Hello, fellow quilters! I’m Maggie from Sugarstone Quilts, and I’m thrilled to be here at Quilter’s Candy to share some quilting inspiration with you.
I love designing bold and modern quilts that mix vibrant color with African-inspired designs. If you joined the recent 3D Flying Geese Quilt Along, you already know how fun and dynamic Flying Geese quilt blocks can be. But today, I want to introduce you to something a little different…
Meet the 1:3 Ratio Flying Geese Block
We all adore the classic Flying Geese block with its familiar 1:2 ratio. But what if we stretched that ratio for a more dramatic effect?
Let me introduce the 1:3 Flying Geese block—a modern twist inspired by the vibrant patterns of Ghanaian Kente cloth and Adinkra symbols. These blocks create bold, directional movement that feels both traditional and contemporary.
An example of this design is featured in my “Flying Geese in Summer Winds” quilt, where 1:3 Opposing Flying Geese blocks dance with Summer Wind blocks to create a breezy, flowing effect.
A Tip from Experience
Let’s be honest—getting the points perfect on Flying Geese blocks can be a challenge! I tried several methods before landing on a simple, no-fuss technique that delivers straight seams and crisp points every time.
This method became the foundation of my “Together We Go Far” quilt—a piece inspired by the African proverb:
“If you want to go fast, go alone; but if you want to go far, go together.”
In that quilt, I combine both the classic 1:2 Flying Geese and the 1:3 variation to showcase how beautifully these two ratios complement each other.
Easy Step-by-Step: How to Sew a 1:3 Ratio Flying Geese Block
Here’s the quick overview:
You’ll need:
One large rectangle (this is your “goose”)
Two small rectangles (these are the “wings”)
The proportions create a long, elegant triangle flying across the block.
Get the FREE Size Chart!
Want to design your own quilts using the 1:3 ratio? Sign up for my email list and get a FREE 1:3 Ratio Flying Geese Size Chart, perfect for planning out custom quilt layouts and experimenting with new designs.
Try the Pattern: “Together We Go Far”
If you’re ready to dive deeper, grab the full PDF pattern for “Together We Go Far.”
Use code: SQTWGF20 to get 20% off for the next 30 days!
Let’s keep sewing bold and beautiful things together.
Happy quilting, friends!
Warmly,
Maggie
#SugarstoneQuilts | Instagram: @Sugarstone_Quilts
www.sugarstonequilts.com
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