| Author | Content |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 02, 2009
09:13 AM Post #7126434
| The attached photo was taken at the Jacksonville Quilt Show last weekend.
I was wondering if we would like to start a monthly tip / technique thread. Just to cover some basic how-to's or even to discuss some more complex techniques. There are often questions asked inside the threads & then they get burried inside the threads making them hard to find again. Many of the questions are asked often and I'm sure some are just not comfortable asking.
There are often a number of ways to construct some of the basic building blocks - some work better for some than others do. This way we can all share what we have learned during our quilting "lives". I think it would really help some of the new quilters and/or lurkers become more comfortable with joining the swaps.
Some topics I can think of are:
How to get an exact 1/4 seam: http://davesgarden.com/community/forums/t/1044900/
Making sure your 12" finished block is 12 1/2" raw - "squaring up": http://davesgarden.com/community/forums/t/1046634/
Making a Flying Geese Unit (there are many different ways to do this one)
Paper piecing : Nov 2009 - http://davesgarden.com/community/forums/t/1053843/
Making 1/2 square triangles
Sashing, borders & bindings
Colors - value, saturation, tones
how to twirl the 4 (6, 8) seams coming together in the middle of a pinwheel
Cutting a (truly) straight strip & keeping it straight (no waves): http://davesgarden.com/community/forums/t/1046634/
machine applique
etc
And then we could also include links to help pages we know of.
So, if there is interest, I'd take the lead to get the Oct T / T started.
Let me know what you think.
This message was edited Nov 6, 2009 5:08 AM
This message was edited Nov 6, 2009 5:09 AM
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
abbisgranma
(Marion) Havana, FL
(Zone 8b)
October 02, 2009
09:19 AM Post #7126441
| Jean, this sounds wonderful to me. It doesn't matter how long one has sewed or quilted there are always new ideas and techniques to be learned. Thanks for thinking of this idea. |
Quilter5bdsr
(Barb) Hillsboro, NH
October 02, 2009
09:53 AM Post #7126540
| I think it's wonderful. Tip away!!!! |
Catrscr
Hanford, CA
(Zone 8a)
October 02, 2009
10:48 AM Post #7126730
| I think it's a great idea. I agree with abbisgranma... there is always more to learn. |
ladydragon5
Lansing, MI
(Zone 5a)
October 02, 2009
11:07 AM Post #7126797
| YES, YES, YES! You all have so much to teach and you know I have been moaning for the last year about not being close enough to any of you so that you can teach me things like paper pieceing, so let the tips begin! |
siliolegma
Rochester, MI
October 02, 2009
11:08 AM Post #7126804
| For sure, always ready to learn more. I know I'm not a know-it-all yet. LOL |
abbisgranma
(Marion) Havana, FL
(Zone 8b)
October 02, 2009
11:09 AM Post #7126807
| Jean, I think you have taken steps to start something that is going to be really helpful to all of us!! |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 02, 2009
11:41 AM Post #7126900
| OK, but I definately can't do this all on my own. Some of you out there have been at this longer than I have and do wonderful work. Some of you new "kids" are also learing very quickly and doing a wonderful job.
Why don't we use this thread to capture the topics. I'll update the 1st posting. Then we can start individual threads for the topics.
Anyone should feel free to post questions or give input. Remember there is usually more than 1 way to do anything.
But there are a few quilting "rules" that are written in stone.
I'll start the 1st Tip thread later today. Guess we will start at the beginning: a 1/4" seam and a square square.
|
heavenscape
JayeVille, NC
(Zone 7a)
October 02, 2009
12:18 PM Post #7127009
| Jean, we all need this, old and new!!
Thank you so much! |
jumper2
Huron, OH
(Zone 5b)
October 02, 2009
12:22 PM Post #7127021
| This sounds great. I'm just getting started with quilting, but I've sewn for years. |
heavenscape
JayeVille, NC
(Zone 7a)
October 02, 2009
12:53 PM Post #7127138
| Want to share this from experience :(
If you can, stick to one brand for your measuring implements. |
Elen
Paris
France
October 02, 2009
03:26 PM Post #7127658
| That' s a very good idea Jean. Here in France we're so late ! For example when you want to make a flying geese they teach you to cut all the triangles with scissors !!
