Single Block Quilt Tutorial Series - Turboprop - Part 1, Planning

We're going to step it up a bit with this new single block quilt tutorial, Turboprop.  Turboprop is a simple foundation pieced design that is easy enough for beginners but suitable for any level quilter.  Each block is made of 12 pieces so it is a bit time consuming but well worth the effort.  Let's get to work!

The sketches above demonstrate the importance of using contrasting values (lights and darks), when making the Turboprop block.  To remain visible, the props themselves need to stand out from their backgrounds by being either noticeably lighter or noticeably darker than them.  Note that each block is divided into four quadrants, two with light props and two with dark props, each situated on a contrasting background.  Also note that only two colors are used in each of these designs.  You can use as many colors as you like, as long as you maintain the light / dark relationship.

These sketches (above) are each three color schemes.  The light / dark relationship is maintained and the props remain distinct.

Four color schemes (above) work just as well.  There really is no limit.  Just be sure to maintain the light / dark relationship.  Note that the same four colors are used in each of these examples but they are used in different positions.

These are also four color schemes, with each color change, there is a dramatic change in the appearance of the block.



               


The Turboprop would make a great baby quilt as well.

I'm going to make a black and white quilt with some orange sprinkled in for relief.  My niece likes black and white, as well as orange, so I think this will be a just perfect for her.

I've picked my fabrics and I'm ready to go.  My stash was bursting with black on white and white on black prints as well as with oranges, both light and dark.  Just remember, as long as you follow the light / dark relationship, any colors will work.

Now it's time for you to start planning your quilt.  First decide the look that you wish your quilt to have.  Will it have two, three, four or more colors?  Dive into your stash and see what you have to work with.  Regarding block size, for this quilt, I recommend an 8" block.  That's not to say that other sizes won't work, but for beginners who are learning to paper piece, 8" is a good size.  I'll be providing both foundation and cutting templates for the 8" block the next time I post, so be sure to visit again.  Lastly, you'll need to decide on the number of blocks that you want to use.  The quilt I am going to make is 35 blocks; 5 blocks wide by 7 blocks long, so my quilt will be 40" wide by 56" long.  A nice size for my niece to cuddle up with on the sofa.  Be back soon!