Quilt Blocks and a Book Recommendation!

I caught up today on all my blocks for the Summer Sampler Series.  Last night I worked on the Flower Garden Path block (the one in the bottom middle).  Kate had two different sets of directions- one using lots of HSTs and one using strips for the inside border.  She said they were about equally hard, and I can see why she said that.  I chose the second method because I liked the clean look, and it did look a little easier to me.  Of all my blocks though it has given me the biggest headache, and it is quite a bit wonky.  It doesn't look so bad when you put them all with the rest!  I might make it again, but for now I am calling it good!

 I also paper pieced for the first time!  I have been wanting to learn, and I was so excited to see Faith's instructions!  She really made it so easy, and my block came out well.  If you are looking to try paper piecing, definitely go take a look at her tutorial!  

I have enjoyed this quilt-a-long so much that I put on hold at the library The Encyclopedia of Pieced Quilt Patterns by Barbara Brackman, which I know these ladies have used for their inspiration.  My husband picked it up for me yesterday and said it looked like the most boring book ever!  Say what?!  He explained there were no beautiful pictures.  True enough.  I explained that it was a history book and full of inspiration. ;0)

  

Barbara Brackman's book has a lot of different quilt blocks, but it really just shows you the blocks.  So, I thought I would also recommend this book, 501 Rotary Cut Quilt Blocks, for those looking for instructions.  I have owned this book for over a year, and I am constantly browsing this for new ideas!

I like this book because it has color versions of the blocks.  This helps me visualize and see where the pops of color should go.

However, it also has black and white versions of the blocks which is also sometimes helpful in providing more of a blank slate.  It  has instructions for cutting out several different sizes of blocks making this a useful book for those who like to make tiny doll quilts or giant bed quilts.   On some blocks the author will give ideas on switching out colors to change up the look of the block.  The author also provides some templates in the back of the book for certain blocks.  As the title suggests these are all quilt blocks that can be rotary cut.  So, the limitation to this book is there are no curves or paper pieced blocks.  However, it is perfect for those looking to get new inspiration and cutting instructions all in one spot! 

Do you have a quilt block book that you love?  Please share!  I will go put them on hold at the library. ;0)