Our current Block Lotto challenge is a fall classic — the Maple Leaf Block! A tutorial and a step-by-step printable pdf can be found at Amy Smart’s website: diaryofaquilter.com/classic-maple-leaf-quilt-block-tutorial/. The background for this block should be low volume. Low volume fabrics feature light colors like white, cream or beige. The patterns are usually small, delicate and low contrast, meaning the colors in the print don’t differ greatly from the background color. The overall effect is soft and quiet.

Want to see samples? Check this out: sewcanshe.com/2018-5-1-how-to-choose-fabrics-for-a-low-volume-quilt/ The leaves should be colors that represent the height of autumn splendor — not muted. Brown, mustard and moss are fine for other quilts, but we are going in a different direction. Think brilliant colors like rosy red, powerful pinks, striking oranges, gorgeous yellows and even perky purples.

In Amy’s tutorial, she lists three finished sizes. At our July meeting, club members voted to keep our options open regarding size. Any of the three will be fine. Better yet, try all! Regardless, each person can enter a total of 9 blocks in the drawing, which will be held in September. Note that Amy lists the block’s finished size. Since your block will be unfinished, it should measure a half inch larger, both length and width.

Amy uses the traditional method of making half square triangles. I personally prefer the 4-at-a-time method. You are free to use either one. For a tutorial on the 4-at-a-time method, visit homemadeemilyjane.com/4-at-a-time-half-square-triangles/.