If you have read my previous post, you will know that I am starting a quilting journey. This journey is expected to be measured in years rather than days. Today I took the first step by choosing a simple block, or at least one that appeared to be simple.
I am used to working with my rotary cutter and ruler to construct blocks. So I chose that option first from EQ8.
It looked straightforward, so I converted the decimals to fractions, cut my pieces and prepared to sew.
The blocks are to be 4.5″, so I found my only 4.5″ ruler, and checked it out. As you can see, it’s a little wonky. I definitely don’t have a quarter-inch seam allowance to use when I connect blocks with sashing at the end.
So, I then thought I should try out the foundation paper piecing (FPP) option:
I printed it on regular printer paper, and used the same fabrics:
This one is MUCH more accurate. Foundation Paper Piecing (FPP) should give me the ability to retain my points when I piece the quilt top.
Successes:
- lovely contrast of white and red
- final block that is large enough to be trimmed to finished size
Challenges:
- I will have more waste fabric using FPP rather than rotary cutting
- I destroy the pattern when doing FPP, so I have no paper to file and document the block
And here’s what my quilt looks like so far:
I’m awaiting delivery of a new “Add-a-quarter plus” ruler, to help with the Foundation Paper Piecing. And I have also ordered liquid starch to use when tackling my needle-turn applique blocks. I have joined three Facebook groups and subscribed to several YouTube channels, in order to research techniques for each block as I encounter them. Hopefully this will speed up the process on some blocks, and ensure that I don’t need to make more than one version each time!
Terry Whitmell, PhD 