Tag: Small Project Summer Challenge

2026 Small Project Summer Challenge · Rose Cards · villa rosa designs

Small Project Summer Challenge Week 3 and NEW VRD Quilt Patterns for July

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Hello Quilty Friends!

Happy Thursday to you!

I hope everyone enjoyed the past holiday week end. Did you do anything special? I did get to see some great fireworks – both on TV and in person. Yay! There really was a lot of very interesting content on TV for the 250th Celebration – I even learned the history of American blue jeans. LOL! I hope that the 250 celebrations aren’t over, though, and we get to enjoy more throughout the year.

This is our 3rd week of the VRD Small Project Summer Challenge and the Challenge is a VRD pillow (pillow cover). Pillows are due by midnight, Friday July 10th EST.

There are many more pattern options for the pillows than for the tote bags last week, for sure. And I’ve been having fun checking out everyone’s projects, so keep ’em coming. I just love love love seeing how everyone adapts patterns and changes things up to work for you and your needs.

If you aren’t checking out the VRD Facebook page, you are missing A LOT of wonderful inspiration and ideas. It’s also a great place to connect with other VRD quilters and sewists. You can share projects, support each other, and even ask questions. It’s such a good place to visit!

Colorful crafting display featuring fabrics, a quilt, sewing tools, and a cheerful sun graphic with the text 'Halfway There! VRD Small Project Summer Challenge. We're 3 weeks in and 3 weeks to go!'

I really hope everyone is having fun with the projects. One of the many ideas behind this Challenge was that I wanted to share some of our other projects because VRD isn’t just quilts. And I can’t believe the Challenge is half over now. Golly! Time really flies!

Now, I must be honest with everyone … this week’s challenge pillow for me is still a work in progress. I’ve been under the weather recently, so my sewing machine has been getting more rest than exercise. Me, too.

The good news is – I know many of you are stitching right along through the weekly Challenges and creating some wonderful projects for yourself or for someone else. Some of you are also working on the Challenge projects with others – how awesome is that??? Sigh…..sometimes creativity means giving ourselves a little grace, particularly when we don’t feel well. Here’s to next week’s project.

And now it’s time to celebrate – yeah!

Week 2 Winner

Let’s give our Week 2 winner a big high five!

Congrats to…….

Kim C. in California

Woohoo! Way to go!

Here is Kim’s finished Tote Bag, Olivia Jane. Kim added another row, lined her bag/handle, and boxed the corners. And her tote turned out adorable with her fresh fabrics. It makes me want to make another tote right now!

Yay Kim!

Colorful patchwork tote bag featuring various shades of green and yellow fabrics arranged in a grid pattern.

Olivia Jane is a charm square friendly pattern or use your stash! And it’s simple to add pockets or batting/interfacing, quilt the layers together, box the corners, make it larger, etc. It’s a go-to pattern for sure!

You can stop over HERE to see a tutorial about some of the things you can adapt/add to the pattern.

Promotional image for the 'Olivia Jane Charm Square Patchwork Tote' featuring three tote bag designs labeled 'View A', 'View B', and 'View C', along with colorful patchwork fabric swatches. The design includes vibrant backgrounds and floral decorations.

Get your digital pattern HERE or your print pattern HERE

Now let’s take a look at new patterns – who doesn’t love that???

NEW VRD Quilt Patterns for July

Yay! It’s the Thursday after the first Friday of July and that means NEW PATTERNS!

Let’s check ’em, out!

A collage showcasing five quilt patterns for July 2026, including 'Avoca,' 'Dahlia,' 'Bedelia,' 'Dump Cake,' and 'Horizontal Planes,' each with distinct designs and colors, advertised as new cards for $8.95.

Get the set of 5 HERE

Avoca is Rachelle’s newest pattern. It’s FQ friendly and you can find a kit featuring Pat’s Kalinda fabric HERE.

Bedelia is Catherine’s (Running Doe Quilts) latest star design. It’s also FQ friendly and you can find a kit featuring Tilda fabric HERE.

Dahlia is Melissa’s July pattern. This pattern is super for showcasing you large print fabrics – you know, the ones you don’t want to chop up. You can find a kit featuring the Night Garden collection HERE.

Dump Cake is Heidi’s latest pattern and it features a 36″ x 44″ panel. You can find a kit for Dump Cake HERE with the same fabrics as you see on the front of the pattern.

Horizontal Planes is Molly’s newest design and it also features a panel – a 44″ x 24″ horizontal panel this time. You can find a kit with the same fabrics as you see on the front of the pattern HERE or one with Chickadee Christmas HERE.

But wait…….of course, there’s more. This is VRD!

July’s table runner is called Liberty Cove and it’s perfect for your late summer events and excursions. The lake…….the beach……..your own backyard.

A quilted table runner featuring a geometric pattern in red, white, and blue colors, placed on a wooden surface, with text indicating the design name 'Liberty Cove' and designer details.

Get your digital pattern HERE or your print pattern HERE

And we can’t forget our July Pillow pattern!

Here’s Sail Away, perfect for your summer celebrations or even a quiet evening curled up in your favorite chair with a good book.

A small dog sitting on a blue sofa beside a decorative pillow featuring a sailboat and quilt patterns.

Get your digital pattern HERE or your print pattern HERE

Yes, Queen Bailly finally got her summer haircut. I wish she’d let me put her hair up in a topknot with a pretty bow, but she’s just not that kind of gal. Instead, the hair on her head is usually standing on end! LOL!

You’ll notice how much lighter she is with her hair cut short than in June’s Parade Day pillow when her hair was longer. She really is a magical little Shih Tzu with mysterious hair color changing skills. When she was a baby, her hair was really really dark, then it kept lightening as she got older and now with it cut short, she almost looks blond – we practically have the same color hair now.

I wonder which pattern you are going to make first! Me, I was going to make a second Sail Away pillow so I have a set for the sofa………at least that was the plan for Week 3 of the Challenge. Oh well……life happens.

Week 4 of the VRD Small Project Summer Challenge

Looking ahead to next week, Week 4, our project is a VRD scarf which is due by midnight Friday July 17th EST. VRD has 2 different scarf patterns to choose from:

Graphic promoting Inessa Jane's Infinity Scarf pattern, featuring three scarf designs displayed on mannequin necks, with instructions for fabric requirements from Villa Rosa Designs.

Get your digital pattern HERE or print pattern HERE

OR

Colorful patchwork scarf displayed on mannequins, showcasing multiple styles and patterns. Title 'Savannah Jane Charm Square Patchwork Scarf' and brand 'Villa Rosa Designs' featured above and below the images.

Get your digital pattern HERE or your print pattern HERE

You can find a super fast and fun tutorial for Savannah Jane HERE.

I also have a third option for you if you are feeling adventurous……………………………………how about turning a VRD table runner into a scarf??? Some of the runners are pretty narrow or would be if you remove the border. Just an idea for you to explore…….

Stay cool and enjoy your summer!

Until next week!

Sew. Laugh. Make. Repeat.

Always,

Tricia @ VRD

2026 Small Project Summer Challenge · Rose Cards · Tutorials · Welcome Blog Post

Small Project Summer Challenge Week 2 and a NEW VRD Rose Card Tutorial – Tabitha Jane

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Hello Quilty Friends!

Happy Thursday to you!

Happy 250th birthday to America!

A patriotic illustration celebrating America's 250th birthday with fireworks, a vintage red truck, and an American flag. The design features bunting, colorful stars, and the text 'Happy 250th Birthday America!' along with the years '1776' and '2026'.

I hope you are all set to enjoy the celebration this weekend for the 250th Birthday of the United States of America. I’m looking forward to the fireworks and all the different events going on.

Of course right now the weather is looking rainy, but I have hopes it will clear up and be a gorgeous weekend for everyone. We’re having a heatwave right now with temperatures in the mid 90’s. I am not a hot weather girl at all, so I will stay in the air conditioning and ride out the heat. Just hand me a bowl of ice cream – something with chocolate – and I’ll be happy as a clam. And cool. LOL!

We are wrapping up Week 2 of our Small Project Summer Challenge this week – our project is a VRD Tote bag. Here’s the info and schedule in case you need it.

Colorful graphic promoting the VRD Small Project Summer Challenge, featuring six weeks of project themes with images of a sewing machine, fabric items, and decorative elements. Each week lists a different project due date.
Promotional graphic for the VRD Small Project Summer Challenge, outlining how the challenge works and how to join.

Now let’s revisit Week 1 with a winner!

Week 1 Winner

Yay! It’s time to announce our first Small Project Summer Challenge winner!

Toss the confetti!

Cue the band!

And our Week 1 winner is………….

Susan L. from WV

Congrats, Susan!

Susan made a fun dog lover’s version of Fairhaven. This one really makes me smile because of all the canine fabrics. A fun fast make!

A colorful quilt hanging on a wall, featuring a patchwork design with red, navy blue, and floral patterns.

Guess what? Susan already donated her Fairhaven quilt to Project Linus!

Project Linus has been giving handmade blankets and quilts to kids since 1995. And in 31 years, they’ve given over 10 million blankets to children. WHOAH! You can find additional information or how to get involved on the Project Linus website HERE.

A colorful quilt titled 'Fairhaven' featuring various fabric patterns with pink and green tones, displayed against a pink background, along with a floral accent in the upper right corner.

Get your digital pattern HERE or your print pattern HERE

VRD Small Project Summer Challenge Week 2

Our Week 2 Challenge this week is for a VRD tote bag. Your tote bag project is due Friday, July 3rd by midnight EST.

We have 2 different VRD tote bag patterns or you could adapt a different VRD pattern into a tote bag. What a fun idea! I hadn’t thought of that until one of the participants asked me about it. Thanks for the great idea!

So……..my tote bag this week is Tabitha Jane. Have you made this one yet? It’s totally reversible, which means you get 4 looks with one tote bag. That’s uber cool, right?

So here’s my red, white, and blue version of Tabitha Jane!

A handmade tote bag with a red top section featuring small polka dots, and a navy bottom section with white star patterns. The bag has patterned straps.
A fabric tote bag featuring a pattern of red and blue flags on top and a solid navy bottom with white polka dots.
A tote bag with a star and stripe pattern, featuring a solid red striped bottom and handles.
A plaid and polka dot fabric tote bag hanging against a light-colored backdrop.

Like I said: 1 tote bag – 4 different looks! I can’t decide which side I like the best. Which one do you like?

It was really quick, perhaps 2 or 3 hours (including photography on my end) to make this super useful and fun tote. Tabitha Jane would be a great tote for yourself or for someone else! I can’t wait to make a few more, maybe one for each season? Did I mention it’s made out of fat quarters???

Graphic showcasing a reversible tote bag design by Tabitha Jane, featuring four different looks with vibrant patterns. The text highlights fabric requirements and the finished size of the tote, along with design credits for Nancy Lorene and Villa Rosa Designs.

Get your digital pattern HERE or your print pattern HERE

I also created a tutorial for you for Tabitha Jane. Now you’ve totally got to make one of these!

VRD Tutorial Tabitha Jane

Probably the hardest thing about this pattern is choosing your 6 FQs! Of course, you can absolutely make more than one of these totes so you can can choose 6, 12, 18….or more FQs. LOL!

I settled on these 6 patriotic FQs from Deb Strain’s America 250 Years collection by Moda Fabrics. What a surprise – I’m making red, white, and blue projects for the Summer Challenge. Ha ha!

A collection of six fabric pieces featuring patriotic patterns, including plaid, stars, and American flags, arranged on a green cutting mat.

Next up is cutting. I layered my FQs together so I only had to cut once. Do likewise if you feel comfortable, but cutting 1 layer at a time is perfectly okay too.

A piece of red fabric with a star pattern, layered with patterned fabric featuring American flags and stars, alongside a blue plaid fabric, on a green cutting mat with grid lines.
Four pieces of red fabric with a star pattern, arranged on a green cutting mat with grid lines.

Now to cut the other 2 FQs. And with that, the cutting is finished. Wow! That was quick!

A green cutting mat with a rotary cutter, a patterned fabric piece in red and white stripes with stars, and a clear quilting ruler placed on the fabric.

We’re going to make our straps first. Here are my 4 fabrics for my straps.

Four pieces of fabric in red, white, and blue patterns laid out on a cutting mat, featuring stars, stripes, and plaid designs.

To make the straps, the first thing to do is stitch the smaller strips together to make 4 long strips. I chose to sew matching strips together, but you can totally scrap this up if you want to. You do you.

After I stitch my strips together, I’m going to press the seams open.

Close-up of a sewing machine with fabric pieces laid out, featuring red fabric with black stars and light reddish fabric with a subtle pattern.
A collection of fabric strips featuring patriotic patterns, including American flags, stars, and plaid designs in red, white, and blue colors, arranged horizontally on a grey surface.

Next I am going to layer 2 strap strips right sides together (RST) and sew down both long edges to make my 2 straps.

A sewing machine on a table with three different pieces of fabric, including a red patterned piece and a plaid piece, along with a pair of orange scissors.
Close-up of a sewing machine with a piece of fabric being stitched, featuring a plaid pattern.
Three strips of fabric laid out on a gray felt surface, featuring patriotic designs in red, white, and blue, including stars and stripes.

Oh goody (not really)….Time to turn both straps right side out (RSO). This is one of my least favorite things to do when sewing bags. Usually I fold my strips in half and then in half again to avoid having to turn things RSO. But these straps are pretty wide, so here goes……

I am using a large safety pin (Yup, one of my quilt basting pins) to turn my strips RSO. The pin gives me something to hold onto as I turn the strap.

An assortment of fabric strips with patriotic patterns, including American flags and stars, pinned together with a safety pin, placed on a textured surface.
Close-up of two pieces of fabric: one patterned with red and blue stars on a cream background, the other in a solid red with small speckles, partially sewn together.
A close-up image of patterned fabric featuring American flags and stars, with additional fabric pieces in the background including plaid and star-patterned fabric.
A fabric-covered sword or sword-like object lying on a gray surface, surrounded by additional fabric pieces featuring patriotic patterns.

Now I need to press my straps flat.

A close-up view of fabric strips featuring red, white, and blue patterns, including American flags and a plaid design, laid out on a gray felt surface.
Three fabric strips featuring patriotic patterns, including American flags, stars, and plaid designs, laid on a textured background.

I’m going to sew close to both sides of each strap. This is for 2 reasons – 1st because it will keep the straps flat and 2nd because the stitching will help stabilize the straps as we did not add any interfacing or batting.

I’m also going to add more stitching down the middle of each strap for even more stabilization. And I’m going to use one of the zillion special stitches on my sewing machine to make it fun. I chose this cute star and decided to use variegated thread.

After I finished the straps, though, I wish I had used a solid navy blue thread instead of the variegated because the stars would have shown up better. Oh well…….

Close-up of a sewing machine stitching a fabric strip decorated with red stars and blue patterns.
Two strips of decorative fabric with red, white, and blue patterns, one featuring stars and the other with plaid and stars, laid on a gray surface.

Time to work on the body of the tote now. I’m going to sew the smaller rectangles to the top and bottom of the large rectangles to make 2 bags. The finished bag doesn’t have any interfacing or batting, so if you want to add any to make your bag sturdier, now would be the time to add it. But I’m going to continue without adding any stabilizer for this one.

When I make a project for the first time, I like to follow the directions pretty close so I understand how it all goes together. Then if/when I make another one, I might choose to make changes or adapt the pattern.

Close-up of fabric pieces featuring red, white, and blue patriotic patterns as well as quilting stars, alongside a sewing machine.
Two fabric panels displayed side by side, featuring various patterns including plaid, stripes, polka dots, and stars in red, white, and blue colors.

I’m going to fold each bag body section in half with RST so the top and bottom edges match. Then I’m going to sew down both sides of the tote for both pieces. When you turn them RSO, don’t forget to push out the corners and give the bags a press.

Assorted pieces of fabric featuring patriotic patterns, including American flags, a checkered design, and a star print.
Close-up of a sewing machine with fabric under the needle, featuring a light gray patterned material. The machine is positioned on a work surface, with measuring lines visible in the foreground.
A selection of four fabric swatches featuring various patterns: a light blue plaid, a red and white striped fabric with stars, a solid red fabric, and a navy blue fabric with white floral designs.

All that is left is to assemble the bag parts and the straps.

If desired, you can fold under the tops of the bags as the next step before placing one bag inside the other with wrong sides together, but I prefer doing the top seam allowance after 1 bag is already inside the other bag because I find I can get the top seams lined up better.

I’m going to turn one of the bags inside out again and place it inside the other bag (which is RSO) so that the wrong sides are facing towards each other. Smooth the bags out and line up the side seams.

I like to work with one bag at a time as I fold and press the seam allowance to the wrong side of the bag. Next I’ll match the top edges as I fold the 2nd bag seam allowance towards the wrong side and press. I pin generously to keep the bag tops lined up.

Two pieces of fabric with star patterns, one in red, white, and blue, and another in gray and red stars on a white background, laid on a gray surface.
Close-up of a sewing project featuring red fabric with black star patterns, pinned to a blue fabric with red and white stripes, on a gray felt surface.
A piece of red fabric with a star pattern, pinned with colorful fabric clips for sewing, partially layered with a contrasting fabric featuring stripes and stars.
A piece of red fabric with a pattern of stars and small flowers, pinned to a striped fabric and a blue patterned fabric underneath.

Before I sew the top of the bag, though, I need to insert my straps and pin them. I used my ruler when I pinned the straps between the 2 bags so that everything would be neat and square.

A close-up of a cutting mat with a ruler on top, featuring a patriotic fabric printed with American flags. A sewing needle and pins are also visible.
A close-up view of a quilting workspace featuring red, white, and blue fabric with American flag designs, a cutting mat with measurement grids, and pins holding the fabric in place.
A close-up view of a partially assembled tote bag featuring a red fabric with stars, decorated straps with star patterns, and colorful pins securing the fabric pieces on a gray surface.

The last thing to do is to sew around the top of the bag close to the edge. I then zigzagged around the top of the bag to give the straps a little more support. Apparently, I forgot to take a few photos of this step. LOL! Sorry about that.

Anyway, here is my finished bag (again). All 4 sides.

A handmade tote bag featuring a red and navy polka dot design with star-patterned straps.
A tote bag featuring a patriotic design with red, white, and blue colors, including American flags and polka dots.
A patterned fabric tote bag featuring a star design on the top section and horizontal stripes on the bottom.
A fabric tote bag featuring a plaid design on the top half and a striped pattern with small dots on the bottom half, hanging against a textured background.

What a super fun tote bag! Hmmmmm……..I’m thinking these would make great “gift bags” for Christmas. A gift within a gift.

Small Project Summer Challenge Week 3 Next Week

Next week for Week 3 of our Small Project Summer Challenge, we’ll be making pillows/pillow covers. We have some really fun VRD options for you! You can find both digital and print pillow patterns HERE.

Garden Wishes

Parade Day

Spring Blooms

Good Luck

Dot to Dot

Happy Hearts

Belinda Jane

Louisa Jane

Your pillow project is due by midnight July 10th EST.

Enjoy your 250th celebration this weekend!

Until next week!

Sew. Laugh. Celebrate. Repeat.

Always,

Tricia @ VRD

2026 Small Project Summer Challenge · Rose Cards · Tutorials · villa rosa designs

Small Project Summer Challenge Week 1 and a NEW VRD Rose Card Quilt Tutorial – Cabin Fever

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Hello Quilty Friends!

Happy Thursday to you!

Are you ready for our Small Project Summer Challenge? I know I am! I can’t wait to see what everyone is making for Week 1 – a quilt under 50″ square. I’ll be checking Facebook out eagerly to see everyone’s projects, so make sure you get a photo of your completed Week 1 project onto the VRD Facebook page before Friday, June 26th midnight EST. Or you can email me your photo at tricia@villarosadesigns.com.

Colorful promotional graphic for the VRD Small Project Summer Challenge featuring sewing themes. It lists six weeks of projects with due dates: Week 1 - Quilt smaller than 50" x 50", Week 2 - Tote Bag, Week 3 - Pillow, Week 4 - Scarf, Week 5 - Table Runner, Week 6 - Snack Mat Duo.
A colorful promotional graphic for the VRD Small Project Summer Challenge, featuring sewing-themed illustrations and details on how to join, including weekly photo submissions and prize eligibility.

So far I have 34 folks signed up for our Summer Challenge. I am thrilled and welcome each and every one of you with a great big hug! A BIG high-five to those of you who already participated in one of the 6 Quilts in 6 Weeks Challenges…and a super special welcome to those of you signing up for a VRD Challenge for the first time. Be prepared to laugh a lot and be inspired by everyone’s projects for the next 6 weeks. Not only are you creating some fun small projects that make great gifts for yourself or someone else on your gift giving list, each week that you complete the weekly challenge, your name goes into a random weekly drawing. Prizes will be shipped after the Challenge is over.

Wanna see my Week 1 Project???

Tricia’s Summer Challenge Week 1 Make

I’ve always wanted to make Cabin Fever by Running Doe Quilts for VRD. Log Cabin quilts are some of my many favs so when I hatched the Summer Challenge, I just knew I had to make Cabin Fever……finally.

A woman holds a colorful quilt titled 'Cabin Fever' in front of a rustic wooden backdrop, showcasing its vibrant patterns and designs.

