RBD Block Challenge 2025 - Week 15: A Bright Spark

This week’s block, A Bright Spark, designed by Amy Smart of Diary of a Quilter, lives up to its name by bringing light, energy, and creativity into our quilts. With its Quarter Square Triangles (QSTs) and dynamic design, this block feels like it’s sparking something wonderful!

Reflections: Lighting the Way

As I pieced together A Bright Spark, I thought about how small moments of creativity can ignite something bigger—just like how one block leads to a full quilt. The layered QSTs and vibrant angles gave me the chance to explore movement and precision in a way that felt both inspiring and rewarding.

For my version, I turned to my It Takes a Village collection, using teal blues, warm corals, and soft creams to create a palette that felt luminous and lively. The block inspired me to think about how we can spark joy and connection through quilting—whether it’s making a gift or teaching a friend.

A Closer Look at A Bright Spark

A Bright Spark is a 10" x 10" finished block featuring QSTs, Half Square Triangles (HSTs), and a central square. Amy’s thoughtful design offers plenty of opportunities to experiment with color placement and refine precision skills.

My Take on the Block

Here’s how I made A Bright Spark shine:

Fabric Choices: I used prints from It Takes a Village to balance vibrant teals with warm corals and soft neutrals, creating a design that feels both bold and harmonious.
Focus on Precision: The QSTs were a fun challenge, and I loved how their alignment added a sense of direction to the block.
Tips for Success:

When creating QSTs, mark diagonal lines clearly and take your time trimming for accuracy.
Press seams consistently to reduce bulk and keep points sharp.
Lay out your block pieces before sewing to ensure a balanced flow of colors.

Fabrics I Used

Spark Ideas for Giving

This block is the perfect inspiration for sparking joy in others. Here are a few ideas:

Create a Candle Mat for a Neighbor: The starburst effect of this block makes it a perfect centerpiece for a cozy gift. Pair it with a scented candle for an added touch!
Inspire a Friend: Use this block to teach a fellow quilter how to make QSTs—it’s approachable yet challenging enough to keep things interesting.
Donate to a Community Quilt: The lively energy of this block makes it a great addition to group projects, such as charity quilts or auction pieces.

Your Turn

I’d love to see how you bring your creativity to A Bright Spark! Whether you explore bold contrasts or soft harmonies, this block offers so many possibilities for connection and giving.

Share your progress on Instagram and tag @sewastory, @diaryofaquilter, @rileyblakedesigns, and #RBDblockchallenge. Let’s inspire and lift each other up through quilting!