We’re on Week 7 of the Riley Blake Designs Block Challenge, and this week’s block is such a fun one! The Tulip Toss block is designed by the fabulous Christopher Thompson of The Tattooed Quilter, and it has the sweetest movement and shape. I just love how it feels both modern and classic at the same time.
One of my favorite things about this year’s RBD Block Challenge is how each designer brings such a unique perspective to traditional piecing. Tulip Toss has a beautiful, almost floral-inspired layout — those angled pieces create such a soft, rounded effect even though everything is straight-seam piecing. It’s clever and so satisfying to sew!
For my version, I stuck with my go-to RBD Basics mix:
- Dainty Daisy Songbird
- Dainty Daisy Stargazer
- Sparkler Beach
- Sparkler Apricot
- Dapple Dot Canyon Rose
I absolutely love how the soft aqua tones from Songbird and Beach play against the warm apricot and canyon rose. And that little pop of Stargazer in the corners gives the whole block just enough contrast to frame everything beautifully. The mix of tiny florals and sweet sparkles gives it that signature Flamingo Toes vintage-meets-fresh look.
The center shape really shines with lighter fabrics — I used Sparkler Beach to keep it soft and airy, and I love how it lets the surrounding “tulip” shapes stand out. This block would also be so pretty scrappy, especially if you’re mixing low volumes and soft florals!
If you’re just joining in, the RBD Block Challenge is a free sew-along hosted by Riley Blake Designs. Each block finishes at 10″, and they all mix and match beautifully — even with past years’ blocks. It’s such a great way to try new techniques, stretch your skills a little, and sew alongside this amazing quilting community.
You can find the free Tulip Toss pattern on the Riley Blake Designs website, and be sure to join the Riley Blake Designs Block Challenge Facebook Group to see everyone’s beautiful versions!
Are you sewing along this year? I’d love to know what fabrics you’re using — are you keeping it coordinated or going full scrappy? Tell me in the comments!
Leave a Reply