I'm absolutly greedy with your techniques. I would like to learn more and more. |
siliolegma
Rochester, MI
October 02, 2009
03:53 PM Post #7127735
| Here's a handy helper...My hubby made me a turntable for using with my rotary cutters. It's so much easier to turn the table to cut another side than to move the fabric. I actually have 2, one larger for cutting out T-shirt designs and a smaller one, about 12" to use for regular quilt pieces.
He got the turn table at Lowes. Make sure it is the thinnest from top to bottom, they have several different ones. Check also that it turns smoothly.
He cut a circle of the desired size of birch plywood, and screwed the turntable to it.
Sand the edge of the plywood so fabric doesn't catch on it. I just set a cutting mat on top, but you could cut it to fit and glue it down.
Once you use this, you'll wonder how you ever managed without it. |
barefootT
Wildwood, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 02, 2009
04:54 PM Post #7127887
| great idea qwilter/ Jean !
and love the handy helper Karen...the ones you can purchase at the quilt stores are ridiculously expensive! I have wanted one for ages, never thought about making one this way...hmmmm... hubby/kids project for this weekend !! yup, yup, I think so... |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 02, 2009
10:08 PM Post #7129042
| I wonder how it would work if you just put 3 or 4 of those "Magic Movers" under a piece of plywood set on a smooth surface. Would it turn ???? I may have to experiment with that one. |
mittsy
Space Coast, FL
(Zone 11)
October 03, 2009
03:09 AM Post #7129682
| Thank you Jean, that's a wonderful idea. I have the commercial turntable and I wouldn't recommend it, it doesn't turn smoothly. |
Quilter5bdsr
(Barb) Hillsboro, NH
October 03, 2009
08:25 AM Post #7130023
| I was gifted one of the rotating mats. I must admit that I truly love it. Especially when you are using templates. You never need to remove your hand from the material so it stays in place. I have the 12" one but would love to have the 18" one too. Maybe I'll hint for Christmas??? |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 03, 2009
08:56 AM Post #7130083
| Hey Barb - is the company sleeping in???? How's it going???
I was also gifted the 12" rotating mat & have never used it. It always seems to be too small for what I'm working on. I may have to get it out for the next set of triangle trimming.
I have been collecting thoughts for the 1st thread. Need to finish Aug top 1st. It is gray & dreary out so a good time to be sewing. |
Quilter5bdsr
(Barb) Hillsboro, NH
October 03, 2009
10:01 AM Post #7130221
| Good morning - it's gray and dreary here too. The kids from Colo were at my daughter's home up the road last night. I know they really wanted to take the girls to the ocean today but maybe not with this horrible weather. We here in NH take the ocean for granted and don't think about not being near it!!! I'm sure I'll hear from them soon.
We did have a really late night. My whole family was together for the first time in five years. The ones from COLO had never met the youngest niece/cousin. She is only two. It was a truly wonderful afternoon and evening. I got some wonderful pictures that I will cherish always. Between good chatting in the afternoon to a spectacular barbeque to a wonderful time around the firepit to let's play Wii bowling to Norm had a flu shot today and I needed to get him home to bed. It was just so much fun. And it was so fulfilling as a mother to see my grown children laughing together like they were still kids. And to see all the children (14, 11, 9, 8, 6 and2) so happy to be together. We try very hard to keep the Colo bunch included in everything going on back east and vice versa.
Oh my, I didn't mean to ramble. Just can't contain my happiness today I guess. |
babeegirl
Wichita, KS
(Zone 6a)
October 03, 2009
10:37 AM Post #7130297
| that's the kind of rambling that is wonderful to read so you ramble on as much as you want :) it dawned clear, crisp, cold and sunny here. I should be out mowing but I'm not! grass can wait. I hear fabric calling to me. |
abbisgranma
(Marion) Havana, FL
(Zone 8b)
October 03, 2009
10:48 AM Post #7130344
| Oh I can so relate to you Sondra. Fabric has a much louder voice than the grass does any day. Barb, I think your rambling was a very happy Mother and well you should be!! Keep it coming as it is so much fun to read. |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 03, 2009
11:51 AM Post #7130505
| Barb - glad to hear it is going so spendidly. Being an only child I miss out on all that "family" stuff. I do have a cousin I was always close with so her kids are like mine and then they all now have kids so I do have them to keep up with (1 family rents my house in FL) but I do miss "family-based" activities. DH's 2 kids are in MA and we rarely hear from them.