Get your digital pattern HERE or your print pattern HERE

And since it’s summertime as well as the 250th birthday of the USA, I simply had to use patriotic fabrics, of course. LOL!

Sooooooo, here’s my Patriotic Cabin Fever!

A colorful patchwork quilt featuring red, blue, and white fabrics with floral and star patterns, displayed outdoors against a grassy field with trees in the background.

I think it turned out really cute and I plan to hang it in the living room over the sofa just as soon as I get a chance to do it.

And here’s a fun photo I just had to take on my cute little red Jeep Compass. It was a perfect day with the gorgeous summer sky and fluffy clouds, about 75 degrees. And all the green in the background. Welcome to NW PA!

A colorful quilt displayed on the hood of a red car under a blue sky with fluffy clouds and green trees in the background.

I used a 100% cotton variegated red, white, and blue Aurifil thread to quilt it in my usual loopy design. The binding is a navy blue solid and I machine stitched it on. I think I’ve finally gotten the hang of that now – it saves me so much time these days, although I still like the look of hand-stitched binding better.

You might notice that my blue strips at the top and bottom are actually 2 similar blue prints sewn together in the center of the strip. I was using a collection of fat quarters and a couple pieces of coordinating yardage to make my Cabin Fever quilt. I didn’t plan out the fabric very well and then I ended up not having enough of 1 blue fabric to use for the top and bottom, so I improvised. I ended up piecing 2 very similar fabrics to make the strips long enough for the top and bottom of the quilt. But, you know what? I think it turned out pretty well and it looks intentional, not random.

How about a tutorial for Cabin Fever?

VRD Cabin Fever Quilt Tutorial

I started with a leftover collection of Moda Star Spangled FQs plus a few coordinates as you can see here. But my blue FQs weren’t complete as I’d used some of them in another porject.

A collection of folded fabric pieces featuring various patterns, including polka dots and stars, in red, white, and blue colors, arranged on a cutting mat.

I started with the center square. I cut my pieces as I sewed, do likewise of you want. Or you can cut everything out at once before you begin sewing. You could even cut multiple quilts out at once.

I chose this really pretty light floral print for the center because I didn’t want it to be a quilt that necessarily screamed patriotic, but I wanted my quilt to be patriotic. Does this make any sense at all?

A square piece of fabric with a floral pattern featuring red, blue, and white flowers on a light background, placed on a cutting mat.
A rotary cutter positioned on a red polka dot fabric square, with a transparent ruler placed over it, resting on a cutting mat with grid lines.

Then I sewed the red strips to the top and bottom of my floral square.

A patchwork fabric piece featuring a floral pattern with red and blue flowers on a cream background, bordered at the top and bottom with solid red fabric with white polka dots.

Time to cut and add the side strips next.

An arrangement of red, white, and blue fabric pieces, featuring floral patterns and star designs, placed on a cutting mat.
A quilt square featuring a floral print center surrounded by red and blue patterned borders with polka dots and stars.

Next up are top and bottom strips. You’ll notice that the strips get wider for each top/bottom or sides round. I think that’s part of the magic in this pattern. Going bigger means less strips and less piecing to get to the desired size which translates into a faster project. Yay!

A patchwork of colorful fabrics, including red, blue, and white patterns, showcasing floral designs and polka dots arranged on a cutting mat.
A patchwork quilt design featuring red, white, and blue fabrics with floral patterns and stars, arranged in a rectangular layout.

Side strips again. This quilt is coming together really fast!

A close-up of colorful fabric squares, featuring a mix of red and blue patterns including checks, floral designs, and stars, laid out on a cutting mat.
A colorful quilt block featuring a mix of red, white, and blue fabrics with various patterns including polka dots and floral designs.

Last, but not least are the final top/bottom strips. This is where I ran into trouble. LOL! I wanted dark blue at the top and bottom, but I didn’t have enough of a single fabric. So, I improvised by piecing 2 similar fabrics together for the top/bottom strips. I took a few extra minutes to line up the center seams so they matched and looked intentional. And I flipped the bottom strip so the same fabric wasn’t on the same side. I think it turned out pretty well in the end.

A close-up view of three fabric pieces, featuring a blue fabric with white stars, a solid blue patch, and a floral print in red and white, arranged on a cutting mat.
A colorful quilt top featuring a central floral pattern, surrounded by varying patterns of red, blue, and pink fabric.
A handmade quilt displayed on a wall, featuring a patchwork design with red, white, and blue fabrics, surrounded by a blue border.

Voila! The finished quilt top!

A colorful quilt featuring red, white, and blue fabrics with various patterns, displayed on a white wooden wall. A vase of fresh flowers and a decorative star are placed on a wooden table in front.

I hope you’ll give this fast and fun small quilt a try sometime. It really is a great summer make. It is a super wall quilt (I’ll show you when I actually get it up on the wall) or a wonderful table quilt – perhaps for a summer picnic – or as a lovely quick baby quilt. Use your stash or use it as an excuse to go shopping at your local quilt shop.

Next week for Week 2 of our Summer Challenge is a TOTE BAG. We have 2 different VRD tote bag patterns to chose from: Olivia Jane or Tabitha Jane. Olivia Jane uses 5″ Charm squares while Tabitha Jane uses FQs.

Here’s a fun tutorial for Olivia Jane where I show you some of the adaptations you can add to your Olivia Jane tote.

