Stitching the Southwest, Part Three: Canyon Tides
Welcome to the Southwest…
We continue our journey through the Southwest, and we’ll sew the next block in our Stitching the Southwest Quilt Along. Today you’ll receive the sewing instructions for the Canyon Tides quilt block, another block inspired by Aztec patterns and the timeless geometry of traditional designs.
Anyone who has ever hiked through canyons knows this special, amazing play of color: warm earth tones, cool rock, light and shadow that constantly shift throughout the day.
Canyon Tides captures exactly that feeling, clean and graphic, yet full of movement.
“The land knows you, even when you are lost.” – Robin Wall Kimmerer
And if you’re wondering which colors are right: choose warm rusty tones, dusty rose hues, or cool turquoise. The Southwest loves contrasts, and this block especially. Of course, as always, there are no limits to your creativity.
Canyon Tides Pattern for the Aztec Quilt Block
Because I loved the design so much, we’re sewing Canyon Tides twice for our quilt. Using different color palettes makes each block look completely different, even though the pattern itself is identical.
This quilt block is part of the “Stitching the Southwest” pattern series, which you can find in my shop here.
Good to know: If you’re not participating in the quilt along but love this block, you can, of course, sew the Canyon Tides pattern on its own. It’s perfect for mini quilts, pillows, or tote bags.
Are You NEW Here? Welcome to the Southwest Quilt Along!
Is this your first time joining us? How wonderful! You can jump in at any time and join our quilt along.
Together, we’re sewing a quilt made from foundation paper piecing (FPP) blocks, inspired by:
- Southwestern architecture
- Traditional Aztec and Pueblo patterns
- Canyons, desert colors, and clean lines
The instructions are published block by block here on the WeAllSew Blog. With Canyon Tides, I’m introducing the third motif today. The instructions for the Desert Peaks block and the cowboy hat have already been released. The Desert Peaks tutorial also includes a detailed FPP guide and videos.
You can find an overview of all published articles here. It’s best to start with my very first post, where I’ve summarized all the important information
Take Your Time!
You can sew at your own pace, nice and relaxed. There’s just one date you should keep in mind: anyone who would like to be part of the final giveaway should share a photo of their finished quilt top by May 10, either on Instagram using the hashtag #SouthwestQAL and tagging @BERNINAUSA and @joejuneandmae or in the WeAllSew Community Section.
Let’s Get Started – Sewing the Canyon Tides Quilt Block
Fabric Selection
Here is my fabric selection for the two Canyon Tides quilt blocks (both sized 12″ x 12″) in the quilt. As you know, I used Riley Blake Design Basics, and I’m listing the original color names. As always, the rule is: anything that reminds you of the Southwest is absolutely allowed!
Block 1 (top right in the quilt):
- Wheat (background )
- Sparkler white
- Violet
- Fuchsia (center)
- Charcoal
Block 2 (center in the quilt):
- Wheat (background)
- Dapple Dot Raisin
- Sparkler White
- Fuchsia
- Burgundy (center)
Sewing Instructions (FPP) – Quick Overview
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Print only the segments that are actually sewn, meaning all pieces that are marked with letters and numbers.
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For the 12″ x 12″ block, some segments need to be taped together, as shown above. Please don’t use scotch tape, the block will be pressed multiple times, and scotch tends to stick to your iron…. NOT NICE!
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Lay out all segments according to the numbered overview. This helps keep everything organized and makes it easier to understand the flow of the design lines.
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Now sew all segments in the order you prefer.
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Join the segments according to the instructions. Remember: always place 1 of each segment wrong sides together, then continue right sides together.
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Remove the paper from the seam allowances.
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Press, press, and press again …
And ta-da! You’re done. That’s how easily the Canyon Tides quilt block comes together.
Show me your Canyon Tides!
I’m incredibly excited to see your color variations!
Please share your blocks:
- on Instagram using #SouthwestQAL, or
- in the Community Section of the WeAllSew Blog (select the “Stitching the Southwest” sew along)
Questions? Send them my way anytime—I’m always happy to help. The best place to ask is in the comment section right below the post.
See you soon,
Ingrid
