July 2026 Monthly Color Challenge

Hello July! Can you believe we are now past the midway point of 2026. Crazy. In two weeks I'll be sharing the layout for the quilt and that will really make it feel like we are almost to the end. For now let's just enjoy the amazing block for July. There is something about black and white that just adds a little zing to a quilt. This block does not disappoint.

2026 Monthly Color Challenge: A Free Block of the Month Program

I have loved sharing the frogs with you through the last 6 months, but I have been dying to share this month's frog with you. Oh my gosh, I just want to give him squeezes!

Our inspiration this month is the Black Rain Frog. This little guy is "sometimes compared to an avocado because of its dark bumpy brown or black skin." (World Wildlife Magazine) He only grows to 1 1/2 to 2 inches, making him even *cuter!* He also has such a plump body, and short legs, that he can't hop, he walks. That part kind of makes me sad, I think he would be so cute doing little hops. He truly is the reason I added black this year. I want one.

The fabrics I am using this year are Whisper Weave and Whisper Weave Too. They are basics from Benartex and have a wonderful texture to give these blocks some movement. This month our dark is Midnight and our light is White.

Each set of instructions comes with it's own how to video, so no matter your skill level you can make the Monthly Color Challenge blocks with us. My goal is to design blocks that not only help you work on your piecing skills, but also build your confidence as a quilter. The how to videos are a big part of that.

This month we use Hourglass units and Flying Geese units to make a stunning block.

Join the Quilt and Learn with Patterns by Jen Facebook group and share your blocks, cheer each other on, and ask questions along the way. If you post on Instagram, be sure to tag me and use #monthlycolorchallenge so I can see your fabric pulls and finished blocks!

Here’s a look at the full July block. You can download the pattern HERE and jump right in. I can’t wait to see what you create! It will be a black tie affair.

If you’d like each Monthly Color Challenge block delivered straight to your inbox, be sure to subscribe using the sign-up link below.

The July block is free through the end of the month and available in my Payhip shop. If you’re finding this later, don’t worry, it will still be there for just $1.

While the January – July emails have already gone out, you can still sign up to receive the August – December blocks (plus the final layout!) delivered directly to your inbox. Join us HERE.

I’m so grateful to be continuing the Monthly Color Challenge this year, and even more grateful you’re sewing along with me.

Go make something you LOVE.

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