Sampler Strategies from the Taste Test Trunk Show

with Diane Harris, Stash Bandit

Click here for a printable PDF of the sampler strategies below

Ways to create a sampler

Different blocks, same size
Different blocks, same colors or fabrics
Same block, different sizes
Same block, different values
Same block, different proportions
Blocks from friends > special occasion
One technique, different applications
Blocks in a theme (idea list below)
Kitchen sink: Anything and everything used together
Panel + patchwork
Improvisational sampler
Same size and color blocks, different orientation
Anniversary sampler depicting events, themes from the years
Four seasons, or pick one season and expand on it
Neighborhood: Different houses, buildings
Log Cabin: improvised blocks with common starting point
One pictorial item in various improv blocks (Owls; Amy Smart’s Patchwork Forest)
Begin with orphan blocks, proceed with patchwork or improv or combo
Christmas ornaments, various types and shapes
Row sampler, same block in each row
Heirloom sampler: hankies, doilies, tatting, lace, brooch, earrings

Ideas for a themed sampler

Holidays, birthday, occupation, hobby, locale, heritage, faith, family, color, techniques, animals, transportation, novelty fabric, color(s), seasons, blocks, buildings, someone’s lifetime, retirement, causes.

What can you think of?!