For those of you playing along, or wanting to join in, this is the tutorial for my modern block from this book.
So…drum roll…it’s…
Diamond Ripples!
Argh! I hear some of you say. Never fear – this is the perfect opportunity to either show off your great talent at making half square triangles or a chance to practice.
First my requests – if you are planning to do a block for me please may I have plain, solid white background (I used homespun) and focus colours of red, grey and turquoise. I have used fabrics from Bonnie and Camille’s “Ruby” range in case you didn’t recognise it instantly….
So, onto the process. I won’t pretend to be an expert in HSTs (except for being fan of throwing around the acronym :)) but this is how I did it. Feel free to use your tried and tested methods if they work for you.
Step 1 Cut out your squares of course as per the instructions!
Step 2 Make 2 HSTs by sewing 1/4″ either side from the centre of a pair of squares (I have a little guide you can’t see on my sewing table which is marked. You can also mark your own with tape.
And the other side…As you can see, I like to chain piece too 🙂
Step 3 Cut down the centre of each square to make your HSTs
Step 4 And press them open to the dark side…
Step 5 I like to trim the little “bunny ears” off the ends of each square before embarking on sewing the rows. Then it is a matter of laying the squares out in the pattern to achieve the balance of colour you are after and setting out on sewing the rows together. Once you have done this, press the rows so the seams go in opposite directions – this way the edges will “kiss” and create (hopefully) nice points and joins. That’s the plan anyway…
Step 6 Sew the rows together and keep your fingers crossed (not at the same time, mind you) and hopefully you will end up with nice straight lines and crisp points!
The lovely Gina pointed out after I made this block (thanks Gina) that I could probably have used Elizabeth Hartman’s “Stamp Collection” block technique using interfacing. I think she makes a valid point and would love to hear feedback from anyone who approaches the block in this fashion.
Anyway, have fun with it. I’m not in a huge hurry for these blocks so if you want to spend some time over Christmas (or indeed have no time in the lead up to Christmas) some time early next year would be great unless you are dying to crack on with it. I am planning on making a charity quilt with them.
Kate