Happy New Year everyone! I hope you are as excited as I am to start the New Year off participating in the sew along. If you haven't already signed up there is still time. My only New Year's resolution this year is that I will be here every Wednesday for the next 52 weeks to walk you through the blocks in this quilt.
There are two colourways to choose from, Stonehenge and the 30's fabrics. When I was asked to do this project I thought it would be a perfect project for the Stonehenge line. But I have to admit the thirties line looks fantastic as well. See for yourself.
We will start off with some easy blocks just to get our feet wet, then slowly move into the more complex blocks. The first block is a variation of the nine patch. I must say after many years of strip piecing nine patch blocks I really enjoyed putting them together square by square. It forces you to slow it down and my accuracy improved.
To achieve a really accurate block you need to perfect your 1/4" seam allowance. An exact 1/4" seam is one of the keys to getting perfect blocks everytime.
If you have a quarter inch foot for your machine, this is the time to use it. It will look something like this:
The new ones have a guide on the right side of the foot that keeps you fabric aligned. If you don't have one you might consider picking one up from your machine dealer.
If you don't have the foot another great way to get an accurate 1/4" seam is to measure over a quarter of an inch from your needle and place a piece of Sewing Edge on the bed of your machine and it too will guide your fabric. I have used painters tape in the past to do this job but the Sewing Edge won't leave any residue on your machine and they are reusable so they are a very useful tool!
Pressing as you go is also very important, not only does it keeps things looking neat and tidy, visually you will be able to see if you are being accurate if everything is lying flat. It will also help you when it comes to piecing. If you press your seams to the dark side then when you assemble them they will lock together where the seams meet. It really is a great trick.
I look forward to seeing you all next week for block number two. And there is plenty of time if you still want to join the fun!
Now I think it is time for a giveaway. Post a comment telling us which colourway you like the best and we will draw for a free fat quarter next Wednesday. Remember what you voted for, you never know once you see the quilt blocks unfold you might change your mind. I have to figure out which one I am going to do. My first thought was both, but that might be too much. Stay tuned. Yes, this New Year's resolution is much better than last years. Cheers!! See you next week for block number two more tips and tricks and maybe a surprise or two,
Jeannie
To register for the Fundamentals Sew Along Click Here:
Fundamentals Block of the Week - Pay in Full
