Sunday, July 8, 2012

Firecracker

I'm so excited because it is my day to contribute a block design to Madame Samm's Red, White, and Blue blog hop at Sew We Quilt!  Mine is called "Firecracker".  (And, yes, there is a giveaway - see the bottom of this post!)


( sorry I was late, I got Mdm Samm to post it for me, I forgot to schedule it ..thanks everyone)


It is a 12-1/2'' block that can be arranged to form this...


I actually paper-pieced Firecracker.  You can find the pattern here.
You'll need to enlarge the pattern to 200% and trace it onto paper-piecing paper.  The template looks like this.  The outer solid lines indicate trim lines and the dashed lines right inside them indicate seam lines in the finished block.



When you enlarge the pattern Section A will JUST fit onto a sheet of 8-1/2'' x 11'' paper.  Just center it so that you have a 1/4'' seam allowance on both sides when you trace. You'll need scraps of red, white, and blue fabric, and scraps of white background fabric.  You'll also need two white rectangles 4-1/2'' x 8-1/2''.  I chose to use red fabric for pieces A4 and C1 and D1.  A5, A1, B1, and D4 were various shades of blue.  The rest of the pieces was white.  (The blues I used were from "Blue Eden", designed by Maria Kalinowsky for Bernatex.  The red was from my stash and I used Kona White Organic cotton.)

I pieced each section using a traditional paper-piecing method. (Note that, in the photos below, the lower section labeled A4 should have been labeled A5 - my mistake!)






You get the idea...


I then pieced Sections A, B, and C together into 1 unit.
And pieced this unit with Section D and the two white rectangles to form a block.



I love it in red, white, and blue, but it would also be really dynamic in bright assorted colors - oranges, pinks, and greens.

I hope you enjoy Firecracker!

And don't forget to visit the other bloggers who are making up fun, red, white, and blue treats!
Today the bloggers will be:

 You can find a full schedule of all the blogs here at Jane's Fabric and Quilts.
And now for the giveaway...  I'll be giving away the winner's choice of 5 patterns in my pattern line to one person who comments on this post.  (I haven't updated my website to reflect the two newest yet, but Cupcake Countdown and Square Dance are also fair game.)  To enter, just leave me a comment on this post telling me what your favorite color combination is... at least currently.  (Mine changes almost every day.)  Please consdier becomign a follower or subscribing to my Feedburner feed if you haven't already.
The giveaway deadline is this Wednesday, the 11th, at midnight.
Happy sewing!
Amanda

Labels: , ,

168 Comments:

At July 8, 2012 at 5:02 AM , Blogger Sparky said...

WELLLLLL being that I love paper piecing, I just had radar straight to this ...ohmy goodness, this would look
spectacular as a quilt...I often wondered how you all did that ..have them free flying in the background...great block Amanda.. sew worth the wait

 
At July 8, 2012 at 5:02 AM , Blogger Joyce said...

I am already a follower...and right now my favorite colors are aqua and red..pretty much aqua and anything else! Love your firecracker and your patterns. Thanks!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 5:05 AM , Blogger Unknown said...

Right now I am loving Lapis Blue and Light Blue together with a little Chartreuse.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 5:07 AM , Blogger ~Kris~ said...

I love lime green with just about anything. Right now it is Black and white and Lime green. I love, love your block and it is so clever how it all goes together to form the larger firecrackers. Can't wait to try this.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 5:23 AM , Blogger Teresa in Music City said...

Great job on your block and the way we can expand it to make a quilt!!! I love paper-piecing and this one would be really fun in a number of color combinations :*) My favorite right now is definitely aqua! Everywhere I go, I'm seeing aqua!!! Joyce and I would not be safe let loose in a fabric shop as we'd both go for the same fabrics I'm thinking!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 5:28 AM , Blogger Melissa said...

Great block! Thank you for sharing it... I may just finally try paper piecing with this one! My favorite combination right now is pink and orange... Thanks! :)

 
At July 8, 2012 at 5:42 AM , Blogger Brenda said...

My favorite colors change every time I see a new combo. But red and white remain the first always.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 5:43 AM , Blogger Gwen said...

What a beautiful block!! I don't paper-piece, but may have to try again after seeing your creation! :-) Thank you for the chance to win this awesome prize! My favorite color combination right now is red, yellow, blue, and white-- with a bit of pink! :-)

 
At July 8, 2012 at 5:43 AM , Blogger Zuzan said...

How clever. The little star appears like magic. Love the playfulness & that I am learning this technique. Thank you especially for the giveaway which is wonderful.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 5:44 AM , Blogger Zuzan said...

Forgot to add my fave colours are purple, blue & green. Late Nite in Oz. lol

 
At July 8, 2012 at 5:46 AM , Blogger Diane said...

I am a follower!! my favorite color combo ... hmmm, tough question ... lately, it is anything with summer brights - yellow, teal, green, purples, pinks ... Thanks!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 5:52 AM , Blogger Charlene S said...

