I am getting ready to make a pattern where 5 fat quarters = 5 blocks. 6 FQ = 6 blocks, etc. The blocks finish at 13.5" I think (it's something random since it's 2" cut squares and rectangles). I made this pattern a year ago, and have been wanting to make it again.

When I made it a year ago, I used 25 FQ and got 25 blocks and did a 5x5 layout. Well, there's a FQ pack of fabric that I want to use where I have 18 FQs = 18 blocks. So I can't figure out if I should do a 3x6 layout to use them all up, or do a 4x4 so it's even, since 3x6 seems very rectangular to me. For the pack, I don't have anything else that is anywhere near similar and I don't want to buy more fabric, so I'd prefer to limit myself to at most the 18 FQs.

What would you do?

I would probably do a 4 x 4 layout and use the two extras for pillow covers or use them on the back.

Just remember you can put any extra blocks on the back.

So choose the size that you want and go from there.

ali

Do the blocks have to lay next to each other?

Can you do 4x3x4x3x4 = 18 blocks, where the 2nd and 4th row would be offset a bit at each end, or does that mess up your secondary pattern?

This would work well on point.

I think you have been given some good suggestions. I just want to say I really like your block!

Is there an order to your FQ's, in terms of the placement? Even if you do a 4x4 setting, can't you use some of the fabric from the other 2 FQ's in some of the blocks for more variety?

I made these blocks all the same so I can't comment on how 18 different colors and/or patterns would look without seeing your fabric, but here are the two block layouts:

Well, I tried to upload the 2 pics and it keeps timing out on me. I'll try in another post in the morning.

Yes, and I think you should share the making of this block. :D

I would do a 3x5 and add a couple of borders if you are using it on a bed.

Let's see if it works now.........