Starting Small Still Counts with Just About Everything

From Quilts to Exercise…

weekly quilt ladies news

I am writing with a very heavy heart.
I am going a head with what I had planned, BUT…

Well…I tried, but goals change…sometimes really fast.  I had good intentions about going back to the gym this year. Really solid plans of course a new outfit, new shoes, half the reason to go !Free Quilt Pattern

But here’s the thing… (having a thing is like, I got a guy for that project) I’m back to swimming every day instead. Turns out after 2 weeks and 5 visits my knees, my schedule, and my general attitude all voted for I am staying with the pool. No loud music, no mirrors, no pretending I enjoy machines. My steady pace, quiet water, and a reminder that moving your body doesn’t have to make me feel “Am I doing it right?”

So, my only buy a month plan was good, my start small plan as good and the weather changed from the 50’s to the 70’s, have invited me back into the pool of possibilities of feeling better.

Quilt Tip of the Week – NEW Rule

Quilting counts as exercise.
If your smartwatch disagrees, throw it in the bobbin drawer.

The Quilt Ladies Weekly Free Quilt Block Pattern
Free Quilt Block Pattern

If you’re in the mood for something simple and comforting, I’m sharing a favorite beginner friendly pattern this week.  It’s squares and triangles, my how to for squares, and for triangles. It works beautifully with fabric you already have, or for a bit of fabric shopping therapy.  Here is the PDF for you to download, NO SIGNING up, just click and get, print and it’s yours. My Cross Squares Blue Quilt Block has a finished size of 10″ x 10″.

Cross Square Blue Quilt Block Pattern from The Quilt Ladies Cross Squares Blue Quilt Block from The Quilt Ladies

What’s New Or At my Etsy Shop
This week is what’s Fun from my Etsy Shop and only on my Etsy Shop, read about Baskets of Applique Flowers Pattern from my Etsy Shop Here

Baskets of Applique Flowers from The Quilt Ladies

applique flowers

Right now, I’m working on a project that’s still in its “trust the process” stage. The block is drawn, the colors are still deciding what they want to be, and nothing looks right…yet? I keep telling myself…that it is okay.
And it truely is, Beth Ann

Beth Ann of The Quilt Ladies

Please support my Etsy shop and my Quilt Ladies Books and Quilt Pattern Books

The Quilt Ladies Quilt Pattern Shop

My Books and Quilt Ladies Quilt Patterns in Print and eBooks
www.BethAnnDoing.com   www.TheQuiltLadies.com

Not seeing my Facebook posts, Instagram post…I have NO idea WHY and maybe I am just to old?!? But I am here.
Please sign up for my weekly news, free quilt blocks, ideas and just a bit of what I am doing. Top Right, no additional emails will be sent. Thanks 

It’s An Ending and a Beginning !

2025 to 2026 with Joy

Hello, Welcome Friends,
Here we are… the very end of December, standing at the edge of the New Year…2026?!?
I like to think of it like opening up my fabric stash and seeing all the potential, the promise that I had when I purchased those cotton prints.
And, I always find that one fabric…
What was I thinking when
I paid money for 2 yards of THIS?!?!
To all, Health, Happiness,
time to quilt, read and that one more cup of coffee.
Happy 2026

A Quilt Block for You to Make

The Quilt Ladies Free Quilt Block Pattern

Finished quilt block
Measures 18” x 18”

December Quilt block Pattern from The Quilt Ladies

Cutting for 4 Centers

Cut 4 Purple – 1 ½” x 1 ½”
Cut 4 Yellow – 1 ½” x 1 ½”The Quilt Ladies Free quilt block pattern for December
Cut 4 Purple – 2 ½” x 1 ½”

Cut 4 White – 2 ½” x 1 ½” Side
Cut 4 White – 3 ½” x 1 ½” Top

Cut 4 Red – 3 ½” x 1 ½” Bottom
Cut 12 Red – 4 ½” x 1 ½” Left Side, Right Side

Cut 4 Green – 1 ½” x 1 ½” Right Side Bottom

 

Sashing to Put Block togetherthe quilt ladies free quilt block pattern

Cut 4 White – 5 ½” x 2 ½”
Cut 4 Red – 2 ½” x 1 ½”
Cut 1 Yellow – 2 ½” x 2 ½”

 

