Wednesday 5 September 2012

How to design a block.

Well, the fabric for the September blocks on their way to whole of the UK and the USA. So very exciting!

I thought it would be helpful though to explain the process of design for the new quilter members of the quilting bee.

There are a few things that will help with designing a block:

  • Always have a pencil and paper to hand. If you have an idea plot it out first, write notes, play with your ideas before you grab the rotary cutter.



  • When you are desiging, make sure you remember the 1/4" seam allowance. It is a costly mistake to forget - speaking from experience! Plus make sure you have a 1/4" patchwork foot for your machine too!

  • If you fancy using a block designed by another quilter, that is fine. There are plenty of books, blogs and website for inspiration, but make sure you ask permission if appropriate and always reference the design on this blog. We need to respect other quilters creativity, by acknowledging their hard work.

  • One you have worked out your design on paper, take photos as you go when you are putting together your block. This will make it easier when writing your instructions. More photos are better than too few.

  • Make sure you plan in advance, ideally the fabric for the blocks need to be in the post in the first week of the month - 3 bee members are in the USA, so postage to there will take quite a bit longer!

  • Don't be afraid of using simple designs, there is no judgement, ANYTHING GOES!

  • The last tip is to have fun! This is going to be an exciting 12 months!

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