2026 Block of the Month – with a Twist
We’re officially moving into February and Block Two for the 2026 Block of the Month with a Twist, and I’m so glad you’re sewing along with me! January gave us a great start, and now it’s time to spin the wheel again and see what this month has in store.
Block of the Month Challenge Wheel
To recap: As with each month, I’ll be sharing a live video on my Facebook page where we’ll spin the challenge wheel to determine the color and/or fabric type for this month’s block. Because the spin happens live, I won’t have a completed block in the focus colors and fabrics right away. Instead, I’ll begin by sharing the block design in grayscale, based on the graphic, so you can start planning and thinking about how you’d like to interpret the challenge.
February Fabric Challenge
So, the February challenge is to use a novelty print… and I’ll be the first to admit that my sample block didn’t include one. 😊 That means I’ll be stretching myself a bit this month and digging deep into my stash to make it work, which is exactly what this challenge is all about.
Novelty prints can be tricky, especially if you don’t reach for them often, but they can also add a fun and unexpected element to a block. When I create my second block that truly satisfies the challenge, I will most likely use the novelty print in the center square, where it can shine without overwhelming the overall design — although, knowing me, that plan could always change once I start pulling fabrics!
If novelty prints aren’t your usual go-to either, you’re not alone. Think small-scale motifs, fussy-cut centers, or even subtle novelty designs that read more like a print than a statement. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s meeting the challenge in a way that feels comfortable and creative for you.
I can’t wait to see how everyone interprets this month’s twist and makes it their own!
February Directions
The directions are posted on the main 2026 Block of the Month page, and I’ll include a direct link here as well so you don’t have to search. My goal is to keep everything easy to find and simple to follow, whether you’re sewing right away or catching up when you have time.
Once the spin is complete and I’ve had time to sew, I’ll update this post with my finished February block using the selected colors and fabrics. That way, you can see the entire process — from the spin to the finished block — all in one place. So for the time being, here is the grayscale image of my fabrics for the test block.
Block of the Month – Fussy Block
The block unit we’re starting with this month is called a Cat’s Cradle block, and it will be the first component we create for the February project. There are certainly several quick and efficient methods to construct this block, but for this pattern, we’ll be using a square and three triangles to create the unit.
That said, please feel free to make this unit using any method you’re comfortable with. If you have a favorite technique or a quicker way that works well for you, go for it! The most important thing is that your unit comes together accurately and at the correct size. This project is all about flexibility and confidence — use the tools and techniques that make sewing enjoyable for you.
The directions will give you step-by-step directions.
Quarter Square Triangles (QSTs)
The directions call for creating oversized Quarter-Square Triangles (QSTs), which is simply my preferred method for making them. This approach allows for more accuracy and easier trimming. You’ll need four QST units to create the star points.
If you have a different method you prefer for making QSTs, feel free to use it — just be sure your units finish at the correct size. Accuracy is key, but how you get there is completely up to you.
Square in a Square Block of the Month Unit
Finally, we need to create the center block. When I make the second block using the official challenge fabrics, here is probably where I will use the novelty fabric.
As you can see from my sample block, I didn’t originally use a novelty fabric. I could have left that category off the challenge wheel altogether, but doing so would have been a disservice to my own quilting growth. Part of the fun — and the challenge — is pushing ourselves beyond what feels familiar and comfortable.
This month will definitely require me to think outside the box when it comes to incorporating a novelty print, and I’m embracing that process. I’ll be experimenting, making choices, and seeing where the fabric leads me. As always, I’ll share my finished version as soon as it’s complete so you can see how the challenge came together.
Sometimes the biggest creative growth happens when we step just a little outside our comfort zone.
Block of the Month – February Results
This project continues to be about flexibility, creativity, and enjoying the process. No pressure, no perfection — just sewing, experimenting, and having fun. Whether you’re right on schedule or a little behind, you’re always welcome here.
Now, the big question – does anyone know the name for this block? When I am creating patterns, I start with a common pattern. Then I get an idea to add more interest or play around with a secondary pattern that shows up when the quilt is finished. This makes it difficult to know if this block already has a name.
Challenge Wheel Choice Below
Finally, this morning, I was able to get my Challenge Wheel block done. In the center block, there is a cardinal. The corner squares also have pinecones in them. These color choices will have me reminding myself to include barn red in later blocks so it blends instead of sticking out.
Ignore my messy blocks. They are in need of a good press and trim! I didn’t want you to wait any longer for my challenge block. Have a great day.
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Until next time.
