Setting multi sized blocks together
 

I have a ton of multi sized pieced and applique blocks that I made in a similar colorway with the idea of setting them together in a quilt. I have more than enough for a queen sized quilt. Lots of small blocks in the 2-6 inch range. A group of 8 and 9 inch blocks. And some larger ones between 12 inches and 20 inches. Now I am feeling overwhelmed trying to figure out how best to set them together. I don't want to use a lot of "spacer" strips. I would prefer to fit them all together like puzzle pieces. Any tips you would like to share?
Linda

I guess I would put the blocks on design wall the best way they would fit together and go from there.

Design wall can be your best friend.

Graph paper is another friend.

One time, before I had a design wall, I cut paper blocks, cut to scale.
Post-it notes work good for this. Different colours are bonus.
Then moved them around on graph paper, til I got a layout. Photocopy.
Then move some more for another layout. Until you find what you want.
Photocopy each layout, so you don't lose it.

Some do a computer design wall of sorts, using photos of each block.
This method is intriguing to me, but beyond what I know how to do!

Maybe someone can leave more info about this process?

I would start with graph paper. Draw the size of finished quilt.
Make a note of how many blocks in each size.
Then draw the 20 inch square(s) followed by 12, 8-9 and use the
6 and 2 as fillers. You might have to move some around.
Make sure you have a way to sew them in rows or columns or break
them in chunks. Then place the blocks on your design wall.
Hope this helps.

I’ve done something similar. Here’s what worked for me.
On a design wall pin selvage strips to mark out the size of finished quilt.
Sort the blocks.
1. Size
2. Colors
3. Featured
With selvage strips, indicate what will be the top of the bed.
indicate a tic-tac-toe board within the quilt top space on design wall.
Place the largest, featured and most dominate blocks on design wall, spreading them out. Avoid placing them in the exact center. Avoid placing them in a square, in a line, all on one side, on the edge, or corner.

collect the next largest and spread them throughout the quilt space.

Consider how to sew this together. Adjust placement to make piecing easier.

Repeat these processes.

Tweek as needed. Since it’s not sewn, it’s possible to rearrange or start over.

I thought I saw a thread here on QB about different sized blocks that gave a link to a really nice one, but can't find now. I did find a blog that once a month showed a quilt made with orphan blocks that starts here http://rosemaryyoungs.blogspot.com/2014/05/ Then there is a flicker page with some have shown theirs linked to https://www.flickr.com/groups/2659397@N23/pool/

I also found these here on QB https://www.quiltingboard.com/995157-post38.html
https://www.quiltingboard.com/7634475-post20.html

Janey, thanks so much! That Flickr page really helped :)

Thanks so much! I found these tips to be very helpful :)

Hi! Thanks for the suggestions :) I did start with graph paper, but got totally overwhelmed with the sheer number of blocks I have. And all the different sizes. There are 3 inch ones and 4 inch ones, also, plus bigger ones, like 14, 15 & 16 inch ones. It's a hot mess LOL :)