Cherish Block of the Month — FAQ

Everything you need to know before you join. Still have a question? Just get in touch — we're happy to help.

Do I need a sewing machine?

No! Cherish is an English paper piecing (EPP) quilt, which means it's stitched entirely by hand. That's part of the magic — it's slow, calming, and completely portable. You can stitch on the couch, in the car, or at a social sewing day. You'll only need a machine right at the end if you choose to machine-quilt your finished top (more on that below).

I've never done English paper piecing before. Can I still join?

Absolutely. Cherish is beginner-friendly, and Jodi's pattern walks you through every step. If you'd like a head start, Tales of Cloth's free "EPP for Beginners" tutorial series is a lovely place to begin. You'll also have our private Facebook group and monthly emails for support the whole way through.

How much time will it take each month?

You'll make two blocks most months. How long that takes is really up to you — EPP is a "pick it up whenever" kind of craft. Many stitchers do a little each evening; others save it for a weekend. There's no pressure to keep a strict pace.

What if I fall behind?

That's completely fine. Your kits arrive monthly regardless, so you'll always have everything you need, and nothing is lost if you stitch at your own pace. Plenty of people finish their top after the twelve months are up — the fabric and papers are yours to keep and enjoy whenever suits you.

What's included each month?

Six fat eighths of Ruby Star Society and coordinating fabrics, plus all the pre-cut EPP papers you need for the month, a block guide, a supportive email, and access to our private Facebook group. In Month 1 you'll also receive the Cherish pattern and your 8" acrylic template set.

What tools will I need?

You'll want a few basic EPP supplies: a glue pen, milliners needles (size 9), a neutral thread (Jodi recommends Aurifil 50wt), small scissors and some clips. We stock everything you'll need in store and online, and we're happy to point you in the right direction. Your acrylic template set and papers are included in the program.

Are binding and backing included?

No — the program covers everything you need to make the quilt top. Binding, backing and wadding aren't included, so you can choose your own finishing fabrics to suit your quilt. We'll have suggestions closer to the end, and we can put together a finishing bundle if there's interest.

Why are the fabrics "scrappy" rather than matched?

Cherish is designed to be scrappy — it's what gives the quilt its rich, collected-over-time look. Each month's fabrics are chosen to mix beautifully together and with what you've already received, rather than to match perfectly. It also means no two subscribers' quilts will be quite the same, which we think is rather lovely. You're always welcome to add fabrics from your own stash too.

Can I use my own fabric as well?

Yes! While all the fabric you need is provided, Cherish loves a scrappy mix, and you're very welcome to pull from your own stash to make your quilt truly yours.

What size will the finished quilt be?

Approximately 68" x 70" — a generous throw or lap size. This program uses the 8" block version of Cherish.

How does payment work?

It's a monthly payment of $69, with shipping included. Your first payment secures your place and covers your Month 1 shipment, including your pattern and template set. By enrolling you're committing to the full twelve months.

When does it start, and when do kits ship?

The program begins 14 September 2026 and runs through August 2027. Enrolment closes 7 September 2026, just before Month 1 ships. Kits then go out monthly.

Can I cancel?

Because this is a curated program with fabric and papers set aside for you from the start, it's a full 12-month commitment and can't be cancelled once you've enrolled. Please make sure you're ready to commit to the whole journey before joining.

Can I choose the 6" block version instead?

This program is run in the 8" block size, so everything — fabric quantities, papers and templates — is prepared for that version. If you're set on the smaller block, get in touch and we can chat about your options.

What if something's missing or damaged in my kit?

Just let us know and we'll sort it out straight away. We check every kit before it ships, but mistakes happen occasionally and we're always happy to make it right.

Still have questions?

We'd love to hear from you. Contact us here or come and see us in store at 377 Gardeners Road, Rosebery.