Image showcasing three views of the Olivia Jane Charm Square Patchwork Tote, featuring colorful patchwork designs and information about tote construction using 18 five-inch squares.

Get your digital pattern HERE or your print pattern HERE

Promotional poster for a reversible tote bag by Tabitha Jane, featuring four colorful bags with different patterns, fabric requirements, and construction details.

Get your digital pattern HERE or your print pattern HERE

Well, that’s it for me this week!

Enjoy your Small Project Summer Challenge sewing and I’ll see you next week right here!

Sew. Laugh. Repeat.

Always,

Tricia @ VRD

2026 Small Project Summer Challenge · Curated Rose Card Pattern Lists · Rose Cards · villa rosa designs

The VRD Small Project Summer Challenge and a Curated List of Small Quilts under 50″ x 50″

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Hello Quilty Friends!

Happy Thursday to you!

Are you getting ready for our Small Project Summer Challenge? The first project is a quilt 50″ x 50″ or smaller and is due Friday, June 26th by midnight EST. Here’s all the info for you in case you missed it last week or on our VRD Facebook page:

Promotional poster for the VRD Small Project Summer Challenge featuring instructions on how to participate, deadlines, and prize information. Includes colorful graphics of sewing tools, quilt patterns, and decorative elements.

And here’s the schedule for the Challenge:

Graphic for VRD Small Project Summer Challenge, featuring a colorful layout with sewing icons and a schedule for six weeks of sewing projects, including a quilt, tote bag, pillow, scarf, table runner, and snack mat duo.

I had some questions about the Challenge, so I thought I’d share them with you in case you were wondering the same thing. 🙂

  1. Do the projects have to be completed? Yes, the projects need to be fully completed (quilts need to be quilted and bound) and a photo uploaded to our VRD Facebook Page or you can email photos to me at tricia@villarosadesigns.com by the week’s deadline midnight EST.
  2. Can I change/alter a pattern? Absolutely! As long as you are using a VRD pattern, you are welcome to change the size of the project, number of blocks, size of blocks, etc.
  3. Can the pillow be a pillow sham or cover? Yep, I believe most if not all of our VRD pillow patterns are for pillow covers.
  4. Do I have to do all 6 weekly challenges? Nope, you can do as many of the 6 weekly challenges as you are able. You will be entered in the weekly prize drawings that you create a project for. Easy peasy.
  5. Can I make projects ahead or can I only make one each week? I have no problem if you work ahead when you have time (hey……that’s how I roll, too). Just remember to upload your weekly project photo to the FB group or send it to me via email by each week’s deadline.
  6. Is there a separate FB group for the Small Project Summer Challenge? Nope, I have found it a lot more efficient if I stick with the VRD Facebook page that way everyone can see our Challenge projects and they’ll wish they signed up if they didn’t. Personally, I love all the inspiration I get from seeing everyone’s projects (wink, wink).

If you have a question I haven’t answered yet, just email me at tricia@villarosadesigns.com.

Our Week 1 Challenge, due June 26th by midnight EST, is a quilt under 50″ x 50″. Yes, it does need to be quilted and bound. When I set this size for the project, I was totally thinking wall quilts or table quilts (NOT runners). If your project ends up a bit wider/longer than 50″, that’s okay – I’m not that fussy. 🙂

There are quite a few smaller quilts hiding in our VRD Rose Card pattern catalog, so i thought I share them with you. And besides, it’s been a while since I created a curated pattern list.

Curated List of Small Quilts under 50″ x 50″

In addition to the 50″ x 50″ or smaller patterns below, here’s a few other suggestions for you: 1. Make larger VRD patterns smaller by making less blocks or making the blocks a smaller size. 2. You could expand a table runner, pillow cover, or other small project if desired.

Now let’s check out some great smaller VRD patterns! I’ve included links to both the digital and print versions of the patterns for your convenience. Remember, print patterns always ship for free, regardless of how many you purchase.

A person holding a colorful quilt named 'Asagail' featuring hexagonal patterns in various bright colors, standing against a wooden background with greenery.

Digital pattern HERE or Print pattern HERE

A colorful baby quilt titled 'Baby Zip Tease' featuring a zigzag pattern with shades of orange, blue, pink, and floral designs, displayed on a textured surface.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A quilt featuring a colorful block pattern with shades of orange, purple, black, and white, titled 'Baraboo Two' by Rachelle Handmade for Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A quilt design featuring three vertical panels of colorful patchwork patterns in vibrant reds, purples, and floral prints, with the title 'BE MY BABY' and 'Villa Rosa Designs' branding.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A fluffy dog sits in front of a vibrant quilt with purple and floral patterns, featuring the text 'Birdie' at the top and 'Running Doe Quilts For Villa Rosa Designs' at the bottom.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt design titled 'Blinds' featuring a variety of patterns in blue, green, and floral motifs, designed by Molly Cook for Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A decorative quilt titled 'Borderline' featuring various festive animals, including a Christmas tree, surrounded by red and green borders, designed by Molly Cook for Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt featuring a geometric pattern of triangles in various colors and textures, titled 'Boscobel', designed by Rachelle Handmade for Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt titled 'Bunny Hop' displayed outdoors against a backdrop of green trees, featuring a mix of floral and geometric patterns.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A woman holding a colorful quilt titled 'Cabin Fever' in front of a rustic wooden backdrop.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt titled 'Candies' featuring a patchwork design with various patterned squares in pastel colors, created by Heidi Cook for Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt design featuring a diagonal pattern of various fabric squares on a floral background, with the title 'CAREFREE' at the top and 'Villa Rosa Designs' at the bottom.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