You are right my favorite changes daily. Right now it is lime green with black and gold.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 5:52 AM , Blogger Kellieann said...

Awesome block!. I have a lot of color combo's to many to list, but at the top is RWB adn then brown and aqua! thanks for the giveaway. have a great summer

 
At July 8, 2012 at 6:00 AM , Blogger JudyCinNC said...

This is a WOW block - and I love paperpiecing. Thanks for sharing the template. Yours is beautiful. Judy C

 
At July 8, 2012 at 6:08 AM , Blogger Lori said...

Oh this is wonderful. Thnaks for sharing. And thanks for the tutorial and pattern. I love paper peicing.
quilting dash lady at comcast dot net

 
At July 8, 2012 at 6:11 AM , Blogger Donna said...

This is a very cool block! I paper pieced a quilt once and said I would never do another one.....I have since changed my mind. Every point is sooooooo perfect with paper piecing. I think this block will be my next paper pieced project. As for my favorite color combination, I just don't know. When I see a piece of fabric that reaches out and grabs me, that becomes my current favorite color. Keeps things confusing around here!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 6:13 AM , Blogger Kathleen said...

I really like this block...I do like paper piecing...my favorite colors, today, LOL, are teal and peach..I am finishing up a quilt in those colors and really love it..thanks for the giveaway...

 
At July 8, 2012 at 6:15 AM , Blogger B Greene said...

I am a happy follower of your blog - thanks for sharing your block. Love seeing the quilt mock-up. I am a paper piecing novice, but I am gaining courage from all the great designs I see! Favorite color combo - gray with anything, but especialy yellow right now.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 6:22 AM , Blogger Rosa said...

Wow,spectacular.I love paperpiecing patterns.My favortie color is green and love it with pink,red,yellow,white,blue...Thanks for the giveaway!!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 6:25 AM , Blogger evelyn said...

Wow! Love how the starts "float" on the surface. I am a chocoholic-both fabric and food! Right now it is chocolate and raspberries, or chocolate and turquoise(think diet) :)

 
At July 8, 2012 at 6:27 AM , Blogger Sheila said...

What a beautiful block; I love paper piecing. I think I know what one of the two top blocks will be today? Have a great day!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 6:37 AM , Blogger StitchinByTheLake said...

Amanda this block is stunning - simply stunning! I've seen many nice blocks on this hop but this has to be one of my favorites. Favorite colors - couldn't possible choose. Obviously red, white & blue, but also civil war colors, and the total opposite of that - red & turquoise! I have you in my reader! blessings, marlene

 
At July 8, 2012 at 6:37 AM , Blogger Marcia W. said...

I'm a follower and on an aqua with most any color trend right now ... even if aqua is a minor player I have to put some into the quilt. Your patterns are wonderful as is your RWB firecracker of a block. Thanks for the giveaway!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 6:43 AM , Anonymous tubakk said...

I love your block, and putting the blocks together for this pattern, just perfect! Thanks for the tuurial, I'll try it with my favorite colours; red, yellow, black, blue. tubakk@online.no

 
At July 8, 2012 at 6:43 AM , Blogger MoeWest said...

Nice block! I like the quilt design it forms. One of my favourite colour combos is aqua and orange.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 6:44 AM , Blogger SewWhatsNew said...

Your block makes my heart sing. I love spikes and all. Thanks for the chance.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 6:46 AM , Blogger Connie Kresin Campbell said...

Beautiful block Amanda and thanks for the pattern!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 6:53 AM , Blogger Terry@ a quilting blog said...

What a fun block...would love to see it in my favorite (currently) color combo of aqua, lime green and blue. Thanks for the sweet giveaway!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 6:54 AM , Blogger LisaT said...

Woo hoo, love a giveaway snd love the paper-pieced pattern - she's a beauty!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 6:55 AM , Blogger Mary W Quilts said...

I love how pointy the points are! My favorite color combo is pink and blue. I never fet tired of it. Thanks for the giveaway. Mary. :-))

 
At July 8, 2012 at 6:57 AM , Blogger Purl Buttons said...

I love your paper-pieced star! Thanks to this blog hop, my favorite color combo TODAY is red and white.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 6:59 AM , Blogger Karen said...

Love this block... it's like a quick reveal on a mystery quilt, you don't see the end coming!... I've long been a follower or yours, very much appreciate and am inspired by your creativity... as for my favorite color combinations... I'd have to say sea colors - teal, aqua, green, blue - and frothy white!... right now, at least...

 
At July 8, 2012 at 7:12 AM , Blogger Dawn said...

I love this pattern! My favorite colors today are aqua, red, grey. But you never know it changes frequently. Thanks for a wonderful giveaway.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 7:16 AM , Blogger Sunshine Girl said...

Oooh I love the block - it is so neat. Thanks for sharing.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 7:18 AM , Blogger Teresa Quilts said...

Love Firecracker! Never would have guessed it would make that lovely quilt pattern when put together. Thank you for the giveaway.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 7:18 AM , Blogger Renea said...

