Summer Sampler 2019 Block 14: Improv curved piecing

So this week's Summer Sampler 2019 skill is "improv curves." Improv. AND curves. Can you take a wild guess what my two least-favorite types of piecing are? If you guessed improv and curves, ding ding ding, we have a winner! And this week we're doing both of those. At the same time. Gulp.

But really, if we have to tackle improv curves (and apparently we have to), this block—Dandelion Clock, designed by Jo Avery of My Bear Paw—is the way to do it! Jo's block uses her foundation-piecing method that involves piecing onto a permanent foundation of sew-in interfacing, instead of using paper that gets torn out at the end. It's an interesting spin on a traditional skill that not many quilters use today, but it definitely has its uses as a technique! And of course it’s all spelled out for you in easy step-by-step instructions in the pattern, so no worries if you don’t know how to do it. We’ve got you covered.

I liked that the curves in this block are nice and big and gradual, making them easier to sew than some other curves we've tackled in the quilt-along. And the freehand aspect of the technique is fun—every block is unique! All in all, this block was another great learning experience.

Want to join Summer Sampler 2019: Piecing Bootcamp? Each block tackles a new piecing skill or technique. Join us to up your quilting game, and you'll get immediate access to all 21 blocks, plus finishing instructions for two different layouts. Click here to join!

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