Summer Sampler 2018: Versailles block

Happy Monday! I know last week's Summer Sampler 2018 block was challenging, but I was so impressed with all the blocks I saw on Instagram and in our Facebook group! You guys really rose to the challenge! And after last week's heavy lifting, this week we've got a refreshing little palette-cleanser for you: "Versailles" by Karen Lee of Quiltaposy.

The "Versailles" block is based on the tile floor that greets you as you walk into the famous palace of Versailles outside of France—it's a gorgeous floor that really just cries out to become a quilt. 😊 And this 17th-century architectural detail becomes surprisingly modern in the context of a quilt block! It's also a delight to sew—easy and quick.

As you no doubt know by now, all of this year's Summer Sampler blocks are inspired by travel locations, so let's add this week's star to our world map! Here's everywhere we've been so far.

This week's tip is pretty straightforward: It's all about seam-pressing! I love to press seams open whenever possible, but pressing to the side does make sense in some instances. For this block, the pattern instructions tell you which directions to press your seams if you like to press to the side. I pressed most of my seams open in this block, because I like how flat, crisp, and accurate open-pressed seams are. But when sewing the final four units together to complete the block, I pressed my seams toward the colored fabric, as recommended in the instructions. This allowed nesting of those final seams and everything came together beautifully. Of course, personal preference plays into the direction you press your seams, so do what works best for you! But I personally found this to be the easiest way for me.

Want to play along with us and make your own Summer Sampler? Click here for all the details! I hope you'll join us! : ) Until next week ...