It’s time for the third (and final) Bee Block Swap of 2017.  Stella has done a stellar (sorry, I couldn’t resist) job organizing this all year. Members have had a lot of fun making and receiving very beautiful blocks, so kudos to Stella for all her hard work to make it happen for us!  Next year’s themes will most likely change, so if you want or need blocks from this year’s hives, here’s your final chance.

Sign up here: 3rd quarter Bee block Swap

Here’s how it works:

HIVES: This swap is open to NJMQG Members only.  Each Bee Hive consists of no more than 6 quilters (if this needs to be adjusted due to participant numbers, you will be notified when hives are emailed).  There will be as many hives as needed to accommodate those who would like to participate.  Sarah will be the “Queen Bee” for all hives – if you have any questions, concerns, or issues, please contact her before the quarter ends.

BLOCKS: Each Hive is themed. You’ll have the option to choose a Star, Sampler or Free for All hive.

• Sampler – any 12.5 x 12.5 block (for example, log cabin, granny square, etc.)
  
• Star – Any 12.5 x 12.5 square block
• Free-for-All – any block style, any size – does not have to be square – if the block is under 10″ you must make 2 blocks (for example, if you make a Swoon block that is 21″, you only have to make one. If you make a Tula City block that is 6×6, you must make 2)
  
  

GUIDELINES:

• Select a quilt block that is within your skill level.
• Use fresh, modern, new, quilt shop quality fabric .
• Use your own fabric stash to create the blocks – no one can request specific fabrics or designers.  
• The block should measure 12.5 inches square when complete unless you are in the “Free-for-All” Hive.
• Please only use neutral colored thread to construct your block. (This means if the block background is white, use white or cream thread, not black.)
• Make 5 of the same square in each of your hive members’ chosen color palettes (6 if you want one for yourself)
• Please take the time  to construct your blocks well and use a ¼ inch seam allowance (unless your pattern dictates otherwise).  Blocks that are too large or too small, even by a 1/4″ are sometimes not usable. You may choose to make a test block in your own color selection before constructing the blocks for your hive to ensure that the block will size correctly. A simple block well-constructed is always better received than a complicated block that is falling apart from poor construction.

TIMELINE:  The third quarter in 2017 will run from August – November. Sign-ups close on July 31st.  You’ll receive the names of the quilters in your hive as well as their color palettes and any additional information by August 2nd.  Finished squares for this quarter can be distributed early but are due at the November 16 guild meeting  –  Of course, sometimes things happen, so if you have an unforeseen emergency, please contact Sarah ASAP!

Sign up here:   Last Bee Block Swap of 2017:

Some finished quilts that Stella made from bee blocks: