Using leftover blocks...
 

I came upon a number of odd blocks intended for a sample quilt, but somehow got tossed aside and buried under other projects. I would like to hear from those of you who make/have made/will make a quilt-top-as-you-go[with no pattern], what is the key is to make the blocks all appear cohesive?

any special techniques or processes you use? what works for you? thank you in advance for any help you can offer!

I find orphan blocks work well as large coverage for crazy quilts I use all my scraps up in crazy quilts so when I cover a large area with an orphan block, it reminds me of something I have done in the past, most likely given away. The edges of the block are then covered by other scraps to make it all blend in.

BTW - I use muslin as a base for my crazy quilts and do a lot of sew and flip, then sew over the edges with crazy blanket stitches from the sewing machine.

tim in san jose

Sash them with a coordinating, light neutral or black.
If they are not the same size, do a wonky frame around them.
Alternate them with a coordinating print, either a plain block or a snowball.

I save all extra blocks for utility quilts....there can be some pretty off the wall color combinations, but the gkids love em and don't care if they are a bit "wild"!

this is a quilt of swapped blocks.

I am not sure about quilt as you go but have you thought about making a table runner &/or place mat set. When I am stuck with a UFO I always start with the kitchen for a good re purpose idea. I have also made Oven Mitts, Pot holders, Towel tops and even a valance for the over the sink window.

I love orphan blocks. I sash them with something wild or neutral and they all hang together. Don't know about quilt as you go, though. froggyintexas

I have been making quilts for a NICU with mine. Sash and make about 16 inches square...flannel on back...use birthing method...minimum quilting.

I do the frame first, in a color that goes with the block, to make it the same size as all the other blocks. Some blocks get two or three frames, one really tiny one.
Then put them all together with the same sashing in a neutral tone.

Color would pull them together, or theme, or design.