When I blogged about my scrappy improv blocks, I had several people mention that they were afraid to try it with their own scraps, since there really isn't a true plan for sewing. It does take some time to get used to sewing with reckless abandon in an improv style, but I thought that a few guidelines might help some of you take the plunge. Once you get the hang of it, this method of sewing is so much fun, and it's a great way to use whatever fabric you happen to have. The first thing you need to decide is how big you want your blocks to be. I use a 12.5 inch square ruler, and I find it makes things much easier. If you would rather use a regular quilting ruler, that's fine too! Get all of your fabric ready and divided in whatever way works for you. I have my scrap baskets divided into cool, warm, and neutrals. I also don't distinguish between scraps and strings. They all go in together, and you'll love using both with improv piecing. Start by sewing two pieces of fabric together. It's helpful if the sides you're sewing are similar in length, but not necessary. When you're finished sewing, just take your scissors and trim the excess. Add another piece to any side you choose. I always try not to sew around the first piece in a regular way, so that it doesn't end up looking too much like a log cabin block. If you don't come across a piece that is long enough to cover the side, or if you just want some variety, piece a couple of scraps together to make them long enough. As your sides get longer, you will have to piece smaller scraps to get enough length. Try to avoid sewing too many long strips on the sides or your block might end up looking like a log cabin instead of an improv block. I don't press my block until the end when I'm sewing like this, but you can if you choose. Continue adding to your sides until you have a block that is about 3-4 inches bigger than your square template. I know you're wondering why you are making blocks that are too big, but just trust me. The part that will make your blocks really special is coming up. Give your block a press and take it to your cutting mat. Line up your template along one edge of your block. Check our those extra side strips! Cut them off with care and don't throw them away. You'll need them later! I know when I look at quilts that are improv pieced I'm always impressed by the tiny little strips and fabric bits that seem so perfectly placed within the blocks. Well, you can get those neat little pieces without actually sewing teeny tiny pieces. We're going to use those fabulous little trimmed strips in your next blocks! One or two of those strips can really add a lot of interest to a block full of bigger pieces. If you really get on a roll, you can always make a really big improv block and cut several blocks from it! This also gives you the freedom to use pieces that are a little bigger, because there is a good chance that they will get cut when you cut your blocks out. You can do improv piecing with a planned color palette as well! If you choose to use scraps though, just remember that the beauty of a scrap quilt isn't fully realized until all of the blocks are together. In my opinion, that's when scrap quilts really show their wow factor! I really encourage you to try some improv piecing. Once you get the hang of it, it's a lot of fun, and I think it's really great for getting your creativity and sewjo going! Editied 8/25 to add- Here's a picture of the finished quilt, just in case you're wondering how it looks when the blocks are all put together! You can check out the post with more pics of the finished quilt HERE!
I really appreciate a good tutorial! As I learn new things and change them up or discover a new technique by accident, (which can happen through my mistakes or experiments) I will add them to this…
When I blogged about my scrappy improv blocks, I had several people mention that they were afraid to try it with their own scraps, since there really isn't a true plan for sewing. It does take some time to get used to sewing with reckless abandon in an improv style, but I thought that a few guidelines might help some of you take the plunge. Once you get the hang of it, this method of sewing is so much fun, and it's a great way to use whatever fabric you happen to have. The first thing you need to decide is how big you want your blocks to be. I use a 12.5 inch square ruler, and I find it makes things much easier. If you would rather use a regular quilting ruler, that's fine too! Get all of your fabric ready and divided in whatever way works for you. I have my scrap baskets divided into cool, warm, and neutrals. I also don't distinguish between scraps and strings. They all go in together, and you'll love using both with improv piecing. Start by sewing two pieces of fabric together. It's helpful if the sides you're sewing are similar in length, but not necessary. When you're finished sewing, just take your scissors and trim the excess. Add another piece to any side you choose. I always try not to sew around the first piece in a regular way, so that it doesn't end up looking too much like a log cabin block. If you don't come across a piece that is long enough to cover the side, or if you just want some variety, piece a couple of scraps together to make them long enough. As your sides get longer, you will have to piece smaller scraps to get enough length. Try to avoid sewing too many long strips on the sides or your block might end up looking like a log cabin instead of an improv block. I don't press my block until the end when I'm sewing like this, but you can if you choose. Continue adding to your sides until you have a block that is about 3-4 inches bigger than your square template. I know you're wondering why you are making blocks that are too big, but just trust me. The part that will make your blocks really special is coming up. Give your block a press and take it to your cutting mat. Line up your template along one edge of your block. Check our those extra side strips! Cut them off with care