Ezine review: Fat Quartlery Fussy Cutting

Fussy Cut is the term for cutting out fabric to highlight a motif. It’s a hugely popular technique in sewing and quilting. Lucky for us, it’s the theme for the third issue of Fat Quarterly eZine out this month. Every issue is better than the last. No joke. The topics are interesting and its full of projects you’ll want to make. Visually it’s lovely plus it’s easy to navigate. Here are some issue highlights.

Interviews Meet the owners of Spoonflower Kim & Stephen Fraser. Read this and you’ll see how lucky we are to have it. Then have a chat with Bari J and Camille Roskelley.

Best of Britain Meet two talented British fabric designers – They are Lucie Summers of Summersville and Sarah Jane Waterhouse of Plain Jane Textiles Etsy and Plain Jane Textiles Folksy.

Designer Challenge This month’s contributor’s created fussy cut blocks. You get to see them and the maker’s comments. Then, they challenge us to share our fussy cut quilt blocks with the blogging community with a link to Flickr Fat Quarterly.

Learn Topics include color theory where you will see a color wheel and common color combinations from fabric. Learn the basics of fussy cutting and more. Fabric design with Heather Ross.

Projects List Includes fussy cut inspired quilts, play mats, bags and more.

Ed. note: The Fat Quarterly team requested a review and provided a copy of this issue of Fat Quarterly. They did not in any way tell me what to say. Since I didn’t have to buy my copy this quarter I’m going to host a giveaway. Stay tuned for details.

There’s something magical about quilt patterns that have stood the test of time, and the Old Maid’s Puzzle quilt block is no exception. This classic design, with its intricate geometry and timeless appeal, has captured the hearts of quilters for generations. Whether you’re a seasoned quilting enthusiast or just starting your journey, this roundup of 26 Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilt Patterns is brimming with inspiration to suit every skill level.

From free tutorials to premium patterns, this collection offers a delightful mix of traditional and modern interpretations of the Old Maid’s Puzzle block. You’ll find a variety of sizes, layouts, and creative takes that breathe new life into this vintage design. It’s perfect for scrap-busting projects, heirloom quilts, or adding a touch of nostalgia to your quilting repertoire.

But before we dive into the patterns, let’s take a step back and explore the fascinating history behind the Old Maid’s Puzzle quilt block. Its origins reveal much about the ingenuity and storytelling that have long been a part of quilting traditions.

The Old Maid’s Puzzle block is part of the rich legacy of puzzle quilt blocks, which became popular in the 19th century. These designs often featured interlocking shapes, symbolizing interconnectedness and complexity, much like the lives of those who pieced them together. The Old Maid’s Puzzle block, with its distinctive angular pattern, earned its name from its resemblance to a game or riddle—a playful nod to the art of creating order from scraps and fragments.

Over the years, the block has been known by various names, including “School Girl’s Puzzle” and “Bachelor’s Puzzle,” reflecting regional differences and changing social attitudes. Despite its many identities, one thing remains constant: its enduring charm and versatility. The Old Maid’s Puzzle block is not just a pattern; it’s a piece of quilting history that invites you to be part of a larger story.

Whether you’re drawn to the historical significance of the Old Maid’s Puzzle block or simply love its bold and striking design, there’s no shortage of ways to make it your own. This roundup of 26 Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilt Patterns offers endless opportunities to experiment with color, fabric, and layout, ensuring your creation is as unique as you are.

As you piece together your Old Maid’s Puzzle quilt, take a moment to appreciate the generations of quilters who have stitched this pattern before you. Each quilt tells a story, and now it’s your turn to add your chapter to this timeless tradition.

Ready to get started? Browse through the patterns, gather your favorite fabrics, and let your creativity shine. Whether you’re creating a wall hanging, a cozy lap quilt, or a show-stopping bedspread, the Old Maid’s Puzzle block is a beautiful choice that blends history with artistry. Happy quilting!

Old Maids Puzzle Quilt

Accuquilt Old Maids Puzzle

Old Maids Puzzle Quilt

A quilt block by any other name

Old Block Quilt-Along, Part 21: Old Maid’s Puzzle

Old Maid’s Puzzle – Sunrise Quilt Studio

Splish Splash Stash: old maid’s puzzle block

Block #3 – School Girl’s Puzzle (also called Old Maid’s Puzzle)

Old Maid Puzzle for Jen Kingwell’s Gypsy Wife – GnomeAngel

0227 Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilting Tutorial | Block of the Day 2023 | Rotary Cutting | AccuQuilt

Old Maids Puzzle – Stash Buster Block #19

Old Block Quilt-Along, Part 21: Old Maid’s Puzzle