Block of the Month Explained (And Why It's So Addictive)

Block of the Month (BOM) programs make quilting simple and fun by breaking large projects into smaller, monthly tasks. Instead of tackling a full quilt at once, you complete one block each month. Over 9 to 12 months, these blocks come together into a finished quilt top. This approach works for beginners learning new skills and experienced quilters looking for structured, manageable projects.

The monthly format spreads out both the cost and workload. BOM subscriptions typically cost $10–$40 per month, and most blocks take just 3–4 hours to complete. Many programs, like Mrs. Quilty, include premium fabrics, step-by-step instructions, and video tutorials. Quilters also enjoy the excitement of receiving their monthly kit, making the process feel rewarding and motivating.

Mrs. Quilty’s subscription stands out with curated materials, detailed guidance, and a supportive community. Each box includes 12 fat quarters, exclusive patterns, and surprise gifts, all for $34.97 per month. Whether you're new to quilting or looking to expand your skills, BOM programs make creating beautiful quilts achievable and enjoyable. Ready to try? Start your quilting journey today with Mrs. Quilty’s Block of the Month subscription.

What Is Block of the Month?

Block of the Month Basics

A Block of the Month (BOM) program breaks down the process of making a quilt into manageable steps, focusing on completing one quilt block each month. Over the course of 9 to 12 months, these individual blocks come together to form a finished quilt top.

Instead of purchasing all your materials at once, BOM programs provide only the fabric and instructions needed for that month’s block. This setup makes quilting easier to afford and less overwhelming. For quilters balancing work, family, and other commitments, this structured approach fits naturally into a busy lifestyle.

How Block of the Month Programs Work

When you join a BOM program, you’re signing up for a series of monthly deliveries that span the duration of the project. Each month, you’ll receive a package that includes carefully chosen materials and detailed instructions for creating that month’s block.

These programs are designed to be user-friendly. Most provide step-by-step patterns with helpful diagrams and tips to guide you through the techniques for that block. Many modern BOMs also include video tutorials and access to online communities where you can ask questions, share your progress, and connect with other participants. By the end of the program, you’ll have all the blocks and instructions needed to assemble and finish your quilt top.

The payment process is simple. You pay a monthly fee, often as part of a subscription plan, and your box is shipped automatically. Many programs bill on a specific date each month (like the 9th) and ship shortly after. This subscription-style setup spreads out both the cost and the workload, making it easier to create high-quality quilts without breaking the bank. It’s a straightforward way to stay organized and steadily progress toward completing a project.

Common Block of the Month Project Styles

BOM programs come in a variety of styles, each offering a unique experience and focus:

• Sampler quilts: These feature a different block design each month, creating a quilt that showcases a variety of techniques. One month you might work on half-square triangles, and the next, appliqué. This style is perfect for beginners who want to build a broad skill set while exploring different methods.
• Themed quilts: These projects follow a cohesive visual theme, often tied to a season, holiday, or specific design aesthetic. They usually feature a single fabric collection, giving the finished quilt a polished, unified look. If you enjoy working with a specific fabric line or want a quilt with a clear story, this style is ideal.
• Technique-focused quilts: These are designed to help you master a specific skill, such as foundation paper piecing or hand appliqué. Each month’s block focuses on reinforcing that technique, helping you gain confidence and proficiency in one area.
• Mystery BOMs: For those who love surprises, mystery BOMs reveal the quilt design piece by piece. You’ll know the basic style or size, but the full layout remains a secret until the final block is completed. This format adds excitement and keeps you guessing.

The Mrs. Quilty Block of the Month Approach

Mrs. Quilty elevates the traditional BOM experience, offering a thoughtfully curated and enjoyable quilting journey. Each monthly box includes 12 pieces of premium 100% cotton fabric, an exclusive BOM project, a full-color quilting magazine with custom templates, and detailed step-by-step instructions. Plus, every box comes with a surprise gift, such as a quilting tool, thread, or ruler.

What makes Mrs. Quilty stand out is the focus on guided learning and support. Each box gives you access to clear and approachable video tutorials that cater to all skill levels. These videos provide expert guidance, allowing you to learn new techniques at your own pace - like having a personal quilting coach by your side. The program is designed to build your skills gradually, starting with the basics and introducing more advanced techniques over time, ensuring that even beginners can feel confident and make steady progress.

