The Summer Picnic Block – RBD Block Challenge is the perfect quilting project to welcome the warm, sunny days with style and creativity. This charming block design not only evokes the essence of summer picnics, but it’s also part of the much-anticipated Riley Blake Designs Block Challenge, which brings quilters from all over together for a fun and inspiring experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned quilting enthusiast, this pattern offers a fresh opportunity to build your skills and create something beautiful.
Quilting blocks like the Summer Picnic Block – RBD Block Challenge have grown in popularity because of their accessibility, detailed instructions, and community-based support. The design itself is cheerful, colorful, and ideal for incorporating bright, summer-themed fabrics. It’s also a wonderful way to use up your scrap stash while trying out new techniques and layouts. This block can easily be integrated into larger quilting projects, like picnic quilts, wall hangings, or decorative pillows.
This article will walk you through every detail of the Summer Picnic Block – RBD Block Challenge, from understanding its structure and selecting your fabric, to assembling your block and joining the challenge. Our SEO-optimized tutorial will ensure you’re guided step-by-step with clarity while remaining fully compliant with Google AdSense policies.
1. Understanding the Summer Picnic Block Design
The Summer Picnic Block – RBD Block Challenge is a celebration of simple geometry, cheerful color palettes, and precise piecing. It draws inspiration from traditional picnic quilts but adds a modern twist that makes it suitable for all quilting styles.
This block typically measures 10″ x 10″ finished, but it can be resized to fit your project needs. The design features a combination of squares, half-square triangles (HSTs), and flying geese units, making it an excellent project for practicing these foundational techniques.
Color selection is key for this pattern. Think fresh reds, sunny yellows, soft blues, and crisp whites. These tones bring the warmth and brightness of a picnic day into your quilt.
Fabric placement within the block plays a huge role in defining its visual structure. Plan your layout before cutting to ensure a balanced and cohesive look.
The Summer Picnic Block – RBD Block Challenge usually includes downloadable templates and instructions, which you can find on the official Riley Blake Designs website or their social media channels.
The design allows for personalization. You can switch color placements, add sashing, or modify the arrangement of the blocks to create something uniquely yours.
2. Choosing the Right Materials for Your Block
Picking the right materials is essential for the success of your Summer Picnic Block – RBD Block Challenge. The quality of your fabric and tools will impact the precision of your cuts and the overall appearance of the finished block.
Start with high-quality quilting cotton. It’s durable, easy to sew, and widely available. Riley Blake Designs even offers curated fabric bundles tailored for the challenge.
Use a rotary cutter, self-healing cutting mat, and a clear quilting ruler to ensure accurate cuts. Precision at this stage is vital to getting your seams to match perfectly.
For thread, choose a 100% cotton thread that matches your fabric tones. A neutral gray or beige often works well for piecing without showing through.
Make sure your sewing machine is in good working condition, with a sharp needle and a ¼” quilting foot installed. This helps maintain consistent seam allowances.
Don’t forget to press your fabrics before cutting. Ironing helps remove wrinkles and allows for better precision when aligning pieces.
Keep pins or clips, a seam ripper, and a small pair of fabric scissors nearby. Having your tools ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
3. Assembling the Summer Picnic Block Step-by-Step
Now that you’ve chosen your fabrics and gathered your tools, it’s time to piece together your Summer Picnic Block – RBD Block Challenge. This section will break down the assembly process in manageable steps.
Begin by cutting your fabric according to the instructions. Labeling each piece helps prevent confusion during the sewing process.
Sew your half-square triangles (HSTs) first. These often make up the corners or central design features of the block. Use chain piecing to save time and keep your stitches consistent.
Next, create any flying geese or square-in-a-square units as required by your variation of the pattern. These components add depth and movement to your quilt block.
Once all individual units are complete, arrange them according to the pattern layout. Check for proper orientation before sewing rows together.
Sew the block row by row, pressing seams as you go. Use a light starch if needed to keep your block crisp and flat.
When finished, square up your block to the correct size. This ensures accuracy when assembling multiple blocks into a quilt top later on.
4. Joining the RBD Block Challenge Community
One of the most exciting parts of the Summer Picnic Block – RBD Block Challenge is being part of a vibrant quilting community. Riley Blake Designs hosts this challenge annually, and it’s completely free to join.
Visit the official Riley Blake Designs blog or Instagram page to download the latest block pattern and follow the release schedule.
Share your progress online using the challenge hashtag, and browse other participants’ blocks for inspiration and encouragement. It’s a great way to stay motivated and pick up new tips.
Some quilt shops even host local meet-ups or virtual sew-alongs for the challenge. This creates a sense of community and accountability as you work through the blocks.
Don’t worry if you’re new to quilting. The challenge is beginner-friendly, with video tutorials and PDF guides available for each block.
Completing the full challenge typically results in a full-sized sampler quilt showcasing various block techniques, including the Summer Picnic Block – RBD Block Challenge.
At the end of the challenge, participants often share their finished quilt tops in online galleries or blog posts. It’s a rewarding way to celebrate your achievement and see how others interpreted the same design.
FAQ – Summer Picnic Block – RBD Block Challenge
What is the Summer Picnic Block – RBD Block Challenge?
It’s a quilting challenge hosted by Riley Blake Designs where participants create quilt blocks following a scheduled release. The Summer Picnic Block is one of the featured designs.
Is the Summer Picnic Block beginner-friendly?
Yes, the block is ideal for beginners. It uses basic quilting techniques like half-square triangles and simple piecing, with full instructions provided.
Where can I find the pattern for the Summer Picnic Block?
You can download the pattern for free from the official Riley Blake Designs website or their social media platforms during the challenge period.
What size is the finished Summer Picnic Block?
Typically, the finished block measures 10 inches square, but it may vary depending on your chosen layout or pattern version.
Can I use fabric scraps for this block?
Absolutely! The Summer Picnic Block is a great way to use up small fabric scraps, especially in bright, summery colors.
How do I share my block with the community?
Post photos of your block on Instagram or Facebook using the official challenge hashtag, and tag Riley Blake Designs to be featured or connect with other quilters.
The Summer Picnic Block – RBD Block Challenge is more than just a quilting pattern—it’s an invitation to join a passionate community, refine your skills, and create something truly meaningful. From choosing the perfect summer fabrics to assembling the block with precision and joy, every step is a celebration of the craft. Whether you’re quilting solo or with a group, this challenge offers a fantastic experience that’s both fun and fulfilling.
If you found this tutorial helpful, please leave your honest feedback and feel free to share your suggestions or questions in the comments. Happy quilting!