Oh, love your quilt. Paper piecing is my next favorite thing in quilting. My first favorite is applique. I am like you, my color combination changes so often. Right now I am really liking bright pink, black and gray. I
have the fabric for the quilt but I need a pattern to go with it sew your giveaway is perfect. Thanks for the great giveaway.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 7:23 AM , Blogger prairie said...

Thank you for letting us visit. That's a beautiful little block and does a really clever thing in the quilt. Very nice. My favorite colors change, also, but, currently, I love purple and turquoise. I'm a new follower and hope I win.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 7:23 AM , Blogger Vroomans' Quilts said...

Thank you for sharing this lovely paper pieced pattern with us. I always enjoy a block that makes added designs once they are all together. I love working with all colors - but love a paisley, so a blue paisley print with a crisp clean white .

 
At July 8, 2012 at 7:39 AM , Blogger Darlington Delights said...

I'm loving orange and purple! It minds me of sunset.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 7:41 AM , Blogger Carol Swift said...

Wow! Those just pop right out there--love that block!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 7:46 AM , Blogger Karen O said...

Amanda, as usual you hit it out of the park. I LOVE that block. I recently learned paper piecing, so I will have to bookmark this. I am definitely a follower - have been since a year ago when I started finding quilting blogs and fell is LOVE with Veranda. In fact, I am using Veranda for my paper-pieced quilt from my class.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 7:50 AM , Blogger scottylover said...

Love this pattern! Thanks for sharing it. If you don't enlarge it, what size block do you end up with, do you know?

My favorite color combo is pink and gray...or pink and mint...or pink and yellow....OK anything combined with pink! LOL

Sandy A

 
At July 8, 2012 at 7:54 AM , Blogger Kathy H said...

Your blocks are beautiful and I love paper piecing. I love the precision of it.
My favorite color combinations also change so besides the red, white and blue, my next favorite for now is black and white and lime green.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 8:00 AM , Blogger KMSC said...

I'm already a follower...really enjoy your blog. My favorite combination of colors is purple and green. Thanks for the giveaway.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 8:06 AM , Blogger CaroleM said...

Oh I love that! I've saved the pattern for later - thank you. I think paper piecing scares people but it is not that difficult!
Favorite color combo right now would be purple and gray combos.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 8:07 AM , Blogger Diana said...

New to paper piecing but your is so fabulous, so precise, love he block
Favorite colors now are brights, purple, orange, red..
Thanks for the giveaway

 
At July 8, 2012 at 8:08 AM , Blogger Linda said...

I really like your block. It makes such a beautiful quilt. Currently, I am liking browns and blues. Actually, I'm happy with blue plus most any other color.
Lequilts.blogspot.com

 
At July 8, 2012 at 8:20 AM , Blogger Jane's Fabrics and Quilts said...

Well Amanda, It is Sunday and I slept in, so to me you were not late at all!!
This block is just stunning! I love the white space, allows for the colors to pop! great job and thank you so much for playing.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 8:25 AM , Blogger Karen said...

Oh my gosh, this block is absolutely beautiful! I feel like you could use it to make a gorgeous Bird of Paradise quilt block as well. Speaking of, bright colors are my favorite and I love them offset with a crisp black. I like when colors pop instead of fading into each other, but I know there's a time and a place for that too. Thank you for the great giveaway and for sharing the template of your block! I've been looking for the perfect paper piecing block to try out and I think this might be it!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 8:40 AM , Blogger Teresa said...

At the moment it's purple and pink.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 8:41 AM , Blogger Linda said...

Amazing block! Love it. Makes such a wonderful quilt. The jewel tones are my favourites combos.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 8:41 AM , Blogger Carrie P. said...

Amanda, that is one awesome block.
I am a follower and my favorite color combination right now is gray and yellow.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 8:48 AM , Blogger Truffle queen said...

Beautiful block! I never would have thought to put a small block in the opposite corner! Fabulous! I'm signed up for your feedburner! LOVE your patterns! My favorite color combo at the moment - red and white! Thanks for sharing!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 8:57 AM , Blogger Nancy in IN said...

Paper piecing is a favorite because it is so precise. I love reds with a little white. Love Firecracker.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 8:57 AM , Blogger Donna Baker said...

wow that's gorgeous! it's hard to say what color combo I like right now, I usually just go for any bright colors that go well together - right now I am trying to build my stash with rainbow colors! love your patterns, in fact I purchased Portraits of my Garden last week!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 9:01 AM , Blogger JoyceLM said...

I've been using orange & blue several times now in my quilt projects, though green is my favorite color. Thanks for the chance to win. I'm a follower.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 9:18 AM , Blogger Rebecca said...

What a great block! My current favorite combo is shades of yellow, gray & navy. :)

 
At July 8, 2012 at 9:20 AM , Blogger Rita said...

wow! congratulations on your win! i really love your block. why? because i love fireworks and firecrackers. what a perfect block for the 4th of july. my fav colors right now are red and aqua, but i'm liking chartreuse this year, too!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 9:34 AM , Blogger Kathy MacKie said...

