I am so honored that my friend Melanie Tuazon  asked me to participated in Peek Wednesdays this October, where she is launching her new pattern, Peek.  Mel was one of the first bloggers I ever started following when I first began reading blogs.  I love seeing and reading about her work! She’s a talented modern quilter and teacher, and I am inspired by all that she does.

Last year, Melanie wrote a pattern…  a really, really special pattern. I loved it the second I laid eyes on it; I immediately thought it was one of the most versatile and classic modern patterns I have ever seen.

Melanie’s original version of Peek was displayed at QuiltCon 2015, and is sleek and modern as can be.

Peek by Melanie Tuazon

I loved Melanie’s first version because it included so much negative space.  As a modern longarm quilter, I love nothing more than lots of negative space to free motion quilt.

But for my version, I though I might go in the opposite direction, just for fun, and to show off the versatility of the Peek Block.  I chose soft, dreamy prints (Whitewashed Cottage by Moda) that evoke memories of relaxing lakeside in a swinging hammock.  I surrounded my shabby chic Peek blocks with borders and patchwork.

It’s the most un-modern thing I’ve ever made, and I LOVE it!  I don’t say this often, but I would make this pattern again and again.  It’s so fulfilling because each different fabric choice made gives a totally different look.

Peek by Stephanie Palmer

I added a little embellishment around the four center Peek Blocks, with cotton twill ribbon that looks like measuring tape.  I found it at my Local Quilt Shop, Valli & Kim; you can order it online from them, if you like it. It comes in 5/8″ or 3/8″ (I used the 5/8″), and it’s only $1.75 a yard.

I used a single layer of wool batting to give it some loft and softness that my children won’t be able to resist.

I had plans to free motion quilt loops and feathers all over it… but then I loaded it on a longarm, and the quilt refused my plan.  I stared at it, and realized that the delicate white strips of fabric, the window panes of the block, were begging to be carefully stitched around.  As I began working on it, I realized I wanted to quilt it minimally, to focus on the beauty of the pattern.

Do you see what I mean about how versatile the pattern is?

I love Melanie’s second version of Peek too, which uses vibrant jades and blues! It’s an entirely different quilt!!!

Last week, our friend Karin showed off some fun Halloween pillows using Peek.  Again, they are so different, it’s hard to believe it’s the same block!

For a chance to receive a free copy of the Peek block, please give Melanie a follow on Instagram ( @melintheattic)  and comment below (if you’re not on Instagram, now worries, just comment below and you’ll be entered to win).  The pattern is available for sale for $8 in Melanie Tuazon’s Etsy shop.  I hope you give the Peek pattern a try.  If you do, please show us what you’ve made!  #PeekQuilt on Instagram