With over 65,000 participants and a 4.8-star rating from over 2,000 reviews, Mrs. Quilty’s program has earned its reputation for delivering everything quilters need in one convenient package. Your first box ships right away and typically arrives within 2 to 6 days, with subsequent boxes sent out on the 9th of each month. The subscription is flexible, allowing you to adjust or skip a box if needed. This thoughtful structure ensures you can stay on track and enjoy the satisfaction of completing a beautiful quilt, one block at a time.

What You Get Each Month

Monthly Materials and Supplies

When your Mrs. Quilty box arrives, it’s like unwrapping a treasure chest for quilters. Each box is packed with 12 coordinated fat quarters made from 100% premium cotton, giving you twice the fabric compared to many other programs. Alongside these, you’ll find a Block of the Month project with step-by-step instructions written in simple, clear language to guide you through every cut and seam. To make things even easier, you’ll have free access to video tutorials, so you can learn at your own pace.

Every delivery also includes a full-color quilting magazine filled with tips, ideas, and templates you can use right away. And let’s not forget the surprise gift - whether it’s a handy tool or a thread wrap, it’s always something to make your quilting experience even better. Altogether, each box contains 17+ carefully chosen items valued at over $90, yet it’s yours for just $34.97 a month. As Brenda M. says:

"It's like having a personal quilting coach - right on screen!"

Skill Levels and Techniques Covered

Mrs. Quilty’s program welcomes quilters of all experience levels. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of quilting behind you, the instructions are designed to be both approachable and engaging, ensuring a fun and relaxed learning process.

The program begins with essential skills to build your confidence. Early projects focus on basics like accurate cutting, maintaining a consistent 1/4" seam allowance, and piecing simple units like half-square triangles and four-patches. As you progress, the challenges grow with techniques such as flying geese, strip piecing, appliqué, foundation paper piecing, and even curved seams. Each month introduces a new skill, helping you steadily expand your abilities. Diane M. shared:

"Being a beginner, Mrs. Quilty has been a game-changer. The easy projects and clear instructions helped me learn so fast!"

This step-by-step approach ensures you can learn at your own pace while enjoying the process.

Time Requirements and Schedule Flexibility

One of the best parts of the Mrs. Quilty subscription is its flexibility, making it perfect for even the busiest quilters. Most participants find they can complete each month’s block in about 3 to 4 hours total - or break it into shorter sessions of 30 to 60 minutes per week. Whether you prefer quilting on a quiet weeknight or during a relaxing weekend morning, the program easily fits into your schedule.

If life gets a little hectic, don’t worry. You can adjust your delivery schedule to bi-monthly or quarterly shipments, or even skip a box entirely by updating your account settings. Plus, with on-demand video tutorials, you can pause, rewind, or rewatch lessons as often as you need, ensuring you never feel rushed or left behind in your quilting journey.

Why Quilters Love Block of the Month

Monthly Progress and Visible Results

There’s a special joy in completing one block at a time and watching your quilt slowly take shape. Instead of feeling daunted by a heap of fabric and a long to-do list, you focus on one small, achievable goal each month. It’s a process that turns what could feel overwhelming into something manageable and fun.

As the months go by and your blocks stack up, you can physically see your progress unfold. Many quilters display their finished blocks on a design wall or pin them up where they can admire them daily. This growing collection serves as a visual reminder of how far you’ve come, creating a steady sense of accomplishment. Tackling the project in bite-sized pieces not only keeps you motivated but also transforms the experience into a series of rewarding milestones. Quilters often share how this method helps them stay on track while mastering new techniques along the way.

Learning New Techniques Step by Step

Block of the Month programs double as hands-on quilting lessons. Each month introduces a new skill or builds on one you’ve been practicing - whether it’s perfecting a 1/4" seam, piecing flying geese, experimenting with foundation paper piecing, or tackling curved seams. By focusing on one technique at a time, you avoid feeling overwhelmed and instead develop skills gradually through consistent practice.

This structured approach works for quilters of all levels. Beginners benefit from clear, step-by-step instructions and video tutorials they can revisit as needed, while seasoned quilters enjoy the opportunity to refine their techniques or try something they’ve previously skipped. By the end of the program, you’ll not only have a completed quilt but also a set of skills you can carry into future projects.

Shared Experience and Motivation

One of the best parts of a Block of the Month program is the sense of community it creates. Knowing that hundreds or even thousands of other quilters are working on the same project provides encouragement and connection. Many programs include online groups, sew-alongs, and meetups where participants share photos, ask for advice, and celebrate their progress together.

