RBD Block Challenge 2025 - Week 3: Roses Among the Thorns

This week’s block is particularly special to me—Roses Among the Thorns is my own design! 🌹 Inspired by the beauty of resilience and growth, this block captures the balance between strength and elegance, much like a rose among thorns.

I’m so excited to share my process for creating this block and see how you bring your own unique flair to it!

Personal Insights: Designing Roses Among the Thorns

Creating this block was such a rewarding experience. I wanted to design something that felt both delicate and bold—something that symbolized overcoming challenges and blooming brightly despite them.

For my version, I used my It Takes a Village collection, pairing soft floral tones with pops of vibrant color. The petals are grounded by a sturdy stem and geometric framing, making this block feel like a celebration of both beauty and resilience.

This Week’s Block: Roses Among the Thorns

Roses Among the Thorns is a 10” x 10” finished block that combines traditional quilting techniques like Half-Square Triangles (HSTs) and Stitch-and-Flip (SNF) to create a flower that’s as fun to sew as it is to admire.

My Take on the Block

Here’s how I approached Roses Among the Thorns:

•   Fabric Choices: I selected strong reds, yellows and soft smoke grays from It Takes a Village collection, adding contrast with a the multi text print for the flower’s center.
•   Tips for Success:
  - Be precise with your HST trimming—this ensures sharp points in your petals.  
  - Use a rotating cutting mat for ease when working with diagonal cuts.
  - Press seams carefully for crisp, flat results that make your rose bloom!
  

Fabrics I Used

•   It Takes a Village by Jennifer Long, Sew A Story for Riley Blake Designs
•   Confetti Cottons by Riley Blake Designs

Progress So Far

Here’s a look at the quilt’s journey so far:

•   Block 1: Bloom & Grow
  •  A bright, cheerful block full of energy.
•   Block 2: Around the Corner
  •   A bold, directional design that symbolizes growth.
•   Block 3: Roses Among the Thorns
  •   A delicate and resilient block that feels deeply personal.

I love seeing how these blocks are coming together to tell a story.

Quilting Together

One of my favorite parts of the RBD Block Challenge is seeing everyone’s creativity shine. Are you sewing along this week? I’d love to see your Roses Among the Thorns blocks!

Tag me @sewastory_jenniferlong on Instagram and don’t forget to use #RBDblockchallenge and tag @rileyblakedesigns. Let’s celebrate each other’s work and share the joy of quilting!

What is the RBD Block Challenge?

If you’re just joining us, the RBD Block Challenge is a free sew-along featuring 16 quilt blocks designed by Riley Blake Designs designers.

 1. New blocks are released every Tuesday through May 27, 2025.
 2. Perfect for all skill levels, with helpful tips and videos to guide you!

Find all the details and resources here:

- Riley Blake Designs Blog Riley
- Blake Designs YouTube Channel
- It Takes A Village fabric Collection

 I can’t wait to see your take on this block and hear about your creative process. Let’s continue to inspire and support each other as we sew our stories together!