and don't throw them away. You'll need them later! I know when I look at quilts that are improv pieced I'm always impressed by the tiny little strips and fabric bits that seem so perfectly placed within the blocks. Well, you can get those neat little pieces without actually sewing teeny tiny pieces. We're going to use those fabulous little trimmed strips in your next blocks! One or two of those strips can really add a lot of interest to a block full of bigger pieces. If you really get on a roll, you can always make a really big improv block and cut several blocks from it! This also gives you the freedom to use pieces that are a little bigger, because there is a good chance that they will get cut when you cut your blocks out. You can do improv piecing with a planned color palette as well! If you choose to use scraps though, just remember that the beauty of a scrap quilt isn't fully realized until all of the blocks are together. In my opinion, that's when scrap quilts really show their wow factor! I really encourage you to try some improv piecing. Once you get the hang of it, it's a lot of fun, and I think it's really great for getting your creativity and sewjo going! Editied 8/25 to add- Here's a picture of the finished quilt, just in case you're wondering how it looks when the blocks are all put together! You can check out the post with more pics of the finished quilt HERE!
Produce an Heirloom Quilt to Pass Down for Generations! Rich colors and intricate piecing make a stunning quilt. You’ll be happy to display and use it for many years to come. You may already have enough scraps on hand for this quilt. You can also purchase pre-cuts and yardage in a wide variety of colors …
I’ve had a few questions while I’ve been working on my Virginia Bound blocks. I’m hoping I can tell a little more about them today. First off, this is the quilt I am writing abou…
Scott Murkin has a new twist on an old favorite in this cozy bed quilt.
Cut a few two and a half inch squares. Arrange them into 20" blocks on the design wall. Sew them into blocks for simple arrangements. for quick results. Make a Clam-shell quilt They are loads of fun! Can you tell I love 2" squares? Bunch of 2" squares, that's all it takes!
Today is my day for another fun blog hop. Thank you to Carla of Creatininthesticks.com for organizing this musical blog hop. This hop had me sewing like crazy for days, and yes, music is a part of …
When I blogged about my scrappy improv blocks, I had several people mention that they were afraid to try it with their own scraps, since there really isn't a true plan for sewing. It does take some time to get used to sewing with reckless abandon in an improv style, but I thought that a few guidelines might help some of you take the plunge. Once you get the hang of it, this method of sewing is so much fun, and it's a great way to use whatever fabric you happen to have. The first thing you need to decide is how big you want your blocks to be. I use a 12.5 inch square ruler, and I find it makes things much easier. If you would rather use a regular quilting ruler, that's fine too! Get all of your fabric ready and divided in whatever way works for you. I have my scrap baskets divided into cool, warm, and neutrals. I also don't distinguish between scraps and strings. They all go in together, and you'll love using both with improv piecing. Start by sewing two pieces of fabric together. It's helpful if the sides you're sewing are similar in length, but not necessary. When you're finished sewing, just take your scissors and trim the excess. Add another piece to any side you choose. I always try not to sew around the first piece in a regular way, so that it doesn't end up looking too much like a log cabin block. If you don't come across a piece that is long enough to cover the side, or if you just want some variety, piece a couple of scraps together to make them long enough. As your sides get longer, you will have to piece smaller scraps to get enough length. Try to avoid sewing too many long strips on the sides or your block might end up looking like a log cabin instead of an improv block. I don't press my block until the end when I'm sewing like this, but you can if you choose. Continue adding to your sides until you have a block that is about 3-4 inches bigger than your square template. I know you're wondering why you are making blocks that are too big, but just trust me. The part that will make your blocks really special is coming up. Give your block a press and take it to your cutting mat. Line up your template along one edge of your block. Check our those extra side strips! Cut them off with care and don't throw them away. You'll need them later! I know when I look at quilts that are improv pieced I'm always impressed by the tiny little strips and fabric bits that seem so perfectly placed within the blocks. Well, you can get those neat little pieces without actually sewing teeny tiny pieces. We're going to use those fabulous little trimmed strips in your next blocks! One or two of those strips can really add a lot of interest to a block full of bigger pieces. If you really get on a roll, you can always make a really big improv block and cut several blocks from it! This also gives you the freedom to use pieces that are a little bigger, because there is a good chance that they will get cut when you cut your blocks out. You can do improv piecing with a planned color palette as well! If you choose to use scraps though, just remember that the beauty of a scrap quilt isn't fully realized until all of the blocks are together. In my opinion, that's when scrap quilts really show their wow factor! I really encourage you to try some improv piecing. Once you get the hang of it, it's a lot of fun, and I think it's really great for getting your creativity and sewjo going! Editied 8/25 to add- Here's a picture of the finished quilt, just in case you're wondering how it looks when the blocks are all put together! You can check out the post with more pics of the finished quilt HERE!