I already follow and I love the combination of Lime Green and dark Purple!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 9:35 AM , Blogger KatieQ said...

Thanks for the great tutorial. I am a novice paper piecer, but I love this block and would love to try it.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 9:50 AM , Blogger Wendy said...

What Fun! I am so glad for hops like this so I can be introduced to wonderful blogs such as yours :) I became a follower so I can come back again and again and really look at all your beautiful patterns. Thank you so much for sharing your firecracker block!! Happy Sunday to you :) Wendy of http://why-knot-kwilt.blogspot.com

 
At July 8, 2012 at 10:11 AM , Blogger mary mahoo said...

My favourite colour combo these days is black grey and red! Thanks for the chance to win.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 10:21 AM , Blogger VickiT said...

Beautiful block Amanda and very striking when put with others based on the picture of a quilt you've shown also. Thank you for the tutorial and pattern.

My favorite, well, my current favorite is aqua and red together. I can't explain why but really love the combo.

Thank you for the chance at your giveaway.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 10:27 AM , Blogger Karen said...

Love your block. My favorite combination currently is navy and lime green.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 10:31 AM , Blogger Jeanie said...

Great block! Love it pictured as a complete quilt. Favorite combo today only is grey and yellow. Mine too, change by the minute. Thanks so much for the giveaway!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 10:42 AM , Blogger Rabid Quilter from California said...

First, I have to say, this is my favorite block so far in the Hop! Very clever how it goes together to make the quilt. And I LOVE paper piecing!

My fav color palette for a long time has been purple and green and all derivatives therein: lavender and lime, violet and sage, etc. Thanks again for this great block!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 10:48 AM , Blogger Lyn said...

Thanks for the chance to win. I really like pinks and blues. As you say at the moment.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 10:56 AM , Blogger kc said...

LOVE this block! helps that I love pp, I suppose, huh! But I've always wondered how to make the little guys float like that - now I see it's the coming together of the larger blocks that makes it happen - very cool.

For some time now, I've been drawn to light teal, dark teal and purple, with a little cream thrown in. Sounds awful, looks beautiful, to me anyway!

Thanks for sharing!!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 10:57 AM , Blogger Linda Lee said...

Thank you so very very much for the tutorial for the paper piecing. That is my next goal to learn how to do!! I love the crispness of the points.

I am just moving from the country colors to the cottage roses shabby look and colors..Need to make a baby quilt for a baby using the shabby chic colors.

I am going to take a look at your designs and patterns now. Thank you for sharing.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 11:12 AM , Blogger Sandy D said...

Fantastic Block.Maybe, just maybe I can learn to paper piece.
I seem to be drawn to the bright colours like Lime green, bright blues right now.Must be because it is summer and Winter seemed so long.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 11:22 AM , Blogger Judy1522 said...

I decided I needed to follow your blog when I saw the adorable cupcake countdown pattern. Then at the side I saw the Swiss Chocolate Pincushion and realized I had that on my list of to do projects. Your RW&B block is beautiful and even though I have not done any paper piecing yet it is also on my to do list. I usually go for purples, blues, greens and pinks but am like you and can change that anytime. There is just so much beautiful fabric out there.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 11:24 AM , Blogger Mrs.Pickles said...

wow how amazing

 
At July 8, 2012 at 11:25 AM , Blogger Pat said...

What a great looking block!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 11:30 AM , Blogger ledamewood said...

I love your block - thanks for sharing. My favorite color combo is blue and white - but through in red, or yellow, or green and I'm in love with those too.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 11:36 AM , Blogger Gemma said...

Fab Block! I love purple with anything!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 11:57 AM , Blogger Lisa England said...

Lately I'm loving the combination of aqua, lime green and bright yellow. Love your block!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 12:04 PM , Blogger Tamie said...

I'm really loving grey and yellow right now. Thanks for the giveaway.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 12:06 PM , Blogger krislovesfabric said...

Nice block design :) I would love to win your patterns...currently I am still in love with orange and gray.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 12:12 PM , Blogger Karen said...

Wow! What a beatiful paper piece pattern. At the moment I like pinks and browns.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 12:23 PM , Blogger cvdnurse said...

My current favorites are acquas and bright reds
Susan
susie.galasso@gmail.com

 
At July 8, 2012 at 12:32 PM , Blogger Sharon said...

Great block...thank you for the pattern! I love every color combo...really love browns and blues/aqua together.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 12:38 PM , Blogger barbara woods said...

i am a follower and would love to win thanks for the giveaway

 
At July 8, 2012 at 12:44 PM , Blogger whistlebet57 said...

Amanda, I love your patterns and would jump for joy if I became a winner. My favorite colors right now are deep purple, green, and rose. My choise will probably change tomorrow, but now I am making a quilt with those colors and am loving it. Thanks for the chance to win.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 12:46 PM , Blogger Cindy said...

I'm so excited to see this block. I'm learning to paper piece in a class this month so I can do patterns like this! I subscribed to your e-mail as I love your patterns too. You are one talented person.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 12:47 PM , Blogger Cindy said...

