September 16, 2014

He who dies with the most toys .....


Jack in the Box quilt block copyright W. Russell, patchworksquare.com
Jack in the Box
And speaking of toys, the Jack in the Box quilt block pattern is an old and well established block. It is easy to construct and features large flying geese units and half square triangles. This is a wonderful four patch quilt block for beginners to get started in this addictive hobby.

The Jack in the Box is an old toy that you would be hard pressed to find anymore. But the image below might bring back some memories.

Download the free quilt block pattern for Jack in the Box.

Quotes about Toys

image courtesy iStockphoto
Antique Jack in the Box toy
  • The simplest toy, one which even the youngest child can operate, is called a grandparent.
    ~ Sam Levenson

  • The difference between men and boys is the price of their toys.
    ~ Author Unknown

  • He who dies with the most toys is, nonetheless, still dead.
    ~ Author Unknown

  • I knew I was an unwanted baby when I saw that my bath toys were a toaster and a radio.
    ~ Joan Rivers

  • Be it jewel or toy, not the prize gives the joy, but the striving to win the prize.
    ~ Edward G. Bulwer-Lytton


Jack in the Box quilt block image © W. Russell, patchworksquare.com
Jack in the Box image courtesy iStockphoto

September 04, 2014

Jack of all Trades ... Master of None

Lots of men and women are pretty "handy" around the house or yard or just, in general. We all know many things that are not necessarily considered a talent, but are great skills to have. Hence we are called a "Jack (or Jill) of all Trades and Master of None".
Handy Andy quilt block - image copyright W. Russell, patchworksquare.com
Handy Andy

So, today I thought you might like to see a quilt block called Handy Andy. This block is built on a five grid and it can be made in many different sizes -- most commonly as a 10" quilt block, but I have given you the instructions for several different sizes.

Download the free Handy Andy quilt block pattern.

Quotes about being handy / successful

  • "When one must, one can."
      ~ Charlotte Whitton

  • "All you need in this life is ignorance and confidence, and then success is sure."
    Image courtesy of posterize at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
    A Handyman's friend

    ~ Mark Twain

  • "The first requisite for success is the ability to apply your physical and mental energies to one problem incessantly without growing weary."
    ~ Thomas Edison


    and finally ...

  • "No. Try not. Do ... or do not. There is no try. [Star Wars IV]"
    ~ Yoda

Handy Andy quilt block image © W. Russell, patchworksquare.com
Utility knife image courtesy of posterize at FreeDigitalPhotos.net