The sun has come out in MD and it is warming up. I even have windows hanging open. |
ladydragon5
Lansing, MI
(Zone 5a)
October 03, 2009
12:01 PM Post #7130530
| Arn't reunions fun? I love it when my kids get together an talk about the things they remember from their childhood. It is never the things I would have thought, rarely the big expensive things but the little ones. And when their spouses join in we learn more about them and their families, too.
That rotating table sound wonderful. I hate having to move things around; always afraid I will get it off the mark.
When I first started doing these swaps with you all I had a really hard time with the 1/4" seam, especially with patterns from quilterscauche. Even with a 1/4" foot I was always making blocks that were less than 12.5. Learned when they said "scant" they really ment it! |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 04, 2009
06:37 AM Post #7132888
| Come here for the 1st tip - 1/4" seams
http://davesgarden.com/community/forums/t/1044900/ |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 06, 2009
03:18 PM Post #7141720
| I've been asked about making this a [Sticky] topic meaning it would sit at the top of the forum. I could link all the other tip/technique threads from this one so we would always be able to get back to them.
The Admins will do this for us, but I don't want to do so if there is not enough interest/desire.
So, let me know what you think and if ther is enough interest, I'll ask the Admins to indeed make this [Sticky].
Also, I don't plan on monopolizing all the possible topics. A lot of you out there are extremely talented and I would love for you to host a technique of your choosing (read: I DO NOT do paper piecing!!!!!!).
And, with more than 1 leader, we could run 2 a month. |
siliolegma
Rochester, MI
October 06, 2009
03:47 PM Post #7141826
| You got my vote, go for it. The more tips the better. |
abbisgranma
(Marion) Havana, FL
(Zone 8b)
October 06, 2009
04:14 PM Post #7141904
| Mine too. |
barefootT
Wildwood, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 06, 2009
07:51 PM Post #7142549
| same here...and qwilter you are so good...I vote you start and anyone can add to it...Unless of course there is someone who has a tip and they want to start a topic... |
Catbird423
Edgewater, MD
(Zone 7b)
October 07, 2009
10:35 AM Post #7144244
| Yes, make it a 'sticky' 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Kizmo
Marietta, OH
(Zone 6a)
October 07, 2009
01:15 PM Post #7144710
| love the cat... is he/she claiming the quilt top??? LOL |
mittsy
Space Coast, FL
(Zone 11)
October 07, 2009
02:08 PM Post #7144848
| I "vote" for Sticky, too. |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 07, 2009
04:44 PM Post #7145401
| Catbird - like that bright quilt. Guess we are almost neighbors. Where do you do your fabric shopping? |
babeegirl
Wichita, KS
(Zone 6a)
October 07, 2009
05:14 PM Post #7145468
| I'd like to put in a request for someone to teach how to twirl the 4 seams coming together in the middle of a pinwheel block. I dislike the bump made by pressing all to one side. |
Kizmo
Marietta, OH
(Zone 6a)
October 07, 2009
06:50 PM Post #7145780
| good idea babeegirl! or like the joined seams in the middle of a pinwheel like the one posted here:
I've read where some quilters keep a rubber hammer with their sewing tools, to flatten the 'star' thats made at the center joint, after you twirl it open. I've only made the one block like that, and while it was a little bulky, it didn't detract from the pattern. I suppose after you layer the batting in between, it would hide any bulk. But depending on how it's quilted, it may be a problem at that point. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 07, 2009
06:55 PM Post #7145799
| I added the "twirl" to the list in the 1st posting. |
babeegirl
Wichita, KS
(Zone 6a)
October 07, 2009
06:55 PM Post #7145800
| exactly! mine always looks lumpy and messy and if you try to press from the front it makes the center kinda ugly. I can't seem to get that crisp look and I want to know the secret! |
barefootT
Wildwood, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 07, 2009
08:36 PM Post #7146188
| welcome catbird, have not "seen" you here before, join in to have some fun, friendly quilting chatter, and swapping... Love LOVE that quilt...I am major fan of bright quilts !! |
Kizmo
Marietta, OH
(Zone 6a)
October 07, 2009
11:14 PM Post #7146659
| Thanks Jean! |
Quilter5bdsr
(Barb) Hillsboro, NH
October 08, 2009
07:18 AM Post #7147247
| Jean - what about a lesson on how to use the rulers and rotary cutters? It's so important - if your squares aren't cut correctly your quilt will never come out right. Things like squaring up your material before you start etc. What do you think? |
abbisgranma
(Marion) Havana, FL
(Zone 8b)
October 08, 2009
07:59 AM Post #7147326
| How about how to straighten fabric so when doing log cabin type or strip they aren't wavy in the middle? |
Quilter5bdsr
(Barb) Hillsboro, NH
October 08, 2009
08:01 AM Post #7147334
| Marion - that's what I was referring to in the above post!! How funny is that? |
abbisgranma
(Marion) Havana, FL
(Zone 8b)
October 08, 2009
08:06 AM Post #7147356
| No there is actually another way to straighten fabric in addition to using the above method. Doing both is almost fool proof. I learned many, many years ago from a quilting teacher in her 80's at the time. Oh so glad I did take her class. |
gardenglory
Gainesville, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 08, 2009
09:18 AM Post #7147571
| I paper piece becuase of just the above problem. Any help very welcome.