Outside Border of Block

Cut 6 Red – 2 7/8” x 2 7/8”free quilt block pattern
Cut 6 White – 2 7/8” x 2 7/8”
Make Triangles

Cut 4 Green – 3 ½” x 1 ½”
Cut 4 White – 3 ½” x 1 ½”
Sew together

Cut 4 Green – 5 ½” x 1 ½”
Cut 4 White – 5 ½” x 1 ½”
Sew together

Sew rows together as shown Free quilt block pattern to make from The Quilt Ladies

I finished so much in 2025, stop over and see them all.  The Book of Luke story in Quilt Blocks, Journals, Happiness/Faith reading, all The Quilt Ladies Quilt Book Patterns. Stop over and see them

See them on Amazon HERE

I’ve decided 2026 is going to be my year of “new time” not more time (still waiting on that invention), but better time. Time for ideas, quilts, small adventures, and moments that don’t involve running around like I’m in a fit of overwhelmedness…(pretty sure that’s a word)

Let's try no social And speaking of time… I’m officially drifting away from social media. Not dramatically, not with a farewell tour, quietly stepping back like someone sneaking out of a party before the karaoke starts.
Nothing I post is ever going viral, those 6 likes and not shares, I can do without, with 6K follows.  So, instead of chasing algorithms, I’m keeping things simple: if you want me, I’ll be right here on Tuesdays, coffee in hand, sharing life, quilts, and whatever else pops up. Kind of back to the basics!

My plan is simple: less rushing, more joy. Less “should,” more “why not?” Less worrying about the perfect plan, and more celebrating the small wins, like finding the scissors before the third try. If I can do that, I think 2026 and I will get along just fine.

The Quilt Ladies Book Nook
Read about ALL my other than Quilt Books HERE
This is ONLY part of what’s
New, Stop Over and See them All ! 

Lined Journal with Original Watercolors
Lined Journal with My Watercolors
The Quilt Ladies Books in Print and eBooks, NOW on Amazon
How to Survive Retirement

The Quilt Ladies Books in Print and eBooks, NOW on Amazon

All in One Year Quilt Patters from 2025
Available NOW
Finishing a quilt
Fun and Happy getting that Quilt Done
Living Slow My Book
Making Myself Better
Pancreas book all about
The Book I hope NO one ever needs, but I know some will
50 States Quilt Block Patterns
50 States Quilt Block Patterns, thank you all for purchasing and loving this book as much as I do !

Thought of the Week

So here’s to stepping into 2026 with a smile, a fresh list of ideas, and the hope that our bobbins never run out at the worst possible moment.

Bring on the new time, the new ideas, and the fun that comes with starting again. Let’s make something wonderful.

Keep Stopping IN and I will Keep doing, ME…
www.BethAnnDoing.com

Beth Ann of the Quilt Ladies
Beth Ann

Until next time,
Beth Ann
The Quilt Ladies
www.BethAnnDoing.com

Thank you for supporting my Etsy shop and my Quilt Ladies Book

SEE Beth Ann’s BOOKS on Amazon and
PDF download quilt patterns on Etsy

All The Quilt Ladies books on Amazon and Prime too
Print, eBooks and on Prime Now!

One Meaningful December, My New Christmas Quilt Devotionals

A Daily Moment in December

If you’ve ever wished for a December that felt deeper… slower… stitched with intention instead of stress, these new books might be just what your heart (and hands) need.

Scripture Reflection Daily Reading
Stitched into the Story with Quilt Blocks

This book is simple and slow a daily reading from Book of Luke (3–5 paragraphs) each day from December 1st through Christmas Eve, plus a bonus reading for Christmas Day. And a Daily Quilt Block Pattern with complete cutting and piecing instructions.

