Month: July 2025

Moda Blockheads 6: Block 10 – What a Lark by Janet Clare

This week’s Moda Blockheads 6 block comes with a touch of British elegance, a bit of sketchbook whimsy, and a quiet sense of direction. Introducing What a Lark, created by none other than the talented Janet Clare.

Whether she’s drawing in ink, stitching by hand, or creating dreamy fabric collections inspired by weathered coastlines and English skies, Janet always brings something poetic to the quilting table—and this block is no exception.

What a Lark – A Quiet Guide

The What a Lark block is composed of simple triangle units and a strong center square, forming a design that radiates calm strength. Like its namesake, this block feels grounded, guiding, and balanced—a fixed point among the ever-shifting layout of your sampler.

There’s a certain symmetry to this one that invites peaceful piecing. I stuck with a soft palette—navy, cream, and subtle texture—to reflect the windswept coastlines that inspire so much of Janet’s work. But this block would be stunning in bold monochrome or even scrappy neutrals.

It’s a reminder that not every block needs to shout. Sometimes a quiet, thoughtful design anchors the whole quilt.

Meet Janet Clare – Artist, Author, & English Creative

Janet Clare is a designer for Moda Fabrics, illustrator, pattern designer, and author based in the UK. Her work combines hand-drawn artwork, muted color palettes, and storytelling—often inspired by nature, family, and the sea.

Janet’s quilts are known for their soft minimalism, stitched textures, and whimsical touches that make you look twice. She often incorporates free-motion quilting, appliqué, and a personal narrative into everything she creates—making each project feel like a page from her sketchbook.

Follow Janet Clare for quiet inspiration and glimpses into her beautifully creative world:

Instagram:@janetclare
Facebook:Janet Clare
Blog & Shop:JanetClare.co.uk
Youtube Trunk Show: link here

Expect coastal sketches, soothing stitching videos, and lots of timeless design inspiration with a hint of British charm.

Navigate Over to Moda

You can find the North Star block pattern and step-by-step video tutorial now on the Moda Blog. Janet’s version (stitched in her signature navy-and-cream color story) is as graceful and understated as you’d expect—truly a guiding light in the middle of the Blockheads journey.

A Stitch in the Right Direction

Have you made your block yet? It’s a lovely moment to slow down and stitch something serene. Whether you follow Janet’s lead with calm neutrals or let it shine in your favorite color, this block is sure to become a quiet favorite.

Share your block using #ModaBlockheads and #ModaBlockheads6, and tag @modafabrics and @janetclareuk—we’d love to see how you interpret this beautifully balanced design.

Until next week… keep stitching, stay steady, and follow your North Star.

Until next week… keep stitching and dreaming.

Details about this program, click here.

Follow each of the designers listed below.

Vanessa Christenson – Download the pattern here.

Lynne Hagmeier -Download the pattern here.

Anne Sutton -Download the pattern here.

Kiley Ferons-Download the pattern here.

Chelsi Stratton– Download the pattern here.

Robin Pickens –Download the pattern here.

Joanna Figueroa-Download the pattern here.

Sherri McConnell -Download the pattern here.

Barb Groves – Download the pattern here.

Thank you for following along!

Blockheads 6- block 9- Me and My Sister

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July 23, 2025

Say hello to Block 9 of Moda Blockheads 6, and it’s bursting with fun, flair, and Barbara Groves’ signature charm. From one half of the hilarious and high-energy duo Me & My Sister Designs, this block is pure joy in fabric form.

Bold reds and playful pinks come together to form a sparkling starburst—Polaris, because that’s exactly what it does. This block took a bit of practice and choosing geometric fabrics was probably not the best option, but that is why this is a skill builder project.

Polaris – Playful Geometry with Heart

This block combines diamond-in-a-square piecing, and peaky and spike shapes to create a star shape with tons of personality. It’s a design that feels both classic and unexpected—like it showed up to the quilt party in red lipstick and polka dots.

I used three shades of red and pink, keeping the contrast crisp and the vibe vintage-sweet. The center square is my favorite—it’s like a little framed message wrapped in joy. And the background print? A perfect reminder that basics don’t have to be boring. Grid + color = instant energy.

