Be Yourself, Together with Target Wedding

Target is one of my favorite destinations, so I was so happy to be invited to share in their “Be Yourself, Together” registry program. It’s no secret that opposites attract, especially when it comes to personal style in a relationship! My challenge was to select an item from the Target Wedding Registry, pair it up with a very different item, and then create a story that harmoniously blends the two.

When I saw the SwissGear luggage in the registry, a whole storyline popped into my head about a couple I call Max & Finley. Max {The Adventurer} is a photographer who loves to travel the world capturing images of exotic locales. Finley {The Nester} is a city girl whose idea of exotic is takeout from the local Thai restaurant down the block.

Finley works in an office all day, so when she comes home she likes to relax in comfort. She loves to set the mood with soft music, comfortable throws and cushions, and she especially loves scented candles. Max feels at home anywhere, but now that Finley will be accompanying him on many of his journeys, how can The Adventurer and The Nester bring a bit of home comfort with them?

With battery operated candles of course! When I went shopping at Target for the second item to go with the luggage, I thought about candles as the perfect registry item for The Nester. But regular candles aren’t always travel-friendly. As I explored the candle aisle, I was thrilled to find flameless versions that can be easily tucked into the side pocket of a carry on bag for safe transport.

Now the happy couple can have the romance of candlelight whether they’re nesting together at home, or camping in a tent in the wilderness! Best wishes to The Nester & The Adventurer, and many thanks to Target for sponsoring this post. Be sure to follow along with the Be Yourself, Together theme with #TargetWedding.

Content and/or other value provided by our partner, Target.

There’s something magical about quilt patterns that have stood the test of time, and the Old Maid’s Puzzle quilt block is no exception. This classic design, with its intricate geometry and timeless appeal, has captured the hearts of quilters for generations. Whether you’re a seasoned quilting enthusiast or just starting your journey, this roundup of 26 Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilt Patterns is brimming with inspiration to suit every skill level.

From free tutorials to premium patterns, this collection offers a delightful mix of traditional and modern interpretations of the Old Maid’s Puzzle block. You’ll find a variety of sizes, layouts, and creative takes that breathe new life into this vintage design. It’s perfect for scrap-busting projects, heirloom quilts, or adding a touch of nostalgia to your quilting repertoire.

But before we dive into the patterns, let’s take a step back and explore the fascinating history behind the Old Maid’s Puzzle quilt block. Its origins reveal much about the ingenuity and storytelling that have long been a part of quilting traditions.

The Old Maid’s Puzzle block is part of the rich legacy of puzzle quilt blocks, which became popular in the 19th century. These designs often featured interlocking shapes, symbolizing interconnectedness and complexity, much like the lives of those who pieced them together. The Old Maid’s Puzzle block, with its distinctive angular pattern, earned its name from its resemblance to a game or riddle—a playful nod to the art of creating order from scraps and fragments.

Over the years, the block has been known by various names, including “School Girl’s Puzzle” and “Bachelor’s Puzzle,” reflecting regional differences and changing social attitudes. Despite its many identities, one thing remains constant: its enduring charm and versatility. The Old Maid’s Puzzle block is not just a pattern; it’s a piece of quilting history that invites you to be part of a larger story.

Whether you’re drawn to the historical significance of the Old Maid’s Puzzle block or simply love its bold and striking design, there’s no shortage of ways to make it your own. This roundup of 26 Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilt Patterns offers endless opportunities to experiment with color, fabric, and layout, ensuring your creation is as unique as you are.

As you piece together your Old Maid’s Puzzle quilt, take a moment to appreciate the generations of quilters who have stitched this pattern before you. Each quilt tells a story, and now it’s your turn to add your chapter to this timeless tradition.

Ready to get started? Browse through the patterns, gather your favorite fabrics, and let your creativity shine. Whether you’re creating a wall hanging, a cozy lap quilt, or a show-stopping bedspread, the Old Maid’s Puzzle block is a beautiful choice that blends history with artistry. Happy quilting!

Old Maids Puzzle Quilt

Accuquilt Old Maids Puzzle

Old Maids Puzzle Quilt

A quilt block by any other name

Old Block Quilt-Along, Part 21: Old Maid’s Puzzle

Old Maid’s Puzzle – Sunrise Quilt Studio

Splish Splash Stash: old maid’s puzzle block

Block #3 – School Girl’s Puzzle (also called Old Maid’s Puzzle)

Old Maid Puzzle for Jen Kingwell’s Gypsy Wife – GnomeAngel

0227 Old Maid’s Puzzle Quilting Tutorial | Block of the Day 2023 | Rotary Cutting | AccuQuilt

Old Maids Puzzle – Stash Buster Block #19

Old Block Quilt-Along, Part 21: Old Maid’s Puzzle