Every now and then I test one of my own patterns by making a new version. When I haven’t looked at pattern instructions for a few months, I find myself reading them with fresh eyes. I go over the math and measurements as well as the clarity of the written directions. My inner editor usually kicks in, and I wind up making revisions.

Recently I tested Full Moon Rising II, making a few adjustments in the process. Mogambo Moons is the result:

Although the pattern calls for different fabrics in the background blocks, I used the same Marcia Derse print for all of the blocks in this version. The moons are made of a gradated cotton sateen that travels from a pale yellow to a deep orange. The uneven striped fabric between the blocks is a batik that includes the entire range of yellows and oranges found in the moons.

I departed from the norm in one other respect. Instead of inserting set-in circles for my moons as my pattern directs, I appliqued them to the top after the blocks were joined together. They are finished-edge applique circles, backed with fusible interfacing.

This is the same method that I use for many of my quilt labels. In an upcoming post I’ll show you how I make them. The process starts with one of the most versatile objects in my sewing room: a compact disc.