Quilting blocks are the true building "blocks" of modern quilting. Brenda Ratliff has a lesson on mixing and using string blocks to create endless variations. Then, Rossie Hutchinson demonstrates her version of the log cabin block - giving this traditional block a modern update. This episode's machine tip features Eliane Bergmann showing how to use decorative stitches on quilts.

One of the hallmarks of modern quilting is the creative use of negative space. Audrey Esarey shares her thoughts on how to use negative space to highlight motifs. Then, Ebony Love has a lesson on partial seams - learn this technique and you will be surprised just how much you use it. Learn about chain piecing in the machine tip with Eliane Bergmann. You can chain piece an entire quilt!

Think small, look at the bits and pieces that make up modern quilting. Laura Hartrich discusses three methods for creating quilt labels - an integral part of every quilt. Audrey Esarey demonstrates paper piecing - the modern way. Eliane Bergmann is all about stitch lengths in the machine tip segment.

Don't be overwhelmed interpreting designs and styles. Learn how to narrow down design choices by imposing some limits. Ebony Love shows how to limit your palette when placing color. Then, Catherine Cureton has a pieced applique technique that leaves no raw edges and uses a sewing machine. Eliane Bergmann has a lesson on seams in the machine tip. Learn how to make the perfect 1/4 seam and how to stitch a partial seam.

Broaden your thought process and learn to take a fresh look with some creative thinking. Ginny Robinson discusses creating modern quilts that are inspired by other crafts - translating a silhouette, a pattern design, or a texture for a new outlook. Rossie Hutchinson uses creative thinking to put together improv quilts utilizing a design wall. Then, Anne Sullivan has another improv technique using strip piecing. Eliane Bergmann demonstrates "franken batting" in the machine tip - a way to save money by learning how to join leftover pieces of batting.

Control is not the first word that comes to mind when thinking of modern quilting, but there are some techniques that can benefit by keeping things under control. Catherine Cureton illustrates the idea of controlled scrappy quilting. She has a new method for sorting fabrics that allows for stress free scrappy quilting. Then, Audrey Esarey has the guide for sewing curves. Keep stitching under control with some simple tips for curves. Then it's tips for walking foot quilting with Eliane Bergmann in the machine tip.