Each daily entry includes:
A short Scripture reflection (just 3–5 paragraphs)
A thoughtfully paired quilt block pattern to make
A sense of calm and connection, as you stitch both fabric and meaning into your holiday season

It’s written for anyone who craves peace in the pause, whether you’ve studied Scripture for years or never opened a Bible. This is a gentle invitation to return to something steady and sacred, one block and one story at a time.  103 paperback pages, 6″x9″ size and available HERE

Scripture Reflections, Stitched into The Story with Quilt Blocks
3-5 paragraph readings each day in December

3-5 paragraphs for your daily readng

The Book of Luke Stitched into the Story with Quilt Blocks

This edition is fuller, with more to hold and share:
The complete Book of Luke, with every chapter and verse
Daily reflections just like the first book
A children’s reading for each day — perfect for sharing with little ones or reading aloud
And my 25 quilt block patterns, so you can create a story, a quilt from beginning to end

It’s designed for families, quilting circles, or anyone who wants the full story of Jesus, stitched together with hands, on beauty. A little more Scripture, a little more heart, all wrapped in warmth.
The Book of Luke Stitched into The Story with Quilt Blocks
226 Pages, 6″x9′ size  Available only here in both Hardcover and Paperback 

Complete Daily Readings
In Paperback and Hardcover

Children's daily devotional reading for The Book of Luke

Which one is right for you?

Choose Scripture Reflection Daily Reading if you’re looking for a daily devotional that’s quiet and personal, with just enough to carry you through the month with meaning and ease. Plus my 25 Quilt Block Patterns to make at anytime.

Choose The Book of Luke Stitched into the Story if you’d like to read the full Gospel, share it with kids, or dive deeper, all while quilting your way to Christmas. and my 25 Quilt Block Patterns

I hope you like these as much as I have doing them. They are completely from my heart. I have read these readings for years and adding the quilt block patterns, I have make it complete for myself and hopefully for you. No need to wait, read them anytime of the year. Beth Ann

The Book of Luke Stitched into The Story with Quilt Blocks

Scripture Reflection Daily Reading
Stitched into the Story with Quilt Blocks

How to Quilt Tuesday Thread – Make a Triangle Block

Triangle Quilt Block

Last week we learned to use freezer paper and made a 4-patch quilt block, today let me share how to make a triangle quilt block.
Tuesday Thread - How to Quilt
Beth Ann is The Quilt Ladies

Many quilt blocks start with squares and triangles and this is the way I learned to do they SO many years ago. Of course there are new methods, do and use what you like, you do YOU!
My Books in Print on Amazon

My Etsy Shop

How to make Triangles
Take the finished size, add 7/8″ to it and that’s the size you cut your square. You want a FINISHED size Quilt Block of 2 inches, you cut the fabric 2 7/8″ to get it. etc. etc. (if using freezer paper cut it example: 2 7/8″ x 2 7/8″)

triangle quilt block pattern

Place good side of fabric to good side of fabric,
with a pencil draw a line corner to corner, this is

The line you measure your ¼” seam allowance from
Sew from edge to edge use a ¼” seam
Cut in half on the pencil line, trim threads
Open and press to the dark fabric,
There will be 2 blocks

how to make a triangle in quiltingClip off the end triangles

how to make a triangle quilt block square

Make a quilt triangle

SEE Beth Ann’s BOOKS on Amazon and
PDF download quilt patterns on Etsy

Let’s Sew a Quilt Block

Free Quilt Pattern to Make

This is a fun star quilt block to make, finished size of block is 14″ x 14″

  HERE is how I made my quilt triangles

SEE Beth Ann’s BOOKS on Amazon and
PDF download quilt patterns on Etsy

Cut 8 Red – 2 7/8″ x 2 7/8″ Two Block Quilt Pattern by The Quilt Ladies
Cut 8 Background – 2 7/8″ x 2 7/8″
MAKE Triangles

Cut 4 Background – 2 1/2″ x 2 1/2″

Cut 12 Assorted Greens – 2 1/2″  x 2 1/2″
Sew 4 patch quilt blocks,  Sew together as shown  

Cut 4Background – 6 1/2″ X 6 1/2″
Cut 2 Red – 2 1/2″ x 2 1/2″
Sew as Shown

Free Two Block Quilt Pattern by The Quilt Ladies

The finished quilt block measures, fourteen inches by fourteen inches.

Free Two Block Quilt Pattern

SEE Beth Ann’s BOOKS on Amazon and
PDF download quilt patterns on Etsy

My Weight Watchers Taco Soup

My WW Tortilla Soup

Here is Florida I’m in shorts and flip-flops pretty much year around. If I need a sweater it’s not for long and I really like that. But we booked a trip before Husband’s health started and docs all say GO ! And I know I will be eating and trying everything so…
get my favorite go to…need a few pounds off recipe.

