RBD Block Challenge 2026 – Block 9: Center Pieces

It feels exciting to reach Week 9 of the RBD Block Challenge and see how the quilt is coming together. This week’s block, Center Pieces by Vicki McCarty, has a welcoming layout that highlights the middle of the design in a simple, effective way. I enjoyed sewing this block using prints from my Thimbelina fabric collection and seeing how the fabrics interacted once the units were joined.

Center Pieces has a calm, organized feel to it. The block looks tidy and clear when pressed, and the structure allows your fabric choices to show without feeling busy. It was a nice block to slow down with and a great fit for the middle section of the challenge.

Block 9: Center Pieces

Center Pieces finishes at 10 inches by 10 inches and uses squares and rectangles arranged around a focal center. Vicki designed the block so the center can shine with a favorite print or stay subtle for a softer look. The construction is straightforward, and the final shape appears quickly once you begin assembling the rows.

Sew With Me

Here is how I approached my Thimbelina version of Center Pieces.

Fabric Choices:
I chose a print with a gentle motif for the center so it would stand out just enough without overpowering the block. The surrounding fabrics supported the center nicely.

Placement:
I laid out the full block before sewing so I could check the balance around the middle panel. This helped the design feel even from edge to edge.

A Hand Stitched Detail:
For this block, I added a hand stitched outline about a quarter inch around the center panel using Aurifil embroidery floss. Using three strands kept the stitches soft while still framing the middle in a simple, handmade way. It adds a bit of texture that blends in once the block is quilted over.

Sharing Tips:

• Keep seam allowances consistent so the center panel stays square.
  
• Press as you go to keep the block flat.
  
• Lay out the units before stitching the final seams to check alignment.
  
  
  

More About This Fabric Collection

If you enjoy sewing with Thimbelina, you can explore all of the Thimbelina quilt patterns available in our shop. Each pattern features the whimsy and charm of the collection and offers a fun way to bring the Thimbelina story into your quilting projects.
Shop Thimbelina quilt patterns HERE

Quilting Together

Thank you to everyone who continues to sew along and share blocks each week. Center Pieces is a simple block with a lot of opportunity to personalize through color and layout. I would love to see your version. Share your Block 9 on Instagram and tag @sewastory_jenniferlong or post inside our  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:->