Well, it's my turn to choose our Beesewcial @beesewcial prompt for June 2026. After last year's very personal, small block, black-and-white prompt in Ode to Joy, I decided to go with something on a larger scale this time, with a lot more color; still personal, but in a completely different way.
I'm asking my beemates to create one large - at least 18" square - improvisational Courthouse Steps block. Untrimmed is great as long as I can trim to an 18" square if I choose to. Some specific guidelines:
- Begin with a pieced black-and-white center of any size and shape
- Construct the logs in cool colors vs. warm colors. Each quadrant can be its own color story, or the same as the one across from it, as long as opposite sides are both either cool or warm.
- Incorporate in your style of improv however you can. For example, my sample block was primarily cut ruler-free and includes some angled seams, pieced logs, and fine-line piecing. Make it your own while still obviously being a courthouse steps block.
- No applique, please. Machine-washable fabrics only.
I've added to a :: Courthouse Steps :: pin board for ages, and it can be used for inspiration, though not specific details necessarily. I'll ask my beemates to use the guidelines listed above while realizing that Courthouse Steps can be constructed in a myriad of ways. They should definitely do what feels fun and freeing within my limited guidelines.
Lastly, I made the block shown as an example, but reserve the right to make another as my final block for the quilt. I'll decide as we move through the month. Meanwhile, I can't wait to see what they do with this modern-traditional prompt.
