I have always loved the simplicity of a rail fence block, and I find it to be one of the best first blocks for a beginning quilter. It's a great way to practice a consistent 1/4" seam, requires almost no matching of points, and can be done in a planned palette or completely scrappy.
The rail fence above is Gracie's, all pin basted and ready to quilt. She started off sewing wavy, wonky seams and, by the end, had improved her straight lines tremendously. The fabrics are from a guild project to teach kids to quilt. Several of us did a demonstration at the Gee's Bend exhibit at the High Museum of Art. I had asked guild members to donate 3 1/2" x 9 1/2" strips, and they overwhelmed me with their generosity.
I have made several blocks, using them as leader/ender pieces, and Gracie used up her share. I still have dozens left. They were donated to be used to teach children to quilt and to donate to charity, but they have been sitting in my sewing room literally for years.
Would you like a batch? I'm happy to send you some. The only thing I request is that a) you use them (at least some of them) for either a charity project of your choice AND/OR teaching a new quilter; and b) that you send me a picture of what you made. Obviously I can't enforce either of these things, and certainly won't be hunting you down in what would be the height of hypocrisy if they are left to languish. I'm merely trying to put them to good use.
If you would like a batch, please send me an email to QUILTINJENNY at GMAIL dot COM with your snail mail address and how many you think you'd like. Anything from 12 strips (a nice 18" pillowcase or doll quilt?) to 144 (a cozy 54" x 72" before borders). Also, you should feel free to bust some of your own stash by adding strips, borders, or sashing.
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Great inspiration to use up strips sitting around the studio for a good cause!
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