I recently found this pattern from 2014 in my “patterns not yet done” notebook, and it came at a good time. One of the UFO boxes I’m trying to empty contained a set of 12″ scrap blocks, so this patter was just what was needed.
Some of the scrap blocks had started with orphan blocks, which added some variety.
And the background looks like solid white but it actually has a pattern of fine blue lines. Another time I probably wouldn’t choose such a light background for a child’s quilt, but…
The pattern, by Anita Shackelford, was in Modern Quilts Unlimited in spring of 2014, so it’s been around for a while! Her article encouraged readers to use her idea and design their own version on a design wall, so if you want to copy her idea, I expect she’d approve 😀
This top, along with batting, backing, and binding, will now go to my friend who quilts our tops for donation to Flying Horse Farms.


What a great way to showcase similar-but-very-different blocks! I think they’d be striking on a darker background with light ribbons, too. (Patterns-yet-to-make notebook? I’ve got them in boxes.)
Hahaha…and as soon as I give away a pattern I find I need it again, so the pattern notebooks just keep growing.
Another creative finish
Thanks, Mariss!
Among the other things I’ve got on the To Do List, one is a quilt that will use up orphan blocks. And I’ve got plenty! I like this one because the stripes delineate the area between the blocks — while I do like the “conglomerate quilts” (all patches all together), I find I’m not as successful at this as I would wish. So this idea holds promise!
I love how yours turned out — colorful, fun and oh, so interesting!
Thank you! I’ve made orphan block quilts using the BQ patterns, too.
What a great pattern to set orphan or scrappy blocks! You are organized with your “patterns not yet done” book!
Always looking for something to do with those orphan blocks and scraps, as you know!
I really like the balance of improv and the more traditional structure of the stripes! And the way you balanced the colors. I think it’s a great way to showcase those orphan blocks!
Thank you! Always on the lookout for orphan block uses…