Kaleidoscope quilt blocks | Exciting layout choices

This week we achieved no tear paper piecing with Kaleidoscope Blocks 1 and 2 and using Sew Easy Freezer Paper for Quilting and Applique. These blocks are so pretty with FABRIC CREATIONS Cotton Fabric and made easy with the very popular Best Press Starch Alternative and the Clover 9612 Roll ‘n Press.

The 2 Kaleidoscope Blocks from this week’s posts

Today, I’d like to talk about how dynamic these blocks can be when made in multiples and placed into a quilt.

Kaleidoscope Block 1 design layout

I multiplied my blocks by copying and pasting my original block a few times and look at what happened. A representation of what you can do with multiple blocks. Remember this is a 15” block so it’s very big and wouldn’t take many to make a quilt. The layout below makes a 60” x 75” large throw sized quilt and you can change the layout achieve other sizes. Another suggestion is to add solid blocks in between.

Kaleidoscope Block # 1 makes a 60” x 75” quilt top

Kaleidoscope Block 2 design layout

Sometimes when you layout multiple blocks a secondary pattern emerges as shown. I see the star in the middle and an on-point large square. It’s such an interesting layout.

Secondary star pattern emerges when 4 blocks are laid out

Kaleidoscope Block 2 design layout on point

Turning the blocks lay out on-point gives a different perspective. It reveals a pinwheel star in the middle and shows off the on-point small square in the middle within the larger square.

On point layout

Other design variations

The quilt shown below was created with quilt design software to show what a larger quilt might look like. It measures 48” x 56” which is a good-sized baby quilt. This is what I intend to make with my blocks. Remember, each block measures 8½” square or 8” finished so 42 blocks are required to make a quilt of this size.

Baby quilt designed with Kaleidoscope Block 2

Another variation

This variation shows the solid block in between. It’s always a great option and an opportunity to show off your quilting skills or that of your long armer in the negative space. For this 48” x 76” quilt only 21 blocks are needed. I love the freshness of this design and how the blocks look like they will spin like windmills.

Kaleidoscope Block 2 layout with alternating solid blocks

I’ve just given you some design ideas to start the creative process. There are so many more options. If you have some ideas or comments, please share below. I sincerely hope you’ve enjoyed this week’s blog post on no-tear paper piecing and that you’ll use this as a skill for more quilts to make your sewing easier. Don’t forget to look for Sew Easy Freezer Paper, the Clover 9612 Roll ‘n Press, Best Press Starch Alternative, FABRIC CREATIONS Cotton and GÜTERMANN 100% Polyester Thread at your local sewing and quilt shops. Enjoy a fantastic weekend!

This is part 5 of 5 in this series

Go back to part 4: Kaleidoscope quilt blocks | Block 2 easy variation

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