October Challenge Wheel – Block of the Month
Things are starting to slow down a little around here, and for once, I was able to finish October’s Block of the Month ahead of schedule! That feels like a small victory in itself. But when I sat down to actually write the directions for October’s block, I have to admit—the block gave me a bit of a pause. At first glance, I looked at that center section and thought:
“No one is going to want to piece that skinny diagonal piece!”
And then I slowed my brain down and looked at it a little differently. That’s one of my favorite parts of designing quilt blocks. I love taking a unit that looks fussy or complicated—something that might normally require templates and a lot of careful cutting—and finding a way to make it quick, easy, and much more approachable. And that’s exactly what happened with this month’s block.
A Trick for That Tricky Center
That center diamond may look complicated, but there is a simple way to build those units without cutting out a bunch of templates. Once I figured it out, I knew I wanted to use the technique in this month’s block. It creates the same look while making the construction much easier. The only downside?
We usually have a little more fabric waste when we use these shortcut methods. For me, the trade-off is worth it when it means less fussing, fewer tiny pieces to handle, and a much easier time getting everything together.
HINT – Press those seams open if needed. This isn’t my favorite way to do it, but sometimes you need to deal with extra fabric bulk.
And then there are those Wide Flying Geese! Once again, we’re using a quick, easy construction method rather than making these units from individual triangles. Each month I’ve been encouraging everyone to try some of the more traditional cutting and piecing methods—including cutting triangles and trapezoids when appropriate. But I’m going to save that challenge for another month. Maybe November. Maybe December.
As the individual units are finished up, I am liking how this block is turning out. I can see so many possibilities! I can’t wait to see what the Challenge Wheel decides – just so I get another chance to play with different combinations.
What Will the Challenge Wheel Choose for this Block of the Month?
It’s time to decide what fabric style and/or color we’re using for October! Over the past year, I’ve discovered I’m apparently not very good at predicting what that wheel will choose. I think I’ve only correctly guessed the fabric selection once or twice! That hasn’t stopped me from guessing, though. And even when I’m right, I still decide to make a second block.
Why not? We’re making a quilt, after all, and a few extra blocks can only make the finished quilt bigger!
Two Ways to Finish the Quilt
As we get closer to the end of this year’s Challenge Wheel Block of the Month, we’re also getting closer to putting all these blocks together. When we finish, you’ll have a couple of options. You can go with a simple block-to-block setting, letting each block stand on its own.
Or…
You can add pieced sashing and borders. I’m really excited about the pieced sashing and border option because I think it adds another whole layer of interest to the quilt. Since each of our blocks already has its own border, the pieced sashing and borders really help pull everything together and become part of the overall design.
I can’t wait to see how everyone’s quilts come together!
Get October’s Block
You can find the pattern and directions for October’s Challenge Wheel Block of the Month here. Scroll down toward the bottom of the page. Another reminder: please print out the pattern. This Block of the Month will be converted into a pattern in 2027.
And don’t forget to share your blocks! I love seeing the different fabric combinations everyone is using. It’s amazing how completely different the same block can look simply because of fabric choices.
Looking Ahead to 2027
As we’re finishing up this year’s Challenge Wheel Block of the Month, I’m already thinking about next year’s Block of the Month! I’m still working on the pattern and the details, but I have a pretty good idea where I’m headed.
I think 2027 will be all about monochromatic quilts. The idea is to choose a color family and work within that family using light, medium, and dark fabrics. I’ve already started collecting my neutrals, and I’m really excited about where this is heading.
More information is coming soon, so stay tuned! I have a feeling this next Block of the Month will be a lot of fun—and maybe a little different from what we’ve done this year.
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Thank you for continuing to sew along with me, try new techniques, and—most importantly—have fun with your fabric.
Happy quilting!
