Well, here we are at the weekend again. Can you believe it’s nearly the end of February? We’re already 2 months into 2026 and my brain still thinks it’s Christmas. But enough of my calendar inertia, let’s crack on with the latest news from Bonjour Quilts.
Starting My Next Quilt
As I mentioned in my last newsletter, I’m sewing a queen size Diamonds in the Deep for my own bed. I will let my husband share it, too. 😀
I’ve sewn 4 versions of Diamonds in the Deep already (baby, throw, throw, twin) so I have plenty of experience with this pattern. Here’s some helpful hints/tips I’ve discovered for the fabric cutting phase.
Accuracy When Cutting
Pay attention to your squares. Don’t get worried about your strips.
What do I mean? Well, if you like a cheeky shortcut as much as I do, let’s talk about these blocks.
As you know, we’re sewing a variant of log cabin blocks. The outer layer of each block is the dark fabric and when the blocks are sewn together the seams blend in really well. If your outer logs are a little wider or narrower, no one is going to notice. Accuracy is unlikely to be noticed or rewarded!
I recommend sewing the blocks with a scant quarter inch seam so that they will be slightly oversized. They can then be trimmed back exactly.
Given there’s a little wiggle room, I thoroughly recommend you try cutting 4 or more layers of fabric at the same time when cutting your strips.
Many of you no doubt cut yardage in 2 layers already (one WOF folded to give 2 layers). Most of us fold the yardage in half along its length (matching the two selvedges together) and cut strips across the whole WOF, which we subcut into small pieces. If you feel up to it, I recommend you match the top and tail of your folded yardage together and cut your strips 2 at a time – it makes for much quicker cutting. I used this method to cut all my strips for my quilt. If you’re daring you could cut even more layers.
Remember to put a fresh blade in your rotary cutter before you start. It’ll make life much more enjoyable.
Label Your Strips
Make sure you keep your strips organised in groups and label them as you cut. You don’t want to get any of the strips mixed up. Keeping them secured in groups also makes it easy when you come to sew. Just check out which strips are in that block family, grab the strip groups and you’re ready to sit down and chain piece.
I’m looking forward to starting on my Block 1 blocks tomorrow. I’ll be sure to share my progress.
Around the Interwebs…
I wish I could be at QuiltCon this weekend, but I’ll have to be satisfied with looking through this gorgeous gallery of the winning quilts.
The Australian Quilt Show 2026 entries close at midnight on Monday, 23 February. Don’t delay!
Gosh how I love Yvonne’s almost-inside-out quilt.
If you live in Boston, USA, you have to go check out this patchwork exhibition. If you’re in Washington, USA, you won’t want to miss the Sewing and Stitchery Expo in a couple of days.
These edible flowers are stunning (I couldn’t bring myself to eat them, they’re so pretty).
Adorable works of art in paper. Some more paper art – this artist turns food packaging into incredible sculptures.
Not my usual share, but I really enjoyed the writing in this piece.
Reader Quilts…
I always love to see quilts you’ve made from Bonjour Quilts patterns so please keep sending them in! Either email (Kirsty at BonjourQuilts dotcom), or tag me on Facebook or Instagram.
Sarah sewed up a delightful Scrap Magnet quilt, full of fussy cutting surprises (and some extra tiled corner flowers). It’s back from the long-arm quilter and ready to be shown off:
Hilary’s Scrappy Lattice quilt was inspired by the ocean.
Izzy’s When You Wish…baby quilt is a celebration of colour! I have a free tutorial for this baby quilt, and also a paid pattern for larger sizes.
And finally, Deidra created a wonderful red, white and blue version of the Go West quilt.
Cats’ Corner…
Tigger (orange) and Lulu (brown) send their love. They’ve been mooching around as usual, absorbing endless cuddles which is apparently so tiring that many naps are required.
Have a good weekend!
Wherever you are, whatever you’re doing, I hope you have yourself a good weekend. Less news watching and more sewing, if that’s an option for you. Gotta let that blood pressure come down at some stage!
Until next time, take care,
Kirsty x
It is so fun to finally see my Scrap Magnet finished and included in your blog! Yay! You have the most beautiful cats! I am truly in awe every time I see them🥰
Your colourful Scrap Magnet is a joy! The cats seem to like mine at the moment, although it is on their favourite chair. So probably less to do with the quilt 😂
I have never seen two cats soooo lovey- so cute
They really do love each other’s company. That’s pretty much why we got two – so they wouldn’t be lonely while we are away from the house.