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Monday, November 8, 2010

Quiltmaker's 100 Blocks blog tour

Welcome to all who are joining the Quiltmaker's 100 Blocks blog tour! I'd like to give you a little background information about me and what went into designing the Nouveau Riche block in volume 2 of Quiltmaker's 100 Blocks.


Most people steer clear of curved blocks but I am drawn to them. I love the movement they create on a quilt and all of the design possibilities. I teach workshops on taking the fear out of curve piecing and I can honestly say that not one person has left the class without feeling confident about sewing curves!



This block was inspired by a collection of fabrics from Hoffman called Nouveau Riche (image on right). I love designing with their fabrics as they always seem to get my creative juices flowing. I have done a lot of designs using Rob Peter to Pay Paul blocks (image on left) and I wanted to do something new with curves. I have heard many people describe this quilt as beads, goblets, ornaments, and even Easter eggs so it can be made for many occasions. I have templates in both 6" (four blocks create the 12" block) or 8". There is a free webpattern on Hoffman's website www.hoffmanfabrics.com and the templates are available at www.gatewayquiltsnstuff.com.

Come back tomorrow and I will show you my unique pinning technique for sewing curves.
Don't forget to leave a comment to be eligible for a drawing of a free copy of the magazine or the template size of your choice! Thank you for visiting.


Remember, always do what you love and love what you do. Toby




112 comments:

suz said...

I find I don't mind large curves, but small pieces make me insane. I'm looking forward to seeing how you pin - so I'll be back tomorrow!

Gwen said...

I have tried sewing curves a few
times, practice makes perfect.

Moneik said...

The curved piecing looks interesting.

Sherri said...

This is a great block design...I can picture it in some fabric that's on my wish list!

Brita said...

Cute block -- hmmmm, ornaments! Good idea for a little tablerunner!

quilting queen said...

I'm one of those people that steer clear of curves. I've tried doing them and they just don't look nice. I'm better with straight lines

BillieBee (billiemick) said...

I have tried curves before.

Billie

Bev said...

I love the look of curved piecing and have made several quilts using curves. I'll be back to read your pinning tips tomorrow. Thanks.

Kd Brown said...

For sure I'll be back tomorrow. I can't wait to see all of your curve sewing tips and tricks! Kathleen

Lee said...

What a great block design - a little scary for us newbies! :) Will be back to read your tips on sewing curves!
thanks -
butler83ataoldotcom

Regina said...

Lovely block!

JuliaP said...

Yikes, it's curves!! Love the pattern so maybe I'll practice more on the curve piecing!

Vicki @ DottyJane said...

Curves are fun once you get the hang of it:)

Pam in KC said...

I really should try to do more curves -- I'm confident in sewing them -- it's the cutting them out that drives me crazy.

Deb said...

This design reminds me of glass garlands for Christmas. It would be great for a tablerunner with the holidays coming.

Nichole said...

I haven't tried curves yet, but I am looking forward to the pinning technique demonstration!

Blondie ~ Vintage Primitives said...

It has been awhile since I attempted curves. I have never used a machine for that; simply hand stitched. I will check out these links to see what I can learn! Thank you for sharing.
Blondie

Anonymous said...

I, too, love curved patchwork designs - so yours always stand out to me! :) Thanks for doing this!

:) linda

Michele said...

Curves are fun to sew. Like your pattern.

Michele said...

Nice block

Anna said...

Thanks for a chance to win!

Anonymous said...

I used to sew clothing, so curves aren't an issue for me. Necklines, sleeves, curved bodices are part of construction, so you just get used to them....

Sandi Linn Andersen said...

Really unique block and a great design for certain fabrics. I think there are some in my stash that would look quite stunning in your design. :-) Hmmmm, maybe if I made it, then I could hang it on the line for my Monday blog feature. I see that you checked out "What was on the line?" today. I found that when I really began to "do what I loved" that a whole new world opened up. :-) Thanks for a chance to win a copy of the magazine!

pojeda said...

Love your curved block! I haven't tried curves yet, but this is giving me some motivation!

Kathy Schwartz said...

Love this block as I love sewing curves. The goblet layout is one I would like to try next! Thanks for the chance to win!

scraphappy said...

Curves seem to have gotten popular again all the sudden. Nice effect in the block.

Marianne said...

Love the look of curved blocks. Thanks for the inspiration

Holley said...

Be here, first in line, to learn any trick to help me with curved seams.

ina said...

as you do, I love curved patterns and seams too, love to see what is next.

Sharon said...

Looks interesting and would love to give it a try. Thanks for the chance to win!

Petit Design Co. said...

I can't wait to see your technique on sewing those curves

Unknown said...

Great block! Will be back tomorrow!

DutchQuilter said...

I will check again tomorrow to see your tips on sewing curves! Thanks.

epban said...

Love your block! I'm just venturing in to curves so will be back tomorrow to learn!

Marcia W. said...

