Have you ever heard of a Colorado block? Many quilters know this quilt classic by another name, the Dutch Windmill. Using layer cakes, this traditional half-square triangle quilt block comes together in a flash creating a unique and vintage design that has been loved for many years. How many years to be exact? While Jenny couldn’t find much information on the original of the name Dutch Windmill, the Colorado quilt block can be traced back to 1941 where it was published in the Kansas City Star!
To stitch up this classic you’ll need two layers cakes, one of prints and one of solids. You’ll need to whip up a handful of half-square triangles to begin this pattern, which you’ll be able to lay out in a pinwheel design with all lines going to the center in a light, dark, light, dark pattern. Next you’ll need to make the legs of each triangle a bit longer by placing a matching block next to each end, and then build the square out on each side with the points going towards the same end. (We promise it’s SEW much easier than it sounds, check out Jenny’s tutorial above for a little more visual assistance!)
Needing some more inspiration to create this beautiful block? While the Vintage Jenny tutorial fabrics are no longer in production (just like a classic quilt they’re a product of their time) check out our suggestions below for five current lines of fabric that make this quilt come together with ease!
Between Friends by Shannon Christensen for Windham Fabrics
The Between Friends fabric collection by Shannon Christensen is about friendships that flourish, the heartwarming ones that bind us. The cheerful color palette, happy florals and sweet textures of Between Friends is sure to bring warmth and harmony to your creative world.
Gingham Foundry by My Mind’s Eye for Riley Blake
Navy, grey, and yellow 10″ squares in lovely florals and geometric prints. These classic prints are sure to elevate your quilting and sewing projects with a tasteful palette of navy, honey gold, grey, and cream.
A Groovy Garden by Jason Yenter for In The Beginning Fabrics
Get groovy with this 10” square pack! These floral and geometric fabrics blend fancy florals and psychedelic patterns and colors into a funky addition to your next quilt.
Happy Chance by Laura Heine for Windham Fabrics
Take a chance with this 10” square pack! These fanciful fabrics are full of multicolor florals, paper mache collages, and dressmaking motifs.
Kaffe Fassett Collective Contrast by Kaffe Fassett for FreeSpirit Fabrics
Dive into Kaffe with this 10″ square pack! You can have all the Kaffe Fassett prints your creative heart desires with the new Kaffe Fassett Collective collection, especially if your project calls for high-contrast colors.