Have you heard of magic numbers? It’s a fun little phrase that, when applied to patchwork, means something quite simple. When you want to make an improv-style quilt with blocks in a variety of sizes, magic numbers are your friend.
When I blogged about my scrappy improv blocks, I had several people mention that they were afraid to try it with their own scraps, since there really isn't a true plan for sewing. It does take some time to get used to sewing with reckless abandon in an improv style, but I thought that a few guidelines might help some of you take the plunge. Once you get the hang of it, this method of sewing is so much fun, and it's a great way to use whatever fabric you happen to have. The first thing you need to decide is how big you want your blocks to be. I use a 12.5 inch square ruler, and I find it makes things much easier. If you would rather use a regular quilting ruler, that's fine too! Get all of your fabric ready and divided in whatever way works for you. I have my scrap baskets divided into cool, warm, and neutrals. I also don't distinguish between scraps and strings. They all go in together, and you'll love using both with improv piecing. Start by sewing two pieces of fabric together. It's helpful if the sides you're sewing are similar in length, but not necessary. When you're finished sewing, just take your scissors and trim the excess. Add another piece to any side you choose. I always try not to sew around the first piece in a regular way, so that it doesn't end up looking too much like a log cabin block. If you don't come across a piece that is long enough to cover the side, or if you just want some variety, piece a couple of scraps together to make them long enough. As your sides get longer, you will have to piece smaller scraps to get enough length. Try to avoid sewing too many long strips on the sides or your block might end up looking like a log cabin instead of an improv block. I don't press my block until the end when I'm sewing like this, but you can if you choose. Continue adding to your sides until you have a block that is about 3-4 inches bigger than your square template. I know you're wondering why you are making blocks that are too big, but just trust me. The part that will make your blocks really special is coming up. Give your block a press and take it to your cutting mat. Line up your template along one edge of your block. Check our those extra side strips! Cut them off with care and don't throw them away. You'll need them later! I know when I look at quilts that are improv pieced I'm always impressed by the tiny little strips and fabric bits that seem so perfectly placed within the blocks. Well, you can get those neat little pieces without actually sewing teeny tiny pieces. We're going to use those fabulous little trimmed strips in your next blocks! One or two of those strips can really add a lot of interest to a block full of bigger pieces. If you really get on a roll, you can always make a really big improv block and cut several blocks from it! This also gives you the freedom to use pieces that are a little bigger, because there is a good chance that they will get cut when you cut your blocks out. You can do improv piecing with a planned color palette as well! If you choose to use scraps though, just remember that the beauty of a scrap quilt isn't fully realized until all of the blocks are together. In my opinion, that's when scrap quilts really show their wow factor! I really encourage you to try some improv piecing. Once you get the hang of it, it's a lot of fun, and I think it's really great for getting your creativity and sewjo going! Editied 8/25 to add- Here's a picture of the finished quilt, just in case you're wondering how it looks when the blocks are all put together! You can check out the post with more pics of the finished quilt HERE!
