Riley Blake Ray Of Light - Downloadable PDF

Riley Blake Ray of Light Downloadable PDF Quilt Pattern

What Is Being Made

The Riley Blake Ray of Light is a free downloadable PDF quilting project that creates a finished quilt measuring 38" x 38". This intermediate-level quilt features a striking geometric design centered around a large sunshine block as the focal point, complemented by coordinating fabric pieces arranged in a balanced composition.

Primary Quilting Techniques

This project employs several essential quilting techniques suitable for quilters with intermediate experience. The pattern utilizes appliqué as a primary construction method, where fabric pieces are layered and stitched to create dimensional design elements. The sunshine block is constructed using template-based piecing, where individual template pieces are sewn together to form the complete sunshine motif. The design also incorporates foundation piecing with interfacing stabilization, which helps maintain precise shapes and sharp points throughout the construction process.

Stitches and Construction Methods

The pattern relies on fundamental quilting stitches and seaming techniques. Pieces are sewn together using a standard ¼" seam allowance, which is the industry standard for quilting projects. The sunshine block construction involves pivoting at seams and points to create clean, accurate corners and intersections. After piecing, the sunshine block is turned right side out through an opening in the interfacing, then pressed to smooth and set the edges. The sunshine and center circle are then secured to the background using appliqué stitching with your preferred method, allowing flexibility for hand or machine appliqué techniques.

Materials and Supplies

This project uses Riley Blake Designs coordinating cotton fabric collections. The fabric requirements include 1/3 yard of red main fabric (C3150 Red) and 1/8 yard of additional coordinating pieces. A snow white shade 20½" square serves as the background foundation for the sunshine appliqué. The pattern also requires interfacing for stabilizing the sunshine block during construction. Standard quilting supplies needed include quilting needles, thread for piecing and appliqué, a rotary cutter, quilting ruler, and cutting mat for accurate fabric preparation.

Block Specifications

The centerpiece of this quilt is the Sunshine Block, which finishes at 20" x 20" when complete. This large-scale block provides visual impact and serves as the primary design element around which the remaining quilt composition is built. The sunshine design is created by sewing together individual template pieces to form the characteristic radiating sun shape, then positioning it on the contrasting background square.

Pattern Notes

This is a free project sheet available through Riley Blake Designs. The pattern assumes basic knowledge of quilting techniques and terminology. Quilters should check the Riley Blake Designs website at www.rileyblakedesigns.com for any pattern revisions or updates before beginning the project. All measurements throughout the pattern include the standard ¼" seam allowance, and pieces should be sewn with right sides together unless otherwise specified in the instructions.