Quilting

Patterns, patchworks and projects

Pattern: Oriental Poppy Quilt

by

Oriental Poppy_ McKim

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.

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.