I just posted but forgot my favorite color combo. I am loving teals, reds, greens right now. Almost any color combination with teal works for me!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 1:22 PM , Blogger Cherry's Prairie Primitives said...

Loved how you did your block!!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 1:40 PM , Blogger Lee said...

The paper piecing firecracker is wonderful! thanks! I love your new pattern square dance also. Thank you for the giveaway - I love lime and organe and navy right now!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 1:44 PM , Blogger dortha said...

I like pink and lime green today. Who knows what it will be tomorrow. Love your patterns and would love to win some. Thanks for the chance.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 2:21 PM , Blogger Martha said...

I love so many combinations that it's hard to say. At present, I'm wanting something turquoise and red.
Thanks for hosting a giveaway.
mtower@bellsouth.net

 
At July 8, 2012 at 2:24 PM , Blogger quilary said...

Great pattern - I like paper pieceing and always up for a challenge! Favourite colour combination at the moment is different tones of blues with grey. Thanks for the chance :)

 
At July 8, 2012 at 2:51 PM , Blogger Cecilia said...

I always like red, white and blue together. Cute block! Thanks for the chance to win.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 3:11 PM , Blogger Sheila said...

My favorite at the moment would be red ,white and blue , maybe because of the blocks I just made ;-)I am already a subscriber to your blog. Thanks for the chance.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 3:34 PM , Blogger Christine M said...

I love your firecracker block. It looks so great in your quilt. I love using red and beige. But my colour choices change all the time! Thanks for the lovely giveaway.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 3:57 PM , Blogger bets said...

Great block...I love using colors of the holiday we are in! O red, white, and blue would be my choice, then on to Halloween oranges and blacks!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 3:58 PM , Anonymous Kate Brown said...

I have loved following your blog, you always have wonderfully creative ideas. Your block is great, learning paper piecing is on my goal list for August :) My favorite colors are like every ones, changing daily but today I would say bright colors like purple and pink with grey

 
At July 8, 2012 at 4:26 PM , Blogger Julie said...

I love that block!! Right now I am working on a batik quilt that is using brown and coral. My favorite colors also change daily but I seem to like everything :) Thanks for the great giveaway.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 4:32 PM , Blogger Scrapbook-ChickADoodle said...

The Firecracker block is awesome by itself, then when I saw it as the quilt, Oh My! Stunning.
You do some amazing work!
I am a follower.
Currently my favorite color combo is red, white and blue....I think this Blog Hop has influenced me!

Thanks for the opportunity to win!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 4:39 PM , Blogger Unknown said...

Your firecracker block is awesome! For some reason I cannot download it to print so that means I will have to draw it myself...thinking I can. I will post it so you can see it if that happens. I follow you....great stuff over here!

hugz

 
At July 8, 2012 at 4:56 PM , Blogger sandra said...

Love your block but I have to say I have never tried paper piecing it always looks so hard. I am a follower of your blog and right now I am loving red and aqua but like you mine changes frequently.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 4:58 PM , Blogger Karen said...

My current favorite is aqua and red, but I also really like turquoise and brown. That will probably change next week. Thanks for the giveaway.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 5:00 PM , Blogger Darlene B said...

Love your firecracker block! No big surprise to me since I love all your patterns!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 5:45 PM , Blogger Maria Kievit said...

Love Firecracker! I also like the secondary pattern which comes from putting it together. My favourite colours hand down are yellow and blue! Makes for a fabulous quilt!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 5:52 PM , Blogger Donna G. said...

Love this pattern! My favorite color combo (for now) is turquoise and brown, with red, white and black close behind.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 5:54 PM , Blogger Ariane said...

I love this block!!! Thanks so much for sharing the pattern!! I will definitely try this out!!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 6:03 PM , Blogger The Slow Quilter said...

Amanda, I am becoming a fan of paper piecing, this is a great job. Loving this blog hop, and look and am your 106 commentor. I am following.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 6:22 PM , Blogger Unknown said...

I do love "Firecracker" and the fact that it's paper-pieced. Wonderful block. Thanks for the op to win. My favorite color combination (besides red, white and blue of course) would be teal and any other color that coordinates with it!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 7:06 PM , Blogger LJ said...

Love your block; thanks for the pattern. It's hard to top red, white, and blue - right? I find myself drawn to black and white with touches of bright colors right now. Usually pastels are my palette but I agree, I'm always changing my current favorites.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 7:32 PM , Blogger Deb said...

I'm loving purples and greens but also have been drawn to reds and whites ever since the big quilt exhibit in all red/white.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 7:32 PM , Blogger Sharon Dawn said...

This is an beautiful piece! Love the firecracker!!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 7:39 PM , Blogger Sallie said...

I love your Cupcake Countdown pattern! My favorite color combination currently is blue and yellow. Thanks for the great giveaway!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 8:01 PM , Blogger quiltmom anna said...

