Tweak It ‘Til You Make It: Customizing Block of the Month Collections

Block of the Month (BOM) programs are a dream for both shop owners and quilters—planned content, recurring visits, and built-in excitement. But let’s be real: not every BOM is a perfect fit for every shop. The good news? You don’t have to run them as-is. With a few thoughtful tweaks, you can turn a standard BOM into a custom experience that fits your audience and your inventory.

1. Adjust the timeline to fit your shop’s rhythm
If a monthly format feels too long or too slow for your customers, consider switching it up! Try a “Block Every 2 Weeks” format or a quick-hit “Weekend BOM Bootcamp.” Flexibility makes the experience feel more tailored—and helps your customers stay engaged. 

2. Creating your own Block of the Month, exclusive to you! 
Check out projects in our Batik Pattern Guide as well as on our storyboards each release. There are always projects that lend themselves to Block of the Months–and you can determine the length of the program to fit your needs then too! Maybe in your store a different palette should be used to make it a best seller. If so, a lot of times, project designers will be willing to recolor for you, or give you the tools to recolor. You’ll also need to make sure you have permission to break up their patterns into monthly sessions.  

3. Add a hands-on component
Offer optional in-person or virtual sew-alongs where customers can work on that month’s block together. Whether it’s a Friday night social or a Facebook Live, a little accountability can go a long way—and turns your BOM into more than just a pattern drop. 

When customers sign up, give them a schedule of pick up times for this program. Schedule time to go over the block, review some new gadgets, demo something new and exciting in your store–doesn’t have to be totally in line with the BoM! Or it could be–maybe there’s HST in that months block. Demo 10 ways to achieve HST’s. Make sure to have snacks and a discount teaser to get them back in the store each month! 

4. Repackage for kits or classes
Not every customer wants to commit to a full BOM program. Break it down into mini kits (3-month or even 1-block samplers) or offer it as a one-time class using a favorite block from the quilt. Same great content, in a more approachable format. 

5. Bundle in some extras
Want to make your BOM stand out? Throw in monthly treats like mini notions, thread samplers, or fun quilting quotes. It turns each pick-up into a little surprise—and makes your program feel like something special they’ll want to stick with.

A Block of the Month program can be a signature experience in your shop—but it doesn’t have to be rigid. By tweaking the timeline, offering creative add-ons, and tailoring the experience to your customers’ preferences, you can turn any BOM into something truly unique that keeps your clients coming back for more.

Make it yours—make it memorable—and watch the magic happen!

💬 Industry Insight from Gary Rurup, VP of Sales, Riley Blake Designs

“When I owned my quilt shop, I was always looking for ways to make my BOMs more than just a monthly commitment. Adding hands-on events, mixing in fabrics that matched my customers’ preferences, and changing up the schedule all helped my BOMs feel more personal. It kept people engaged and excited to pick up their next block!”