notes from Terry Ann

"T" is for Terry's Tips 6: For the Love

"For the Love" by Sharon Burgess is a delicate beauty. Here's how the block goes together:

To save time tracing, print the patterns onto lightweight cardstock. Cut out the shapes. Cut the fabric 1/4" larger all the way around and baste the edges under to hold them in place.

To join the pieces, place two shapes right sides together with the edges even. Slide the needle through both pieces just at the edge without piercing the paper.

From the right side you won't be able to see the stitches that join the shapes. These basting stitches will be removed later.

Stitch the flower to the background square using matching thread. Use the side of your needle to tuck the extra fabric underneath when you reach the points. After stitching, remove the basting thread, cut the background away, and gently pull the paper out.

Be sure to stop over and visit Sharon Burgess to learn more about her.

Dive in and enjoy this block, and be sure to post your block at The Splendid Sampler!

"T" is for Terry's Tips 5: Rose and Dot

Rose and Dot by Lori Kennedy

There are so many color possibilities - I want to make a whole garden of these blooms. I arranged fabrics in the proportion that will be in the block because that helps me choose colors.

I cut out my template and then used the leftover piece to choose placement on the fabric. Remember to place the curve on the bias and it will turn under more easily.

Cut the pieces out a scant quarter inch outside of the line. Pinch along the seam to bend the marked line and the seam allowance to the wrong side. Pin or baste to hold the shape in place while you sew.

Use the side of your needle to turn the edge under as you go. Stitch along the edge to hold the shapes in place.

I'll share more tips on Facebook Live today at 2:00 p.m. at Atkinson Designs. The video will be on my timeline afterwards and you can watch any time.

Be sure to stop over and visit Lori Kennedy to learn more about her.

Dive in and enjoy this block, and be sure to post your block at The Splendid Sampler!

 

"T" is for Terry's Tips 4: Point Taken

Point Taken by Susan Ache

This block was fun to sew and with a few simple tricks you'll have a more accurate block.

Even for a simple block like this one, audition the fabrics by looking at them in about the same proportion that you'll see in the finished block. Try them in different positions and see how well they contrast with each other. I tried out several different blues before I found just the right one.

Round up and cut the squares 2-1/2" x 2-1/2" for Step 1. This gives you a little extra for trimming the squares to a perfect 2".

When stitching the little squares, stitch across a scrap first and stop with the needle down. Lift the presser foot and slide the squares right up to the needle.  Lower the presser foot and begin stitching.

Pay attention to pressing - two squares have seams pressed toward the big triangle and two are pressed toward the small triangle.

When pinning the squares together, insert the pins 1/4" from the edge, right where you'll sew. You'll drive right across where it's matching. Press seams open for less bulk.

 

I'll share more tips on Facebook Live today at 3:00 p.m. at Atkinson Designs. The video will be on my timeline afterwards and you can watch any time.

Be sure to stop over and visit Susan Ache to learn more about her.

Dive in and enjoy this block, and be sure to post your block at The Splendid Sampler!