Summerfield Quilt Pattern

The Concept

The idea of a Block of the Month Class started to creep into my brain towards the end of 2014. I was keen to create a quilt that included different techniques that could be taught step by step over a period of 8-12 months.  Each month the next part of the quilt instructions was given and taught and the students could then complete this over the month between classes.
So began the exciting process of designing something that wasn't too challenging for a new quilter but gave enough content to encourage those more experienced to join the journey.  Fortunately I seem to have unlimited supply of inspiration and design ideas floating around in my brain, so this part is never a chore more an selection and elimination process.
I had decided on a medallion style quilt as these are one of my favourites and easy to break up into manageable sections/borders. The foundation pieced centre was the first thing drawn and then the appliqué floral border to surround it.   The pieced Star/Tulip blocks with the circular appliqué blocks in the corners were then added. Another appliqué round of simple flowers then a piano key border to frame the entire quilt. 

Each month I tried to change the technique from the previous month, that way you didn't feel like you were doing the same thing for too long. Some months required more work so the next month was usually made simpler so students could catch up without feeling too pressured.

 In my BOM class you are encouraged to work at your own pace and not feel pressured to get each month completed before the next class begins.  Life gets in the way sometimes so our class policy is you do what you can when you can.

This Quilt was made by Lesley, using a variety of Emma Jean Jansens fabrics 

I wanted the students to be able to choose their own fabrics but give them a simple option for fabric selection, so decided to use a Fat Quarter Bundle of 25 or more fabrics, add a background and also two contrast colours.

One of the most rewarding parts of producing a quilt pattern to see your design come together in so many different versions, and there have been some amazing Summerfield's made.

 The complete Summerfield pattern is now available as a full colour book, with easy to follow instructions and diagrams with full size pattern sheets.  There is also a companion Acrylic Template Set available