So, what would happen if I sewed strip sets, cut them into rectangles, placed them right sides together, sewed two diagonal seams down the middle then cut on the diagonal? This is what happened: H…
Last year, I cleaned out and got rid of most of my fabric stash. (Read about that here). I didn't touch my scraps though. I can't bring myself to get rid of them because someday I'll make a postage stamp quilt or a string quilt or a scrappy something! (Maybe I'll design a quilt meant to use scraps...hmm...) In the ba
So, what would happen if I sewed strip sets, cut them into rectangles, placed them right sides together, sewed two diagonal seams down the middle then cut on the diagonal? This is what happened: H…
When I blogged about my scrappy improv blocks, I had several people mention that they were afraid to try it with their own scraps, since there really isn't a true plan for sewing. It does take some time to get used to sewing with reckless abandon in an improv style, but I thought that a few guidelines might help some of you take the plunge. Once you get the hang of it, this method of sewing is so much fun, and it's a great way to use whatever fabric you happen to have. The first thing you need to decide is how big you want your blocks to be. I use a 12.5 inch square ruler, and I find it makes things much easier. If you would rather use a regular quilting ruler, that's fine too! Get all of your fabric ready and divided in whatever way works for you. I have my scrap baskets divided into cool, warm, and neutrals. I also don't distinguish between scraps and strings. They all go in together, and you'll love using both with improv piecing. Start by sewing two pieces of fabric together. It's helpful if the sides you're sewing are similar in length, but not necessary. When you're finished sewing, just take your scissors and trim the excess. Add another piece to any side you choose. I always try not to sew around the first piece in a regular way, so that it doesn't end up looking too much like a log cabin block. If you don't come across a piece that is long enough to cover the side, or if you just want some variety, piece a couple of scraps together to make them long enough. As your sides get longer, you will have to piece smaller scraps to get enough length. Try to avoid sewing too many long strips on the sides or your block might end up looking like a log cabin instead of an improv block. I don't press my block until the end when I'm sewing like this, but you can if you choose. Continue adding to your sides until you have a block that is about 3-4 inches bigger than your square template. I know you're wondering why you are making blocks that are too big, but just trust me. The part that will make your blocks really special is coming up. Give your block a press and take it to your cutting mat. Line up your template along one edge of your block. Check our those extra side strips! Cut them off with care and don't throw them away. You'll need them later! I know when I look at quilts that are improv pieced I'm always impressed by the tiny little strips and fabric bits that seem so perfectly placed within the blocks. Well, you can get those neat little pieces without actually sewing teeny tiny pieces. We're going to use those fabulous little trimmed strips in your next blocks! One or two of those strips can really add a lot of interest to a block full of bigger pieces. If you really get on a roll, you can always make a really big improv block and cut several blocks from it! This also gives you the freedom to use pieces that are a little bigger, because there is a good chance that they will get cut when you cut your blocks out. You can do improv piecing with a planned color palette as well! If you choose to use scraps though, just remember that the beauty of a scrap quilt isn't fully realized until all of the blocks are together. In my opinion, that's when scrap quilts really show their wow factor! I really encourage you to try some improv piecing. Once you get the hang of it, it's a lot of fun, and I think it's really great for getting your creativity and sewjo going! Editied 8/25 to add- Here's a picture of the finished quilt, just in case you're wondering how it looks when the blocks are all put together! You can check out the post with more pics of the finished quilt HERE!