Im guessing maybe I dont start with a straight cut to start with...I mean on the grain of the fabric, then things slide from there. Even with I rip the fabric, to get it straight on the grain, by the time its all said and done...my blocks are too small.. This very thing almost happened on my patriotic blcoks. I could use an entire semester on this subject.
Another thing I would love to learn...the supplies you need, etc, is for applique??...dont want to do it by hand, want to just heat bond the pieces and use the machine to finish. SO many things I like have both quilting and applique. I dont have the eyes for hand applique. Take those pineapples for instance...love them...but how do you get the leaves on.
maybe instead of all exchanges, we can do a block of the month, kinda together, and learning. Or any variation of keeping and sharing... |
Kizmo
Marietta, OH
(Zone 6a)
October 08, 2009
09:37 AM Post #7147628
| I'll second the motion for a BOM, even a Mystery block would be fun! Maybe we could take all the blocks, do one of those Round Robin projects you all was talking about or pick a soldier or someone to donate it to...
OR use the blocks to decorate some of those wheelchair bags/totes that Sheila was asking for...? a 12" block with sashing would be enough for the pockets on the fronts... That would be a nice holiday surprise for the Vets or a local nursing home of choice |
Catbird423
Edgewater, MD
(Zone 7b)
October 08, 2009
11:49 AM Post #7147988
| Kizmo- my cat is Benny, he thinks anything that is on the floor must be held down. He also helps arranging the blocks to his preference. He and his brother keep me company while I sew.
Qwilter- when you are in Severn you are pretty close to me. Do you belong to the Annapolis Quilt Guild? I tend to go to Joanns mostly but sometimes Cottonseed Glory (not too often). I'm trying to use my stash as much as possible.
barefootT- I love bright colors, they are happy colors. I also find the cats look good on them too.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
abbisgranma
(Marion) Havana, FL
(Zone 8b)
October 08, 2009
01:41 PM Post #7148339
| Catbird, isn't that the entire purpose of a cat's life? |
jumper2
Huron, OH
(Zone 5b)
October 08, 2009
01:42 PM Post #7148345
| Mine certainly think so! |
abbisgranma
(Marion) Havana, FL
(Zone 8b)
October 08, 2009
01:47 PM Post #7148361
| I think it is an unwritten law in catdom. |
Kizmo
Marietta, OH
(Zone 6a)
October 08, 2009
02:17 PM Post #7148427
| Mine goes upstairs and steals cough drops off my hubby's nightstand, throws them down the stairs, then runs after them and tosses them all over the living room and kitchen like a mouse.. LOL We had to put them in the drawer to keep him out of them... 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
abbisgranma
(Marion) Havana, FL
(Zone 8b)
October 08, 2009
02:29 PM Post #7148469
| My daughter used to have one that did that with cherry tomatoes or grapes. What a mess at times!! |
jumper2
Huron, OH
(Zone 5b)
October 08, 2009
11:03 PM Post #7150005
| Mine do that with small pieces of anything(toys are good). We have to make sure all small pieces are hidden or you'll never know where to find them. Salem is also good at chewing mouse cords. I've lost 3 to him! |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 09, 2009
06:46 AM Post #7150492
| catbirb - I'm on the other side of Severn - by Ft Meade & A Mills. We have 3 nice fabric shops over here (was 5 but 2 closed recently). Perhaps if you are over this direction I could show you around. You could come meet my 3 katz - none of whom were ever told they were cats. |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 09, 2009
11:21 AM Post #7151280
| OK, I've decided to write a book. Tips, stories, recipes, and pictures.
