The Flying Geese Quilt Pattern
The Flying Geese block is a very basic and foundational pattern to learn. You will use it often. It offers an exquisite arrangement of arrows that can often form a variety of pleasing patterns. This block is easily recognizable as a large triangle within a rectangle. You could even say the block resembles a two-tone envelope. The two colours should contrast each other well. Additionally, the width should be twice the height.
The Flying Geese block does well on its own or combined with other blocks. You will definitely want to add this lovely block pattern to your quilting repertoire, as it is often used in a variety of other blocks. These include such blocks as the Dutchman’s Puzzle, Wild Goose Chase, Pineapple, Kite Trails, Toad in a Puddle, and Jacob’s Ladder, just to name a few. It does especially well as a border pattern along the outside edge of a quilt also.
The History and Meaning Behind the Flying Geese Pattern
This pattern dates back to the 1800s, and as mentioned earlier, is a main staple for other larger blocks that contain triangular shapes. The large triangle in the centre represents “a goose in flight” while the two smaller triangles, flanking the larger one on either side, represent “the sky.”
No one knows for sure where the Flying Geese pattern block came from. In many cases, it seems, quilt names simply come from the experiences of everyday life. Quilters are artists. We take our inspiration from our homes, families, and even nature itself. Quilters of the past likely looked up into the sky and noticed the return of migrating geese. The loud calls and honks of these robust creatures would have been hard to miss as they flew overhead. With the arrival of geese, early quilt makers could anticipate warmer days and the new growth of spring.
Making Use of Scraps in a flying geese quilt
Using the Flying Geese block is a wonderful way to make use of leftover fabric strips and scraps. This block uses small fabric pieces and allows for size adaption within the pattern.
Quilting has a long tradition of zero waste. This is because quilt scraps are often saved and then reused in the making of other quilts. When we reuse our fabric scraps, we are upcycling them. The term “upcycling” refers to the sustainable practice of not only recycling materials but also putting them to a better use than what they were originally intended.
Therefore, save all your fabric scraps. You can upcycle them into something truly beautiful. You and your family will enjoy your handmade quilts far into the future, and they will stand the test of time.
Experience the flying geese quilt block for Yourself
When you go to sit and stitch your quilt, you will now know the deeper meaning behind the design. As we create new quilts, we are keeping old traditions alive; traditions of storytelling, capturing special moments in time, and the pleasure of being a bit resourceful.
Thank you for stopping by to visit Kick Ass Quilts. Check back often for new inspiration and the very latest in quilting knowledge. Also, learn how to make this attractive pattern in the Quilt College with the sampler quilt class.
Do you have a Flying Geese quilt that you want to share with us? contact me to share your creation.
Happy quilting my friends!
Sources:
https://www.quilting-in-america.com/flying-geese.html
https://fieldguidetoquilts.com/3Triangle/3TriFlyingGeese.shtml
Pleasance’s Flying Geese
https://www.delbrookquiltcompany.com/blog/block-five-geese-tracks
