We’re barreling into 2026 and it’s the perfect time to make a quilt to celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary. I designed the Quarter Millennial Quilt to fit into my American Travels series (all 50″ square and based on places in the US) with a block for each state and the American flag.
The blocks in this quilt vary in both design, size and style. I designed it to be made with scraps in whatever colors you like. I wanted a quilt design that amplifies the diversity of America that makes it a place I love.
With a little research, some design work and a lot of moving bits around, the Quarter Millennial Quilt was born!
I want you to make one with me, so I’m kicking off the Quarter Millennial Quilt Block-of-the-Week sew along on January 1. Participation is free! Each Thursday, for the next 26 weeks, you’ll receive an email with a link to two state blocks and access to video tutorials. You can finish it before the 4th of July!
The Quarter Millennial Quilt finishes at 50″ x 50″ and features:
- square and rectangular blocks
- blocks range from 2″ x 2″ to 16″ x 16″
- size of block relates to the size of the state
- block patterns will be released in the order of statehood
- flexible layout based on block size
- uses various piecing techniques
Each state’s block size is based on the actual sizes of the state. There are 2″ x 2″ blocks for states like Rhode Island (1,545 sq. mi) and Delaware (2,489 sq. mi). They increase in size to include both square and rectangular blocks, finishing with the 16″ x 16″ block for Alaska (663,267 sq. mi).
The blocks vary in style and include a variety of techniques, making it a great skill builder, too. There will be traditionally-pieced, precision-pieced, and foundation paper-pieced blocks, as well as some that include appliqué or curves.
Each block will have a supporting video tutorial for it, released the same day as the patterns.
Sign-ups are FREE and open now. I hope to see you there!
Happy sewing!