Anyone know a publisher????
|
gardenglory
Gainesville, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 09, 2009
11:31 AM Post #7151313
| I think its a great idea...pictures..lots of pictures.
Maybe take a qulting survey...
1. What is the most amount of times you have sewn the same piece of fabric on the the same wrong place.
2. How many times have you sewn the same fabric on upsdie down, at the same place.
etc. ;-) |
abbisgranma
(Marion) Havana, FL
(Zone 8b)
October 09, 2009
11:35 AM Post #7151330
| Oh Pam, are you trying to get me to confess? LOL |
jumper2
Huron, OH
(Zone 5b)
October 09, 2009
11:35 AM Post #7151334
| quilters aren't the only ones to do that! |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 09, 2009
11:42 AM Post #7151362
| And I can throw in some of my patterns...
Dar, if I didn't have a day job!!!! |
jumper2
Huron, OH
(Zone 5b)
October 09, 2009
11:49 AM Post #7151393
| Day jobs get in the way!! |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 09, 2009
11:52 AM Post #7151400
| Maybe I can "hire" Barb to help me. She will soon be snowed in & looking for indoor activities!!!!! |
Quilter5bdsr
(Barb) Hillsboro, NH
October 09, 2009
12:13 PM Post #7151477
| Any time Qwilter!!!! I just finished my Christmas apron and my tote got mailed last week. Just have a birdhouse and an ornament and then some time is mine for family stuff for the holidays. Hope to get that stuff done within the next two weeks or so since some goes to Colorado and I want it mailed LONG before the holiday rush. |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 09, 2009
05:16 PM Post #7152493
| We are [Sticky]. Thanks Kizmo for doing the research!!!!!
I'm putting all the links to the other threads in the 1st post of this thread.
PS - I don't do machine applique either... |
Kizmo
Marietta, OH
(Zone 6a)
October 09, 2009
07:04 PM Post #7152769
| you're very welcome, Jean! anything I can do to help... I'm afraid I haven't been quilting as long as you all, so I won't have many ideas to contribute, but I'll try! I hope everyone likes the new threads, we'll be able to tell by how many views it racks up!
Thanks again for a great idea!
PS If you get famous, will we be able to buy Tshirts and caps with your Fan Club logo and picture on it???????? |
morningglorie
Youngstown, NY
October 12, 2009
08:12 AM Post #7160547
| I think this is an excellent idea. We can never learn to much. I am interested in making a pineapple block quilt. Any hints. |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 12, 2009
09:16 AM Post #7160697
| Is this the Pineapple block you are looking for:
http://www.quilterscache.com/P/Pineapple2Block.html
A much easier way to construct the block is to work it as a "normal" log cabin and add folded triangles in the corners. They just "slip in" with each round you make. You can leave the folded end loose and catch it when quilting or slip a tuny piece of fusible in and iron the edges down.
Unless you look very closely you will never know you "cheated" and didn't add all those tiny triangles. |
barefootT
Wildwood, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 13, 2009
10:43 AM Post #7164539
| Jean we need the directions for that ! |
jumper2
Huron, OH
(Zone 5b)
October 13, 2009
11:47 AM Post #7164766
| How do you figure out the amount of fabric needed for a quilt? |
babeegirl
Wichita, KS
(Zone 6a)
October 13, 2009
12:12 PM Post #7164861
| you buy ALL the fabric you can sneak into the house and load up all your shelves, drawers, cabinets, and various other spaces available like the car trunk. That's the fun way. The other way is to do some form of fancy math I've never figured out.
