Book Review – Big Blocks, Big Quilts

I was delighted to discover “Big Blocks, Big Quilts” by Suzanne McNeill. This delightful book offers a treasure trove of beautiful quilt patterns, all designed to showcase the versatility and charm of Layer Cakes—pre-cut 10″ x 10″ fabric squares that make quilting a breeze.

McNeill, affectionately known as “the Trendsetter” of the arts & crafts industry, brings her expertise and passion for quilting to every page of this book. With 11 stunning quilt patterns to choose from, including variations for added creativity, there’s something for quilters of all skill levels and tastes.

What sets “Big Blocks, Big Quilts” apart is its emphasis on simplicity and accessibility. McNeill’s beginner-friendly instructions are accompanied by clear, easy-to-follow diagrams and step-by-step directions, making it a breeze to dive right into your next quilting project. Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or a novice just starting out, you’ll find everything you need to create beautiful quilts with ease.

The beauty of Layer Cakes lies in their color-coordinated packs, which take the guesswork out of fabric selection and ensure that your quilts will always look stunning. From the festive “Peace on Earth” to the whimsical “Smores Snowmen,” each quilt pattern is designed to showcase the beauty of big blocks while allowing for quick and satisfying results.

One of the things I appreciated most about “Big Blocks, Big Quilts” is the inclusion of tips and techniques from McNeill herself. As you work your way through the patterns, you’ll discover invaluable insights and tricks of the trade that will help you elevate your quilting skills and achieve professional-looking results.

“Big Blocks, Big Quilts” is a must-have addition to any quilter’s library. With its beautiful quilt patterns, clear instructions, and expert guidance, this book is sure to inspire quilters of all levels to dive into the world of big blocks and unleash their creativity. Whether you’re quilting for relaxation, self-expression, or the sheer joy of creating something beautiful, “Big Blocks, Big Quilts” has everything you need to bring your quilting dreams to life.

Video Tutorial -1 Hour Fat Quarter Quilt

Video Tutorial -; 9 Patch Quilt

Go Jelly Roll for a quick quilt

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Some fabric collections feel pretty, some feel useful, and then there are those rare ones that instantly spark a dozen ideas the moment you see them. The In the Garden Layer Cake from Fat Quarter Shop falls firmly into that last category. From the moment I opened the pack, it felt like stepping into a watercolor garden—soft, romantic, full of movement, and brimming with detail that invites you to slow down and really look.

This collection brings together an elegant mix of florals, garden motifs, and soothing color palettes that feel like they were created for spring quilting. Instead of loud novelty prints, the designer chose a gentle balance of botanical sketches, scattered blossoms, tiny seed patterns, and larger feature florals that work beautifully in both traditional and modern layouts.

What struck me most is how thoughtfully the color stories are arranged. Each print blends seamlessly into the next, giving you a spectrum that includes soft rose pinks, leafy greens, lavender tones, fresh sky blues, rich corals, and delicate neutrals. It’s the kind of palette that instantly feels “quilty” in the best way—inviting, calm, and incredibly easy to mix and match. You can tell the designer planned this for maximum versatility.

Layer cakes are one of the most beginner-friendly precuts, but this collection elevates them with a sense of sophistication. The prints are strong enough to shine in simple patterns, but subtle enough to support more complex designs. Whether you prefer classic half-square triangles, framed squares, modern grid quilts, or something scrappier, this fabric adapts beautifully. It’s also a wonderful choice for table runners, spring wall hangings, and even quilted bags or home décor projects.

One of the nicest surprises with this layer cake is how it manages to feel seasonal without becoming locked into one particular holiday or theme. While the palette is undeniably perfect for spring, the prints themselves are timeless enough to work year-round. A floral quilt made from this collection would look just as lovely on a summer sunroom sofa as it would draped over a guest bed in winter.

The fabric quality is exactly what you’d expect from Fat Quarter Shop—crisp, clean cuts, vibrant printing, and a smooth hand that makes piecing feel effortless. Nothing is too thin or too stiff, and the colors are even more beautiful in person than they appear online.

If you enjoy sewing projects that feel light, fresh, and inspired by nature, In the Garden is a collection worth adding to your stash. It has all the qualities quilters look for: balance, versatility, gentle movement, and that spark of creativity that makes you want to start a project immediately. Whether you’re planning a gift quilt, treating yourself to a new spring project, or simply building your fabric library with a set of prints that will play nicely with others, this layer cake is a thoughtful and inspiring choice.

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