This square dance block was started last October. The triangles weren't working out and I had a dusty blue solid in place of the crosshatch. You'll have to trust me that it didn't work at all. Since then, I've come up with a new (for me) strategy for getting the triangles to match up. I starch the crap out of the fabric and...(drumroll)...I use the templates. I've been trying to do all of the quilt math on these blocks and rotary cutting everything, but using the templates to cut the little corners on the triangles first is really helping me match up the seams better. I know, shocking revelation to use the templates that came with the book, right?
I was having the same triangle problems with the tiny geese blocks. So, more starch and templates used here.
The HST's and I are getting along well, so I still quick piece these and then trim them down to the correct size. And starch, starch, starch.
Maybe when this quilt top is finished it will stand up all by itself with the power of starch?
This little block here was a travesty. I think I made this one back in August of last year. I love the Suzuko Koseki print, but I don't think it is strong enough to go up against all of the bright colors I have in this quilt. And that pearl bracelet print is fantastic, but way too large of scale for this project.
So, I made version 2.
Much better, dontcha think?
Wishing you all well and happy sewing!
11 comments:
They're gorgeous, Melinda! In this batch I especially love your versions of Square Dance, Wild Goose Chase, and Rosebud.
(I haven't used one bit of starch in my FW blocks, and they look a whole lot less crisp than yours as a result :( Oh well. I just endured part one of an unpleasant basting adventure [different project], so maybe I'm feeling a little down on myself as sloppy quilter, boo.)
Thanks for sharing these little lovelies and giving some insight to your process. Keep it up!
They're all great Melinda! And yes, thanks for sharing your process from them. I started out foundation piecing all my FW blocks (I didn't even own a 1/4" foot at that point!)and it's only just been dawning on me that it would be easier making some of the blocks in other ways (like all those HSTs!). You have such cute prints in these. Love those tiny bees and how perfect is the Farmer's Market Munki for FW quilt?!
They're all great Melinda! And yes, thanks for sharing your process from them. I started out foundation piecing all my FW blocks (I didn't even own a 1/4" foot at that point!)and it's only just been dawning on me that it would be easier making some of the blocks in other ways (like all those HSTs!). You have such cute prints in these. Love those tiny bees and how perfect is the Farmer's Market Munki for FW quilt?!
I just love seeing all your blocks! They are by far my favorites of all the FW blocks I've seen. You have such a talent for pairing fabrics. I always see one and think it is my favorite until I see your next one!
Lovely!
That was my "secret" too - a starch alternative and templates. And if that didn't work... Paper piecing.
I need to get back on my fw wagon!
I love all your blocks! All the fabrics you've used are unique but all the blocks just "go" together in some amazingly awesome scrappy dream
It's absolutely lovely in the FMF seeds!
I loved using the templates! I found that things lined up a lot better and it was almost mindless to sit and cut out all the little pieces. I didn't even think to use starch though, and that would have made it even easier! Your blocks look wonderful as usual :)
Gorgeous blocks!! This is going to be an incredible quilt! I just love the fabric choices you make :)
Great blocks! My favourite today is Square Dance!
oh melinda - your wild goose chase is making me wildly happy!!
(and you're right - version #2 is an improvement!)
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