From Poppyprint:
Give my fast and fun Improv Under the Influence(c) piecing technique a try! This technique is loved by modern and traditional quilters alike. Use your traditional piecing and rotary cutting skills: there's no stack 'n whack, no free cutting with scissors and best of all, hardly any fabric waste. This pattern is ideal for your first foray into improvisational piecing. This pattern is CHARM PACK FRIENDLY! Check out the blog link for color and layout options.
This pattern was previously called "Chess on the Steps" and is an improvisational quilting pattern designed by Krista Hennebury, aka. Poppyprint. Because it's an improv pattern, every one that's made turns out similar while being totally unique and one of a kind!
Inspired by a quilt (by an unknown quilter) seen at an exhibit in Washington state, Krista developed the concept into her popular "Improv Under the Influence" method of improv quilting, which she now teaches in classes around the world, and then into the Temperature Check pattern itself, which is available in a kit from Oakshott Fabrics
On her website, she explains the original name:
"Outside the Vancouver Art Gallery, there are always several games of chess going on. These take place on, or near, the former courthouse steps. The basis of this quilt design is one large Courthouse Steps block, built around the central improv chess (or checker) board."