Pattern: Oriental Poppy Quilt

The late Ruby Short McKim created this quilt pattern, Oriental Poppy as part of her quilt pattern business back in the 1920’s and 30’s in Kansas City, Missouri (US). It uses both piecing and applique for the flower. More than anything, I’m struck at how modern this design feels.

Her youngest granddaughter, Merrily McKim Tuohey, operates McKim Studios website, where she offers free downloads of many of the patterns from Ruby’s book, 101 Patchwork Patterns (1931 edition). Oriental Poppy is not in that book, but is available on the site for $7.50 USD. Go to the pattern.

Who Was Ruby SHort McKim?

Ruby Short McKim, born in 1891, left an indelible mark on the world of quilting and needlework. Known for her vibrant designs and creative contributions, she became a prominent figure in the early 20th-century quilting scene.

Her journey began in Millersburg, IL, where she showed an early interest in drawing. After studying at the New York School of Fine & Applied Arts, she returned to Independence, MO, becoming the Supervisor of Drawing for the Independence School District. In 1916, her talent gained recognition when she won a contest held by the Kansas City Star to design a quilt pattern for children, marking the start of her prolific quilting career.

In 1917, Ruby married Arthur McKim, embarking on a journey that blended family life with artistic pursuits. The McKims traveled extensively, building business relationships across the country to sell Ruby’s quilt patterns and needlework designs. In 1922, she became the Children’s Art Editor of Child Life Magazine, solidifying her place in the publishing world.

Settling in Independence, the McKims established McKim Studios in 1928, a home-based mail order business offering needlework supplies and patterns. Ruby’s popularity soared, leading her to become the Home Art Editor for Better Homes & Garden Magazine. In 1931, she published “One Hundred and One Patchwork Patterns,” a revered compilation of old-time quilt patterns.

The 1930s brought changes as the family welcomed new members, and McKim Studios evolved into Kimport Dolls. Despite these shifts, Ruby continued to contribute to the artistic world, leaving a legacy that earned her a place in the Quilter’s Hall of Fame in 2002.

Ruby Short McKim’s life was a tapestry of creativity, resilience, and dedication, making her a trailblazer in the quilting community. Her impact resonates through her timeless designs and the memories she created for her family and admirers alike.

First Impressions While Flipping Through the Book

Some quilting books feel calm and minimal. Others feel like opening a box of bright fabric scraps that instantly makes you want to start sewing.

That was my first reaction when I started flipping through Scrappiness Is Happiness by Lori Holt.

This book is packed with colour, cheerful quilt blocks, and the kind of playful patchwork designs that make scrap quilting so addictive. I found myself stopping on page after page thinking, “That block would be perfect for leftover charm squares…”

It’s the sort of book that encourages you to dig straight into your scrap bins.

What This Quilting Book Is All About

As the title suggests, this book celebrates scrap quilting.

Instead of focusing on a single large quilt pattern, the book includes a large collection of quilt blocks and scrappy quilt layouts designed to use small pieces of fabric.

If you’re someone who hates throwing away fabric leftovers (which is most quilters), this book is full of inspiration for turning those scraps into beautiful quilts.

Inside the book you’ll find:

dozens of colourful quilt block patterns
• scrappy quilt layouts
• projects designed for leftover fabrics
• Lori Holt’s signature cheerful quilting style

The Quilt Blocks That Caught My Eye

While browsing the pages, several blocks immediately stood out.

There are plenty of classic quilt block shapes, but the way they’re presented with bright fabrics makes them feel fresh and modern.

The blocks are ideal for:

scrap quilts
• sampler quilts
• block-of-the-month style projects
• mixing prints and colours

I particularly loved the blocks that combine traditional shapes with playful colour placement. They’re simple enough to sew but still look visually interesting when repeated across a quilt.

The Style of the Book

If you’re familiar with Lori Holt’s work, you’ll recognise her style straight away.

The book leans heavily into:

bright cheerful fabrics
• vintage-inspired colour palettes
• classic patchwork shapes
• fun and approachable quilt designs

It’s the kind of quilting book that feels uplifting to browse. Even if you’re not ready to start a new quilt immediately, it’s inspiring just to flip through the block designs.

Who This Book Is Best For

After spending time looking through the book, I’d say it’s ideal for:

quilters who love scrap quilting
• anyone wanting to use up leftover fabric pieces
• makers who enjoy block-based quilt designs
• quilters looking for colourful, cheerful quilt inspiration

Many of the blocks are approachable enough for confident beginners, but the variety also keeps experienced quilters interested.

Would I Recommend It?

If your scrap bin is starting to overflow (which tends to happen to all of us eventually), Scrappiness Is Happiness is the kind of book that turns those leftover fabrics into opportunity.

It’s full of lively quilt block ideas and creative layouts that make scrap quilting feel exciting rather than overwhelming.

For quilters who enjoy bright fabrics, classic patchwork shapes, and the freedom of scrappy quilt design, this book is a fun and inspiring addition to the quilting bookshelf.

Have you read?