Quick Coaster Tutorial

After my last post I got a few e-mails asking me how I made that little log cabin coaster in one of the photos.  I realized that some of you are new quilters or perhaps you just have not tried to make a coaster before. So here's a quick tutorial for making one. I used a different block to show you how to construct it because -  duh -  this one is already made.

 

 

This sweet Heart & Spool block below is the block we're using for the Quilt of this Month in my Yahoo group. Jane M. designed it and I will only take credit for using pink instead of red. (You can get the instructions by joining the group from somewhere on the sidebar of this blog.)

 

Make your block -  Choose a leftover 4.5" x  4.5"   or   5"  x  5" block from your collection if you have one or find a block you would like to use. Or, choose a plain square of a pretty fabric. Then, cut a square for the back and a square of cotton batting the same size as your block.

 

 

 

Layer your pieces -  block and backing right sides together, batting on the bottom.

 

Pin your squares together on the side where the opening will go (for turning) and don't sew between the pins. You may wish to pin all the way around if you like. Then, stitch the layers together using a 1/4 inch seam all the way around (again, don't sew between the pins, leave that part open).

 



I know it's hard to see the stitching in the photo but I sewed 1/4 inch away from the edge. Trim your corners for less bulk.

 

Turn right side out through the opening. Use a blunt end tool (nothing sharp) to push the corners out and then smooth them out.

 

Press the edges of the opening under 1/4 " and pin. Then stitch 1/8 inch around the entire edge of the coaster, making sure you catch the pressed seam.

 

 

Isn't it cute? I hand quilted a little heart inside the heart and was thinking about also embroidering my initial in the center.

Well, that's done. I had a horrendous morning dealing with computer and e-mail issues. Definitely time for a cuppa!