Welcome back! It seems like it was just yesterday that I posed Block #7 of the Sewcialites 2 Quilt-Along, but here we are at it again. That MUST mean at least seven whole days have gone by… Right? Despite the efforts of Winter Storm Axel who has been messing with us over the last couple of days, I have had my foot firmly pressing the quilting gas pedal. As usual, I have a plethora of projects that I’m working on simultaneously so I’ve been sure to make the best of being stuck inside. In fact, I’m happy to say that I am right on track (or maybe even a bit ahead) with this quilt-along, which is always a nice place to be when the next block release hits the press, don’t you think?

This week we’re already up to Block # 8, “Interwoven“ by Shereece Nicole of Sew Hooked on Treasures. Shereece began her quilting and crocheting journey in 2010 out of what she describes as simple boredom. New to the small town she was living in, Shereece was looking for a way to meet new people and eventually ended up joining a crocheting group. It was through that network where she was introduced to quilting in what she refers to as, “the correct way.” Now days Shereece is known for her modern, quick patterns and time saving advice. Her goal is to create patterns that help quilters to maximize their sewing time and accomplish their goals. I like it! That being said, “Interwoven“ is not exactly the easiest block in the series. In fact, it’s rated as “Experienced” on the skill requirement scale.

“Interwoven“ is a mix of three-patches, flying geese, and other elements which means it definitely has a lot of pieces in it! The four corner sections go together easily. You can strip-piece the orange and light background units, then add the final background rectangle to save time and for more accuracy. If you have trouble with flying geese, I recommend using the Creative Grids Ultimate Flying Geese Tool to help you along. If you’ve never used this amazing ruler, you are really missing out! It makes fast, easy and accurate work out of Flying Geese. Not to mention it can make four units at once! It also comes complete with illustrated step-by-step, easy to follow instructions. If you’re more of a visual learner, don’t worry! Each ruler has a QR Code printed right on it which will link you to a super-slick video demonstration. If you’re sewing room is lacking one of these magical rulers, click the link below to get one!

Another hot tip that I can recommend for Block # 8 is carefully labeling pieces as you cut them. This will really help you keep your colors under control and where they belong. Labeling each of the prints with the color it was pictured as in the pattern diagram is also a huge help to keep things in order. Because of the amount of small pieces in this block you may want to stick with all solids. If you do choose to go with a print, consider one with a less busy motif. This will allow you to use some prints without overwhelming the block. Ready to give it a shot? Download the full pattern and instructions here:

As I mentioned earlier this block has the potential to be a bit of a challenge, so if you’re feeling apprehensive don’t worry. Kim Jolly over at Fat Quarter Shop has an excellent step-by-step video tutorial posted on YouTube to help you along if you should need it. You can access that plus the full pattern and instructions at the on the Sewcialites 2 Landing Page by clicking the link below!

If you’ve been following along so far, you know that for my blocks I’ve decided to use my Garden Gatherings fabric line, without the five tans. For the background I plan to use a selection from the Garden Gathering Shirtings Collection, #49176 15 – a cream fabric with an adorable tiny mustard/orange floral print. If you like what you see and need it in your life A.S.A.P. click the button below to order!

Are you still trying to decide whether or not to participate in Sewcialites 2? What the heck are you waiting for!? Kidding – kidding… I know there is a lot on everyone’s plate right now, especially with the holidays approaching like a runaway freight train. One of the many beauties of this quilt-along is that it’s never too late to start – you can join us at any time! Previously released blocks will be posted on the Sewcialites 2 Landing Page along with my blog in the Sewcialites 2 Block Archive, which is listed in the main menu of links at the top of the page.

Newly released blocks can always be found on Kim’s blog The Jolly Jabber, along with a video tutorial on her YouTube Livestream the same day. Each designer will also post their own block to either their blog or their website on that day as well. I will also be posting each block release here on MY blog every Friday for your convenience. Fabric requirements and all block patterns will be posted on the Sewcialites 2 Landing Page, which you can access by clicking the link below. If you’d like to get automatic updates on Sewcialites 2 you can subscribe to the blog by signing up in the Email subscription box by visiting the Landing Page, or by subscribing to the YouTube channel by clicking HERE.

How are your blocks coming along so far? I’d love to hear some progress reports from those of you participating in Sewcialites 2. Let me know in the comments how things are going and if you’ve had any issues so far, and I’ll do my very best to help! AND you might just win a nifty little thank you prize for the comment. If you’re not participating, that’s ok too! Thanks a ton for reading this far. You should really leave me a comment anyway! I’m in the mood to play Santa.

Remember to check back here bright and early tomorrow morning (usually around 9:00 a.m. give or take) for the latest Primitive Gatherings December Daily FLASH Sale! You can also find the current sale on our Primitive Gatherings Facebook page, my STITCH with Lisa Bongean Facebook group (if you’re not a memeber yet, click HERE to join! Please be sure to answer ALL admi questions to be considered for memebership!) and our website by 6:30 a.m. each day under “NEW ITEMS” and then the “Flash Sale” tab. I hope you’ve been enjoying the sales – we sure have! Oh what fun it is to ride in this PG Christmas journey… Have a great weekend! Be safe, stay warm, and if you’re in one of the states seeing all this crazy snow, make the best of it and HAVE FUN! See you next week! ~Lisa