Around-the-Block Rules

1. Mark a grid of 4" squares on a large piece of fleece or muslin with a permanent marker.  Make the total grid size 8 squares x 10 squares.

2. Make a theme block, 12" x 12", 16" x 16", 12" x 16" or 12" x 20".  These are finished sizes and you can choose which size you want to start with.  Pin or baste this block anywhere on the gridded background.  This is where it will remain during the entire progressive design process.  If your design is a rectangle, decide whether it will be placed on the horizontal or the vertical.  Then label the top edge of the background by writing "top" with a pen.

3. Prepare a travelling kit.  Include up to 2 yards of assorted fabrics you might want the participants to use.  Also send along a journal or label if you wish.  You can include information or suggestion on your chosen theme that you would like the participants to use.  The participants can add their own fabrics to complement the design or you can state that only your fabrics be used.

4. When you receive a quilt top, make enough blocks to cover six squares on the grid.  Make one or two special blocks that carry out the theme.  Then make four or five simple spacer blocks.  You may combine squares to make a larger block, for example, 4" x 8" or 8" x 8".  Securely pin or baste your blocks on the grid where you think they work well.  Use only blocks that are four-patch units.  

5. It's okay to duplicate other participants' blocks if it enhances the design.

6.  After your project is returned, you have the option of rearranging the blocks and adding more.

7.  Accuracy is extremely important.  All blocks must measure 4 1/2" x 4 1/2" unfinished.

8.  The tops will be passed at each board meeting.  If you commit to this round robin you MUST stick to this schedule.  If you miss a board meeting it is your obligation to see that your quilt top gets there anyway.  Everyone depends on the rotation being followed in order to give all participants adequate time to work on their sections of the quilt.

Note:  The rotation list will be determined at the first board meeting in September and will depend on the number of participants.  If you wish to participate please bring your kit to the Sept. board meeting.  Round robins are a lot of fun and can challenge you to learn new techniques. 

If desired but not required you can order the book "Round Robin Quilts" by Pat Maixner Magaret & Donna Ingram Slusser from Amazon for around $12.00.

Round Robin Quilts: Friendship Quilts of the 90s and Beyond  

Here are the participants (missing one person) and their starting blocks: