Quilting

Patterns, patchworks and projects

Author interview | Ruth McHaney Danner

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Book Making A World of Difference Ruth DannerSewists who make quilts in service to others is the subject of Ruth McHaney Danner’s latest book, Making a World of Difference One Quilt At A Time. You may know her from her popular book, What I Learned from God While Quilting, which I read and enjoyed. Look at the photo cover, of a little one reaching for a quilt at the top of the stack. It drew me in like a warm fire on a cold day.

Let’s get some business done.

Disclaimer: Though I received a review copy of this book from the publisher, New Word Library, all opinions expressed here are entirely my own.

Now, back to the good stuff. I want you to meet Ruth, and you can; just click on interview, A Talk with Ruth McHaney, by Monique Muhlenkamp. Afterwards, I think you’ll want to read her stories. I had no idea the scope of charities quilters engage in, and from all over the globe. Each chapter has a ‘Binding Stitch’ closure, giving contact information for relevant charities. In a world that is often bleak, her book is a beacon of good will and inspiration.

Stay tuned for a future post, where I will be giving away my review copy of this refreshing book to a lucky Craft Gossip reader. You can find Making a World of Difference One Quilt at a Time: Inspiring Stories about Quilters & How They Have Touched Lives here.

 

Comments

  1. I love quilting and am so excited that I have the opportunity to donate quilts too many good causes. Thanks for sharing this book, Scarlett. Definitely one I will add to my collection.

  3. My favorite thing to do is quilt, my next favorite is to read. What better thing to read about quilting. I donate to the Chapman House in Homestead, FL. They can use all sorts of things.

Have you read?

Pumpkin Quilt Blocks for Fall Scrap Quilts

Autumn quilting always seems to start the same way in my sewing room. I pull out a few orange scraps, add some warm neutrals, and suddenly I’m sewing pumpkins.

Pumpkin blocks are one of those quilt designs that work beautifully for fall scrap quilts. They’re simple, cheerful, and easy to repeat across a quilt top. Even better, most pumpkin blocks are made from basic patchwork shapes, which means they’re perfect for using up leftover fabrics.

If you’ve been searching for pumpkin quilt block patterns, fall quilt blocks, or scrap-friendly pumpkin quilting ideas, these tutorials are a wonderful place to start. Many of them can easily be turned into table runners, wall quilts, mug rugs, or full autumn quilts just by repeating the block.

Free Pumpkin Quilt Block Tutorials

Mini Patchwork Pumpkin Block

The free patchwork pumpkin block from Lo & Behold Stitchery includes two sizes — a small 5.5-inch block and a larger 19-inch version. The smaller block is perfect for quick projects like coasters or mug rugs, while the larger one works beautifully as a pillow or mini quilt centerpiece. The construction uses simple patchwork pieces, making it ideal for beginners looking for an easy fall quilt block.

 

Simple Pumpkin Quilt Block

If you prefer classic patchwork blocks, the simple pumpkin quilt block tutorial from Burlap & Blossom Patterns is a great beginner project. The block can be sewn in multiple sizes including 6?, 12?, 18? and even a large 24? version, making it flexible for quilts, pillows, or seasonal wall hangings.

 

Scrappy Pumpkin Quilt Block

For quilters who love digging through their scrap bin, the scrappy pumpkin quilt block tutorial from Sarah Goer Quilts shows how to piece together orange fabric leftovers into charming pumpkin shapes. The scrappy style makes each block slightly different, which gives a fall quilt wonderful texture and personality.

 

Easy Pumpkin Quilt Block

The easy pumpkin quilt block tutorial from Create Whimsy uses only four fabrics and comes together surprisingly quickly. The step-by-step instructions make this a fantastic block for beginners, and the design works well when repeated to create a seasonal table runner or wall quilt.

 

Patchwork Pumpkin Block

The patchwork pumpkin quilt block featured on PatternPile is another scrap-friendly project that works beautifully with leftover autumn fabrics. The finished block measures roughly 13½ inches, which makes it a great centerpiece block for fall pillows or mini quilts.

 

Classic Pumpkin Quilt Block with Half-Square Triangles

The pumpkin quilt block tutorial from Connie Kresin uses half-square triangles to create the curved pumpkin shape. It’s a clever design that comes together quickly, and the tutorial also shows how the block can be repeated to create a small fall table runner.

 

Scrappy Pumpkin Quilt Block Pattern

The scrappy pumpkin block pattern featured on The Little Mushroom Cap is perfect for quilters who want a cozy autumn look. The block uses simple squares and corner triangles, which makes it beginner friendly while still producing a lovely pumpkin shape. The design works well in table runners, mug rugs, or full fall quilts.

 

Tools That Make Pumpkin Blocks Faster

Some pumpkin blocks include shapes like half-square triangles or small patchwork units. Quilters who make a lot of these blocks often speed up the cutting process with specialty tools.

For example, many quilters like using AccuQuilt half-square triangle dies, which can quickly cut the units used in many pumpkin block patterns.

If you prefer acrylic templates instead of dies, you can also find pumpkin quilt block templates and pumpkin quilt patterns on Etsy, which often include printable instructions and cutting guides.

Why Pumpkin Quilt Blocks Work So Well for Scrap Quilts

Pumpkin blocks are almost made for scrap quilting. The body of the pumpkin can be pieced from multiple orange prints, the stems can be brown or green scraps, and the background fabrics can vary from block to block.

When several pumpkin blocks are sewn together, the slightly different fabric combinations create a quilt that feels warm, seasonal, and wonderfully handmade.

And honestly, pulling out a pumpkin quilt each autumn is one of those little traditions that makes the season feel extra cozy.