Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Just a simple 9-patch quilt block?

When you hear "9 patch block" do you think -- "oh, boring" -- or -- "oh, how common"... or assume it's a beginning quilter's block?

Take a look at this computerized 9-patch generator from Levitated.net and see the zillions of ways a "simple" 9 patch can be created! You won't believe your eyes -- and it may just give you some inspiration for new quilt blocks.

http://www.levitated.net/daily/lev9block.html

After you've viewed the 9-patch blocks at the top of the page, hit your REFRESH button -- and a brand new set of blocks will appear.

The web page also offers this interesting information on the formulation behind the 9-patch block:

The basic building blocks of the nine block are limited to 16 unique geometric shapes. Each shape is allowed to rotate in 90 degree increments. Only 4 shapes are allowed in the center position to maintain radial symmetry.


Who knew?!?

3 comments:

The Calico Quilter said...

This makes me think about the glorified nine patch block in Shar Jorgensen's book. It shares ancestry with the way the double wedding ring is assembled, but is easier because the "melon" shape between the block centers is not pieced. If I can do this DWR, I can certainly do the glorified nine patch!

Amy Schimler-Safford said...

Hi Joan, I just sent you an e-mail. You are one of the winners in the Forest Fun fabric give away. Congratulations! Send me an e-mail with your address when you get the chance. Thanks for joining in the fun! Loved your story.

Linda said...

Very interesting....thanks for sharing this info. Hugs, Linda