This message was edited Oct 13, 2009 11:14 AM |
Kizmo
Marietta, OH
(Zone 6a)
October 13, 2009
12:19 PM Post #7164885
| ROFL |
siliolegma
Rochester, MI
October 13, 2009
12:33 PM Post #7164929
| Just guess about how much you need then stash the leftovers. |
ladydragon5
Lansing, MI
(Zone 5a)
October 13, 2009
12:53 PM Post #7164992
| You ask for this nice calulator thing that does all the numbers as a Christmas present and then you don't take it out of the box to find out how to work it (and now it is Oct.!). Has anyone seen those instructions? (mumble, mumble)
Why is it that comforters are always larger than the measurements for a quilt? I want to make a duvet cover but measuring is the pits!!! |
siliolegma
Rochester, MI
October 13, 2009
01:53 PM Post #7165166
| when I make a t-shirt quilt, it's really a duvet cover. I buy the closest size comforter and then use my serger to cut it to the size I need. So make the cover first and go from there. |
jumper2
Huron, OH
(Zone 5b)
October 13, 2009
04:20 PM Post #7165633
| I don't have to hide fabric from DH he is an enabler! We just checked out a store that had upolstery and other stuff. Some of it 4$ a yard. How cool is that? Any idea what the formula is? |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 13, 2009
04:42 PM Post #7165680
| Jumper - 1st how big do you want the quilt?
How big will the blocks be?
What block pattern?
If I know that, i can figure the rest out for you... |
barefootT
Wildwood, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 13, 2009
08:35 PM Post #7166368
| I believe about.com, and maybe quilterscache has a formula on their sites for figuring out yardages...
I just buy 1, 2, 3, or 6 yards depending upon how much I like the fabrics...what I don't use in one quilt, I know I will use in another...And I have been known to buy the whole bolt, a time or two... |
jumper2
Huron, OH
(Zone 5b)
October 14, 2009
03:36 PM Post #7168894
| DD needs a new quilt to go off to college with next fall, so maybe twin size. Don't know the rest yet. She is horse crazy, so would like to do something with that theme. Any ideas? I'm starting the planning now! |
helenethequeen
Longboat Key, FL
(Zone 9b)
October 14, 2009
05:51 PM Post #7169300
| So here is another questions to this topic. In making a quilt, all squares, (final squ. to 3" each), 2 tone, does the fabric have to be kept in the same direction. In other words when sewing this, the selvage up and down and then of course the rest will be cross grain? Is this squaring up? Thinking these two colors. I am working toward taking classes... 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
helenethequeen
Longboat Key, FL
(Zone 9b)
October 14, 2009
05:53 PM Post #7169308
| and this color 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
helenethequeen
Longboat Key, FL
(Zone 9b)
October 14, 2009
05:55 PM Post #7169314
| and/or this color with white. Need cool looking, like in cold water. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
babeegirl
Wichita, KS
(Zone 6a)
October 14, 2009
06:01 PM Post #7169339
| oh I love the middle one. It definitely looks like cool water! |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 14, 2009
06:12 PM Post #7169402
| As long as you square up the fabric before cutting, and cut selvage to selvage, there will be very little difference in the "stretch" between top.bottom & side to side - as long as you don't pull on it.
The BIG stretch is on the diagonal. So, you can turn the squares either direction and be fine. |
helenethequeen
Longboat Key, FL
(Zone 9b)
October 14, 2009
06:15 PM Post #7169418
| So I wanted to use the first and second together just in squares will that work? The last one I'd use with white |
Quilter5bdsr
(Barb) Hillsboro, NH
October 14, 2009
07:17 PM Post #7169628
| I think it would be just fine... |
abbisgranma
(Marion) Havana, FL
(Zone 8b)
October 14, 2009
07:42 PM Post #7169727
| Ditto here. Really beautiful fabric Helene. Good thing you don't live closer or it might go missing. LOL |
mittsy
Space Coast, FL
(Zone 11)
October 15, 2009
06:42 AM Post #7171146
| I have a beautiful pattern that would work with this color pallette, I'll try to find the picture. |
mittsy
Space Coast, FL
(Zone 11)
October 15, 2009
06:45 AM Post #7171149
| The focus fabric (CAT) is the way you determine the size of your square. Everything else matches up to that one measurement. 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
Kizmo
Marietta, OH
(Zone 6a)
October 15, 2009
09:50 AM Post #7171573
| good tip to know, also would determine what pattern to use to make the most of the focus? What about the coordinating fabrics? |
helenethequeen
Longboat Key, FL
(Zone 9b)
October 15, 2009
03:46 PM Post #7172646
| Mittsy perhaps you qould share the pattern. helene |
mittsy
Space Coast, FL
(Zone 11)
October 16, 2009
06:31 AM Post #7174726
| That is the pattern. It was at a guild meeting as a show and tell. I asked her if I could take a picture and she said sure, real easy, just adjust your sizes to the square. Many times there isn't a printed pattern, just someone's creative juices flowing. |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 16, 2009
06:40 AM Post #7174736
| I'll pick a focus size and send out some numbers.
