The Block-by-Block Quilting Method

If you've ever made a Kimberbell feature quilt, wall hanging, or pillow, you've most likely quilted your project with the Block-by-Block method. 

Let's talk about this fun technique, including what it is, how it's done, and how Block-by-Block quilting differs from the allover quilting you get with Kimberbell Clear Blue Tiles®!

The Block-by-Block Method

The Block-by-Block method is used to quilt designs on individual blocks. Quilted blocks are then sewn together to create the top layer of your project. 

The back fabric is added by stitching in the ditch between the blocks. Project Batting can be layered between the front and back fabric (before quilting starts).

Take a look at the orange and carafe quilting stitches shown on this block from our Sippin' on Sunshine quilt! As you can see, the quilting is behind the applique designs. 

Block-by-Block quilting files contain batting and tack-down lines so you can quilt a single block or border. They're also specially digitized so there's no batting in the seams!

Block-by-Block vs. Clear Blue Tiles

Clear Blue Tiles quilting files do NOT include batting and tack-down lines. Instead, you quilt with an allover, repeated pattern on top of your fabric, with results like this:

See the difference between the two methods? Block-by-Block quilting is for individual blocks. Clear Blue Tiles are for an allover quilting look, like you used a longarm. 

Choose the best quilting method for your specific project and let the fun begin! 

How to Do Block-by-Block Quilting

Here's a step-by-step overview of how Block-by-Block quilting is done!

Cut a piece of stabilizer larger than your embroidery hoop, then hoop the stabilizer only.

Load the quilting design file into the machine, then the block embroidery design file on top. Align the files as instructed for the block.

Stitch the Batting Placement Line and cover it with a piece of Project Batting.

Stitch the Batting Tack-Down Line, then trim the batting close to the stitch line.

Stitch the Background Placement Line, then place the background fabric right side up (completely covering the placement line).

Stitch the Background Fabric Basting Stitch. (Note: This is not a cut line.)

Stitch the background quilting.

Follow the block's embroidery instructions. Skip any background fabric placement line steps (if necessary).

And that's all there is to it! Easy-peasy, lemon squeezy . . .especially with help from Kimberbell's amazing instructions. 😊

Block-by-Block Quilting Seminar

I highly recommend watching Kim's Block-by-Block Seminar video below. She does a really great job (as always!) in explaining both the Clear Blue Tiles and Block-by-Block quilting methods! 

For further information, including which Kimberbell designs go with which background quilting method, please click HERE.

Well, friends, that about wraps it up! I hope you enjoy Kimberbell quilting to the fullest, whatever method you choose. For our ever-growing library of background quilting designs, please click HERE!

Happy stitching (and quilting)!