Simple Modern Sampler Quilt Along

Even though I already have several projects going on right now, I couldn't resist joining Amy's Simple Modern Sampler Quilt Along going on at her blog. I love quilt alongs because there is a set schedule. I'm not good at making schedules, so I like having it all laid out for me to follow along with. Hopefully I'll be able to keep up! I love that she posted a sketch so that I can see in advance which blocks will be made. This really helps in my fabric selection. I was inspired by another quilt-alonger (Melissa) to pull out some of my Christmas fabrics for this project. The fabric is Funky Christmas by Michael Miller. I like the pink mixed in with the traditional Christmas colors. I think this quilt will be a gift for my sister when it is all finished up. She loves anything pink!

I learned a great tip in the very first post! Even though I'm pretty diligent about pinning, I have always pinned perpendicular to the seam, removing the pins as I go. Amy has a picture on her post showing how she puts a pin in the middle, parallel to the seam. As long as the pin is in far enough to miss the presser foot, then it can be left in while sewing. I think this will really help me keep my fabrics lined up the whole time I am piecing. Thanks so much for that tip, Amy!

The instructions for Blocks One and Two can be found here. It's certainly not too late for you to join too!