My Weight Watchers Tortilla Soup with Chicken

This is based on Weight Watchers 0 Point Tortilla Soup. But, I need meat in mine, I need the protein it keeps me moving a bit longer. 

3 chicken breast,  in a pot with about 6 cups of water.
add 1 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon fresh ground pepper. Cook until the chicken is done, remove skin/bones. I do it this way, I can control the fat. 
Or use 4 cups of Can Chicken Bone Broth
if you can find it, just a better flavor
tortilla soup chicken dicedPull chicken out and shred.
cooking onions and celery1 cup Chopped Onions Chopped
2 Garlic Cloves
3 Green Onions Chopped
 3-4 stalks of Celery Chopped
1/2 a Green Pepper
1/3 Cup Fresh Cilantro
Spray pan with spray oil.
Cook  in soup pan, make everything tender 10-15 minutes
 
Pour Chicken broth through a strainer and back into pot.(if homemade)
  Add Shredded Chicken
 Add the rest of the ingredients to the broth
 
2 – 12oz cans of Diced Tomatoes
1/2 cup Salsa, we like hot, use what you like
1 can Whole Corn – Or fresh off the cob, the best
1/2 teaspoon Cumin
1/2 teaspoon Chili Powder
1/2 teaspoon basil
pot of Weight Watchers Tortilla SoupSimmer and let cook down.
Serve with Sour Cream (I use Greek yogurt)
And taco chips
 
 Suggestions
  • When you have leftovers after the holidays or party, make this soup, you can add anything to it and it’s wonderful.
  • Try adding fresh spinach, cut up add in about 5 minutes before serving.
  • You can use any meat, shred turkey, shred roast beef or pork, if you use another meat or don’t want to do your own chicken stock, use 4 cups of Chicken Broth
  • This is a make it your own soup.
  • We eat this year round, mostly I think because it’s a great solo-lunch for me.
  • It’s very good without meat, it will be a 0 Point meal with no meat.

    Beth Ann

    SEE Beth Ann’s BOOKS on Amazon and
    PDF download quilt patterns on Etsy

Star Quilt Pattern here for You to Make

Make a Quilt NOW, Complete Pattern Here

Let’s Make a Quilt !
Have a FANTASTIC Weekend with my free quilt pattern

Here is a Complete quilt pattern for you. I think it’s a fun quilt because of the colors and the black making it pop. This quilt LOOKS hard BUT it’s just triangles.

Orange and Blue Star Quilt

Tutorial Orange and Blue Star Quilt Pattern

I cut 3 7/8″ blocks to make my triangles, you can cut any size you would like. I made and quilted this quilt YEARS ago and I have used it as a table topper, a front door quilt and as a lay over the back of the couch quilt for color.  My quilt has a finished size of 30 inches by 30 inches.

SEE Beth Ann’s BOOKS on Amazon and
PDF download quilt patterns on Etsy

 For the center 

Cut 1 Blue  – 3 7/8″ x 3 7/8″
Cut 1 Orange  – 3 7/8″ x 3 7/8″
Make Triangles  How I make my Triangles

Orange and Blue Star Quilt Pattern

Cut 2 Blue  – 3 7/8″ x 3 7/8″
Cut 2 Orange  – 3 7/8″ x 3 7/8″
Cut 4 Black  – 3 7/8″ x 3 7/8″
Make Triangles

Cut 4 Black – 3 1/2″ x  3 1/2″

Sew units as shown, sew to the sides. Sew top and bottom as shown and sew 

Orange and Blue Star quilt block

Finished center of the quilt block. 

Orange and Blue Star Quilt Pattern using triangles

Cut 6 Orange – 3 7/8″ x 3 7/8″
Cut 6 Blue – 3 7/8″ x 3 7/8″
Make Triangles
Cut 1 Orange – 3 7/8″ x 3 7/8″
Cut 1  Blue – 3 7/8″ x 3 7/8″
Cut 2 Black – 3 7/8″ x 3 7/8″
Make Triangles
Sew as shown add sides first, then top and bottom 

