Summer Sampler 2018 – Pisa Block

Good morning from Pisa, Italy!

Just kidding. I’m right here in Wisconsin today, as usual. Lol. But this week’s Summer Sampler 2018 block is taking us to the home of the Leaning Tower. “Pisa” is another knockout block designed by Faith of Fresh Lemons Quilts.

When you think of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the tower’s little architectural details probably are not what comes to mind! But that’s exactly where Faith found the inspiration for this week’s block. It’s a great lesson in how inspiration can sometimes be found in the little overlooked details all around us. : )

So, let’s add another star to our Summer Sampler 2018 world map—these are all the places that have inspired the blocks in this year’s Summer Sampler quilt-along. Looks like Italy is getting mighty crowded … and I’ve still got one more Italian-inspired block up my own sleeve, so stay tuned for that one! Don’t want to miss it? Click here to pick up the pattern and get going on your own travel-inspired sampler!

This week’s tip: When I design paper-piecing patterns, I like to make every effort to piece the various templates in an order that will allow the seams to nest when you do the final block assembly. Unfortunately, that isn’t always possible—and with this block, because of the center row of triangles, there is only one order in which you can piece the quadrants (from the center out). But what you can do with this block is to paper-piece the block’s four quadrants, remove all of the paper, and then take two of those quadrants and press the diagonal seams in the opposite direction (once the paper is off). That way, when sew the quadrants together to complete the block, the seams will nest together, making it much easier for those seams to line up! Full disclosure: This idea came to me after I finished sewing my block, so I haven’t actually tried this, but I’m pretty sure it will work and make it easier on all of you! Lol!

And one other bonus tip for today: Have you all seen these Wafer Light Boxes by the Daylight Company? I picked one up recently and it is amazing for paper-piecing! It sits on my sewing table right next to my machine while I work, and it takes so much of the guesswork out of paper-piecing. No more holding my fabric and paper templates up to the window. Lol. This paper-piecing maniac is wondering why it took me so long to make this addition to my studio.

Remember, it’s not too late to join us in the quilt-along—click here for all the details! And while you’re at it, visit #summersampler2018 on Instagram to see everyone else’s gorgeous blocks! Until next Monday, friends!