Quilter's Cache Review

When I'm in need of a quilt block, practical information, or just inspiration, my first online stop is Marcia Hohn's Quilter's Cache, the home of "Quilt Blocks Galore." 

 www.quilterscache.com

Quilt designer and artist, Marcia Hohn, has created a prolific offering of all things quilt.  There are user-submitted inspirations in the photo gallery, how-to advice on paper piecing, applique, and more, and a jaw-dropping abundance of quilt block patterns and instructions.  Hohn combines traditional blocks with her trademarked original designs.  The quilt blocks are free to print out and use in your personal projects; any other use is, of course, subject to copyright protection. 

Because the emphasis of the website is to offer free patterns for quilters, the Quilter's Cache is largely supported by sales from site's store, Internet ads, and user donations.   I don't know where Hohn has the time to run a busy website and design her quilt blocks, but I'm glad she's superhuman, or I'd never have been inspired to try some really beautiful projects. 

One of my favorite wall hangings, Bird of Paradise, was inspired by her website (see above photo).  I was looking for an easy quilt that was in an updated traditional style.  I found the block on her website, and was blown away by how the block could look in a quilt.  I chose my own color palette, printed the instructions and template, and I couldn't be happier with it.  

Each quilt block on the site is assigned between 1 to 3 "pins" to denote the skill level recommended.  The Bird of Paradise quilt was rated 2 pins, because it required confident-beginner-to-intermediate quilting skills. A red pin means applique, and a checkmark means a whole quilt pattern is available for sale.  In addition to the "at-a-glance" pin ratings, block size is indicated next to each design.

If there is any downside to the site, it is the unrelenting music.  There doesn't seem to be an on/off button to click it off, so I don't browse the site until I turn off my computer speakers.  Yes, it's that bad.

Overall, that's a small issue on a hugely popular and worthwhile website.  Marcia Hohn has proven that one person can accomplish great things.  My hat goes off to her.