RBD Block Challenge 2026 – Week 17: Finishing Your Quilt

This week we are finishing our RBD Block Challenge quilts. After sewing all sixteen blocks, it is so nice to take this next step and begin bringing everything together into a full quilt. I used my Thimbelina fabrics for each block, and it has been really special to see how all the prints work together now that everything is laid out.

Finishing is where the quilt really comes to life. Laying out your blocks, choosing your final arrangement, and adding borders or sashing if you choose gives you a chance to make the quilt feel complete in your own way.

Putting It All Together

Start by laying out all sixteen blocks so you can see how they work as a whole. You may want to shift blocks around until the colors and prints feel balanced across the quilt.

Once you are happy with the layout:

• Sew your blocks into rows
• Join the rows together
• Press carefully to keep everything flat

You can choose to keep the quilt simple or add sashing and borders depending on your style.

Sew With Me

Here is how I approached finishing my Thimbelina quilt.

Layout:
I laid all my blocks out first and moved them around until the colors felt evenly spread across the quilt.

Joining the Blocks:
I worked row by row, pressing seams in opposite directions so everything nested together cleanly.

A Hand Stitched Detail:
As I moved into quilting, I kept the hand stitched details subtle and consistent across the quilt. These small touches add texture and tie all the blocks together in a gentle way.

Sharing Tips:
Take your time arranging your blocks before sewing.

Snap a quick photo of your layout so you can refer back to it.

Press seams carefully to help your rows line up.

More About This Fabric Collection

Seeing all the Thimbelina fabrics together in a finished quilt really brings the collection to life. The mix of florals, small prints, sewing details, and fairy scenes creates a soft, cohesive look across all the blocks. Each print adds something different, and together they tell a gentle, story-filled design. If you would like to explore the collection, you can shop the full Thimbelina fabric collection HERE

Quilting Together

It has been such a joy to sew through this challenge together. Watching each block come to life and seeing your progress along the way has been so special. I would love to see your finished quilt or your layout as you begin assembling. Share your quilt 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.