Meet Barbara Groves – Color Queen & Quilt Comedian

Barbara Groves is one half of the sister-powered duo Me & My Sister Designs, the Moda designers known for their bright color palettes, bubbly prints, and infectious quilting spirit. Their patterns are cheerful, beginner-friendly, and always bring the fun. And Barbara is a hoot! If you ever get a chance to take a class with her you won’t be sorry!

Barbara’s blocks are often about joy, movement, and giving tradition a modern twist—exactly what Blockheads needs right in the middle of the journey.

Connect with Me & My Sister Designs here:

Instagram:@meandmysisterdesigns
Facebook:Me and My Sister Designs
Shop Patterns: Me & My Sister

You’ll find colorful quilt kits, simple piecing tips, and lots of laugh-out-loud moments sprinkled in anything that Barb touches.

Shine On with Moda

Grab the Block 9 pattern download and follow the step-by-step video tutorial over on the Moda Blog. Barbara’s version is guaranteed to make you smile—and likely give you an idea for your next scrappy star quilt!

Until next week… keep stitching and dreaming.

Details about this program, click here.

Follow each of the designers listed below.

Vanessa Christenson – Download the pattern here.

Lynne Hagmeier -Download the pattern here.

Anne Sutton -Download the pattern here.

Kiley Ferons-Download the pattern here.

Chelsi Stratton– Download the pattern here.

Robin Pickens –Download the pattern here.

Joanna Figueroa-Download the pattern here.

Sherri McConnell -Download the pattern here.

Thank you for following along!

Moda Blockheads 6: Block 8 – Sandcastle by Sherri McConnell

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July 16, 2025

We’ve made it to Block 8 in the Moda Blockheads 6 series, and this week’s design feels like summer in stitch form—introducing the Sandcastle Block by none other than Sherri McConnell of A Quilting Life.

Much like the sandcastles we all tried to build as kids—some sturdy, some swept away by waves—this block combines structure and softness in such a beautiful way. Sherri’s design is graceful, tidy, and just playful enough to make it a joy to piece.

Sandcastle – Soft Curves, Crisp Corners

The Sandcastle block features a smart combo of quarter-square triangles and flip corner units, creating a balanced and flowing layout that nods to the rounded edges and tidy lines of a perfectly built sandcastle. There’s a gentle rhythm to the block—curves suggested through angles, and dimension created through layering. If I were to change anything on my fabric choices for this block, I would have picked a darker fabric to replace the pink small gingham. There is not enough contrast to create the “roundness” that the small triangles would create for this block. But I still love it. Lesson learned!

It’s a versatile block that plays well with both soft, sandy neutrals and bright, beachy tones. I chose a muted, light palette to keep within my faded vintage theme, but I can already imagine making a few extras in bolder tones for future layout options. (Yes, I’m still undecided on my final layout—and loving the freedom of that!)

Meet Sherri McConnell – Classic, Clean, and Always Inspiring

Sherri McConnell is one of those designers who brings both calm and clarity to everything she touches. She’s a pattern designer, fabric designer for Moda Fabrics (alongside her daughter, Chelsi Stratton), podcaster, educator, and prolific blogger behind A Quilting Life.

Sherri’s patterns are known for their clean construction, approachable layouts, and timeless style. She’s also a gifted teacher—if you’re someone who loves structure, tips, and practical quilting wisdom, she’s absolutely one to follow.

Connect with Sherri here:

Instagram: @aquiltinglife
Facebook: A Quilting Life
YouTube: A Quilting Life Podcast + Tutorials
Blog: aquiltinglife.com

Whether she’s sharing a new block, offering tips on time management for quilters, or simply chatting through her monthly favorites, Sherri always brings something thoughtful to the table.

Sandcastle Assembly & More

You’ll find the block pattern download and a step-by-step video tutorial over on the Moda Blog. Don’t miss Sherri’s own version of the block—her signature palette and balanced style are always a source of inspiration.

