Saturday, February 1, 2014

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!
 
 
 

16 comments:

rebecca said...

Great tutorial and block. Happy Feb.!

Susannah said...

I am liking pinks again, too. I love your heart block. I love to work on small things...I feel I get things accomplished quicker and have time for housework, kids and hubby....not in that order!

Susannah

Joyce Carter said...

That is the cutest little block. It would be perfect to send to someone for Valentines Day.

Anonymous said...

Sweet little block! Love it and love you! Thanks for sharing.
Sue McQ

jane nj/wi said...

Well I just love the block in pinks and browns and the hand stitched inner heart. I need to start finding more links. The two shops here in town on,y have electric pinks... Your initials would be lovely addition to the piece. I may have to get my long stifled calligraphy alphabets to vote to "visit" me again.

Jane

Leeanne said...

Just had a cuppa. Thank you for the 'how to'....love the wee coasters.

Margs Primitive Quilts said...

Sweet little coasters. Thanks for the tutorial! Off to make a cuppa:)

Damenana said...

Tanks for this tutorial...i want to make a lot for my friends
Hâve a Nice sunday...

Ann in PA said...

Love the delicate pinks & browns...perfect for Valentine's Day! Thank you for the wonderful tutorial...and thanks to Jane M.for her wonderful design.

Nita said...

Yay! Thank you!

Faithful Acres Books ~ Linda Marie Finn said...

Oh I love where you went with this. I have some pretty tiny florals that will make up nice mug rugs with this pattern ! So pretty Kathy.
I think this would work great this month...I am going to try it and have the girls try it too.
Blessings
Linda
faithfulacres7@gmail.com

annie said...

wonderful, just love it, thank you!

agullainquieta said...

Preciosos trabajos, gracias por el tutorial.
Un abrazo

kiquilter said...

What a cute little block! I noticed the red transferware cup/mug in one of your photos. I love red transferware--so very vintage!

Bonnie said...

So sorry you are having computer issues. Hope all will be better soon. This is such a cute little block. And a great way to put stray blocks to good use. Thanks.

Nyla said...

I made my sister a mug rug (the heart pattern) and sent it to her with a card. We live in different states. She was delighted! Thanks for the idea and happy Valentine's Day to you!

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