Get the FREE Patchwork Plains Quilt Pattern!

A simple, beautiful design you can make with any fabric you love. Sign up below to grab your free PDF and start stitching today!

To close this form without filling it out - click the purple X in the upper right corner of the window. You're welcome.

SUBMIT :)

We ♥ privacy.

  • About Andrea
  • Fabric
  • Blog
  • Contact
Surface Pattern Design
Block 5

Trip Around the World Scrappy Improv Block

How about another block you may have seen before?

The Trip Around the World Block is often a very precise, lined up block of perfect little squares. When you do it scrappy, and with a little improv, the block takes on a whole different attitude.

Step 1
Cut strips

You want to cut strips taller than your final block size. Cut enough strips to allow for seam allowances to reach across your block.

Step 2
Sew Strip Sets

Sew pairs of strips right sides together. Sew sets together into a continuous block that is larger than your final block size. Make sure the first and last strip are not the same fabric. Add extra strips if necessary. Press seams right, left, right, etc. Trim all edges to make a rectangle.

Step 3
Make Tube

Matching right sides together, sew first strip to the final strip, creating a tube. Flatten, square off one end, and cut strips of varying widths. Cut the same number of strips you started with. If you started with 6 strips, cut 5 times to make 6 new strips.

Step 4
Unpick

Using your seam ripper, unpick one seam, and open the strip. Holding the next strip, find the bottom fabric of the first strip, and unpick the seam on top of it, so that the bottom fabric from the first strip becomes the top fabric on the second strip. Repeat, until all strips are opened.

Step 5
Sew new strip set

Sew pairs of strips right sides together. Sew pairs of strips together until you have a continuous block that is larger than your final block size. Press seams.

Step 6
Trim

Square up edges of block block on all four sides down to the final block size. Use trimmings to start next scrap block.

Repeat.
Make These Scrappy Improv Blocks!

Click on the block photo below to go directly to its instructions

Block 1

Strip Scrappy Improv Block

Block 2

Spiral Scrappy Improv Block

Block 3

Courthouse Steps Scrappy Improv Block

Block 4

Log Cabin Scrappy Improv Block

Block 5

Trip Around the World Scrappy Improv Block

Block 6

Rolling 4-Patch Scrappy Improv Block

PAST ATTENDEES LOVE THESE WORKSHOPS!

"It was really fun! I am excited to get going on a quilt. (First one ever!) It's not so daunting with Andrea's guidance."

JAN

patchwork quilt workshop

FAQ'S

Do I need to bring supplies?

If you have supplies already, bring them clearly labeled with your name on them. If you do not have supplies, come with an open mind and excited heart! I have enough to share.

Do I need a sewing machine?

No, you do not need to bring a sewing machine. Please let me know if you will or will not be bringing your own machine so I have space for everyone.

I've never quilted before. Is that OK?

I will be teaching the basics. You do not need to know how to sew, how to select fabrics, or how to use the tools before you arrive. This is a learning zone for everyone! Even experienced quilters walk away with a new skill.

Can I bring a friend?

Yes! Please bring someone to enjoy the workshop with you! Learning is more fun with a friend.

I love helping people try new creative things. 

And tea. I love trying new tea.
Donate to Andrea's Tea Tin

How I Can Help

I'm a creative at heart. Here's my journey into quilting, quilt supply sales, workshops, and pattern design. My hope is that you have fun here!

Watch for updates on classes, follow me on Instagram, or send a message. I'd love to start a new project with you, and help you finish it! 

Download the Free Pattern

Patchwork Plains is an easy beginner-friendly pattern that can be made with 5 half yard fabrics or 10 fat quarters. This quilt will look like the prairie or fields as viewed from the air — like Patchwork Plains.

Download Now!
Workshops

Sawtooth Star

Patchwork Quilt

Babydoll Quilt

Pillowcase

XL Tote Bag

Explore

Home Page

Blog

Fabric Bundles

Sewing Patterns

Surface Pattern Design

Andrea Haverinen | Menahga, Minnesota