Welcome back to the next WIP (Work in Progress) Wednesday! I'm excited to dive into our latest block, but first I have a special treat for you – a free Cricut SVG file to help you make the block along with me. This is the block I featured in my first WIP Wednesday post here.
This week's block is all about creativity and experimentation. It’s made up of classic English Paper Piecing shapes: hexagons, half hexagons, diamonds, and triangles. These shapes offer endless possibilities, and I'm thrilled to see what unique combinations you can come up with.
The Magic of Shapes
I wasn't into geometry as a kid, but appreciate it more now as an adult and can see where it really comes in handy.
One of the many things I love about English Paper Piecing is its versatility.
Here are a few fun combinations you can try:
- Half Hexagon + Half Hexagon = Hexagon: Combine 2 half hexagons to make a hexagon.
- Diamond + Diamond + Diamond = Hexagon: Put 3 diamonds together to make a hexagon.
- Triangle + Triangle = Diamond: By joining two triangles, you get a perfect diamond shape.
- Hexagon + Triangle = Jewel: Combine a hexagon with a small triangle, or a half hexagon and a bigger triangle, to create a beautiful jewel shape.
- Half Hexagon + 2 triangles + Diamond = Jewel. Put a triangle on either side of a diamond then attach to a half hexagon for a jewel shape.
Inspiring Variations
Instead of showcasing just one completed block, I want to inspire you with some variations. Here are a few different versions you can create with our shapes:
In the first example below, 2 triangles are removed on either side of the red diamonds and replaced with a diamond in a different red fabric.
In the next example below, the center hexagon is replaced with 3 diamonds. I could also have replaced it with 2 half hexagons.
In the next example below, a red diamond has been replaced next to the outer beige half hexagons giving the appearance of a larger diamond. However, our 8" Rose block is now a Star!
Of course, I would just use a larger diamond instead to eliminate those extra seams. It would save time and shapes. I love it when I can save time on EPP!
In this last example, the half hexagons around the center, the 2 triangles, and the red diamond have all been done in the same pink color.
This gives the appearance of a pink jewel shape. Of course you could make it easy on yourself and use jewel shape instead, eliminating extra seams and shapes.
It could also have been done with a half hexagon and a big triangle, or a hexagon and a small triangle...whew, can you see where I'm going with this?
It is something to think about if you run out of shapes and have the others. Very interchangeable.
As you can see above though, it does change the block and may change it more than you want. If you want to keep it as a Rose block, then these last 2 variations would not work since they are now star blocks.
Your Turn to Create
Now it's your turn! Download the free Cricut SVG file. Mix and match, play with colors, and see what new designs you can come up with. I can’t wait to see them.
Share Your Work
Once you've created your block, I'd love to see it! Share your photos on social media and tag me @sewmanyheirlooms. You can also use the hashtag #WIPWednesday so everyone can see all the amazing variations.
What Combinations Can You Come Up With?
Experimenting with shapes is a fantastic way to spark creativity and find your unique style. So, grab your supplies and Cricut machine, and let’s see what combinations you can come up with for this block!
Don't have a Cricut? No problem! You can find the 1" fusible shapes here for the 8" Rose block in my previous post. You need (1) hexagon, (18) half hexagons, (24) equilateral triangles, and (6) 60-degree diamonds.
Rather have sturdy card stock shapes? You can find them all under the English Paper Piecing Supplies tab here on my website as each individual shape.
These numbers are for the original block in my first post. It may change when you experiment with variations.
Happy quilting!