I've wanted to ask this question for weeks but wanted to see if I could figure it out myself. I can't, so here's the question. I'm making a quilting using blocks from a QOD (http://www.quiltpro.com/botd/botdArchive.php). The pieced blocks range in sizes from 5" to 7". I intend to use a very limited color scheme (black, white, gray, and red). But I want to start some of the prep work like making HST's. With such a difference in size how big should I make my standard HST? And what about sashing or bordering the blocks so they are all one size at the end, necessary or not? Any tips would be gratefully appreciated.

When I clicked on the website you listed, it said that page was not found. Just thought I would check & see if it was just my computer, or what. Wish I could help.
:D :D :D :D

Same thing on my computer

I got the same thing "not found" when I tried

That's the Block of the Day Archive. In order to view, one has to sign up.

So without actually seeing the blocks, you can make the HST's any size you want, especially since you have such a variety of sizes anyway.

When you're done with your blocks, you're going to have to lay them out in a way that's pleasing to YOU, and then figure out how to make them fit together.

If you just want blocks in a grid format, then, yes, you could borders around the smaller blocks to make the the same size as the larger ones.

Or, you could combine smaller blocks (let's say four 5" blocks), and then but a border around the larger 7" blocks so they would all be the same size.

Or you could have a totally free form setting, where you'll just add pieces where you need them, by doing partial seams, and use every other trick in the book.

Wanda over at http://exuberantcolor.blogspot.com/2...al-part-4.html was recently working on modular pieces - which is kinda what you have.

The link is to Part4, but if you work your way back through her blog entries, you can find the beginning.

It might give you some ideas.

You might want to pick up the book Setting Solutions by Sharyn Craig. http://www.amazon.com/Setting-Soluti...352442&sr=8-1/

It's one of the best books I've ever read - and I do mean read. It deals with making fabulous quilts with blocks of different sizes and color collections. Worth every penny.

My bee and I did a Round Robin based on it. Best quilting experience ever.

I'm personally not a big fan of grid patterns. It's a great opportunity to come up with something very unique.

The URL problem is the ). at the end. Remove it and you'll get to the site...however, you have to be a subscriber to see anything and they want your email addy to subscribe. Hope that helps.

Thanks MTS for the book reference. I went to the site and read a preview. Looks like something I'd to read and wouldn't have known it was out there without you!

MTS, thanks for the link and the book reference. The link was very helpful. I have an idea of what to do but I'll get the book and round out the idea.

And yes they want your addy but you don't have to sign up to get the blocks if you just want to browse. They have both pieced blocks and paper pieced blocks (whick thankfully are all the same size). That's another quilt in the making.

I found the post I made back in January (I didn't want to post the whole thing again) on a thread that started with a question just like margie's.

These are quilts ....well.you'll read it. The book was the impetus - there are no patterns in it. Again, great book!

http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-95583-1.htm#2404329

In the middle of that statement you will see click here it will come up as it did for me .. good luck ..