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!
Our fearless leader, Mark Dunn had been toga-ed by the Ombres. He took their shenanigans all in stride.
Al Lamborn and Ed Wilson study their instructions before they start sewing on their Purse. Later named, MEURSE (Man-Purse) Thank you to Mary Ann Yeager for supplying all the featherweight machines for the reps to sew on. I have heard through the grapevine that one of the reps has since taken up quilting. (Don’t worry John your secret is safe with me)
