Opinions please- Quilt pattern variations
 

I'm doing a picnic blanket for my brother's wedding gift. I have a block but can't decide what pattern so I'm asking for opinions. Whenever I asked non-quilting people they just say "Which ever one's easiest". SMH. It's the same block, rotated one way or another and I can't decide so let me know what you think please! P.S. I'm also taking suggestions for half-rectangle triangle methods. :thumbup:

[ATTACH=CONFIG]515341[/ATTACH]

or

[ATTACH=CONFIG]515342[/ATTACH]

The second one is a little easier on the eyes. Just with me, instead of doing blocks I would do rows. I would substitute a flying geese instead of two HST where possible and eliminate the center seam. The more seams you can eliminate, the less bulk you will have to deal with.

I prefer the first. Is this your own original design? It's a great pattern :)

i like the second one

I prefer the first, it draws the eye into the center. The other one my eye wants to wander to each of the four corners.

For the half rectangles .... you can do them just line regular HST's but you have to remember to offset the center line 1/4" from the center - opposite side of each corner.

IOW ... on the top of the rectangle mark a line 1/4" from the upper right corner. On the bottom of the rectangle mark a line 1/4" from the lower left corner. Use a ruler to match these marks and draw a line dissecting the rectangle on the diagonal. This is now your "center" line - like you would draw on an HST. Now mark your 1/4" sewing lines on each side of the center. Sew, then cut down the center line. Just like HST's you will have tabs on two corners to snip off.

There are also HRT templates you can buy, or make if you prefer a template method.

If that's one block and the block will be repeated, won't the finished quilt end up looking the same, except for the edges? Or is the pictured block representative of the finished quilt? If that one 'block' is the finished quilt, I prefer the first. Very nice pattern!

I Like Number One the best

I like number one as well. The focus seems to be the star area to me and the background the circle but then again I'm really fond of secondary circles.

I've have the same question as Neesie, is it going to be a large one block quilt? If so, the first orientation would be the best focus for me. If not, then it doesn't matter.

Love number 1!!!!