Apologies
We are behind my friends! ADHD, serious family issues, and the computer that occasionally doesn’t want to save any files contributed to an unexpected “vacation” over here. Turns out this little mini break was exactly what I needed to approach this job with fresh eyes and a fresh attitude. We are not designed to be on 24/7 and I was definitely starting to feel some burnout. So, if you are able, take this as a reminder to prioritize resting!
Now let’s get back into things.
What is Bat of the Month?
I went over the details in my blog post for the first block in the series. You can read all of that over here, but for right now You just need to know that this series is where I take a traditional quilt block pattern each month and reimagine it into the shape of my favorite animal, a bat.
October’s block: Dracula’s puzzle
For the month of October the group of pattern designers participating in the re-imagination challenge were assigned the traditional block of Dutchman’s puzzle. This block is composed of four sets of two flying geese pointed in different directions (up, right, down, left) and sewn into a square. Adding a third color to the center triangles can create a secondary pattern that moves counter to the main flying geese. I really love the name and the chaotic yet controlled movement that the pieces bring to this traditional pattern.
I knew immediately that this design would lend well to capturing the movement of bats in flight.
The challenge for me came again in the form of keeping the design simple, but still recognizable as a bat. Though there are many attempts to get the design perfect the end result was well worth the effort and one of my all-time favorite designs.
You can find the pattern to this design over on my Etsy shop. If you end up making this block please either tag me in whatever social media account you use to share your art or send me an email at crafttowardsjoy@gmail.com and I might feature your work in my next email newsletter.
November Sneak Peek
Come back next month to see what the next blok, this time based on Birds in the Air, will look like and for a link to its pattern. You can also follow me on Instagram for progress pictures and updates each Monday and to find a list of other participants in the reimagination challenge. If you do happen to stop by, feel free to send a message introducing yourself.
I hope you all have been enjoying this block series as much as I have and if you have any questions please don’t hesitate to reach out.
You can also join my email list and when you do you will receive the free modern Fox Quilt block pattern. You can find the form at the bottom of this webpage or you can follow this link.
I truly look forward to getting to know you!
Jessiesharon Craft
Craft Towards Joy 