April blocks for Penny Sampler

Did you ever make a Farmer's Wife quilt? When that quilt-along was all the rage, I was charmed by the idea of making so many unique 6" patchwork blocks. Although I never started my own Farmer's Wife, it to inspire this section of the Penny Sampler. Most of April's blocks are sweet 6" forays into patchwork bliss.

After Ribbon Square, which I knocked out in March, the next block in the 6-month sampler is Jewel. I made mine in a range of royal blues. With all-solids and a simple design, this little block provides some visual rest in the otherwise whimsical center section of the quilt.

I chose to replace Hourglass Stacked with another house like those from the Little Village block. I absolutely love how it came out! That purple floral is so cute paired with the salmon pink, don't you think? This block belongs adjacent to Spruce Forest, so I chose to use the same background. The two blocks will flow together like a little panorama!

The first block in this group is another divergence from the Penny Sampler pattern. I switched out the Framed block for an improv patchwork block that started with a on point square. I like the design of the finished block except for the seam lines. With advanced planning I would have tidied that up a bit. I guess I felt like being adventurous today!

I'm definitely a fan of the way my Crossroads block turned out. The colors are singing to me!

And once again, here is my quilt so far. The dark border is almost all filled in. I'm still feeling nervous about this dark color scheme, but I'm glad I'm pushing myself. Even if it's not going to be my favorite quilt ever, I am learning and growing in the process. I think they key to my satisfaction is going to be how the colors are brought to life in the center so that the dark border frame feels worth it. Fingers crossed!