Designing for 2-1/2 Inch Squares

I don't know about you.  But I have a fair number of 2-1/2" fabric squares.  Some are leftovers from other projects.  And I have also been known to buy some of those mini-charm packs at quilt shows.

But I don't always tend to use them and they end up taking up space in my fabric collection -- which is way too large.

In this post, I decided to tackle the problem.  I designed a quilt that allows those 2-1/2 inch squares to be the star of the quilt.

3" x 3" Attic Window Block

Start by drawing an attic window block.  If you are not into inset seams, there is a tip for modifying the block to do away with them.  (That is one of the best parts of EQ -- the ability to modify so you can piece a block the way you want to.)

Each of the center squares is 2 inches finished (cut 2-1/2 x 2-1/2).

The fabrics used in this quilt came from the EQ Stash Collection (Download 2).  (If you would like to purchase the collection from them, make sure to use the discount code for their 25 Days of Christmas sale.) The leaf fabrics were from Into the Woods by Katrinka for Free Spirit.  The frames used Speckles 24/7 by Hoffman.

The real magic happens when you set the block in an on point layout.  Check out the optical illusion that is created.

2-1.2" Highlighted Squares by Kari Schell

I would love to see pictures of your quilt.  Consider posting pictures on the Learning EQ Facebook groups post.

Extra tip:  This block is so versatile.  Let say rather than 2-1/2" squares, you have a collection of charms (5" squares).  You could draft an attic window block start with a 4-1/2" square in the center.

Did you know that in Tech Know Quilters, there are two full classes for designing optical illusion quilts?  Tech Know Quilters is a membership for Electric Quilt 8 users who are mastering their design and EQ8 skills.

Sign up for the wait list to be informed on the next open enrollment period.

Learn more about Tech Know Quilters Membership

Current Tech Know Quilter members can let us know if they would like to swap their December class for one these options.  Please note that these are more advanced classes.

Happy quilting.

​Kari

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