Build Your Own Sandcastle

Are you sewing along with us? Have you made your Sandcastle block yet? Whether you’re building yours in coastal creams or saturated brights, this block offers a lovely mix of structure and flow. Share your blocks using #ModaBlockheads and #ModaBlockheads6, and be sure to tag @modafabrics and @aquiltinglife so we can see your version.

Week by week, block by block, this quilt is becoming something really special—and Sherri’s design is a beautiful, grounded piece of the journey.

Until next week… keep stitching and dreaming.

Details about this program, click here.

Follow each of the designers listed below.

Vanessa Christenson – Download the pattern here.

Lynne Hagmeier -Download the pattern here.

Anne Sutton -Download the pattern here.

Kiley Ferons-Download the pattern here.

Chelsi Stratton– Download the pattern here.

Robin Pickens –Download the pattern here.

Joanna Figueroa-Download the pattern here.

Thank you for following along!

Moda Blockheads 6: Block 7 – Bellissimo by Joanna Figueroa

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July 9, 2025

This week’s Moda Blockheads 6 block arrives with all the grace and refinement we’ve come to expect from Joanna Figueroa of Fig Tree & Co. Say hello to Bellissimo—an 18″ beauty that lives up to its name in every stitch.

“Bellissimo” means beautiful in Italian, and that’s exactly what this block is—elegant, crisp, and so satisfying to piece. Whether you’re going bold and bright or soft and subtle, this star will shine.

Bellissimo – A Star with European Flair

The Bellissimo Star Block combines half-square triangles, flying geese, and quarter-square triangles in a layered, radiant design. The structured geometry creates beautiful intersections and visual depth, with that classic starburst shape at the heart of it all.

There’s a balance of strength and softness here—something Joanna does so well in her quilt patterns. The block feels tailored and clean, but never harsh. It’s graceful and inviting—exactly the kind of design that anchors a sampler quilt or stands out as a focal point.

One of my tips is that a piece several sets of half square triangle papers in a big size. That way I have lots of sets and colors already made and I can trim down to what size I need for a particular block. It is not like I won’t use any extras on a future project!!

I loved working on this one. Because it finishes at 18″, you get the satisfaction of a larger block that comes together piece by piece, allowing for a little more play with color and contrast. I stayed with my vintage-faded theme but added in a few slightly darker tones to give the center star some dimension and added the stripe for fun. Bellissimo, indeed!

Meet Joanna Figueroa – Classic Elegance in Every Stitch

Joanna Figueroa is the heart and hands behind Fig Tree & Co., a brand beloved by quilters for its timeless patterns, romantic palettes, and soft vintage feel. Joanna designs bestselling fabric collections for Moda Fabrics, filled with florals, fresh fruit motifs, and gentle color stories rooted in her European heritage.

Her quilts are known for clean construction, approachable elegance, and a look that blends farmhouse comfort with a bit of European charm. Joanna’s also a prolific teacher, writer, and pattern designer who brings warmth and precision to everything she creates.

Follow Joanna for sneak peeks of upcoming collections, quilt-alongs, color theory tips, and behind-the-scenes life from her Bay Area studio:

Instagram: @figtreeandco
Facebook: Fig Tree & Co.
YouTube: Fig Tree & Co. on YouTube
Blog: blog.figtreeandcompany.com
Website & Shop: figtreeandcompany.com

Her site is full of gorgeous quilt kits, patterns, and fabric bundles—and if you’re into seasonal sewing, her fall and Christmas patterns are some of the most charming around.

Sew Along & Shine

You’ll find the Bellissimo block download and a step-by-step video tutorial over on the Moda Blog. And be sure to read Joanna’s thoughts on the block—she always shares thoughtful insights about construction, fabric placement, and why the details matter.

Bellissimo, Indeed

Whether you go traditional or take a more modern route, Bellissimo offers the perfect balance of structure and beauty. Share your blocks using #ModaBlockheads and #ModaBlockheads6, and don’t forget to tag @modafabrics and @figtreeandco so we can all see your glowing stars.

This quilt just keeps getting more beautiful with every block, and Joanna’s design is a standout in every way.

Until next week… happy stitching, amici.

Details about this program, click here.

Follow each of the designers listed below.