Backyard Chicks Quilt | Riley Blake IG Takeover

Some of you may remember by Backyard Chicks mini quilt from early 2016. Well, over the years I got so many requests for a larger version that I finally decided to release a full size quilt pattern. What's more, it comes in three different size options: baby (40" x 50"), throw (60" x 80") and bed (80" x 100").

The design for this quilt was inspired by my own chickens, one of which you can see in the above picture (that's our alpha rooster, Randy, and yes, he is a busy boy worthy of his name). We have over 30 chickens, all mixed breeds, and a Pinterest-worthy coop built by my super talented husband. Looking at the feeding photo below I think you can see how this quilt came about - it's total feeding frenzy when it's kitchen scraps time!

I've decided to hold a quilt-along for this quilt - the details for which are coming next week. You can BUY THE PATTERN HERE - use the coupon code TAKEOVER to get 20% off for the next 48 hours! The fabric requirements for the three different quilt sizes are shown in the table below so if you wish to join the QAL you can get planning and sourcing your fabrics rightaway.

And here's my original mini version - the pattern of which is also available in my shop. Use coupon code TAKEOVER to get 20% off on that one also, and in fact ALL my patterns! Valid for 48 hours only.

There is a special reason for this 20% sale on all my patterns, and that is the fact that today I'll be taking over Riley Blake Designs' Instagram stories. I have lots of behind the scenes footage to share with you, including a tour of my sewing room, which I've never shared before! So keep an eye on your Instagram stories if you would like to follow along!

Patchwork Picnic Sew Along

Today I'm joining the sew-along for my fellow Riley Blake designer Gracey Larson's new book 'Patchwork Picnic', published by Martingale. This is a super fun book containing 30 'outdoor inspired' blocks, each coming in two different sizes - 6" and 12". You can create a fun sampler quilt featuring all 30 blocks, or just choose your favourite block and turn it into one of the seven companion projects!

I chose the acorn block and turned it into a potholder - which was one of the seven projects included in the book. This sweet pot holder will make a lovely thank you gift for a dear friend who has been a pillar of support for me during the last two weeks after my mum's passing. My friends, family, and of course my beloved sewing machine have all been great sources of comfort for me during this tough time. Sewing really is the best form of therapy!

The Patchwork Picnic sew along is currently taking place on Instagram - follow the hashtag #patchworkpicnicsal and join in on the fun!