Twist on the Classic String Quilt... featuring Porcelains and Wildflowers

Some quilts begin with color, others with a pattern, but this one started with the simple idea of combining two very different batik collections into one playful design. The Porcelains Expressions Batiks from Riley Blake Designs bring soft low-volume tonals that feel calm and versatile, while the Wildflowers Expressions Batiks offer a split personality: cool mauves on one side, warm golds on the other. Together, they create a balanced palette that feels grounded yet full of movement, just right for a project with a little twist.

A Twist on the Classic String Quilt

This quilt top was inspired by a technique I first saw in a video online, which later led me to Mary Ellen Hopkins’ Hidden Wells pattern, originally developed in 1989. It’s a timeless idea with plenty of room for modern interpretation, and I enjoyed reimagining it with the soft tonals of Porcelains and the glowing hues of Wildflowers.

For my version, I cut 2" wide strips, sewing ten together into a panel. I then joined two of those panels along the edges, trimming them diagonally to create four blocks. The result is a quilt top that feels structured yet spontaneous.

Simple Steps, Bold Results

This technique is refreshingly straightforward: sew strips, join them, trim on the diagonal, and suddenly you’ve got a design full of movement. That one simple cut transforms steady stripes into dynamic designs, full of contrast and surprise. It’s approachable for confident beginners but still engaging for experienced makers looking for a quick, satisfying project.

Porcelains + Wildflowers Together

What I love most about combining these two Riley Blake Designs collections is the balance they create together. The low-volumes of Porcelains add lightness and space, while the mauves and golds from Wildflowers bring warmth and depth. Together, they give each block a sense of movement without overwhelming the design.

Get Creative with Your Strips

If you’re inspired to try this yourself, experiment with strip widths, color placement, or the ratio of low-volume to vibrant hues. Alternate cool and warm Wildflowers strips, or let Porcelains anchor your layout with a soft foundation. This technique is forgiving, and each version you create will be uniquely your own.

A Gentle Nod to History

It’s always fun to see how new ideas often echo past patterns, like Mary Ellen Hopkins’ Hidden Wells, reminding us that quilting is both timeless and ever-changing.