Jelly Roll Friendly Tessellation Quilt

What is a tessellation? According to Jinny Beyer, a tessellation is a shape or combination of shapes which will indefinitely cover an area without any gaps or overlaps.  Tessellations are most easily identified as interlocking motifs.  However, any quilt block that repeats itself can be considered a tessellation.

The block drafted in today's tutorial has a tessellation shape within the block.  Four corners come together for a repeat of the shape in the center -- giving the illusion of the interlocking pattern.  

Tessellating Unit in Block

Interlocking Tessellating Units

Because the tessellating unit was designed in a block with a 6 x 6 grid (note that there are six even divisions going across and down), it will be super simple to piece -- no inset seams required. 

In the EQ8 video tutorial, learn to draft a smaller unit (1/4 of the block), use serendipity to create the larger block, and use some advanced coloring features to recolor the quilt.

Here is a link to the free fabric collection used in the video and available on the Do You EQ website.  The collection is Good Vibes.  It was designed by Crysta Watson and manufactured by Benartex.

Tessellation Block by Kari Schell

Tessellation Quilt by Kari Schell

I would love to see pictures of your quilt.  Feel free to share in the Learning EQ Facebook group.

Tessellation Quilt Learning EQ Facebook Group Post

Jelly Roll Friendly Piecing

Modified Rotary Cutting Chart from EQ8

When piecing these blocks, I prefer using a folded rectangle method of construction.  So I will modify the rotary cutting charts produced by EQ.

Rather then cutting pieces 4-7/8 x 2-1/2 as called for in the rotary cutting chart, I will cut a rectangle 1/2 inch larger than the drafted size.  It is always a good idea to add personal notes when modifying the rotary cutting chart.  

Folded Rectangle Construction

Place the two 4-1/2" x 2-1/2" pieces right sides together as shown in the diagram.  Use a ruler with a 45 degree angle as a guide, draw a diagonal line.  The line will start at the corner of the top patch and end at the corner of the bottom patch.  Sew on the drawn diagonal.

Trim back two pieces leaving 1/4″ seam.  

Press toward the dark fabric.  The unit should measure 6-1/2" x 2-1/2" (with seam allowances).  

Combine with 6-1/2" x 2-1/2" strips (from the EQ8 Rotary Cutting Chart).  The unit should measure 6-1/2" x 6-1/2".  Combine and rotate four units for each block.  Consider trying different rotation options for your block.

Happy quilting.

​Kari

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