So, what would happen if I sewed strip sets, cut them into rectangles, placed them right sides together, sewed two diagonal seams down the middle then cut on the diagonal? This is what happened: H…
So, what would happen if I sewed strip sets, cut them into rectangles, placed them right sides together, sewed two diagonal seams down the middle then cut on the diagonal? This is what happened: H…
When I blogged about my scrappy improv blocks, I had several people mention that they were afraid to try it with their own scraps, since there really isn't a true plan for sewing. It does take some time to get used to sewing with reckless abandon in an improv style, but I thought that a few guidelines might help some of you take the plunge. Once you get the hang of it, this method of sewing is so much fun, and it's a great way to use whatever fabric you happen to have. The first thing you need to decide is how big you want your blocks to be. I use a 12.5 inch square ruler, and I find it makes things much easier. If you would rather use a regular quilting ruler, that's fine too! Get all of your fabric ready and divided in whatever way works for you. I have my scrap baskets divided into cool, warm, and neutrals. I also don't distinguish between scraps and strings. They all go in together, and you'll love using both with improv piecing. Start by sewing two pieces of fabric together. It's helpful if the sides you're sewing are similar in length, but not necessary. When you're finished sewing, just take your scissors and trim the excess. Add another piece to any side you choose. I always try not to sew around the first piece in a regular way, so that it doesn't end up looking too much like a log cabin block. If you don't come across a piece that is long enough to cover the side, or if you just want some variety, piece a couple of scraps together to make them long enough. As your sides get longer, you will have to piece smaller scraps to get enough length. Try to avoid sewing too many long strips on the sides or your block might end up looking like a log cabin instead of an improv block. I don't press my block until the end when I'm sewing like this, but you can if you choose. Continue adding to your sides until you have a block that is about 3-4 inches bigger than your square template. I know you're wondering why you are making blocks that are too big, but just trust me. The part that will make your blocks really special is coming up. Give your block a press and take it to your cutting mat. Line up your template along one edge of your block. Check our those extra side strips! Cut them off with care and don't throw them away. You'll need them later! I know when I look at quilts that are improv pieced I'm always impressed by the tiny little strips and fabric bits that seem so perfectly placed within the blocks. Well, you can get those neat little pieces without actually sewing teeny tiny pieces. We're going to use those fabulous little trimmed strips in your next blocks! One or two of those strips can really add a lot of interest to a block full of bigger pieces. If you really get on a roll, you can always make a really big improv block and cut several blocks from it! This also gives you the freedom to use pieces that are a little bigger, because there is a good chance that they will get cut when you cut your blocks out. You can do improv piecing with a planned color palette as well! If you choose to use scraps though, just remember that the beauty of a scrap quilt isn't fully realized until all of the blocks are together. In my opinion, that's when scrap quilts really show their wow factor! I really encourage you to try some improv piecing. Once you get the hang of it, it's a lot of fun, and I think it's really great for getting your creativity and sewjo going! Editied 8/25 to add- Here's a picture of the finished quilt, just in case you're wondering how it looks when the blocks are all put together! You can check out the post with more pics of the finished quilt HERE!
When I blogged about my scrappy improv blocks, I had several people mention that they were afraid to try it with their own scraps, since there really isn't a true plan for sewing. It does take some time to get used to sewing with reckless abandon in an improv style, but I thought that a few guidelines might help some of you take the plunge. Once you get the hang of it, this method of sewing is so much fun, and it's a great way to use whatever fabric you happen to have. The first thing you need to decide is how big you want your blocks to be. I use a 12.5 inch square ruler, and I find it makes things much easier. If you would rather use a regular quilting ruler, that's fine too! Get all of your fabric ready and divided in whatever way works for you. I have my scrap baskets divided into cool, warm, and neutrals. I also don't distinguish between scraps and strings. They all go in together, and you'll love using both with improv piecing. Start by sewing two pieces of fabric together. It's helpful if the sides you're sewing are similar in length, but not necessary. When you're finished sewing, just take your scissors and trim the excess. Add another piece to any side you choose. I always try not to sew around the first piece in a regular way, so that it doesn't end up looking too much like a log cabin block. If you don't come across a piece that is long enough to cover the side, or if you just want some variety, piece a couple of scraps together to make them long enough. As your sides get longer, you will have to piece smaller scraps to get enough length. Try to avoid sewing too many long strips on the sides or your block might end up looking like a log cabin instead of an improv block. I don't press my block until the end when I'm sewing like this, but you can if you choose. Continue adding to your sides until you have a block that is about 3-4 inches bigger than your square template. I know you're wondering why you are making blocks that are too big, but just trust me. The part that will make your blocks really special is coming up. Give your block a press and take it to your cutting mat. Line up your template along one edge of your block. Check our those extra side strips! Cut them off with care and don't throw them away. You'll need them later! I know when I look at quilts that are improv pieced I'm always impressed by the tiny little strips and fabric bits that seem so perfectly placed within the blocks. Well, you can get those neat little pieces without actually sewing teeny tiny pieces. We're going to use those fabulous little trimmed strips in your next blocks! One or two of those strips can really add a lot of interest to a block full of bigger pieces. If you really get on a roll, you can always make a really big improv block and cut several blocks from it! This also gives you the freedom to use pieces that are a little bigger, because there is a good chance that they will get cut when you cut your blocks out. You can do improv piecing with a planned color palette as well! If you choose to use scraps though, just remember that the beauty of a scrap quilt isn't fully realized until all of the blocks are together. In my opinion, that's when scrap quilts really show their wow factor! I really encourage you to try some improv piecing. Once you get the hang of it, it's a lot of fun, and I think it's really great for getting your creativity and sewjo going! Editied 8/25 to add- Here's a picture of the finished quilt, just in case you're wondering how it looks when the blocks are all put together! You can check out the post with more pics of the finished quilt HERE!
