Over the last few weeks we've all been doing our best to social distance. Many quilter have taken this time to make masks or catch up on UFO's. I've watched the social media change in ways I never even imagined. Some changes have been good and others not so good. Of course the not so good is always opinion oriented. I tend to ignore and block those who cause too much fluff.
The post I like the best are of course pretty pictures of quilts. Second on the like list is quilters looking for patterns. For one I like the challenge of searching for the pattern on the internet. Every once in awhile the internet search disappoints. Such was the case this weekend. While scrolling through Facebook I saw this picture of a vintage quilt with a request for the block pattern.
After a hour of searching high and low I came to the conclusion that this block does not exist. So it was off to my encyclopedia's of quilt blocks. And again it was total failure. Well what's a quilt designer to do but draft the quilt block. It seemed like the right thing to do. I've been wanting a yellow and white quilt for my bedroom anyway. This block would be perfect. And since I couldn't find the name of the block I had to name it myself. Hunkering Down seemed perfect not only because we're all doing it but because the center block is called the Economy block. Our economy is taking a big hit right now. I also thought the center white square was a little trapped....quarantined. Now I want everyone to know I don't feel trapped. My life has changed very little other than wearing a mask when I do go to town. It's business as usual in Podunk, we hunker down all the time because it cost to much to drive to town everyday unless your going to work.
Okay back the quilt. It's classic and not too complicated so it will look great in just about any color or fabric as long as the print is not to big.
In no time at all I had whipped up the design in EQ8 and was stitching up the test block.
If you would like to make this block you can download the printable PDF here. This is basic instructions and you must have basic quilting knowledge. No pressing directions or yardage requirements are given. THIS PDF TUTORIAL IS FOR ONE BLOCK ONLY.
If your friends see your block and wants the pattern, please send them to my blog where they can download their own copy. DO NOT SHARE THE PDF. The internet is a world where popularity matters. Clicks, comments, Likes, and shares help me to work my way up the popularity list for my little business. Thank you for understanding.
Don't forget to share your quilt blocks and quilts with the hashtag
#hunkeringdownquiltblock
Can't wait to make it! Thanks!
ReplyDeleteThanks Lea Anne. Just wondering---I'm into scrappy. How would it look in lots of different fabrics?
ReplyDeleteThank you, it looks so pretty in yellow!
ReplyDeleteVery pretty block. I think it would be a gorgeous quilt as you have shared.
ReplyDeleteLove this block! Definitely going to make one or two or probably more. can't wait to see your quilt! Thanks!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for doing the "heavy lifting" for us! How considerate of you to draft the block, write a tutorial and share it with us free of charge. It's a beautiful block, for sure. I think your name for it, and the reasoning is spot on! I think I'll start with a 3 block runner but I'm pretty sure a bed quilt is in my future. The hardest part will be deciding on what color combo. Your color diagrams are all so pretty! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteThank you for the block pattern!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful pattern!
ReplyDeleteI have no ability at all to draft my own patterns. That part of my brain is missing lol
Thanks so much for the pattern. It's wonderful.
Wonder how many I can make before we are let out of the house to play again? Thank you for this block, it looks just difficult enough to keep me busy. Do so enjoy your blog.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your pattern.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Lea Anne!! Cute block...
ReplyDeletegreat looking block! I'm really surprised: I didn't think there were any new blocks out there!! :-) I love it in the butter yellow that you used! I'll download it in case I decide to make it, but it may be awhile!! :-) Hugs, H
ReplyDeleteThanks Lea Anne for the instructions to make this block, can't wait to see how your quilt comes out.
ReplyDeleteYour yellow block is so pretty! Thanks for the PDF instructions- you always write so clearly. If you have Barbara Brackman's Encyclopedia of Pieced Quilt Patterns, check pg 15 and pg 177, block 1316a. It appears to be 4 Double X blocks set together with the center horizontal and vertical seams left out, converting the HSTs to flying geese. It is so striking in one color and set on point. Darn! Another quilt I just have to make.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for this. I'll maybe make it as a 16" block with a border for a pillow!
ReplyDeleteso pretty....thank you
ReplyDeleteThis is so nice of you, Lea Anne! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteThis is so pretty and I love the meaning behind it! Thanks for the Pattern!
ReplyDeleteTake a look at the Cat's Cradle ruler from Creative Grids! You'll see your corner blocks! I love the yellow!
ReplyDeleteFabulous job on researching then drafting up that beautiful block!!
ReplyDeleteI left a comment on your completed quilt post. Now I see the name of the block is Hunkering Down. I LOVE the explanation! Just of the economy and quarantine reference and all. I plan to make the block after work tonight.
ReplyDeleteHi Lea Anne! I just came across your Hunkering Down quilt block post while searching for some project ideas. I tried to post you tutorial pdf, but it isn't working. I would love to make one of these after I finish the quilt I'm working on right now. Just wondering if you could please email it to me.
ReplyDeleteThanks!
Wilda in Indianapolis
Sorry, I tried to PRINT your pdf tutorial.
ReplyDeleteWilda in Indianapolis