This shared journey adds an extra layer of accountability and excitement. Seeing others post their completed blocks can inspire you to keep going, and knowing there’s a supportive community cheering you on makes the process even more enjoyable. Some quilters even team up with accountability buddies to check in and motivate each other throughout the month. As Joana L. shared:

"I had been losing my quilting mojo after quilting for 3 years. This kit has given me a whole new creative boost😊"

What Makes Mrs. Quilty Different

Mrs. Quilty takes the Block of the Month experience to another level by adding thoughtful extras. The program features exclusive patterns designed specifically for participants, paired with expertly curated materials that take the guesswork out of each project. Combined with expert guidance and a warm, supportive community, it’s an experience that keeps quilters excited for every new delivery.

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How to Choose a Block of the Month Program

What to Look for in a BOM

Selecting the right Block of the Month (BOM) program starts with knowing what you're signing up for. Quilt size is a key factor - BOMs can range from smaller throws, measuring about 50" x 60", to queen-size quilts of 80" x 90" or more. Larger quilts will naturally require more fabric, time, and effort to complete. Project length is another consideration, with most programs running between 6 and 12 months. Many year-long options are designed to help you complete a full quilt top at a steady, manageable pace.

Cost is often broken into monthly payments, typically ranging from $15 to $40, which helps spread out expenses for larger projects. Be sure to check the time commitment as well; most programs estimate about 2–4 hours of work per month, which breaks down to roughly an hour a week. However, technique-heavy BOMs may require closer to 4 hours monthly. Pay attention to the skill level indicated by the program - whether it's for Beginners, Confident Beginners, Intermediate, or Advanced quilters - and review the support resources provided. These might include video tutorials, written guides, Q&A access, or even community groups. By considering these factors, you can better match a BOM to your quilting goals.

Matching a BOM to Your Learning Goals

A great BOM program functions like a structured course, guiding you through both the creative and technical aspects of quilting. If you're looking to sharpen skills like sewing precise ¼" seams, mastering half-square triangles, or tackling foundation paper piecing, opt for a program that focuses on developing these techniques step by step. Sampler BOMs are perfect for exploring a variety of traditional blocks, offering a broad foundation for learning. On the other hand, technique-specific BOMs hone in on one particular method, such as appliqué or modern triangle piecing, giving you ample practice to refine your expertise.

For those interested in design and color experimentation, look for programs that include tools like coloring pages, design worksheets, or layout variations. These features allow you to play with value, contrast, and alternate settings, boosting your confidence in creating visually striking quilts. If your goal is to eventually design your own patterns, choose a BOM that explains the reasoning behind block construction. Programs that teach resizing, fabric calculations, and design variations can help you build a strong foundation for creating original work. Aligning your learning goals with a BOM’s curriculum turns the experience into a focused and rewarding journey.

Why Mrs. Quilty Works Well for Beginners

Mrs. Quilty's Block of the Month program is designed with new quilters in mind, taking the guesswork out of the process. The program provides coordinated premium cotton fabrics and offers on-demand coaching through easy-to-follow instructions and video guides - ideal for beginners who need extra support as they develop essential skills.

With a 4.8/5 rating from over 2,000 reviews, the program has received consistent praise for its approachable format. It combines expert guidance, access to a supportive community, and manageable monthly projects that typically require around 4 hours of work. At $34.97 per month, each box delivers over $120 worth of materials and resources, making it a great value for those just starting their quilting journey.

Getting the Most from Your Mrs. Quilty Block of the Month

Creating a Monthly Quilting Schedule

To stay on track with your Mrs. Quilty Block of the Month (BOM), aim to dedicate about 3–5 hours per month, which breaks down to roughly 1–2 hours per week. This approach helps you follow the step-by-step process without feeling rushed. Since your box arrives on the 9th of each month, you can create a simple four-week plan:

• Week 1: Unbox, read the pattern, press, and label your fabrics.
• Week 2: Focus on cutting.
• Week 3: Piece the block together.
• Week 4: Press, trim, and photograph your finished block.

Pick a consistent time each week - like a weekday evening or a weekend morning - and set reminders to make quilting a habit. If you fall behind, schedule a small catch-up session once a month instead of trying to tackle multiple blocks in one go. BOMs are meant to be an enjoyable, paced experience, not a race. Keep a checklist to track your progress and note any adjustments, like seam pressing or changes to cut sizes, to maintain consistency across your quilt.