I love lots of different color combos but among my favorite are blue and green together. I love pink and gray as a pair and purple and pink and red and black ... I also love brown with other earth colors- each combo can create really lovely quilts. Mostly though I love the whole rainbow of colors in a scrappy design- I prefer dark backgrounds to light with all those exuberant colors.
Thanks for participating in the blog hop. I have been a follow for awhile now.
Regards from Western Canada,
Anna

 
At July 8, 2012 at 8:28 PM , Blogger Anita said...

Love the pattern and alternate design it forms! My favorite color comobs keep changing too but I'm loving Kona's Cerise and Orange. Thanks for the chance to win and I'm already a follower :)

 
At July 8, 2012 at 8:31 PM , Blogger Sharon Dawn said...

My long time standing favorite color combination is like a mix of wildflowers...shades of pinks, purples, greens, blues with a splash of yellow. I tend to have others that appeal to me for different projects, but I always come back to the flowers :-) I have become a follower, thanks!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 8:47 PM , Blogger Gloria said...

Thanks for the giveaway Amanda. I just finshed piecing garden pathe and I love how it turned out.

 
At July 8, 2012 at 9:19 PM , Blogger Rhonda D. said...

Love your firecracker block & I love paper piecing. Thanks for
sharing the pttern. Right now,
my favorite color combination is
grey, yellow & green. Thanks for the chance to win.

wigglypup2(at)yahoo(dot)com

 
At July 8, 2012 at 9:20 PM , Blogger Farm Quilter said...

Love your block and the quilt it makes. I haven't done much paper piecing, but I enjoyed it when I was doing it. My favorite colors, currently, are black and hot pink!

 
At July 8, 2012 at 10:32 PM , Blogger hueisei said...

Love your block! I'm loving green and orange now :)

 
At July 8, 2012 at 10:47 PM , Blogger rush said...

right now, my favorite color combination is red and aqua/turquoise. rush88888 at gmail dot com

 
At July 9, 2012 at 12:22 AM , Blogger pinsandneedles said...

Great block and love how it comes together in a quilt! I'm a follower! Thanks for your inspiration!

 
At July 9, 2012 at 1:20 AM , Blogger Beth said...

Five of your patterns? What a delightful dilemma that would be. Thanks for the generous giveaway.

wordygirl at earthlink dot net

 
At July 9, 2012 at 3:38 AM , Blogger Aurea said...

I am a follower. I like your block especially since I am into paper piecing. It is simple and very effective. Your colors make a stunning quilt. Thank you for the give away. Aurea Gillis

 
At July 9, 2012 at 4:01 AM , Blogger Kate said...

Wow! Beautiful block. My current favorite color combination is red, white and blue. At the moment, I have 3 quilts in progress that use that color scheme.

 
At July 9, 2012 at 4:17 AM , Blogger linynp said...

What a fantastic block! Loving the firework! Now can you imagine this in a watermelon and turquoise with white?!

 
At July 9, 2012 at 4:19 AM , Anonymous Beulah said...

My current favorite color combo is: coneflower purple, butter yellow, pink and aqua.

c.paints [at] yahoo [dot] com

 
At July 9, 2012 at 4:38 AM , Blogger Josie McRazie said...

Can I tell you how much I LOVE to paper piece!! ahhh I LOVE fire cracker!!

 
At July 9, 2012 at 4:39 AM , Blogger Mom who loves to sew said...

I'm very happily a regular follower of your wonderful designs and creations. I like anything that is bright and colorful. I prefer not too many florals, but love bold colors. Thanks for the chance to win some great paterns.

 
At July 9, 2012 at 5:11 AM , Blogger Quilting Babcia said...

Though soft yellows and garden greens generally catch my eye, I'm currently loving chocolate brown and deep pinks! Thanks for the giveaway, would love to win any of your patterns.

 
At July 9, 2012 at 5:12 AM , Blogger Quilting Babcia said...

Forgot to mention in my comment above, I'm an email follower. Thanks!

 
At July 9, 2012 at 5:38 AM , Blogger Snoodles said...

I'm a happy follower, and today my colors are orange and white!! Thanks for the chance to win!

 
At July 9, 2012 at 5:53 AM , Blogger KatheG said...

This comment has been removed by the author.

 
At July 9, 2012 at 6:09 AM , Blogger KatheG said...

This comment has been removed by the author.

 
At July 9, 2012 at 6:09 AM , Blogger KatheG said...

Love your block - thanks for showing this. You make it look easy. My all-time, go to, favorite color combo is blue and white - so crisp and clean. Thanks for the great giveaway.

 
At July 9, 2012 at 6:14 AM , Blogger Tina O. said...

I love solids right now,I can't get enough of them.

 
At July 9, 2012 at 6:19 AM , Blogger Margaret said...

Seeing all of the red white and blue is really making me happy right now. I just spied a grey and yellow combo on another blog that is really striking. I am like you, my favorite changes a lot. I am starting to work with solids which I have not really done before and I am really liking the look.

 
At July 9, 2012 at 6:36 AM , Blogger Gmama Jane said...

