I Like Big Blocks and I Cannot Lie
At the risk of the headline aging me… 1992 Sir Mix-a-Lot anyone? Ok, onward.
If quilts could talk, large-scale medallion designs would definitely scream, “Hey, look at me!” With an eye-catching central motif surrounded by negative space or complementary piecing, medallion quilts create a striking balance between a bold design and thoughtful simplicity. Unlike other quilt styles that rely on repeated blocks, the medallion quilt lets this one element take center stage. Rather than overwhelming the quilt with complexity, negative—or open—space creates balance and lets the eye rest. Sometimes, less is simply more.
Here’s a few medallion-style quilt patterns I have in my queue from some of my favorite designers (linked to designers’ sites).
Perfect Blend of Traditional and Modern
Medallion quilts have deep roots in quilting history, often seen in antique heirlooms and traditional patterns, but modern quilters have taken them to a whole new level. Bright, unexpected color palettes, minimalistic designs, and creative quilting techniques have given this classic style a fresh, contemporary twist. The result is a timeless blend of old and new—a quilt that feels both classic and fresh.
Which got me thinking… what if I took a handful of my favorite classic quilt blocks, added a modern touch, and made each one a whole quilt pattern?
Coming Soon: The Land of the Sky Quilt Collection
I’m fast at work putting the finishing touches on 5 modern quilt patterns which will be released all at once in a month or so (gulp!). They are all beginner-friendly, with large cuts that come together quickly. Each pattern will come in 5 sizes — Baby, Crib, Throw, Twin, and Twin XL (great for dorm rooms). I usually like even numbers but I figured 5 x 5 in 2025 was too good to pass up.
I’ve made the throw-sized cover sample for each pattern in a consistent colorway to showcase each design without the variable of different colors. But, each design lends itself to so many different color combinations and fabric styles. When I release the collection, I’ll illustrate various color and fabric approaches. Additionally, each pattern will be available in QuiltInk and PreQuilt so you can wish upon your own stars.
Here’s one of the finished sample quilt tops which showcases the ever-popular 8-point star, shining bright in a night-sky background. And here are some peeks at elements of the other 4 designs. I’m definitely “seeing stars” everywhere in my quilt studio right now. :)
Want To See All 5 Designs RIGHT NOW?
Sign up for my monthly newsletter anytime before the release and I’ll send you pictures of the entire collection! And, as always, you’ll receive a special newsletter-only discount at launch. ** You’re all stars to me. **
As always, I’ll leave you with 3 quotes.
