In the midst of this North Carolina summer I decided to work on a flannel quilt. Gotta get ready for winter, right?!?
I’m using magic numbers. Have you heard about magic number quilts? It’s improv with parameters. You pick a number of the block size that you want to make and then pick the “magic” numbers that will make up that number.
So for example, I’m working with blocks that will finish at 8″ so my magic numbers are 1, 2, 4, and 8. If I sew squares or rectangles with different combinations of dimensions of 1″, 2″ and 4″ (adding an extra 1/2″ for seam allowances), they will give me blocks that finish at 8″. It’s a great way to use up scraps, which is what I’m doing with some AMH Folksy Flannel and Loulouthi flannel leftovers. For more on magic numbers, check out Sew Katie Did.
So far I have 21 blocks up on my design wall.
Only 51 more to go for a cozy throw-sized quilt.
If you haven’t worked with magic numbers, I encourage you to give it a try. It’s fun!
Linking up to W.i.P. Wednesday!
26 comments
I didn't know about this technique – how cool! Seems great for improv! I'll be checking out that link. I also love the flannel quilt idea – I have tons of flannel scraps from making baby items and not sure what to do with them. Been too scared to quilt with them (IDK why!), but this inspires me!
Thank you for the introduction to this technique. I am definitely going to file it away in the memory banks, for later reference! How is the flannel to sew? Does it stretch much or seem to work just fine as is?
I'm going to check out the link too! Love your blocks! They are going to make one awesome top!
The factors of your size. That's why so many blocks are 12", because 12 has so many different factors. I love the fabrics you are using.
Yes – this is such a great technique. Your quilt looks FANTASTIC on your design wall – can't wait to see more.
oh I love that idea! I love improv! thanks for the hint! and yes! flannels! gorgeous!
Great idea! Your blocks look lovely.
I'm loving this idea, totally brillent and no pattren needed
I need to pinmark it for a quilt!!!!
What a clever idea! And your flannel quilt makes me feel warm on a cold Melbourne night!
Nice scrappy block! Love it … 🙂 Pat
This seems like my kind if improv. I love that you still match up points and create something with right angles. I'll have to give this a try sometime.
Hi Nicole! It looks awesome! I did not know about this technique. I must try it!
Looks great Nicole!
How fun to play with pretty scraps and make something quick and modern. My fingers are itching to start this like, right now! Love the idea, Nicole.
Hum, that's an interesting method. I'm horrid with math (which is funny since I love to quilt). But I'll have to give this a go sometime with the scraps I have hanging around.
Oh my. Look at all the gorgeousness. I am a sucker for little folks. I took a sewing hiatus when it came out and now I am collecting all of the little folks voile I can get my hands on (and looking forward to the re-release of it later this year). Your magic numbers technique is new to me and sounds really fun too.
Very pretty, and fab idea!
Oh my, I can't even think about winter or needing anything with flannel right now, but your blocks are beautiful. Thanks for sharing magic numbers!
Magic numbers! Wow, I have to try that method. Thank you!!
I really like your blocks. I have been wanting to make a 'magic numbers' quilt but can't decide on fabrics/colors. Can't wait to see it finished.
I was using this method with a friend over the weekend – didn't realise it had a special name! Your blocks look great, and so warm on this zero degree morning!!
Such fun bright colors, can't wait to see your reveal, and what a great technique for scraps!
Looks lovely. I especially like the little postage stamp size ones in the last photo.
It's looking good. I love that flannel.
I had never heard of that formula, but it explains how to make a quilt that I had seen that a friend tried to explain to me. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! You saved my sanity!
In math, it is called factoring, or multiples. Pick a number, say 21. What makes 21? 1×21;3×7;
Those are your magic numbers! Seems as quilters math is a part of our lives. Sincerely, Paula K.
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