If those focus squares ar 4X4, then the smaller squares are 2X2 and the strips are 2 X4 - of course you need to add 1/2" to each when cutting. That will make a 12" block.
I think it's neat that the background then "pokes through" the middle of the block. Really does look like floating pieces.
I've been looking for a new pattern for a baby quilt and this might just do it. I have some cute pieces of fabric that would look nice in @ 3" squares...
hmmmmm where is that graph paper????? |
Quilter5bdsr
(Barb) Hillsboro, NH
October 16, 2009
08:31 AM Post #7174902
| The graph paper is on MY desk!!!!!! I'm thinking too... |
abbisgranma
(Marion) Havana, FL
(Zone 8b)
October 16, 2009
08:33 AM Post #7174905
| Ah, a quilter's best friend. I have tons still from when my hubby retired--even though he used the computer for most of his drawings for specs--he still loved his graph paper. |
Quilter5bdsr
(Barb) Hillsboro, NH
October 16, 2009
08:40 AM Post #7174920
| Me too!!! |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 16, 2009
09:01 AM Post #7174999
| I'm doing the baby quilt with 3" (finished) focus fabric blocks.
As soon as the Heat Pump inspector is gone (yes, I was the 1st appointment of the day) I can get back to the sewing. |
helenethequeen
Longboat Key, FL
(Zone 9b)
October 16, 2009
09:25 AM Post #7175080
| so you are saying the cat is going to be 3" and then everything will be made to fit to make a 9" block?Yes? A picture would be very helpful |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 16, 2009
09:52 AM Post #7175175
| If the focus blocks are 3" (finished) the strips would be 1 1/2" (finished) and the block would finish 9".
This block is pieced in 4 sections. Each has a focus block, then strips along 2 sides which are 1/2 the width of the focus block. |
cheriffic
(Cheryl) Wilmington, MA
October 17, 2009
09:14 PM Post #7180813
| I love that block too ooooooooooo the possibilities. Luuuuuuuuuuuv it |
helenethequeen
Longboat Key, FL
(Zone 9b)
October 21, 2009
05:07 PM Post #7194606
|
| Quoted: | I'll pick a focus size and send out some numbers.
If those focus squares ar 4X4, then the smaller squares are 2X2 and the strips are 2 X4 - of course you need to add 1/2" to each when cutting. That will make a 12" block.
I think it's neat that the background then "pokes through" the middle of the block. Really does look like floating pieces.
I've been looking for a new pattern for a baby quilt and this might just do it. I have some cute pieces of fabric that would look nice in @ 3" squares... |
how to figure yardage lets say for twin size quilt. 6 12" blocks by 8 12" blocks in mittsy's pattern.
|
mittsy
Space Coast, FL
(Zone 11)
October 21, 2009
05:12 PM Post #7194615
| So glad you are all having "fun" with this one. That was my immediate reaction, too. Couldn't wait to try it out with different sizes and fabrics.. |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 21, 2009
08:31 PM Post #7195322
| I do need to post the pics of the baby quilt...
6 X 8 = 48 blocks
Each blocks has 4 focus blocks - 2 of each fabric so 96 each.
working with wof =40" you can get 9 squares out of each strip so @10 strips of fabric X 4 1/2" = 45" of each focus fabric (of course, if you plan to fussy-cut the pieces you will need more)
then you need 8 (2 1/2 X4 1/4 rectangles) per block X 48 blocks = 384 rectangles so 24 - 4 1/2" strips = 108"
(for the light colored background
of the dark background you need @3yds:
4 - 2 1/2" squares per block X 48 = 192 squares 12 - 2 1/2" strips = 30"
also you need the sashing from this fabric. 40 - 12 1/2" pieces - 3 per strip= 14 strips = 1 yd
then 9 strips @ 83" (width) - 1 1/2yd
2 strips @110" (length) - 1/2 yd
|
mittsy
Space Coast, FL
(Zone 11)
October 22, 2009
08:00 AM Post #7196483
| You must FUSSY cut the focus fabric(s) or you will lose the impact of the overall effect. I have a wonderful set of applique embroidery patterns for the calico cat and gingham dog. I'm working them on muslin to try this pattern, am thinking of a nice dark background for contrast. |
helenethequeen
Longboat Key, FL
(Zone 9b)
October 22, 2009
09:45 AM Post #7196759
| Thank you so much
What is fussy cut.?