Tools and Supplies That Help

Having the right tools can make a big difference in your quilting results. In addition to your basic supplies, certain cutting and measuring tools can improve accuracy. Key items include:

• A rotary cutter
• A self-healing mat (18" x 24" or larger)
• Clear acrylic rulers (6" x 24" and 6" square)

Mrs. Quilty’s Non Slip Acrylic Quilting Ruler Set is a great option to prevent fabric from shifting while cutting. A ¼" quilting foot or seam guide ensures perfect seams, and heat-erasable fabric markers let you mark fabrics without worry.

Pressing tools are equally important. While a standard iron works fine, Mrs. Quilty’s Mini Iron is ideal for small seams and tight spots. For organization, store each month’s materials in labeled clear bins or project boxes. Use folders or large zip-top bags for your pattern sheets and templates. If space is limited, shallow project trays or rolling carts can be tucked away when not in use. For beginners, Mrs. Quilty offers starter kits like the 97-Piece Quilting Kit or 104-Piece Quilting Set, which bundle many of these essentials.

Assembling Your Finished Quilt

Once all your blocks are complete, lay them out on a design wall, bed, or floor to finalize their arrangement and ensure the orientation is correct. If your pattern includes sashing and cornerstones, cut all pieces first. Then, sew the blocks into rows with sashing in between, and join the rows using long sashing strips. Press the seams consistently - either all toward the sashing or all open - to reduce bulk at the intersections.

For quilting, layer the backing (4–6" larger on each side), batting, and quilt top. Baste the layers together using safety pins, spray adhesive, or hand stitching. From there, you can quilt by hand, on a home machine, or through a longarm service. Finish with binding cut at 2½" wide, sewn to the front with a ¼" seam, and folded to the back for hand-stitching. The step-by-step videos and full-color magazine included in your Mrs. Quilty box will guide you through these steps with clear, easy-to-follow instructions.

Adding More with Mrs. Quilty Subscriptions

Mrs. Quilty’s subscription options go beyond the core BOM project to offer even more value. Each monthly box delivers premium supplies, including 12 coordinated fat quarters, a full-color quilting magazine, step-by-step instructions, and a surprise gift like a ruler or thread wrap.

For additional inspiration, consider the Digital Pattern Subscription ($14.97/month), which includes eight exclusive digital patterns with your first box. These instant downloads allow you to explore new projects and expand your skills.

Subscriptions also offer bonus patterns, technique lessons, and mini-projects that pair perfectly with your BOM fabrics. You can adjust the delivery frequency to bi-monthly or quarterly, or even skip a box if needed. This flexibility ensures you can tailor the program to your schedule while still enjoying the structure and guidance that help you grow as a quilter without feeling overwhelmed.

FAQs

How can I pick the best Block of the Month program for my quilting skills?

To find the best Block of the Month program for you, start by considering your quilting experience and the level of challenge you want. If you're just starting out, look for programs that feature straightforward patterns and clear, step-by-step instructions to help you build essential skills. Mrs. Quilty offers beginner-friendly programs with tutorials that walk you through each stage with ease.

For seasoned quilters, explore programs with complex patterns and techniques designed to enhance your expertise and spark your creativity. Make sure the program includes thorough guidance and resources to support you, no matter where you are on your quilting journey.

What do I need to get started with a Block of the Month project?

To kick off your Block of the Month project, you’ll need a handful of must-have tools and materials. Start with a dependable sewing machine - your main workhorse. Pair it with a rotary cutter, a self-healing cutting mat, and a quilting ruler to keep your measurements sharp and accurate. Add fabric scissors and fabric markers or chalk for marking, plus some batting to give your quilt its cozy finish.

When it comes to fabric, opt for high-quality cotton in matching colors or patterns. Pre-cut bundles can be a real time-saver and help ensure your design flows seamlessly. With these essentials in hand, you’re all set to embark on your Block of the Month adventure!

What’s the best way to stay on track with my monthly quilting projects?

To keep your quilting journey on track, dedicate 1-2 hours each week to your craft. Breaking your project into smaller, bite-sized steps can make it feel more achievable. Mrs. Quilty’s step-by-step tutorials are perfect for guiding you through every stage, ensuring you can follow along with ease. By setting aside regular quilting time, you’ll maintain consistency, build momentum, and savor the experience without feeling stressed.