RBD Block Challenge 2025 - Week 1: Bloom & Grow

Welcome to the start of the Riley Blake Designs Block Challenge 2025! I’m thrilled to kick off this creative adventure with Bloom & Grow, a beautiful block designed by Lori Holt. This first block sets the stage for what promises to be an inspiring journey of stitching and connecting. Let’s dive in!

Personal Insights: Starting Fresh with Bloom & Grow

As I worked on Bloom & Grow, I reflected on how this block feels like the perfect metaphor for starting fresh in 2025. With its clean lines and thoughtful design, it’s a reminder to approach the year—and this quilt—with intention and creativity.

For my version, I chose fabrics from my It Takes a Village collection. The playful prints, inspired by community and connection, felt like a natural fit for this block. Highlighting the charm of these designs in the center square made the block come alive with personality!

This Week’s Block: Bloom & Grow

Bloom & Grow is a 10” x 10” finished block that balances simplicity and sophistication. Its design encourages quilters to play with color and contrast while enjoying approachable techniques.

You can download the FREE pattern for this week’s block here:

Bloom & Grow - Block 1 Pattern (PDF Download)

My Take on the Block

Here’s how I made Bloom & Grow my own:

•   Fabric Choices: I paired prints from It Takes a Village with Riley Blake Designs’ Confetti Cottons to create a vibrant, harmonious look.
•   Fussy Cutting: The center square features a house print from my collection, symbolizing the importance of community in our quilting journeys.
•   Color Play: The contrasting tones of pinks and greens added depth and energy to the design.
  
  
  

Tips for Success:

1.   Use a rotating cutting mat for accurate trimming.
2.   Press seams open for crisp, flat piecing.
3.   Take your time aligning the Stitch-and-Flip (SNF) corners for precise results.

Fabrics I Used

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

Looking Ahead

The excitement doesn’t stop here! Here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming next:

•   Week 2: Around the Corner by Beverly McCullough (@flamingotoes)
•   Week 3: Rose Among the Thorns by me, Jennifer Long (@sewastory)

I can’t wait to see how these blocks—and our quilts—come together. Each week brings a fresh opportunity to explore, learn, and connect.

Quilting Together

Quilting isn’t just about fabric and stitches; it’s about building community. Are you sewing along? I’d love to hear about your experience and see your blocks! Be sure to tag me on Instagram [@sewastory_jenniferlong] and use #RBDblockchallenge to join the fun.

What is the RBD Block Challenge?

If you’re just joining us, here’s what you need to know:

•   16 FREE quilt blocks designed by Riley Blake Designs fabric designers.
•   New blocks released every Tuesday through May 27, 2025.
•   Perfect for all skill levels with helpful tips and videos along the way.

Find all the details and resources here:

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

I’m excited to see your Bloom & Grow blocks! Let’s make 2025 a year of creativity, growth, and quilting!