T his one of the fabrics I am considering. I can't believe I am thinking of doing this. Cutting fabric apart just to put it back together again.
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
helenethequeen
Longboat Key, FL
(Zone 9b)
October 22, 2009
09:46 AM Post #7196760
| this is the other 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
helenethequeen
Longboat Key, FL
(Zone 9b)
October 22, 2009
09:47 AM Post #7196765
| this is the third- will this work 
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
babeegirl
Wichita, KS
(Zone 6a)
October 22, 2009
10:14 AM Post #7196817
| fussy cutting is where you find a motif that you like such as the face of a kitty and you cut a square around it so the motif is is the middle and is the focus of that particular piece of the block. For awsome examples, see the patriot blocks #2 thread to see how people fussy cut the stars to become the centers of the patch pieces. |
helenethequeen
Longboat Key, FL
(Zone 9b)
October 22, 2009
10:20 AM Post #7196830
| TU Learned one more imp. thing. This is a science! Yes? |
babeegirl
Wichita, KS
(Zone 6a)
October 22, 2009
10:41 AM Post #7196887
| all through high school I never understood geometry until I started quilting! maybe they should have combined math class with Home Ec and it would have made sense to me lol... |
Kizmo
Marietta, OH
(Zone 6a)
October 22, 2009
11:17 AM Post #7197023
| Helene, that black fabric in your post is really nice, did you get that online? |
helenethequeen
Longboat Key, FL
(Zone 9b)
October 22, 2009
12:33 PM Post #7197207
| I am working with it. On line $5. http://www.fabrics.com bautiful stuff under sale items .
Tell me somewhere in checking out quilt patterns there was a black Japanese style quilt with large peonies blocks on the right hand side. Do you perhaps remember having seen it.? HD |
Kizmo
Marietta, OH
(Zone 6a)
October 22, 2009
12:50 PM Post #7197239
| were you on a particular website or one of our threads? Maybe an ad on the right side of here??? They change all the time, but if you give me an around-about place to look, I'll keep an eye out.. |
helenethequeen
Longboat Key, FL
(Zone 9b)
October 22, 2009
12:51 PM Post #7197243
| I don't remember that's just it. It doesnt matter HD |
Kizmo
Marietta, OH
(Zone 6a)
October 22, 2009
01:16 PM Post #7197310
| Googled 'peony fabric' , wow! there's a ton of beautiful peony prints out there... |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
October 22, 2009
06:35 PM Post #7198215
| helene - although those are GREAT fabrics, I'm not sure they would do well for this pattern. This is a pattern where you use a picture print (the cats) or a large print that would loose itself if it were cut into smaller pieces.
Then you need a light fabric (foreground) and the dark for the background. |
helenethequeen
Longboat Key, FL
(Zone 9b)
October 22, 2009
07:48 PM Post #7198470
| thank you so much. I do understand. kizmo pointed this out to me as well. I am gettting the idea that it is not just simple cutting and putting back again. Wanted to go for quilting lessons, here in Bradenton near Sarasota, beautiful shop nobody signed up. They have an attitude but what a shame for such a large shop, I feel bad for them... |
Qwilter
Severn, MD//Flem Is,, FL
(Zone 9a)
November 06, 2009
06:08 AM Post #7246755
| Well, it is Nov so I better pick a topic.
I'm going to step outside my "comfort" zone here and go with paper piecing. For those in the year long swap, that block is coming up.
I'm hoping that those of you who use (like) the technique will jump in with your tips. I do admit there are times it comes in handy.
so come on over: http://davesgarden.com/community/forums/t/1053843/
Click the image for an enlarged view.
|
helenethequeen
Longboat Key, FL
(Zone 9b)
November 20, 2009
02:18 PM Post #7293094
| not sure where to ask this questions so i chose this:
Couldn't our group have a category in the photo contest next year? http://davesgarden.com/contest/2009/ so many beautiful photos. I noticed my friend "KatG" walked away with many wins.
or is there a category we could post our pictures next year? For example the beautiful tote bag by "heavenscape" and many other quilts and things? |