When I blogged about my scrappy improv blocks, I had several people mention that they were afraid to try it with their own scraps, since there really isn't a true plan for sewing. It does take some time to get used to sewing with reckless abandon in an improv style, but I thought that a few guidelines might help some of you take the plunge. Once you get the hang of it, this method of sewing is so much fun, and it's a great way to use whatever fabric you happen to have. The first thing you need to decide is how big you want your blocks to be. I use a 12.5 inch square ruler, and I find it makes things much easier. If you would rather use a regular quilting ruler, that's fine too! Get all of your fabric ready and divided in whatever way works for you. I have my scrap baskets divided into cool, warm, and neutrals. I also don't distinguish between scraps and strings. They all go in together, and you'll love using both with improv piecing. Start by sewing two pieces of fabric together. It's helpful if the sides you're sewing are similar in length, but not necessary. When you're finished sewing, just take your scissors and trim the excess. Add another piece to any side you choose. I always try not to sew around the first piece in a regular way, so that it doesn't end up looking too much like a log cabin block. If you don't come across a piece that is long enough to cover the side, or if you just want some variety, piece a couple of scraps together to make them long enough. As your sides get longer, you will have to piece smaller scraps to get enough length. Try to avoid sewing too many long strips on the sides or your block might end up looking like a log cabin instead of an improv block. I don't press my block until the end when I'm sewing like this, but you can if you choose. Continue adding to your sides until you have a block that is about 3-4 inches bigger than your square template. I know you're wondering why you are making blocks that are too big, but just trust me. The part that will make your blocks really special is coming up. Give your block a press and take it to your cutting mat. Line up your template along one edge of your block. Check our those extra side strips! Cut them off with care and don't throw them away. You'll need them later! I know when I look at quilts that are improv pieced I'm always impressed by the tiny little strips and fabric bits that seem so perfectly placed within the blocks. Well, you can get those neat little pieces without actually sewing teeny tiny pieces. We're going to use those fabulous little trimmed strips in your next blocks! One or two of those strips can really add a lot of interest to a block full of bigger pieces. If you really get on a roll, you can always make a really big improv block and cut several blocks from it! This also gives you the freedom to use pieces that are a little bigger, because there is a good chance that they will get cut when you cut your blocks out. You can do improv piecing with a planned color palette as well! If you choose to use scraps though, just remember that the beauty of a scrap quilt isn't fully realized until all of the blocks are together. In my opinion, that's when scrap quilts really show their wow factor! I really encourage you to try some improv piecing. Once you get the hang of it, it's a lot of fun, and I think it's really great for getting your creativity and sewjo going! Editied 8/25 to add- Here's a picture of the finished quilt, just in case you're wondering how it looks when the blocks are all put together! You can check out the post with more pics of the finished quilt HERE!
