Summer Sampler 2019 Block 1: Learning precision piecing

And just like that, Summer Sampler 2019 is underway! Block 1 is called Spring Fever, designed by Lynn Carson Harris.

First of all, I have to say that Katie, Faith, and I have been overwhelmed with the response to this year's Summer Sampler quilt-along. We already have well over 1,000 quilters signed up, which is by far our best participation EVER! This summer is going to be such a blast. And with this year's "Piecing Bootcamp" theme, we've going to have fun while we're learning some mad new skillz! Each week's block will focus on a certain piecing technique or design element, with plenty of tips and tricks along the way.

The skill for this week's block is "precision piecing." This was a great starting point to the quilt-along for me, because I'm not always as precise as I should be/could be. Lining up triangles and sewing pieces with stretchy bias edges are both challenging, so this block put me through my paces. Plus I get impatient while I'm sewing and just want to get these things D.O.N.E!

So I ended up having to re-make one of the triangle rows in this week's block, because my first attempt turned out so wonky. 😜Happily, the second triangle row I made turned out a lot better than the first. Still maybe not perfect, but definitely better. Celebrate small victories, right?And I love the finished block! So springy and perfect as a way to kick off the quilt-along. Dozens of people have already finished their blocks and posted them on social media, so I hope you guys enjoyed this block too! Check the IG hashtag #summersampler2019 to ogle some more of the finished Spring Fever blocks. 

Hey, want to join Summer Sampler 2019: Piecing Bootcamp? Each block tackles a new piecing skill or technique. When you join, you get immediate access to all 21 sampler block patterns, plus finishing instructions for two different layout options. Click here to join!

Block 2 will be released on Monday, 27! See you next week, same time, same place!

The Summer Sampler 2019: Piecing Bootcamp pattern includes:
• Fully-tested instructions for 21 gorgeous blocks (12" finished size)
• Complete finishing instructions to make an 80" x 92" sampler quilt
• Instructions for two layout options—you get both! No need to choose!
• All fabric requirements and suggested Moda Bella Solids colors (YES! There are fabric kits available from Sewtopia and Canadian shop Mad About Patchwork)
• Quilt mock-up coloring sheet for planning
• Access to an exclusive subscriber-only Facebook group to ask questions, get advice, and interact with the designers and a community of other quilters

The Summer Sampler 2019 designers are: Top to Bottom, Left to Right
Row 1: Heather Black @Quiltachusetts, Krista Hennebury @poppyprint, Lynne Goldsworthy @lilysquilts,  Lee Heinrich @lee.a.heinrich, Krystina Hopkins @khquilts
Row 2: Andrea Tsang Jackson @3rdstoryworkshop, Jemima Flendt @tiedwitharibbon, Faith Jones @freshlemonsquilts, Kitty Wilkin @nightquilter, Yvonne Fuchs @quiltingjetgirl
Row 3: Lynn Carson Harris @lynncarsonharris, Stephanie Zacharer Ruyle @spontaneousthreads
Row 4: Jen Carlton Bailly @bettycrockerass, Amy Friend @duringquiettime, Justin Stafford @keatonquilts, Katie Blakesley @swimbikequilt, Jo Avery @mybearpaw