Izzy - following along
Chriss - 4 in the mail ( might be delivered)
Lori - 4 to mail
Lyn - signed up using large florals
Vel - 4 mailed
Maryq - 4
Katy - thinking
KathyR - 4
I have contemplated what we could do different for this year. Seems like we do a lot of the same things every year. I think most of us have holiday quilts and what not so thinking I will stray from those this year. I am going to focus more on different skills and techniques. While we are all accomplished quilters, never hurts to practice. Will be looking for some fresh new blocks to make. Will try to start simple. (of course that is different depending on who you are!) I figure if I can do it, anyone can do it!
So for January we will start with a Bento Box block. Here is a youtube video that is very helpful. https://youtu.be/tNJvrIgo9dQ. Please use this for your instructions. I find it nice to be able to back up and rewatch something.
So what are we practicing? Well, accurate cutting. For this one, cut a thread or two bigger and a scant 1/4 inch seam which means a thread or two smaller. When cutting, your ruler line should be ON your fabric, not next to it. Also, seam matching is important in this block. But the most important, PAY ATTENTION! It is very easy to get things turned around here. Iron to the colored fabrics. So lots of things to practice. The first one may take a bit of time but once you have done one, it gets easier.
Fabric choices, light background such as off white, light creams. Florals for the other parts. It calls for dark and medium fabrics but as long as the two are contrasting, it works fine. Here is the first one I made. Will post the second once a get a picture. As long as there is something in your fabric that looks like a flower, it is okay.
with my hectic life and the cost of postage I won’t be able to send in but will make and learn with rest of you 
izzy