Pat Sloan pattern and challenge April 2015
So, what would happen if I sewed strip sets, cut them into rectangles, placed them right sides together, sewed two diagonal seams down the middle then cut on the diagonal? This is what happened: H…
So, what would happen if I sewed strip sets, cut them into rectangles, placed them right sides together, sewed two diagonal seams down the middle then cut on the diagonal? This is what happened: H…
When I blogged about my scrappy improv blocks, I had several people mention that they were afraid to try it with their own scraps, since there really isn't a true plan for sewing. It does take some time to get used to sewing with reckless abandon in an improv style, but I thought that a few guidelines might help some of you take the plunge. Once you get the hang of it, this method of sewing is so much fun, and it's a great way to use whatever fabric you happen to have. The first thing you need to decide is how big you want your blocks to be. I use a 12.5 inch square ruler, and I find it makes things much easier. If you would rather use a regular quilting ruler, that's fine too! Get all of your fabric ready and divided in whatever way works for you. I have my scrap baskets divided into cool, warm, and neutrals. I also don't distinguish between scraps and strings. They all go in together, and you'll love using both with improv piecing. Start by sewing two pieces of fabric together. It's helpful if the sides you're sewing are similar in length, but not necessary. When you're finished sewing, just take your scissors and trim the excess. Add another piece to any side you choose. I always try not to sew around the first piece in a regular way, so that it doesn't end up looking too much like a log cabin block. If you don't come across a piece that is long enough to cover the side, or if you just want some variety, piece a couple of scraps together to make them long enough. As your sides get longer, you will have to piece smaller scraps to get enough length. Try to avoid sewing too many long strips on the sides or your block might end up looking like a log cabin instead of an improv block. I don't press my block until the end when I'm sewing like this, but you can if you choose. Continue adding to your sides until you have a block that is about 3-4 inches bigger than your square template. I know you're wondering why you are making blocks that are too big, but just trust me. The part that will make your blocks really special is coming up. Give your block a press and take it to your cutting mat. Line up your template along one edge of your block. Check our those extra side strips! Cut them off with care and don't throw them away. You'll need them later! I know when I look at quilts that are improv pieced I'm always impressed by the tiny little strips and fabric bits that seem so perfectly placed within the blocks. Well, you can get those neat little pieces without actually sewing teeny tiny pieces. We're going to use those fabulous little trimmed strips in your next blocks! One or two of those strips can really add a lot of interest to a block full of bigger pieces. If you really get on a roll, you can always make a really big improv block and cut several blocks from it! This also gives you the freedom to use pieces that are a little bigger, because there is a good chance that they will get cut when you cut your blocks out. You can do improv piecing with a planned color palette as well! If you choose to use scraps though, just remember that the beauty of a scrap quilt isn't fully realized until all of the blocks are together. In my opinion, that's when scrap quilts really show their wow factor! I really encourage you to try some improv piecing. Once you get the hang of it, it's a lot of fun, and I think it's really great for getting your creativity and sewjo going! Editied 8/25 to add- Here's a picture of the finished quilt, just in case you're wondering how it looks when the blocks are all put together! You can check out the post with more pics of the finished quilt HERE!
Highlighting the lovely Holly Holiday fabric line by Kathy Engle, this Holiday Diamonds Island Batik Quilt shines.
So, what would happen if I sewed strip sets, cut them into rectangles, placed them right sides together, sewed two diagonal seams down the middle then cut on the diagonal? This is what happened: H…
Find lots of EASY quilt block tutorials that are perfect for beginners. These blocks might look hard to make, but they're perfect for the new quilter.
Dress up your holiday table with this eye-catching project. My geometric holiday placemats pattern is free and they are easy to make.
Heute drei schnelle mädchenhafte Karten mit dem Stempelset "Hey Girlfriend". Da das Set nur auf englisch gibt, habe ich die Sprüche aus dem Sale-a-Bration Gratis-Set "Zusammen" verwendet. Das Set kannst du dir kostenlos aussuchen ab einen Einkauf von 60 €. Nach dem stempeln und kolorieren habe ich den Farbkarton noch geprägt - ihr merkt vielleicht schon, dass die Prägeform "Textil mit Stil" aus dem Jahreskatalog zu meinen absoluten Lieblingen gehört.
We have FOUR awesome sport collections to share with you today!! Keep scrolling to see all the awesome layouts, product and more! ...
