Renewal Block
““The snake which cannot cast its skin perishes.””
Not too many people like snakes. I’ll admit that while I try to find the good and benefits in each creature, even this graceful, slithery reptile has me on guard. If nothing else, though, I appreciate the wise symbolism the snake has to offer - namely, that shedding “old skin” that no longer serves us is key to our flourishing.
The older I get, the more I realize that life is seasonal, for better or worse. There are beautiful phases we wish would never end; however, painful times are inevitable, and we hope for their quick passing. Whether good or bad, these seasons both change us and require our growth - emotional, intellectual, spiritual, etc. - in order to thrive. On the other end of a season, we often find that a particular thought pattern, perspective, or habit that may have once been helpful, no longer serve us the same way, and possibly even hinders our pursuit of happiness. It is the leaving behind of our old, outgrown “skin” that makes room for an evolved, renewed and better adapted self.
This is the inspiration behind the free Renewal block, a beginner-friendly and traditionally pieced quilt block with a lot of possibilities. Make a two-tone, three-color, or scrappy version, and embellish with some embroidered features (I opted to add an eye & tongue) for more personality. However you decide to approach this block, I hope it inspires you to cast that old, restrictive skin and know there is always an opportunity for renewal.
The Renewal block is my contribution to May 2024’s Desert-themed Quilt Block Mania. Check out all the other amazing free blocks!
Coiled Snake by Carolina Moore
Pyramids by Patchwork Breeze
Bison Skull by Crafty Staci
Gecko by Inquiring Quilter
Cactus Rose by Scrapdash
Oasis by Appliques Quilts and More
Adobe House by QuiltFabrication
Sand in my Toes by Patti's Patchwork
Diamondback Quilt Block by Brown Bird Designs
Desert Bear by Colette Belt Design
Yucca by Tourmaline & Thyme Quilts
Arizona Poppy by Cristy Fincher
Palm Tree by Slightly Biased Quilts
Desert Cactus
A Prickly Pear in the Garden
Goldenhead Flower by Emerald Falls Quilts
Blooming in the Desert
Tucson Too Late by Orange Blossom