This is an amazing block - need to learn how to sew those curves tomorrow. Toby, thanks for the giveaway. Please enter me.

Gwynette in NW Arkansas said...

I think curves add a lot to a design. I am interested in your pinning technique.

Little Miss Shabby said...

Totally cool block--that is definitely one that I would try. Curves are usually no problem with good pinning. =)

LynnEl Springer said...

You have a special way with quilting and piecing that really appeals to me! I am a traditional person but your style is incredible! Please enter me into the drawing to win the quilt magazine, but if I don't win, I think I'll be buying this one! I always love new block designs!
LynnEl in Illinois

Donna said...

I really like the look of your block and am looking forward to seeing how you pin the fabric. Ease of sewing makes it much more fun.

Kristen said...

I can't wait to see your pinning technique b/c I have to admit to being a little bit intimidated by curves.

martinmosaics said...

I really, really love your Nouveau Riche pattern!! It is to die for. Guess I'll have to make one when I finish up my current projects.

marilyn said...

Wow, those curved blocks look so cool! I'd love to try them out. Curves scare me more than triangles :)

Julie S said...

Hi! I was hoping a block with curved piecing would show up in this year's edition of 100 Blocks. I do like the challenge of sewing curves, and the satisfaction of doing a curve well gives me a thrill!

Becky said...

Oh gosh, I've avoided curved piecing, but your block is intriguing. I'll come back tomorrow to discover your pinning method. Thanks so much!

SewLindaAnn said...

I really want to learn how to do curved piecing and I can't wait to see what you say about pinning tomorrow.

kwiltnkats said...

I've tried many curve techniques and haven't found a single one that makes me want to sew curves. I'll be checking back to see your unique method starting tomorrow. I certainly love the look curve piecing achieves, but always go ugh in how to accomplish. Maybe yours will be just the technique that will get me through.

Barb in Mi said...

I guess I am still one of the curved intimidated sewers... One of these days I will take the plunge! Thanks for the giveaway!

Deonn said...

I had always been afraid to try curves, until that time in a class that I HAD to! It really was a breeze! I love the look of your quilt, and can't wait to try it with some big funky prints!

Rebecca said...

Love curves, and love anything that can be rotary cut! But I had trouble finding the templates on your website, had to go into the complete list of products, so you might want to make a better link.
Becky Preston
Rebecca955@aol.com

Jill said...

Your block makes a very interesting looking quilt when joined with others.

BeachQuilter said...

Curves are on my wanna do list, I'll certainly watch for your tips.

Bec Clarke said...

Oh I love that block,I don't mind curves, I find as long as you take your time you are right.

HeyJudee said...

I'm so excited about this volume of blocks. I'm curves challenged and want to improve. Love your curved block and hope I'll improve when I try making a quilt with it! Look forward to your pinning tip tomorrow.

webmailaddress2 said...

I like your block, but I don't have much experience with curved blocks. It scares me, but maybe your technique will make it less intimidating.

Unknown said...

I am afraid of curves. Mine never turn out right. Looking forward to seeing your pinning tech.

Unknown said...

I love the look of curved piecing but haven't done much of it.

cinzia said...

can't wait to see your pinning technique tomorrow. Love the curves

Joanna said...

I haven't made any blocks with curves yet. I do like your block, and as you say, it's possibilities. The overall look is very attractive and pleasing. Thank you.

Sheila said...

I've yet to try curved piecing...but I definitely want to! Thanks for the opportunity to win a copy of the magazine!

scottylover said...

Wow that is a cool block! Will be back tomorrow to see how it is done. I need an idea for two quilts for my nephews and this is perfect for one of them!
Sandy A

shortseam said...

I REALLY LIKE YOUR BLOCK!!! I have not tried curved seams yet. I am going to watch for your tut on sewing these seams. Thanks for the chance to win the book!!

MoeWest said...

My eye was drawn to your block when I saw the magazine cover. Very nice!

Amy said...

I took your class earlier in Wichita this year. I never had done a block with a circle before. It is one of my favorites!

Penny said...

Yes..I'm one of those who stay far far away from curves. I'm your new follower. So, I'll be back tomorrow to learn your technique! And of course I would love to win this mag too!

Barb Johnson said...

I'd like to apologize to you! I met you at Quilt Market in Pittsburgh, but didn't realize that you were there promoting your book, not just manning the manufacturer's booth! I bought the book with the St. Louis star block, and I love it!

Pam said...

Can't wait to see you unique pinning style for curves. See ya tomorrow!

VickiT said...

What beautiful quilts! I love both of them. I can't say I have a fear of curves at all but that may be because I haven't ever tried them before. LOL I have read a number of blogs though in my attempt to learn as much as I can about quilting and have seen many comment how fearful they are about doing curves.

I will defintely be checking back to learn more

Jocelyn said...

Wow the curves look fun and elegant. Thanks for creating a block for the 100 Block second edition. Can't wait to see it.

robin said...

As a beginner, I don't think I'll be attempting curves anytime soon! I'd love to win a copy of 100 Blocks. Thanks for the chance.

