
Trim blocks to 2-1/2" square, including seam allowances. 

2. Lay out block in three rows. Sew the units in each row. 
Join the rows alternating seams at intersections. 

3. Layer block, batting and back together. Machine or hand 

quilt. Important note - Once your block is quilted trim to 
6-1/2" square. Bind using single thickness binding. 
=  =  =  =  =  =  =  =  =

Catch up on all the Patchwork Potholder Project details here.