It’s fitting that Sunrise was one of my first patterns. I’ve always been a morning person, and I love watching the sun come up. There’s something special and promising about a new beginning, and this pattern is a tribute to that. Fast forward a few years and I’ve revisited this favorite again, but in a totally new light (and new fabric).
This new version is made up in my newest fabric, Instead–a collection that celebrates dark and rich tones. While the original version of the project and many subsequent samples were made from bright and colorful fabrics, I couldn’t wait to see how fabrics with a totally different look could illustrate the design. My favorite designs are those that can be taken in many different directions, and this is a good one for that.
Another fun thing about a project like this is that it can be a good way to see how fabrics and colors can work together, which is perfect when I’m finally at the point of exploring the possibilities in a new collection. Each block is paper pieced (sidenote: these are beginner-friendly blocks if you’re new to the technique) using 2 1/2″ strips, which makes it very workable to mix and match as you go. I love projects that allow you to work this way.
One roll up can be used to make all the blocks for the throw-sized version. (Or can change it up and create your own fabric mix!) Then you can add other fabrics for the block frames, sashing and border. Here I used Essex Cadet for the frames, and 2 different prints from Instead for the sashing and border.
After making this big one, I wasn’t finished exploring, and so I moved on to working with some minis. The pattern comes with 2 bonus mini blocks, and I’ve already been using both for 2 new mini quilts. Here’s how the smallest one is shaping up.
In the big, throw-sized version I used all of the pieces in the collection, but in this one I used fat quarters from 5 fabrics–4 from Instead plus Essex in Navy.
I wanted to go really dark and relatively heavy on the blues.
I’m not sure if I want to add a border or leave it as is…we’ll see!
fabric(s): Instead and Essex Cadet added in to Throw version and Essex Navy added in to Mini version.
pattern: Sunrise
I’m so happy you released this pattern as a PDF! I really like the idea of using a smaller number of fabrics for the mini quilt.
Thanks, Mindy! Yeah, it’s kind of fun to think about the palette of a smaller project that is related but just a bit different. 🙂
What is the finished size of the sunrise block with frame in the throw size? I cannot find it on the pattern. I am enjoying this pattern and the results. Thank you