Block of the Month (BOM) patterns offer structured, monthly projects that build quilting skills and yield a complete quilt by year’s end. This guide curates five BOM options well-suited for intermediate quilters, scrap enthusiasts, and seasonal crafters. Each entry explains who it’s best for, why it stands out, and a practical caveat to consider before purchase. The selections emphasize clear instructions, creative variety, and realistic finished sizes to fit typical beds, walls, and display spaces.
| Product | Best For | Finished Size |
|---|---|---|
| Taos Block of the Month Pattern | Seasoned quilters seeking a large, classic BOM | 102″ x 102″ |
| Sunshine and Sunflowers BOM (Design Originals) | Collectors and learners who enjoy floral motifs | Varies by blocks |
| Scrap Happy BOM Quilt Pattern (Rebecca Mae Designs) | Scrap-quilting fans building skills | 60″ x 75″ |
| Toes in the Sand BOM Pattern (Jaybird Quilts) | Beach-theme lovers and coastal decor fans | 64″ x 84″ |
| Baltimore Christmas BOM Set (P3 Designs) | Holiday quilters seeking applique options | 69″ x 69″ |
Taos Block of the Month Pattern
Pattern Type: Paper. End Product: Quilt. Size: 102in x 102in. This BOM is best for quilters who want a large, archival-style quilt with clear, printable instructions and a substantial final piece. The generous 102″ square finish makes it suitable for a bed or a prominent wall display, ensuring a bold focal point in a room.
Best for: Intermediate to advanced quilters who value a traditional block layout and a single-year completion goal. The large final size helps justify the time investment and suits master bedroom or living-room displays.
Why selected: It represents a complete, year-long system with a uniform finish that appeals to quilters who prefer a cohesive, single-design BOM rather than a mixed-block approach.
Caution: The large finished size requires ample sewing space and careful fabric planning to avoid fabric shortfalls later in the year.
Sunshine and Sunflowers: Block of the Month
Pattern Type: BOM book. End Product: Quilt. The included designs focus on cheery floral blocks that support steady progress across the year. The format is ideal for readers who prefer guided, narrative-style patterns and a cohesive floral theme.
Best for: Quilters who enjoy sunshine-themed—bright, warm—motifs and want a structured, book-based BOM with progressive technique work.
Why selected: It provides a clearly sequenced project with a consistent motif family, making it easier to predict fabric needs and block-by-block milestones.
Caution: This BOM is listed as a used book in good condition, so check for full pattern access and any missing inserts before purchase.
Scrap Happy Block of the Month Quilt Pattern
Pattern Type: Booklet pattern. End Product: Quilt. Size: 60″ x 75″. This BOM emphasizes scrap-friendly blocks and progressive skill-building via 12 technique-builder blocks, plus borders. It’s well-suited for quilters who want to repurpose fabric scraps while learning new construction methods.
Best for: Scrap-quilting enthusiasts who enjoy modular blocks and a finished quilt appropriate for beds, walls, or display spaces.
Why selected: The design approach helps quilters practice varied techniques in a structured way, with templates and guidance to create a cohesive quilt from diverse fabrics.
Caution: The finished size is more compact, which may require additional border or backing choices if a larger quilt is desired.
Toes in the Sand Block of the Month Pattern
Finished Quilt size: 64 x 84in. Block of the Month Pattern. The set comprises 12 unique blocks, with a coastal, beach-inspired theme. This BOM is a practical choice for those aiming for a manageable yearly project with a themed finish.
Best for: Quilters who want a seasonal, seaside aesthetic and a moderate final size ideal for a sofa throw or guest-room quilt.
Why selected: The themed blocks provide a cohesive look while maintaining accessibility for dedicated monthly progress.
Caution: The coastal motif may limit versatility for some decor styles; consider your room palette before committing to the theme.
Baltimore Christmas BOM Set
Pattern Type: BOM set. End Product: Applique quilt. Finishes at 69″ x 69″. This BOM focuses on applique techniques with a holiday motif, offering a colorful Christmas quilt upon completion. It suits crafters who enjoy applique detail and a festive final piece.
Best for: Holiday quilters who want a themed BOM to build gradually, with clear applique steps and a compact final size for tree skirts, wall quilts, or small beds.
Why selected: The set provides a complete, all-in-one BOM experience with a balanced finish size that fits typical home décor spaces.
Caution: Applique-focused BOMs can require more precise technique; ensure you are comfortable with stitching curves and small pieces over time.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right BOM for Your Quilt Journey
- Project scope: Consider finished size and time commitment. Larger BOMs like Taos demand more space and consistent progress, while smaller quilts suit busy schedules.
- Theme and style: Floral, coastal, holiday, or scrap-focused designs create different room accents. Match the theme to your decor and sewing goals.
- Pattern format: Books, paper patterns, or booklet patterns affect how you store and reference steps. Choose a format you’ll consistently use.
- Skill progression: If you’re building techniques, select BOMs that explicitly structure learning blocks and provide templates or step-by-step guidance.
- Fabric planning: Check whether the BOM suggests specific fabric ranges or color schemes. Some patterns require precise color planning for best results.
- Storage and space: Ensure you have enough table or floor space for blocks as they accumulate. A well-lit sewing area helps more complex blocks come together smoothly.
- Budget considerations: BOMs vary in cost by pattern type, number of blocks, and whether supplies are included. Plan for paper costs, templates, and backing fabrics.
FAQ
- What is a Block of the Month pattern? A BOM pattern organizes a quilt project into monthly installments, guiding progress over a set period.
- Are BOM quilts suitable for beginners? Some BOMs are beginner-friendly, while others target intermediate or advanced quilters; check the difficulty level in the product details.
- Can BOM patterns be completed without following the monthly schedule? Yes, you can adjust the timeline to fit your pace while keeping the block order intact.
- Do BOMs require specific fabrics? Many BOMs specify fabric types or color schemes; others are more flexible with scraps or multi-color palettes.
- Is a large BOM harder to finish than a small one? Longer projects demand steady planning; a manageable size with a clear milestone structure helps maintain motivation.
- What should I consider before buying a BOM? Review finished size, block count, technique requirements, and whether you have the tools and space to complete it within your timeline.
Add a Comment