I have GOT to learn how to paper piece! It scares me to death but then I see your block and I WANT to know how to do that. Great Give-Away too! I Love all your patterns but I really am dying for the cupcake pattern.
Blessings
Gmama Jane

 
At July 9, 2012 at 7:16 AM , Anonymous Sue Mettler said...

What a great block!!!!!
Maybe if I start now I can have it done for next 4th of July.

I love paper pieceing once you start it is hard to stop.

Keep up the great ideas.

 
At July 9, 2012 at 7:19 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

I love the accuracy of foundation piecing though it is kind of a pain...did you know if a foundation is printed on muslin, it can be sewn by hand? Years ago I pieced a miniature snail's trail by hand on a car trip (I had a special rubber stamp and permanent ink to print the foundation). Back in those days I must have had too much time on my hands :) Favorite color combo today is blue, white and yellow. I am a subscriber.
Lisa
Lalexander733(at)gmail(dot)com

 
At July 9, 2012 at 7:21 AM , Blogger PinkGranny said...

I have done a bit of paper piecing and the project is unfinished still. Not because I didn't like it but simply didn't pick it up until after the class. Now I feel like getting out that stack of cardboard with the pieces and getting it done.

My favorite color combination changes frequently but I do like colors that lend themselves to a flower garden: pinks, greens, reds, lilacs, peach

 
At July 9, 2012 at 7:44 AM , Blogger Maxine said...

I need to learn paper piecing...love the Fire Cracker block..my hat off to you...I have several color combinations that I like, today or for July it will be RWB..Thanks for the chance to win..I follow

 
At July 9, 2012 at 8:01 AM , Blogger Fiber Babble said...

What a stunning block! I love how it turns into an equally stunning quilt - thank you SO much for sharing the pattern :-)

I'm not sure why I haven't come across your blog before, but I can assure you it's been added to my reader now. I'm looking forward to wandering through the archives.

Oh, Blue and orange. No. Turquoise and red. Wait. Purple and green. But there's also white and cream...
;-)

 
At July 9, 2012 at 8:15 AM , Blogger Unknown said...

Currently my favorite color combinations are 30s type prints, and turkey reds and taupes. This is always changing though! I'd love to win some of your patterns----LOVE them!

 
At July 9, 2012 at 8:44 AM , Blogger Lawana said...

great block, not sure if I could ever master all those points... but if I did I would use blues, white & probably a gold for punch thanks for inspiring us and for the chance at your patterns

 
At July 9, 2012 at 9:59 AM , Blogger Jodi - usairdoll said...

Gosh what a great block. I'm just learning paper piecing and I'd love to give this a try. Thanks for sharing this with us.

Thank you for a super giveaway and a chance to win.

usairdoll(at)gmail(dot)com

 
At July 9, 2012 at 10:19 AM , Blogger HeatherK @ A Reformed Heath'n said...

I LOVE your firecracker block--it's so much fun! Thanks for the link to the pattern, too. Going to have to try this. Right now my favorites are the grey/yellow combos and just about anything with aqua. Thanks for sharing and for the giveaway!

 
At July 9, 2012 at 3:35 PM , Blogger Kylie Carlson said...

I love this Block! Thank you for the download and a great giveaway. My current favorite color combo is orange and grey.

 
At July 9, 2012 at 4:17 PM , Blogger QuiltinGram said...

Love your block..firecracker and your fabric choices. Will be putting on my to do list for sure.
Thanks for the chance to win your giveaway.
CathyC in Alberta
cathyc1950@gmail.com

 
At July 9, 2012 at 4:43 PM , Blogger Michelle May-The Raspberry Rabbits said...

Love! Love! Love! So beautiful!

 
At July 9, 2012 at 6:14 PM , Blogger Amy, a redeemed sheep said...

Awesome block!! Thank you for sharing it! =D

 
At July 9, 2012 at 6:22 PM , Blogger Crafty Tokyo Mama said...

Blue and white. Always has been, probably always will be... blue and white. Love your patterns so thanks for the chance to win!

 
At July 9, 2012 at 7:42 PM , Blogger ikceb said...

Absolutely love it!

 
At July 9, 2012 at 10:50 PM , Blogger Beth said...

My favorite color combo today--and like you, mine changes daily--is red, blue, and yellow. So cheery. Makes me think of my mom, and brings a lot of happy memories.

I'm one of your followers, Amanda.

 
At July 10, 2012 at 2:20 AM , Blogger leanne said...

love your blocks - great fabrics - and that quilt looks fabulous - thanks for the giveaway :)

 
At July 10, 2012 at 4:55 AM , Blogger Michele said...

The only word I can come up with is WOW! I hope to be able to do that myself one day.

My favorite color combo right now and always has been anything rainbow hued. I can't get enough of that.

 
At July 10, 2012 at 6:01 AM , Blogger Craftluver said...

Oh this is a great block and a wonderfull quilt! Think at it with chirstmas colours and you have a very bright lovely star christmas quilt! I guess the possibilieties are endless! Love your patterns and my todays colour scheme is brown and pink! Ok, purple and pink is also one favo....choices!

