Block Lotto - October 2024

Flying Geese blocks are a favourite among quilters. They are versatile, fun to make, and offer plenty of ways to piece together.

For October’s Block Lotto, we’re spotlighting the 4-at-a-time method, which is not only efficient but also a fantastic way to speed up your quilt-making process. By making multiple blocks at once, you'll save time and fabric, allowing you to focus on perfecting your design while still enjoying the process.

Two Piecing Options:

• Option 1 (Recommended): Follow the instructions to create oversized blocks. This gives you some wiggle room, allowing you to trim the blocks to the perfect size afterward. Here is a great block tutorial, including how to handle directional fabrics.

• Option 2: If you’re confident in your ability to sew a perfect 1/4" seam allowance (and we really stress perfect here), you may use this Zero Waste Method

  
  

Important: Please read all instructions carefully before you start sewing.

Finished Block Size:

We ask everyone to use fabric from their stash and make 3" x 6" finished blocks (once sewn together) using the 4-at-a-time method.

For an oversized block, here are the cutting measurements:

• Goose (large square): 7 3/4" (7 1/2" + 1/4")

• Sky (4 small squares): 4 1/4" (4" + 1/4")

  
  

These slightly larger pieces will help avoid wonky blocks—you’ll thank us later!

Trim the oversized block to 6 1/2 by 3 1/2 inches. When sewn together this will produce a 6x3 block.

Colour Format:

Since we are heading towards winter, we're going with Wintery Blues:  

Select blue and/or blue-green prints for the "Goose" to create a cohesive and vibrant look.  If you choose a directional Print, refer to the instructions below.

Choose low-volume white or cream for the "Sky". 

Troubleshooting Wonky Blocks:  Excellent tips if you encounter an issue

When you start making these, you'll find you can't stop!

Every set of 4 blocks will get you 1 ticket for the draw!

As you finish your blocks be sure to share them on social media using these tags: @calgarymqg #calmqgblocklotto #calgarymqg 

General Block Lotto Rules

1.  Make a quilt block (or many) following the pattern and colour scheme outlined in the lotto announcement blog post. For every block you make and bring to the following month's meeting, you will get one entry in the lotto. If you are unable to attend the meeting, but really want to participate in the lotto, ask a friend to get your blocks to the meeting, but make sure they are labelled with your name so we can properly account for your blocks.

2. The winner gets all the blocks to make a quilted project from them (We may hold a vote to split up the blocks between more than one winner if there are enough entries). If you win, the blocks become yours and you can use them in any way you choose. You may only win one group per lotto.

3. We would love to see your finished project, either in person or in pictures, once you are done.

4. Use modern fabrics that you like or love! If you are unsure about your fabric selection as it relates to "Modern" please ask.

5. Have fun! Keep in mind that (most likely) someone else will be taking home your blocks to incorporate into a larger piece and things must fit together (literally, ...so keeping your blocks true to size is probably the most important thing), but you should also make it yours and enjoy the process.

6. Remember, you must be a member of the Calgary Modern Quilt Guild to participate.