Orange and Blue Star quilt pattern

Tutorial Orange and Blue Star Quilt Pattern

Orange and Blue Star Quilt
Free Star Quilt Pattern

Cut 4 Blue 3 1/2″ x 24 1/2″

Cut 4 Orange – 3 1/2″ x 3 1/2″

Sew one orange square on to each end of two blue strips

Sew sides on first and then the top and bottom

Orange and Blue Star Quilt pattern Orange and Blue Star Quilt

I cut my binding 2 1/2″ by 130″

Here is  my Quilt Ladies Tutorial for you on How I do quilt binding

Orange and Blue Star Quilt Pattern by The Quilt Ladies

Beth Ann of The Quilt Ladies
Beth Ann is The Quilt Ladies

SEE Beth Ann’s BOOKS on Amazon and
PDF download quilt patterns on Etsy

All in One Year 2025 Quilt Pattern Book

A New Quilt Book – Full of Patterns, Color, and Inspiration

There’s something special about opening a new quilt book. The feel of the pages, the burst of color, and the endless ideas that start flowing. I’m excited to share that my newest quilt pattern book is ready and available! This book has been in the works for quite a while—sketched at my kitchen table, pieced in my sewing room, and finished with all the love and care that I put into every quilt I make.

All in One Year Quilt Patterns 2025 from The Quilt Ladies
from The Quilt Ladies

eBook

Book in Print
Inside, you’ll find 12 complete quilt patterns—one for each month of the year. Whether you’re in the mood for something small and quick or ready to take on a larger project, there’s a pattern here for you. Each design has simple step-by-step instructions, full-color diagrams, getting started section and how to bind a quilt.

Monthly Patterns Include:

  • JanuaryBaby Star Quilt, 44″ x 44″
  • FebruaryBaskets Around a Quilt, 42″ x 42″
  • MarchFour Patch Quilt, 36″ x 36″
  • AprilMake it Special, 30″ x 30″
  • MayScrappy Quilt, 60″ x 54″
  • JuneBreaking Down a Quilt Block, 6 assorted block patterns
  • July4 Barn Quilt Blocks, each 12″ x 12″
  • AugustEdison Tree Quilt, 38″ x 38″
  • SeptemberPut on Some Red Lipstick Quilt, 60″ x 70″
  • OctoberGrand Four You Quilt, 60″ x 52″
  • November13 Simple Quilt Blocks in 3″, 6″, and 12″ sizes
  • DecemberGolden Eye Quilt, 34″ x 34″

This book isn’t just about making quilts—it’s about taking time for yourself, playing with fabric, and bringing your creativity to life. Whether you’re quilting for your home, a friend, or just for the pure joy of making, I hope these patterns inspire you to pull out your favorite fabrics and start sewing.

You can grab your copy:

eBook

Book in Print

OR at my Etsy Shop: Each Month on It’s OWN

Beth Ann of The Quilt Ladies
Beth Ann

July Monthly Quilt Pattern

Barn Quilt Block Patterns

I love Barn quilts, but let’s face it, barns aren’t exactly a common feature in suburban homes or my condo area.

That’s why I designed four quilt patterns inspired by those rustic blocks of goodness!

Barn Quilt Blocks July 2025
Four Complete Quilt Block Patterns

Each 12″ x 12″ quilt block comes with cutting and piecing instructions, plus you’ll learn how to create squares, triangles, and flying geese quilt blocks.

All of 2025 Quilt Patterns are NOW in my NEW Book:
All in ONE Year Quilt Patterns 2025

eBook

Book in Print

Beth Ann is The Quilt Ladies
Beth Ann is The Quilt Ladies

SEE Beth Ann’s BOOKS on Amazon and
PDF download quilt patterns on Etsy

Mending the Fish Quilt

Fixing a Loved Quilt

Last weeks, weekly quilt block was my fish quilt block I did for Husband. 
We have a culture here in our family of NOT giving up our quilts and here is how I fixed Husband’s fish quilt.
Laying out each place to repair
old quilt repairPinned it really good
old quilt repairAnd used applique stitches, by hand.
They were all on seams, fabric becoming weak?
I think YEARS of use. 
AND let me add…PLEASE press your seams to ONE side, DO NOT press as you would making clothes. I know it’s a thing now to press open, but DON’T you will only weaken the threads and seam. 
how to fix an old quiltfix an older quilt by hand stitchingLooks pretty good ! 
fish quiltReady for many more years of wear !
Beth Ann of The Quilt Ladies

Thank you for supporting my Etsy shop and my Quilt Ladies Books
The Quilt Ladies Quilt Pattern Shop 
My Books and Quilt Ladies Quilt Patterns in Print and eBooks