Hello, friends! Today I’m sharing my Best Tips for Using Orphan Blocks. I’ve accumulated lots of blocks, and it’s time for me to put them into some quilts and projects. I’ve had this on my list for a while but just haven’t started because I didn’t know what I had. Watch today’s video, and get some ideas for your blocks from this post.
Note: all of the photos in today’s post are of Moda Blockheads quilts I’ve made. These scrappy quilts are always my inspiration for an orphan block quilt!
Best Tips for Using Orphan Blocks
1. Gather your Blocks
Start by gathering your blocks in one place. When I finally did this, I realized just how many I had and that I really needed to start a project or two with them!
2. Count + Keep an Inventory of your Blocks
It’s not enough to have them all together. Consider counting your blocks and keep an inventory by size and color or theme. That way you’ll have a good idea of what you have and in what sizes and colors.
3. Small Project Ideas (for using one or just a few blocks)
Sometimes the best use for an orphan block is to use it for a small project. Here are some of my favorite small project ideas for orphan blocks:
- Quilt Label
- Pillow
- Table Runner
- Place Mats
- Bag or Pouch
- Wall Hanging
4. Make a Sampler Quilt
A sampler quilt is my favorite way to use orphan blocks. This is what I plan to do with the majority of my accumulated blocks. My first step is going to be to make my inventory list and then decide on a setting. I’ll share progress next month with what I’ve decided.
Orphan Block Video
Watch the video with my orphan block stash above or watch it on your YouTube channel here.
Orphan Block Inventory
Download my orphan block inventory page to keep track of your blocks. (Print more copies as needed).
Thanks so much for stopping by for today’s Best Tips for Orphan Blocks post. Stay tuned for more with my blocks soon!
Happy quilting!