When I blogged about my scrappy improv blocks, I had several people mention that they were afraid to try it with their own scraps, since there really isn't a true plan for sewing. It does take some time to get used to sewing with reckless abandon in an improv style, but I thought that a few guidelines might help some of you take the plunge. Once you get the hang of it, this method of sewing is so much fun, and it's a great way to use whatever fabric you happen to have. The first thing you need to decide is how big you want your blocks to be. I use a 12.5 inch square ruler, and I find it makes things much easier. If you would rather use a regular quilting ruler, that's fine too! Get all of your fabric ready and divided in whatever way works for you. I have my scrap baskets divided into cool, warm, and neutrals. I also don't distinguish between scraps and strings. They all go in together, and you'll love using both with improv piecing. Start by sewing two pieces of fabric together. It's helpful if the sides you're sewing are similar in length, but not necessary. When you're finished sewing, just take your scissors and trim the excess. Add another piece to any side you choose. I always try not to sew around the first piece in a regular way, so that it doesn't end up looking too much like a log cabin block. If you don't come across a piece that is long enough to cover the side, or if you just want some variety, piece a couple of scraps together to make them long enough. As your sides get longer, you will have to piece smaller scraps to get enough length. Try to avoid sewing too many long strips on the sides or your block might end up looking like a log cabin instead of an improv block. I don't press my block until the end when I'm sewing like this, but you can if you choose. Continue adding to your sides until you have a block that is about 3-4 inches bigger than your square template. I know you're wondering why you are making blocks that are too big, but just trust me. The part that will make your blocks really special is coming up. Give your block a press and take it to your cutting mat. Line up your template along one edge of your block. Check our those extra side strips! Cut them off with care and don't throw them away. You'll need them later! I know when I look at quilts that are improv pieced I'm always impressed by the tiny little strips and fabric bits that seem so perfectly placed within the blocks. Well, you can get those neat little pieces without actually sewing teeny tiny pieces. We're going to use those fabulous little trimmed strips in your next blocks! One or two of those strips can really add a lot of interest to a block full of bigger pieces. If you really get on a roll, you can always make a really big improv block and cut several blocks from it! This also gives you the freedom to use pieces that are a little bigger, because there is a good chance that they will get cut when you cut your blocks out. You can do improv piecing with a planned color palette as well! If you choose to use scraps though, just remember that the beauty of a scrap quilt isn't fully realized until all of the blocks are together. In my opinion, that's when scrap quilts really show their wow factor! I really encourage you to try some improv piecing. Once you get the hang of it, it's a lot of fun, and I think it's really great for getting your creativity and sewjo going! Editied 8/25 to add- Here's a picture of the finished quilt, just in case you're wondering how it looks when the blocks are all put together! You can check out the post with more pics of the finished quilt HERE!
So, what would happen if I sewed strip sets, cut them into rectangles, placed them right sides together, sewed two diagonal seams down the middle then cut on the diagonal? This is what happened: H…
Welcome to the kick off of the Simply Charmed Blog Hop!!!! So glad you will be joining us for what is sure to be a lot of fun. In the next...
I am very excited to get back to the sewing machine and my scrappy blocks this week, but we went to Swarthmore, PA for Thanksgiving (near Philadelphia) to spend time with Steve's family so I was separated from my project. I took this little wall hanging quilt along in hopes that I would get to work on it. The hand-quilting of Boxer Rebellion is going well and I am very close to being finished...I hope to finish it this week! This old threadbare underwear needles like butter! My Steve is a really good sport... I am quilting little details...like the "6-pack" abs, etc...ha-ha-ha! It was a little awkward, explaining this quilt to my husband's mother...there I was, chatting with her while putting stitches through her son's underwear. I'm sure it's not the first time I have seemed strange to his family... Then I remember that my daughter is an only child...what will she think of this some day when we are gone and she is faced with a mountain of quilts, with this one on top?? It is a part of my quilt legacy. I suppose I should put some thought into the label for this quilt...I should make sure I explain the story of how the quilt came to be. Every quilt deserves that, but especially one with such a 'tongue in cheek' origin... I hope you got some stitching done over the long holiday weekend! In stitches, Teresa :o)
I love making new fabric with "crumbs". I have a previous post here that shows how to make crumb fabric. I've been making ...
Select a Large Variety of Prints from Your Stash! Bright prints in a variety of styles pop against black and white in this beautiful quilt. A pretty black print moves your eye around the design, encouraging you to enjoy the colorful pieces. Polka dots, stripes and other fun prints lend a lighthearted touch. A navy …
Bonjour, je suis enchantée de pouvoir tester mes tout nouveaux produits qui arrivent au nouveau mini-catalogue saisonnier Juillet-Décembre 2021. Ils sont, ce mois-ci, en précommande, pour les démonstratrices et vous, vous pourrez vous les procurer...
I really appreciate a good tutorial! As I learn new things and change them up or discover a new technique by accident, (which can happen through my mistakes or experiments) I will add them to this…
The square quilt is a standard shape commonly found in many quilts. Learn tips on how to perfect the technique and see layout examples.
