Quilting

Patterns, patchworks and projects

Book Review – Big Blocks, Big Quilts

by

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

Have you read?

Woodland Whimsy Fabric Collection by Jennifer Pugh

There is something especially lovely about a winter fabric collection that feels seasonal without immediately shouting Christmas. Woodland Whimsy by Jennifer Pugh for Wilmington Prints is filled with forest animals, mushrooms, classic plaids, dots and softly textured coordinating prints.

The colours have a warm, storybook quality, making the collection perfect for quilts that can stay out long after the Christmas decorations have been packed away.

What Is Included in the Woodland Whimsy Bundle?

The Woodland Whimsy Fat Quarter Bundle includes:

  • 15 coordinating fat quarters
  • One 23-inch scenic fabric panel
  • 100% quilting cotton
  • Fabrics designed by Jennifer Pugh
  • Prints manufactured by Wilmington Prints

Each fat quarter measures approximately 18 x 21 inches.

I particularly like that the scenic panel is included with the bundle. Fabric panels are wonderful when you want an impressive focal point without spending several evenings piecing tiny blocks while wondering why you chose such a complicated pattern in the first place.

The panel could become the centre of a lap quilt, wall hanging or child’s quilt, with the coordinating fat quarters used to create simple patchwork borders.

What Could You Make With Woodland Whimsy Fabric?

This collection would work beautifully for:

  • A woodland animal lap quilt
  • A cosy winter wall hanging
  • A child’s storybook quilt
  • Patchwork cushions
  • Quilted reading mats
  • Fabric storage baskets
  • Winter table runners
  • Handmade gifts for nature lovers

You could also separate the smaller prints and use them in scrap-friendly projects. Our collection of eight fat-quarter-friendly quilt patterns offers plenty of ideas for putting coordinated fabric bundles to work.

For something smaller, the gentle woodland prints would be lovely in a seasonal mini quilt. This free mini snowflake quilt pattern could easily be adapted using the collection’s winter colours.

Is the Woodland Whimsy Bundle Worth Buying?

The bundle gives you a ready-made colour palette, a useful assortment of coordinating prints and a feature panel in one package. That takes much of the guesswork out of planning a quilt, particularly if choosing coordinating fabrics is the part that usually sends you wandering around the fabric shop for an hour.

The prints are playful enough for children but not so juvenile that they cannot be used for adult quilts and winter home décor. That versatility is probably the collection’s strongest feature.

The bundle was listed at US$62.98 when checked and is expected to ship in October 2026. Prices, availability and shipping dates may change, particularly with a new fabric release.

If you love woodland animals, gentle winter colours and fabric that feels as though it belongs in an illustrated storybook, this is a charming collection to add to your sewing list.

See the Woodland Whimsy Fat Quarter Bundle at Fat Quarter Shop.