Colorful quilt design featuring floral patterns in various shades of pink, green, and black, titled 'Child's Play' from Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A quilt with a deer head design in shades of brown, featuring geometric patterns. The title 'Chili' is at the top, with the name 'Heidi Cook for Villa Rosa Designs' displayed below.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

Colorful quilt design titled 'Chips & Dip' featuring a patchwork of vibrant fabric squares in various patterns, created by Heidi Cook for Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt featuring cat designs in various colors, displayed against a brick wall, with text at the top reading 'COLOR CAT' and additional branding at the bottom.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt featuring letters A to Z, each surrounded by patterned fabric squares and decorative motifs, designed by Molly Cook for Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt titled 'Country Life' featuring various floral and geometric patterns, bordered with a decorative design by Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt titled 'Dainty Machines' featuring various sewing machine designs surrounded by floral patterns, displayed against a brick wall.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt featuring a patchwork design with red, blue, and cream fabrics, showcasing floral and festive patterns. The top of the image displays the word 'Dakota' and the brand 'Villa Rosa Designs'. A pink rose is also included in the design.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt named 'Duffy' displayed outdoors with cows in the background, featuring a mix of patterned squares and designs, under a blue sky.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt design featuring a patchwork of various floral and geometric patterns in shades of pink, green, blue, and cream, with the title 'Eden Rose' and the label 'Villa Rosa Designs' displayed prominently.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A vibrant quilt design featuring floral patterns in various colors, titled 'Easy Does It' by Villa Rosa Designs. The background is a blend of soft pink and intricate designs, with the title and brand name displayed prominently.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt titled 'Elegant Braids' featuring a zigzag design made from various patterned fabrics, displayed against a brick wall.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt design featuring various patterned squares on a green background, with the title 'Emma Grace' and a rose graphic in the upper right corner. The design is framed with a decorative border at the bottom.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt design featuring various patterned squares in vibrant colors, with an orange background and a rose graphic in the top right corner. Text includes 'Eureka' and 'Villa Rosa Designs'.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful patchwork quilt featuring a mix of floral and animal patterns in pink, green, and yellow shades, titled 'Fairhaven' by Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A quilt design featuring a patchwork of red, black, and white fabrics, with floral and geometric patterns. The word 'FREEDOM' is prominently displayed at the top, alongside a graphic of a red rose. The design is branded with 'Villa Rosa Designs' at the bottom.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt design featuring patchwork squares in various patterns and colors, labeled 'GALAXY' at the top and 'Villa Rosa Designs' at the bottom, with decorative floral elements.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt titled 'Game Play' featuring sports-themed fabric squares, including soccer, basketball, and football designs, framed with a yellow border.

Digital pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt featuring a patchwork design with varying patterns and colors, displayed outdoors with greenery in the background. The design is accompanied by the title 'Giggles' and credits to Tricia Lynn Maloney and Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt design titled 'Gilda' by Villa Rosa Designs, featuring a patchwork pattern with various floral and geometric fabrics in shades of green, pink, and purple, set against a pink background.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt featuring various dog breeds and playful fabric patterns, titled 'Happy Daze' by Tamara Cook for Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt titled 'Happy Hollies' displayed against a brick wall, featuring red and green patchwork designs with polka dots.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

Quilt design titled 'Hollandale' featuring a colorful patchwork pattern in shades of blue, green, and purple, displayed against a teal background.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt named 'Jasper' displayed against a white brick wall, featuring geometric patterns in various shades of blue, red, yellow, and green. The quilt is partially draped over a flat surface, with a logo for Running Doe Quilts and Villa Rosa Designs at the bottom.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt design featuring various patchwork squares in vibrant patterns, framed by the title 'LA FRANCE' and 'Villa Rosa Designs', with a pink rose in the corner.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A quilt design called 'Leucadia' featuring a patchwork of red, green, and white fabrics with various patterns, bordered by a floral print. The design includes text elements like 'joy' and 'peace'.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt design titled 'Lollipop' featuring a patchwork pattern with bright squares on a white background, displayed outdoors among greenery.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A quilt design titled 'Malaysia' featuring a patchwork pattern with dark blue and white squares, adorned with colorful floral prints. The design is framed with a decorative maroon and gold border, and includes the text 'Villa Rosa Designs' at the bottom.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt design titled 'Mesa Verde' featuring abstract patterns in various shades of blue and green, with floral motifs, against a light beige background. The design is accompanied by branding for 'Villa Rosa Designs' and a decorative floral image.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A quilt design featuring a patchwork layout with various shades of blue, gray, and yellow fabrics. The quilt is surrounded by a simple wooden border and includes text indicating the title 'Mod Tiles Too' along with the designer's name and affiliation.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A quilt design titled 'Moondance' by Villa Rosa Designs, featuring a patterned background with geometric shapes in gray and light blue tones, and a white rose in the top corner.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

Colorful quilt design titled 'Moonstone' featuring various floral and animal patterns in shades of blue, purple, and green, with branding from Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt with geometric patterns displayed on pine needles, set against a backdrop of trees and stone structure. The title 'native' is prominent at the top, and 'deeply rooted in clay' is featured at the bottom.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

Colorful quilt featuring a geometric design with squares and contrasting colors, labeled 'Neenah' by Rachelle Handmade for Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

