Monday, June 22, 2026

A Squirrel popped in and... / BOM June 2026

...decided what I should do with some of my accumulated 2" squares:

SCRAPPY IRISH CHAIN!

I've been looking for the 'perfect' pattern to use 2" squares. I've always loved Irish Chain quilts and when I came across this pattern, I knew this is the one I want to make!

The pattern uses 2.5" squares and the finished size is 90" (2.28 meters). Since I'm using 2" squares, it will be smaller, approximately 68" (1.73 meters). That is IF my math is right! 


Block A
81-patches block! 

I didn't like the negative space in block B, and not the big rectangle in the center (pattern). Of course, that is an easy way to make the block, especially if pretty quilting is involved. 


I prefer to make it scrappy, using a variation of white / neutrals and a PLUS block in the center. 
(I'm running out of white / neutrals, more is on the way).  


Here is the box with 2" squares from swaps only 


Do you see the '6600 dated April 8, 2017' (blue sticker)?
That is how many squares that box (laptop box) contained at that date! 
Each zipper bag has 100 squares. Some squares are already used and there are quite some left (not sure how many).


I prefer to sort the squares on colors before I start sewing scrappy blocks


Layout for one block A; 81-patches

These two boxes contain my own cut 2" squares


They do not include 2" Christmas prints, which I have a lot of as well! 


...and 13 16-patches happened too (all from swaps)



I'm not that happy with this one, but may let it go as it is. I shall see when all blocks are done. Had it looked better if the background for the star had been white, and the white had been the red?? Maybe not??

I'm happy to say 'Got the Blues' is quilted! It went faster than I anticipated. 
I went through all my blue stash (not much left). I didn't find anything suitable for binding; either not enough, or not dark enough. I did a big SIGH and ordered dark blue for the binding! I also ordered a few more of the Parlor fabrics I didn't have. 
 

12 comments:

TerryKnott.blogspot.com said...

Oh my goodness, I love your two inch scrappy chain blocks. Adding the interest in the center of the two blocks was an awesome idea!

Julierose said...

Whoa--talk about lots of 2" squares, Astrid!! I did a smaller type swap a few years back but have since used up all of mine. i am trying out a few of "Quiltville's" Triple Threat blocks with 2.5" charm squares...(Terry Knott quilts is making one that i read about and loved) i think the little cross center in that block is a great idea...Have fun sewing hugs, Julierose

Carolyn said...

You definitely have enough squares to make a nice scrappy quilt! I love a double Irish chain quilt; they are always so charming when done with scraps. I’m afraid I have gotten way behind on my Quilting Life BOM blocks. I don’t know when I will be able to catch up.

Magpie's Mumblings said...

Must admit my mouth flew open when I read 6600 squares in that box - that's amazing!! You have enough to keep you making quilts for a lifetime. I like your squirrel happening - will be fun to see this evolve.

Jeanna said...

That is alot of squares, Astrid! I like your B block with the plus in the center. You are making so much progress on finishing...I'm inspired.

Melva said...

You're doing so well with the scrappy Irish Chain blocks. It will be wonderfully scrappy. I may have felt overwhelmed with so many squares! Thanks for sharing in Sew & Tell.

Rosemary Dickinson said...

I'm so glad you decided what to do with all those squares! I love that scrappy Irish Chain. Great idea! You're getting so much done!

Melisa- pinkernpunkinquilting said...

Your little squirrel has been keeping you busy, Astrid. It is so exciting to see your 81 patch blocks. Look at all of those gorgeous fabrics- spectacular!

LIttle Penguin Quilts said...

Your scrappy Irish Chain quilt is going to be gorgeous, Astrid! That looks like the perfect way to use up a lot of little squares. I like your way of making Block B, too!

Bonnie said...

What a good use for a multitude of 2" squares. That is going to be a big quilt unless you don't plan to make as big as the directions suggest. I am tempted to do the same one but I am pretty sure I don't have enough 2" squares! Happy piecing this great looking quilt.

Karen - Quilts...etc. said...

squirrels somehow pop in when we are least thinking of doing another!!

Karen S said...

Wow, that is a mountain of 2 inch squares. I like the design you have chosen. They will look great.