Welcome back! We’re already on block 4. My how time flies! If you are just joining me this week, you can still download the patterns for the previous blocks. Just click on the block you want here: Block 1, Block 2, or Block 3. Also included in this block 4 post, I will talk about creating a scrappy quilt with just one block. This is kind of a continuation from last week’s color theory lesson in the block 3 blog post. Remember, the chance to win a free pattern is still available! The drawing will be on Monday, May 11th. More details at the end of this post. So let’s get started on block 4!
Block # 4 – Rolling Pinwheel
This block will put those flying geese skills to the test!

I add a little bit of fun to this by making four of the flying geese blocks with two different “wings” so a pinwheel design is created in the center. Find the pattern here: Block of the Week – Block 4. For this block, I just used two colors, my black accent and a green print. It’s fun to play with colorways on blocks like these to make a scrap one block quilt. I’ll show you how below.
Building a Scrap Quilt
A scrap quilt is easier than you think… as long as you have a bit of a stash. And I’m sure, like most quilters, you do! So, here is the above Rolling Pins block duplicated for a one block quilt.

It’s a pretty quilt! But not a scrap quilt. Now, let’s alternate where the black accent fabric is used. This is an easy way to turn a 2 color quilt into a “scrappy” look quilt.

Now look what happens when you introduce even just 1 more color:

It’s amazing the difference with just adding another color. Now lets get crazy with multiple colors and alternating the accent color placement:

And now you’ve made a scrap quilt with just one block! Now you are ready to make block 4. And if you feel inspired, make several of them in different colors and you will have an instant scrappy wall hanging! Add a few borders to finish it out.

Leave a comment below on the block of the week and building a scrap quilt and you will be entered into my drawing for my pattern Scrappy North Stars.

This pattern will give you a lot of practice with scrap quilting! The drawing will be next Monday, May 11th. Have fun!
Happy Quilting!
Deanne
I’m really enjoying these posts on color theory. Some good practical helps; todays was great!
Glad you are enjoying these! I have fun posting them. 🙂
I am not crazy about making flying geese but I really like this block! I enjoy the tutorials and information, they are very helpful. Thank-you!
loving your blocks and tutorials! Thanks so, so much 🙂
I love scrap quilts and that Scrappy North Stars pattern is calling my name. Hope I win and thanks for the chance! 😊 (I will have to get the pattern regardless!)
I am certainly enjoying the posts. One of my favorite blocks is pinwheels, so I was thrilled to see this one. Scrap quilts are my favorite and I am loving the Scrappy North Stars. Thanks for the opportunity to try to win the pattern.
Love your blog, tips, and block of the week
Your transition from 2 color to multi color really tells the story of how to do a scrap quilt. I think it’s a perfect explanation.
Thanks for this wonderful block! I have the perfect material to make it a larger block and bed quilt.
Thank you for showing how just a few simple changes can really make a difference. I love the adding of one color and the simple way it completes the quilt. I also love the way this block looks put together with several of the same blocks. It really gives the illusion that pinwheels are moving in the wind.
I just saw this blog. I really like the blocks. I am going to try some. Thanks
I love the ideas for variations using multiple blocks. I hate to throw anything out so I have several boxes of different size squares and strips saved for that someday project. This could be that time!
Thank you so much for doing this! Love the blocks! Your pattern is gorgeous!
You are so generous to provide these free block patterns! Just wanted to tell you that I really enjoy these blocks–LOVE the size, and the wool BOM.
Also, your tips and tutorials are FABULOUS!!