Digital quilt pattern titled 'Nevada' designed by Villa Rosa Designs, featuring a patchwork of floral and geometric fabric squares in various colors against a teal background.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt titled 'Night Light' featuring a variety of patterned squares in shades of blue, yellow, pink, and orange, with floral and geometric designs, by Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful nursery rhyme-themed quilt with various patches featuring playful illustrations, surrounded by colorful toys including yellow construction tubes and small vehicles.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt design titled 'Odyssey' featuring a patchwork of various fabric patterns in red, blue, yellow, and black, with whimsical motifs including hot air balloons and flowers. The quilt is framed by a decorative border.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

Colorful quilt design titled 'On Stage' by Villa Rosa Designs, featuring a patchwork of vibrant patterns, including florals, paisleys, and checkered designs, set against a red background with a rose graphic.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

Colorful quilt design titled 'Painted Moon' featuring a star pattern with floral background, designed by Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt titled 'Playdate' with various playful fabric patterns, placed on the floor with a stuffed bear and an open book on top.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

Cover of a quilting pattern titled 'Pocket Change' by Kate Griffin, featuring a colorful quilt design with rectangular patches in various shades against a white background.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A quilt titled 'Pristine' designed by Villa Rosa Designs, featuring a patchwork of gray and black fabrics with floral and patterned designs, complemented by a decorative rose in the upper right corner.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt design titled 'Rebound' by Molly Cook for Villa Rosa Designs, featuring a mix of patterns and vibrant colors.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A vibrant quilt design titled 'Rhiannon' featuring a patchwork of colorful squares in various floral and geometric patterns, with a decorative border and a yellow rose in the top right corner.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt named 'Scallywag' featuring a pattern of yellow and blue rectangular sections against a black background with abstract designs, displayed outdoors.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

Quilt design featuring a seafood theme with patches depicting fish, octopuses, and waves, titled 'Seafood' by Heidi Cook for Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt design titled 'Seasoning' featuring various animal and nature-themed fabric blocks, created by Heidi Cook for Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A woman holding a colorful quilt featuring a chevron pattern in yellow, orange, and blue against a wooden background. The quilt is titled 'Serengeti' and is associated with Running Doe Quilts for Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

Colorful quilt design titled 'Silver Star' by Villa Rosa Designs, featuring a star pattern in vibrant hues of yellow, green, blue, orange, and purple, framed by a patterned border.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt design featuring horizontal stripes with various patterns of animals, flowers, and trees, titled 'Simple Simon' by Tricia Lynn Maloney for Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A young woman is holding a colorful quilt featuring zigzag patterns with various fabric designs, standing in front of a rustic metal backdrop. The quilt is labeled 'Smidge' and features branding for Running Doe Quilts.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt featuring various patches in bright colors like pink, green, blue, and orange mixed with black and white patterns, titled 'Specks of Color' by Molly Cook for Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt titled 'Split Charms' featuring a pattern of squares in black, white, and vibrant colors, designed by Sugar Pine for Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A quilt design featuring a star pattern in red and black, titled 'Starfire' by Villa Rosa Designs. The quilt is made with alternating floral and geometric prints, set against a bold red background, with decorative elements at the top and bottom.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

Colorful quilt design featuring various patterned squares in yellow, blue, red, and green, titled 'Sunprite' by Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A quilt design named 'Taffy' by Heidi Cook for Villa Rosa Designs, featuring a patchwork of colorful and patterned fabric strips.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A quilt design named 'Take 5' featuring a pattern of blue, cream, and black fabrics arranged in a geometric layout, attributed to Melissa Milligan for Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt titled 'Tic Tac Toad' featuring playful patterns and designs, displayed on a chair. The quilt is predominantly made of green, blue, yellow, and patterned fabrics.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A quilt titled 'Triple It' designed by Molly Cook for Villa Rosa Designs, featuring a patchwork design with colorful fabrics in red, green, orange, and blue arranged in a grid pattern.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A cozy quilt titled 'Tumblebug' displayed on a bench near a window, accompanied by a stuffed bear and a decorative pillow.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A quilt design titled 'Underline' featuring colorful patterned squares in a grid layout. The patterns include letters, animals, and abstract designs. The design is attributed to Molly Cook for Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

Quilt design titled 'Up & Away' featuring hot air balloons, clouds, and inspirational quotes. Designed by Tamara Cook for Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A colorful quilt titled 'Ups and Downs', featuring zigzag patterns in purple and pink tones set against a gray background. The quilt is framed with a purple border and displayed on a textured wooden background with pink hues.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

Quilt titled 'Viroqua' featuring colorful arrow patterns in bright pink, orange, green, and blue against a contrasting background.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

A quilt design titled 'Whirly Bird' featuring geometric patterns in shades of gray and white on a wooden backdrop. The design is framed with black borders and includes text noting the designer, Tricia Lynn Maloney, and the brand, Orphan Quilt Designs for Villa Rosa Designs.

Digital Pattern HERE or Print Pattern HERE

Well, that’s it, folks! What an amazing collection of small quilts 50″ x 50″ or smaller. I knew we had a lot, but this is even more than I remembered!

I sincerely hope you made it all the way through the patterns, because there are some really awesome patterns. I bet you added some new-to-you ones to your “want to make” list. I know I did.

That’s a wrap! Next week I’ll show off my first project and I can’t wait to see what all of you participants are making for Week 1 of the Small Project Summer Challenge here on the VRD blog.

Until next week!

Sew. Laugh. Make. Repeat.

Always,

Tricia @ VRD