Playing the What-If Game

Last week I shared how to design a frame block and size it so the pieces are rotary-cutting friendly.

If you missed that post, you can find it here.
​
Today we’re taking that frame block a step further by exploring one of my favorite EQ8 tools.

Single Frame Block in a Horizontal Quilt Layout

Serendipity>Merge Block

In this tutorial, we'll place a couple of different blocks inside the frame using the Serendipity > Merge Block feature in EQ8.

​The blocks I chose all use an 8×8 grid. This keeps the math simple and makes it easy to ensure rotary-cutting friendly pieces once the blocks are placed inside the 12″ × 12″ center square of the frame block.
Here are the merged blocks we’ll be playing with:

Fox & Geese From EQ8 Library

Fox & Geese Framed Block

Temple Court from EQ8 Library

Temple Court Framed Block

The What-If Game on the Quilt Worktable

Once the merged blocks are created, the fun really begins! Using these blocks as starting points, try auditioning different layout ideas on the Quilt Worktable.

Small changes—like recoloring or adjusting the setting—can create completely different quilts.

​Here are a few options to spark your imagination:

Option 1:
​Single Temple Court block set inside the frame.

Option 2:
​Single Fox and Geese block in the frame.

Option 3:
​Four Fox and Geese blocks in a 2×2 layout.

Option 4:
​Four Temple Court blocks in a 2×2 layout, with selective recoloring in the frame to highlight key elements.

Option 5:
​A variation of Option 3, again with recoloring in the frame to emphasize specific shapes.

Option 6:
​Option 5 with added sashing and an inner border, plus small accent triangles along the outer edges.

Option 7:
​Option 4 with added sashing and borders.

Option 8:
​Blocks set in an on-point layout, combining the Merged Blocks with the original frame block used in the setting triangles and corner triangles.

Watch the Video

In this week’s video, I walk you through how to create the merged blocks and then explore a series of “what-if” quilts on the Quilt Worktable.

Now It’s Your Turn!

Choose one or two blocks and play your own “What If” game in EQ8. Try out different color placements, layout changes, or alternate settings. You’ll be amazed at how many possibilities emerge from just a couple of starting blocks.

And once you’ve explored your options…
Which version is your favorite?
That’s always the toughest part of the design process!

​I’d love to see what you create. Share your favorites in the Learning EQ Facebook group.

Playing the What-If Game Post in the Learning EQ Facebook Group

​​Happy quilting.

​Kari

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