RBD Block Challenge 2026 – Block 8: Turning Point

Reaching Week 8 of the RBD Block Challenge feels encouraging because the quilt is now halfway complete. It has been enjoyable to see the blocks grow together, and this week’s design, Turning Point by Sandy Gervais, was a nice block to sew using prints from my Thimbelina fabric collection.

Turning Point has a calm, structured layout that forms a clear shape once the units are joined. The block is simple to piece and has a tidy look when pressed. I enjoyed choosing prints for this one and seeing how the design opened up as the rows came together.

Block 8: Turning Point

Turning Point finishes at 10 inches by 10 inches and is made with squares and rectangles arranged to create the shifting pattern. Sandy designed the block so the movement is created through placement rather than complex piecing. It is a great block for Week 8 because it offers something a little different while still staying beginner friendly.

Sew With Me

Here is how I approached my Thimbelina version of Turning Point.

Fabric Choices:
I chose prints that had a mix of light and medium tones so the main shape would still read clearly once the block was assembled.

Placement:
Before sewing, I laid out the units to check how the prints moved across the block. A quick layout check helped the design feel even from corner to corner.

A Hand Stitched Detail:
For this block, I added an echo line of hand stitching about a quarter inch around the main design using Aurifil embroidery floss. I used three strands in a coordinating color so the stitches stayed soft and blended into the block. It adds a little texture and gives the finished piece a handmade look that shows through lightly once quilted.

Sharing Tips:

• Keep your seams straight to help the shifting design stay clean.
  
• Press each step to keep the block flat.
  
• Lay out the full block before joining the final pieces to check alignment.
  
  
  

More About This Fabric Collection

If you enjoy the Thimbelina prints in this challenge, you may also enjoy being part of the Modern Rag Doll Membership. Members receive a new doll pattern each month along with helpful guidance and creative inspiration. It is a fun way to build a handmade doll collection over time and a great companion to the Thimbelina story.
Join the Modern Rag Doll Membership HERE

Quilting Together

It has been inspiring to see the blocks shared each week. Turning Point is a simple block with a lot of options for fabric choice, and I would love to see how yours turns out. Share your Block 8 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
  

Here is this week’s download:
Here is this week’s download:->