"Pick a Petal" by Jen Kingwell is The Quilt Show's 2024 Block Of the Month quilt.

Jen was inspired to create Pick a Petal, the 2024 Block Of the Month, by the meadow next door to where she lives. At certain times of the year, there are some flowers and wildflowers that pop up in the field that she can view from her studio, which gives the quilt its name. Featuring piecing, appliqué, and hand embroidery, there is something for everyone to love in this year's Block Of the Month.

Artist Statement: "I felt incredibly honoured when The Quilt Show approached me to be their next designer and without hesitation, I accepted. Immediately, my mind was brimming with ideas of what to create and my thoughts consistently gravitated towards Spring.

I think Spring is my favourite season.

After the grey days of winter, I get excited for the crisp mornings that shimmer with sunlight & hint at the warmth of Summer fast approaching. My garden begins to explode with vibrant colours and as I watch the butterflies and bees dance among the blooms, I can't help but feel my heart stir with joy and hope.

When The Quilt Show invited me to collaborate, I knew I wanted to capture the essence of Spring by weaving together the beauty and colour that this season brings to my world.

Using a mix of hand piecing, needle-turn appliqué and a range of stitch techniques, I began my journey to create Pick A Petal.

I love the way combining these techniques creates layers of detail and interest to a project. I embellished the appliqué borders with butterflies, flowers, and fruits to further evoke the spirit of spring.

I’m known as a scrap quilter and so I knew I wanted this design to reflect this: The colour palette is bright and fun mixing a range of prints.

I hope you enjoy this journey with me as much as I enjoyed the process of creating this design."