I’m so excited to tell you about one of my blocks that is in the new book, Modern Blocks!
I’m a completely self-taught quilter…although one of these days I would really love to learn from a real live person. I have degrees in mathematics and interior design, so quilt designing is a natural use of both of those skills. I love designs that have a strong geometric feel, but also those that are full of whimsy. My goal is try to combine these two looks. Admittedly, today’s block, Sunset Stretch, is pretty much on the geometric side, though. Sometimes I just give those totally geometric blocks a whimsical name and all is good!
This was actually my very first idea for the Modern Blocks book. I loved this block from the beginning…it’s crisp and clean and very strong. The combination of pattern, color gradation and contrasting colors are all very striking. And this is one block that definitely feels like it should be part of a larger quilt. Some blocks are perfect for sampler quilts, but others, like this one, are perfect for repetition. Just look at what you can do with it!
One block can become a show-stopping masterpiece. At about 48” x 48”, this quilt is the perfect size for a wall hanging. You can play around with the color and the layout of the blocks and get a few different ideas that really work.
I love these variations below, called Beach Wave, done in blues with a pop of orange…this block is particularly strong with contrasting colors. This quilt would be perfect for a teenage boy; an updated twist on a nautical theme. I’m a sucker for blues!
I’ve looked at this pattern with solids and with prints and it is not nearly as strong with prints. Although I think you could use the center stripe as an opportunity for a fussy cut strip of patterned fabric. But in general, the pattern is shown off the best with solids so that your eye is not trying to take in too many ideas at once.
I hope that this gives you all a little inspiration for what you can do with this one block. And just think! There are 98 more blocks in the book! You’ll be busy for a long time. 
Visit me any time on my blog, Cut to Pieces.
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10 Comments
Love this block, it’s so versatile.
Really a great block! I love the way two can combine to look like one larger block and the layered effect the block can give.
Oooo this block is GREAT and i LOVE the quilt layout for it too! This would be fun on its own too as a pillow cover. So many possibilities! Def. looking for this book to come out!
I love this block and didn’t realise how versatile and kind of cool and modern but retro at the same time it is – clever old Angela once again!
Such a dynamic block, great to see it in the layouts, it has a Bridget Riley quality to it!
What a striking block!
I love it!
Wow! This block is just amazing!!! I fell in love
) If ever I find time to make my first quilt I might use this as inspiration. Thank you very much!
Wow Angela! I LOVE all the different ways you can use it. And you’re right, it’s perfect for boys!
it really does look fantastic in the quilt mock-ups. congratulations on the book!
This is one of my favorite blocks in the book! Thanks for posting a quilt layout idea