Not So Bad, After All - I Like It!

 

It's pretty amazing what just a simple block layout change can do. This went from just a boring grid to something more interesting by just changing to a Half Drop layout. The half drop layout allows the horizontal "arms" of the blocks to interlock into the negative spaces between the adjacent blocks. 

Is it beautiful, wonderful? No, not at all. But it's certainly acceptable. 

Would I make it again? Absolutely! But there are a few things I would do differently, mostly having to do with Value and value placement. I would only use the very lightest low volume prints, avoiding the ones that read darker, like the piece below the red motif at the center. I would also make sure there's enough contrast between the four small patches and both the background and the arms. I might try a more controlled scrappy palette also, such as all cool colors. 

These blocks are fun to make because each one is designed as its own palette, so it's not boring to make multiples of the same block. Want to make your own version? Here's the block plan, but avoid busy, high-contrast background fabrics like in this EQ image: 

For a half drop layout like mine you need 45 blocks and 6 end fillers. The end filler blocks finish at 5" by 10" (5-1/2 by 10-1/2" unfinished). They're made of 2-1/2" by 5-1/2" low volume pieces, 5 per block.  The finished top measures 60" by 80", a good size for an adult or teen throw. 

I have backing ready and time booked on the club's long arm at the end of the month, so this will be finished and ready to donate in June. Since we know that one of the agencies we support has an uptick in need at the end of the school year, this will go to them. 

Link ups:  My Quilt Infatuation 5/8,  Alycia Quilts 5/9,  Small Quilts and Doll Quilts 5/12