Becky (My Fabric Obsession) said...

ooohh, curves! YAY!!

Georgette Mitchell said...

I love the look of the curves, and have been intimidated by them. Maybe your tutorial on pinning them will give me just what I need to give it a try.

arlette said...

Love your quilt!!!!!, looks like christmas balls or wine glasses to me, it's really interesting, looks like pretty cool!!!

Judy said...

your quilts are very nice colors.

Cheri C. said...

Can't wait to see the tutorial for the circles. I "am" the person that fears circular projects!!

Anonymous said...

I'll be back tomorrow to learn how to pin curves - would love to do a quilt with circles cause I love dots and spots

Renee G said...

Would love to have a copy of this. The book of blocks look great.
rsgrandinetti@yahoo(DOT)com

Lisa said...

Love the shapes and colors, very interesting!

Janet said...

I would love to try curves. I've never done them.

FlourishingPalms said...

I love the look of curves, so your block is especially appealing to me! Thanks for the chance to win your giveaway.

Jen said...

I love curves too. I'll be back tomorrow to see your pinning technique.
Thanks,
Jen

Quilting with Jannette said...

Curved piecing has always seemed a little scary to me, until I found a great method to make "Rob Peter to Pay Paul" blocks. Plus, my daughter, who's been quilting for almost a year, has already made her first quilt with curved piecing, and I can't let her show me up!

Kerry said...

very creative. I look forward to stopping by tomorrow

WoolenSails said...

I love curves, but haven't done too many yet.
I have been doing hexagons and really like doing those, so I want to try different curved techniques.

Debbie

Candace said...

One of my first quilts was a DWR wall hanging for a wedding gift. I learned that patience is the key to curved peicing ;)

Jacqueline said...

I wasnt going to comment. Then I read your parting line. Thank you. I really needed to see that today. I apprecite your words and your blog.

Christine M said...

Your quilt on the right is so unusual!

quiltmom anna said...

Toby,
I love curved quilts and keep hoping to get some circle quilts made- I love the movement that they create- Thanks for the opportunity to win such a nice magazine or templates.
Regards from a Western Canadian quilter,
Anna

Lisa E said...

Thanks for the giveaway. I love your block.

Robyn said...

I absolutely LOVE your block! Just looking at it makes me want to get sewing and creating. Thanks so much for the giveaway! :D

momto2wasd said...

I love the block and quilt you designed! I've always liked curved quilts but have been afraid of them--it's one thing I want to get past soon! I know I've just got to jump in and try it. I should just try your block and make a pillow--if I can conquer one block, then I'll have the confidence to do a whole quilt. Thanks!

Martina said...

Would love to try out curves. Never did till now! Love your pattern!

Miss Hillbilly said...

I haven't sewn a curve yet!!

Stacey said...

i would love to win a copy of the magazine, thanks

stacey
luv2knitnsew@gmail.com

mascanlon said...

Goodness, I love this block but its a bit intimidating, I'll be back for a lesson on the tight curve!

~Kris~ said...

I need to be more confident with curves. I always seem to get a tuck.

Linda E in NM said...

I do like your goblet shape for quilts!
quilter_lindae@yahoo.com

RaLene said...

LOVE these curves. I have never been brave enough to try it. Your quilt block and pattern makes me want to give it a try.

Karen said...

Very unique and beutiful! I'll check out your tutorial.

Chris said...

Love your curve work. Have to add you to my blog list!
Chris

Donna Joy said...

Yes your curved block has me hooked. It's nice to see something that looks so challenging.

Lisa England said...

What a unique block! This whole magazine/blog thing has me so inspired! Now if I'd just walk away from the computer and toward the sewing machine....

Nancy said...

Good tutorial!

baukje said...

Too difficult for me I am just a beginner, but I would love to win a copy of the magazine.

Anonymous said...

I'm game to try some curves as long as there not too tite

Juels said...

Your tutorials are teriffic! Thanks for taking the time to teach us something that may be new to us.

kt said...

Thanks for your detailed instructions on sewing curves--I still haven't attempted them (I'm new, and still mastering the basics), but I love the look of curves. Thanks for the chance to win.

SheilaC said...

I love your block and can't wait to see Volume 2!! I loved Volume 1!!

SheilaC

Susie said...

Curves have always been awful for me, but I'm thinking that I may have to change my mind. Beautiful block!

Deb said...

I could use a pinning technique for curves! I'd love to win the 100 blocks book.

Lina said...

I'm looking forward to seeing how you pin your curves. I've never had much luck with them.
snuginmyden@yahoo.com

Laura said...

Time to try some more curves! Thanks for your instructions! Can't wait to get my eyes on a copy of the magazine...

Mandie Burrell said...

Toby, thanks for creating a way to make curved seams not so intimidating to me anymore. I love your new quilt in AP&Q with all the curves. I greatly dislike curves but have to make that quilt! :-) Your method sounds fool proof!