If you are on our subscription list, you may have received a few block patterns in our newsletter. We have a few more of those on their way to you. For those of you not on the mailing list yet, please sign up to receive the new block patterns. Previously released ones are available for sale. These block patterns use charm squares to make a 20″ square block. The block pattern is also available for free if you purchase the kit. The kit contains the charms needed to make the block.
The blocks released so far are:
These blocks are designed to mix and match to make a pillow, runner, throw, or quilt. Combining twelve of these blocks will create a 60″ x 80″ quilt, the standard size for a Quilt of Valor.
The beauty of these blocks is their simplicity. The only thing you need to know is how to make Half Square Triangles (HST). Here is a video to show how an HST is made. (I was having fun with a body cam, so forgive the wiggle)
Starch the squares before sewing and cutting to prevent warping.
When trimming HST, I use a 4 1/2″ quilt square ruler. The diagonal line is my favorite part. I set the diagonal line on the seam and trim from there. It really helps to keep the points pretty.
When making the block, lay it out on a table near your sewing area. Sew five pairs of blocks together first. Then, add blocks one at a time to your rows (Chain piecing). When the five strips are complete. Lay them out again and verify the orientation of the blocks. I don’t press with an iron at this point. Sometimes, it makes the seams too flat. When seams are too flat, they do not nest well. If the pieces are starched finger pressing will work.
Sew the rows together by nesting seams. Make sure the seams are all going the same direction. I have a mantra for each row. I remind myself if the seam facing me should be up or down. I repeat the direction for each seam, checking its direction. I nest as I sew, making sure the needle is down for each seam adjustment.
I sew one row at a time. This may seem a little slower. But It enables me to ensure the seams and blocks are oriented properly. No offense to my beautiful seam ripper, but the less time we spend together the better.
When the block is fully pieced, I press the seams from the back side. This enables me to spin the seams and make sure that everything is where it should be.
Here is a time lapsed video Presented Block showing the process.
Didn’t these turn out beautifully! I would love to see your blocks. Did you choose different colors? If so, please share on our Facebook. In the month of August, I will pick one of those blocks as the winner for a digital pattern.
Stay tuned! A few more blocks are on the way. Plus, a quick tutorial on how to turn these into pillow.
Happy Quilting!
Laureen