Here's the first step for making my little Valentine quilt -
Cutting
From four different red or pink fabrics, cut
2 squares, 2 7/8" x 2 7/8"
From four different light or shirting prints, cut
2 squares, 2 7/8" x 2 7/8"
This gives you 8 light squares and 8 pink and red squares in matching sets of 2.
Next - Match up each red or pink print square with a light print square in matching sets of two. Make 4 sets of half-square triangles. Here's how to make half-square triangles -
Layer a light print square together with a pink or red print square, right sides together. Draw a diagonal line from corner to corner across the lighter square. Stitch 1/4" away from the line on both sides. Cut on the drawn line. Flip open and press. Arrange in four groups of matching prints. Make 16 half-square triangles. Trim each to 2 1/2" x 2 1/2".
You may be able to find this tool at your local quilt shop or a quilt shop online. If not, JoAnn Fabrics and Amazon carry it. Here's how to use it: Cut 2 squares (usually light and dark) according to the directions in your pattern. Layer the right sides together. Line up the open notches of this ruler on the diagonal corners of your fabric squares as shown.
Mark a line along each side of the ruler with a fine lead pencil. These are the sewing lines. Lightly mark the center through the notches as well. This is the cutting line.
After you sew on both
lines, press the squares to set the stitches. Flip open one side and press gently BEFORE
you cut the squares in half. Switch and press the other side open. THEN cut in
half. This will stabilize the bias edge and keep your blocks from stretching
out of shape, which gives them a wonky look. If you cut and stitch accurately (slow down!) and press this way, your
half-square-triangle units will come out perfectly instead of WONKY and will need minimal
trimming. Try it!
That's it! I encourage you to join my Facebook group for motivation if you haven't already. I find that if you break down these little projects into simple steps and sew along with others it's not only more fun but you'll be much more likely to finish something.
Stop by on Friday, Feb 3, when I'll post Step 2.
4 comments:
Simple enough to begin! Thanks for the 1/2 square triangle tip.
Housework first then play time 😁
CathieD
Thank you for the pattern. Another project on my list
Liz
I always enjoy seeing all of your lovely small quilts.
San / Gypsy Quilter Designs
I'm new to your blog thanks to Pinker n' Punkin Quilting and I have to say you explain everything so clearly, I want to try quilting, I just fell in love with your 2023 Valentine Mini Quilt. I definitely have to try it. Thank your for sharing!
Post a Comment