notes from Terry Ann

"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!

Halloween Treats

 

Today I made a few Bridget's Bagettes for Halloween gifts. There are three sizes, perfect for holding candy bars, M & M's, or my personal favorite - candy corn. A snack size zip-top bag fits perfectly in the medium size to hold unwrapped candy! What kind of candy will you put in yours?

 I tried the new Lazy Girl "Dreamy Fusible" fleece and loved it! I stapled the instructions to the fleece to keep for future reference - and to keep it from getting mixed up with the regular fleece in my stash.

The fusible side looks sparkly (not the usual big dots of adhesive) and it bonds to the fabric perfectly - no puckering. I layered my pieces between two paper towels before fusing "just in case".

 

#7: Grandmother's wreath

When my grandmother lived in a senior apartment building, the residents decorated their doors for every holiday. I made a wreath like this for my grandmother's door. The other ladies thought it was so cute that they pulled and picked at the stitches to try and figure out how it was made.  Within a few days it looked kind of raggedy and most of the pom poms fell off. So she took it down and decided not to put any decorations up at all - ever again. 

Here's how I made the wreath: Use knitting worsted and a size H crochet hook. Round 1: single crochet around a 5" metal ring. Round 2: Chain 5. (triple crochet, ch 2) 7 times in each stitch. Attach pom poms and a yarn bow with glue.

Today is Kari's turn to share a project - I wonder if she'll use her Clearly Perfect Angles??

Today you can hop around to find out about everyone's decorations - maybe you'll get some inspiration . . . and remember to leave a comment on each designer's blog during the Cross Country Christmas blog hop to become eligible for the three grand prizes!