RBD Block Challenge 2026 β Block 11: Interlocking Chains
Week 11 of the RBD Block Challenge brings us Interlocking Chains, designed by Amanda Niederhauser. This block has a clean, woven look that comes together with simple piecing, and I enjoyed sewing it using prints from my Thimbelina fabric collection. The design forms clearly once the rows are joined, and it felt like a steady, enjoyable block to work on this week.
Interlocking Chains is one of those blocks that looks detailed when finished but is steady and approachable to sew. I liked choosing fabrics that allowed the chain shapes to stand out without overpowering the rest of the block.
Block 11: Interlocking Chains
Interlocking Chains finishes at 10 inches by 10 inches and uses squares and rectangles arranged to form the overlapping chain pattern. The construction is straightforward, and the block comes together cleanly once the seams are pressed. It is a great design for anyone who enjoys a tidy, structured look.
Sew With Me
Here is how I approached my Thimbelina version of Interlocking Chains.
Fabric Choices:
I used a mix of Thimbelina Garden florals and a smaller scale print to help the chain shapes read clearly. The balance between larger and smaller prints worked well in this layout.
Placement:
I laid out the units before sewing to check the flow of the chain. A quick layout check helped keep the movement consistent from one side of the block to the other.
A Hand Stitched Detail:
For this block, I added a soft hand stitched outline around the chain sections using Aurifil embroidery floss. I kept the stitches light and close to the seam so the texture blends in while still giving the design a gentle handmade touch.
Sharing Tips:
- Keep your seams straight in the longer units to help the chain lines stay clean.
- Press each step so the block stays flat and aligned.
- Lay out the full block before joining to check how the prints balance across the design.
More About This Fabric Collection
The Thimbelina fabrics have been so enjoyable to sew with throughout this challenge. The collection includes soft florals, tiny thimbles, playful sewing motifs, and the sweetest scenes of fairies stitching and creating. The smaller scale prints work well in piecing, and the Garden florals add a gentle touch of color. If you are enjoying these fabrics, you can shop the full Thimbelina fabric collection HERE.
Quilting Together
It has been wonderful to see all the versions of the blocks shared so far. Interlocking Chains has a steady, structured look, and I would love to see how your version turns out. Share your Block 11 on Instagram and tag @sewastory_jenniferlong or post inside the Sew A Story Facebook Group.
What is the RBD Block Challenge
If you are new here, the RBD Block Challenge is a free quilt along hosted by RBD and features sixteen quilt blocks designed by a variety of their talented designers.
- A new block is released every Tuesday through May 26, 2026
- All blocks finish at 10 inches by 10 inches
- The challenge is beginner friendly with tips and tutorials
