Block problems
#1
![Unhappy](/images/icons/icon9.gif)
I am just getting into quilting and have made some simple blocks. However I am disappointed to find some imperfections that I am worried might cause me problems down the line. These are some examples:
![](http://i.imgur.com/ytgRI2g.jpg?1)
It has some rippling and the dimensions are slightly off on one side
![](http://i.imgur.com/dnBc2qk.jpg?1)
In the center the stitching doesn't line up
![](http://i.imgur.com/HMggKbO.jpg?1)
A large ripple at the bottom
![](http://i.imgur.com/NIstF2r.jpg)
Am I doing well enough to try more advanced blocks or should I not be having these problems? Any tips or suggestions?
![](http://i.imgur.com/ytgRI2g.jpg?1)
It has some rippling and the dimensions are slightly off on one side
![](http://i.imgur.com/dnBc2qk.jpg?1)
In the center the stitching doesn't line up
![](http://i.imgur.com/HMggKbO.jpg?1)
A large ripple at the bottom
![](http://i.imgur.com/NIstF2r.jpg)
Am I doing well enough to try more advanced blocks or should I not be having these problems? Any tips or suggestions?
#3
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Pressing your blocks should help. I think they look pretty good. If you are concerned about the centers, make sure your seems nest together and try one pin to hold when sewing. Great start. Look forward to seeing quilt when you are done.
#4
Super Member
Join Date: Aug 2009
Location: The middle of an IL cornfield
Posts: 7,014
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I love your fabric choices and your workmanship. I'd put those blocks in my quilt.
You can starch your fabric before cutting. That helps a good bit. Especially when working with a bias edge. There are many online videos and such to help you if those imperfections are going to drive you crazy. For example, there are many ways to make half square triangles. Some people get better results with one instead of another.
You can starch your fabric before cutting. That helps a good bit. Especially when working with a bias edge. There are many online videos and such to help you if those imperfections are going to drive you crazy. For example, there are many ways to make half square triangles. Some people get better results with one instead of another.
#5
Member
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: BC. Canada
Posts: 65
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I'd say it depends... When you start you want to complete something so badly. It was suggested to me to make something 'small' for myself first ( I did a runner first) so you don't sweat too much! Or put yourself off... You might want to start with cheaper material to practice too. Anything new we try..we can't expect perfection. It takes practice. Enjoy the learning and if the join is going to annoy you, try undoing and try again. Us human beings often expect perfection first time. We are all ( mostly) learning and improving. One thing I like is the glue baste rather than pins ( each to their own) I find it holds flatter and so easier to lineup. Or try a pin right on that seam or close to it when sewing together. You will improve fast, don't worry. Your color combo is great and you are not far out! Why not keep going, join up and see how it looks. It is all good practice, beyond all - have fun.
#7
Senior Member
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: Sunny Arizona
Posts: 476
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I think your blocks are great. Just wondering if your seams are even. Always the same size. That could make one side larger than the other. Figure out a place on your machine that is 1/4" and try to stay with it. A stack of sticky notes on the 1/4" line would help guide you. Keep going!!!! Ann
#8
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Join Date: Feb 2013
Posts: 2,657
#9
Power Poster
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Ontario, Canada
Posts: 41,521
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Rotary cut your starched fabric accurately. Sew with accurate 1/4 inch seams. A little dab of Elmer's washable school glue in the seam allowance helps to keep intersections in place for sewing. Your block looks very nice and just keep going. Every project will improve your skills.
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08-18-2011 10:48 PM