Skip to content
Cameo Bloom: A Petite Masterclass in Reverse Needle-Turn Appliqué
Nic VaughanCameo Bloom is a little jewel of a project - a technique-packed mini quilt that lets you explore the art of reverse needle-turn appliqué without committing to a full-size quilt. This 13″ × 13″ dodecagon block project will hit the store soon. It was launched as part of the Machine Sampler Minis originally.
What Makes Cameo Bloom Special
- Geometry Meets Florals: The 12-sided dodecagon shape gives a fresh, modern twist to traditional appliqué, framing a flower and scalloped border.
- Reverse Needle-Turn Appliqué: Master the satisfying technique of cutting away background fabric and turning each edge under for a crisp, hand-stitched finish.
- Choose-Your-Own-Adventure: Use the block as a mini quilt or a cushion top (envelope back instructions included), or square it up for easy integration into larger projects.
How You’ll Grow Your Skills
By making Cameo Bloom, you’ll:
- Practice Precision Cutting: Learn to snip curves and corners for smooth, professional-looking appliqué.
- Refine Hand-Stitching: Build confidence in your needle control and thread tension, taking those tiny slip-stitches that disappear into the fabric.
- Understand Fabric Behavior: Choose fabrics that resist fraying and test show-through, a critical consideration when layering light and dark prints.
- Finish With Flair: Explore bias-binding on curved edges and optional quilting stitches to add texture and definition.
You’ll find all the templates, illustrated diagrams, and fabric cutting guides in the full pattern - plus a bonus section on transforming your quilted block into a charming envelope-back cushion.
Joining Machine Sampler Minis 2025
Machine Sampler Minis 2025 is your one-stop sampler school: twelve mini patterns, twelve video lessons, and a community of fellow makers, all for just USD$12 available June 13-20, 2025. After purchase, you’ll have one year of access to the portal - download the patterns, watch the videos, and refer back whenever you need a refresher.
Instructors and Techniques
- Christina (@sweetpotatoquilts) – Paper Piecing
- Leslie (@theseasonedhomemaker) – Unique Half-Square Triangles
- Lauren (@mollyandmama) – English Paper Piecing
- Chris (@rosecityoriginals) – Half-Rectangle Triangles
- Ellie (@mojaviefarmsquiltco) – Square in a Square
- Charisma (@charismahorton) – Curved Piecing
- Jemima (@tiedwitharibbon) – Machine Appliqué
- Emily (@homemadeemilyjane) – Strip Piecing
- Nic (@craftapalooza) – Reverse Needle-Turn Appliqué
- Maelynn (@mae.just.sew) – Flying Geese
- Becky (@patchwork_posse) – Disappearing Nine Patch
- Jen (@aquiltingjewel) – Paper Piecing
Creative Possibilities
Once you’ve completed the Cameo Bloom block, the sky’s the limit:
- Wall Art: Cameo Bloom will look gorgeous on your wall!
- Cushion Accent: Sew it into an envelope-back cushion for your favourite reading nook or sewing corner.
- Sampler Quilt: Combine it with other minis from the series to create a sampler quilt top - think twelve unique blocks, each 13″ square!
- Functional Accessories: Turn it into a large pouch, tablet cover, or even a unique table topper - your pattern guide includes size recommendations and finishing tips.
Tips for Success
- Test Fabrics First: Especially for reverse appliqué, do a small swatch to ensure your fabrics won’t fray excessively and that show-through is minimal.
- Keep Snipping Small: When clipping background fabric, make tiny snips to maintain control and reduce fraying.
- Match Your Thread: A neutral grey often blends with most fabrics, but don’t hesitate to switch to a perfect match when a piece demands it.
- Use Quality Tools: A pair of sharp, small appliqué scissors and a fine needle (I use Bohin Long Appliqué #9) make all the difference.
Ready to Bloom?
Don’t miss this limited time opportunity to build your confidence and expand your toolkit - Machine Sampler Minis 2025 patterns (including Cameo Bloom) available June 13-20, 2025.
We can’t wait to see your Cameo Bloom blocks pop up in the Craftapalooza Designs Facebook group - or on Instagram share your photos with #CameoBloom and #MachineSamplerMinis so we can cheer you on every stitch of the way!