 
At July 10, 2012 at 7:24 AM , Blogger LeAnne said...

Wonderful block with so many possibilities. One of my favorite color combinations is blue/turquoise/purple.

 
At July 10, 2012 at 8:20 AM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

I Love yor PP RWB Firecracker Block! Thanks for the Design! I will surely make this because I LOVE Paper Piecing! I love your Patterns! Thanks for this Great Giveaway!

 
At July 10, 2012 at 12:44 PM , Blogger Aggiequilter said...

I'm with you, Amanda ... my fav colors seem to change every day, or week, or month at least!!
Right NOW my fav is turqoise and yellow-golds, but blue and white has always been a constant fav of mine. Thanks for the giveaway!

 
At July 10, 2012 at 1:43 PM , Blogger aiah23 said...

I LOVE the Firecracker quilt possibility! I'd love to see that finished up although I'm sure you're swamped like the rest of us. My favorite color combo right now is a black/white print with turquoise blue. I don't know why but it just is.

 
At July 10, 2012 at 3:13 PM , Blogger robin said...

Love it! I've never tried paper piecing. I love red/aqua/white.

 
At July 11, 2012 at 1:11 PM , Blogger Juels said...

Firecracker looks like a fun block. I do get a little crazy when it comes to paper piecing. Everyone arounds me complains, but I love it!
My current favorite color combos are navy and cream. Thanks!

 
At July 11, 2012 at 6:49 PM , Blogger Carla G said...

What a cool block!! I currently like aqua & grey together! Thanks for a chance to win! :)

 
At July 12, 2012 at 2:01 AM , Blogger Gill said...

I like red and aqua!
Thanks!

 
At July 13, 2012 at 8:17 AM , Blogger John'aLee said...

Oh I am in love with this quilt! Your tutorial was great!

 
At July 13, 2012 at 10:41 AM , Blogger Sinta Renee said...

that is an awesome design! Beautiful... just bea-u-ti-ful!!!

 
At July 13, 2012 at 6:06 PM , Blogger Sandra J. Strickler said...

It's gorgeous!

 
At July 14, 2012 at 5:00 PM , Blogger kathyalden said...

Wow, great design. My favorite colors are red and navy!

 
At August 23, 2012 at 1:39 PM , Anonymous Anonymous said...

I love your blog. The patterns and colors are fantastic. These are so pretty.

 
At August 23, 2012 at 1:42 PM , Blogger Unknown said...

I love this blog. The patterns are fantastic. I love the colors and designs.

 

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Firecracker

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I'm so excited because it is my day to contribute a block design to Madame Samm's Red, White, and Blue blog hop at Sew We Quilt!  Mine is called "Firecracker".  (And, yes, there is a giveaway - see the bottom of this post!)


( sorry I was late, I got Mdm Samm to post it for me, I forgot to schedule it ..thanks everyone)


It is a 12-1/2'' block that can be arranged to form this...


I actually paper-pieced Firecracker.  You can find the pattern here.
You'll need to enlarge the pattern to 200% and trace it onto paper-piecing paper.  The template looks like this.  The outer solid lines indicate trim lines and the dashed lines right inside them indicate seam lines in the finished block.



When you enlarge the pattern Section A will JUST fit onto a sheet of 8-1/2'' x 11'' paper.  Just center it so that you have a 1/4'' seam allowance on both sides when you trace. You'll need scraps of red, white, and blue fabric, and scraps of white background fabric.  You'll also need two white rectangles 4-1/2'' x 8-1/2''.  I chose to use red fabric for pieces A4 and C1 and D1.  A5, A1, B1, and D4 were various shades of blue.  The rest of the pieces was white.  (The blues I used were from "Blue Eden", designed by Maria Kalinowsky for Bernatex.  The red was from my stash and I used Kona White Organic cotton.)

I pieced each section using a traditional paper-piecing method. (Note that, in the photos below, the lower section labeled A4 should have been labeled A5 - my mistake!)






You get the idea...


I then pieced Sections A, B, and C together into 1 unit.
And pieced this unit with Section D and the two white rectangles to form a block.



I love it in red, white, and blue, but it would also be really dynamic in bright assorted colors - oranges, pinks, and greens.

I hope you enjoy Firecracker!

And don't forget to visit the other bloggers who are making up fun, red, white, and blue treats!
Today the bloggers will be:

 You can find a full schedule of all the blogs here at Jane's Fabric and Quilts.
And now for the giveaway...  I'll be giving away the winner's choice of 5 patterns in my pattern line to one person who comments on this post.  (I haven't updated my website to reflect the two newest yet, but Cupcake Countdown and Square Dance are also fair game.)  To enter, just leave me a comment on this post telling me what your favorite color combination is... at least currently.  (Mine changes almost every day.)  Please consdier becomign a follower or subscribing to my Feedburner feed if you haven't already.
The giveaway deadline is this Wednesday, the 11th, at midnight.
Happy sewing!
Amanda

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