What is the Difference Between a QAL and a BOM in the Quilting World?

If you’ve been part of the quilting community for any length of time, you’ve probably come across the terms QAL and BOM. While these acronyms are common in the quilting world, they represent two distinct ways of tackling a quilt project. Both are popular, and both create a sense of community, but they cater to different types of quilters and schedules. One of the sales professionals ay Moda always says we need more Bom’s. With over 50 creative designers creating projects I spent quite some time studying this topic. Let’s break down what they mean and how they differ, so you can decide which format works best for you!

What is a QAL (Quilt Along)?

A QAL or Quilt Along is exactly what it sounds like—a group of quilters working together on the same quilt project at the same time, usually online. The key component of a QAL is its collaborative and interactive nature. Typically, the organizer provides a pattern, and over a set number of weeks or months, quilters follow along, sewing the quilt together at the same pace. The schedule is broken down into manageable sections, such as working on specific blocks or completing certain tasks during each phase.

Why participate in a QAL?

• Community: QALs are all about connection. They often involve shared photos, tips, and encouragement through social media or dedicated platforms. You’ll see how others interpret the same pattern and get ideas from their fabric choices or layout variations.
• Flexibility: While there’s a timeline, it’s generally not as rigid as a BOM. If you fall behind, you can usually catch up easily.
• Creative Freedom: While the pattern may be the same for everyone, QALs often encourage quilters to make their own fabric choices or tweak the design to suit their personal style.

Example: The Fat Quarter Shop runs popular Quilt Alongs, such as the Piece and Quilt Sampler Quilt Along, where participants create a sampler quilt one block at a time and share their progress along the way. ( shameless plug for mine and Susan Ache’s book)

What is a BOM (Block of the Month)?

A BOM or Block of the Month program is a long-term quilting project that delivers a new block to complete each month, either as a digital pattern or a physical kit with all the necessary fabric and instructions. Over the course of several months (usually 12), quilters work on one block at a time, and by the end of the program, they have all the blocks they need to complete a full quilt.

Why participate in a BOM?

• Pacing: The slower pace of a BOM is perfect for quilters who prefer a steady, manageable project. You only need to complete one block each month, making it easier to fit into a busy schedule.
• Guided Experience: For those who like having everything laid out for them, BOMs often provide the full experience—from fabric selections to assembly instructions—meaning less decision-making along the way.
• Skill Building: BOMs are a fantastic way to build new skills. Since the blocks are released one at a time, they tend to increase in complexity, allowing participants to gradually improve their techniques.

Example: Many quilt shops and fabric designers offer BOM programs. For instance, a designer like Lella Boutique might create a BOM that features new blocks based on their latest fabric collection.

How Do They Differ?

1. Pacing: QALs are often faster-paced, with a timeline that could range from a few weeks to a few months. BOMs stretch out over a year, offering a more leisurely pace.
2. Community vs. Independence: QALs thrive on community interaction, with frequent updates and shared progress. BOMs, on the other hand, can feel more like a personal challenge, with fewer opportunities for interaction throughout the project.
3. Commitment: QALs can be intense but short-lived. BOMs require a longer commitment—usually 12 months—but the work is more spread out and manageable.
4. Project Structure: In a QAL, you’re often working on the quilt top as a whole, piecing together sections as you go. In a BOM, you’re working on individual blocks, and only at the end will you assemble them into a full quilt.

Which One is Right for You?

If you love the idea of sewing alongside others, exchanging ideas, and potentially working on a shorter project, a QAL could be just what you’re looking for. But if you prefer a slower pace, and you like having the convenience of receiving one block at a time, a BOM might be a better fit.

Whether you choose a QAL or a BOM, both offer unique experiences that build skills and provide a sense of accomplishment. Plus, you’ll have a beautiful quilt to show for it! So, why not try both and see which style inspires you the most?  I have several going on at any time. There is something therapeutic about these types of projects but I do loose patience and interest so keeping focus about month 7 out of 12 is tough for me.

QAL’s and BOM’s in many ways are interchangeable in many ways. Like they say TOMATO or TOMATOE!

How many BOM’s or QAL’s do you participate in?

Are there any sort of projects you are interested in for a QAL?

Enjoy,

-Modalissa