More Practice and Lessons Learned
08-31-2009, 08:57 AM
#12
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Thread Starter
Join Date: Aug 2009
Location: The middle of an IL cornfield
Posts: 7,014
Thanks for the tips. My seams appear to measure at 1/4" exactly, but the pattern said use a scant 1/4". I guess I didn't expect scant to make that much difference.
Later, I saw a post that said "scant 1/4" should be about 3/16". I had my handy dandy husband make a 3/16" guide for my machine and PRESTO! A block that measured exactly right!
I think I will give some of the stretching tips a try on my undersized blocks. They may be saved yet. And if not, I'm feeling some Christmas potholders coming on.
Later, I saw a post that said "scant 1/4" should be about 3/16". I had my handy dandy husband make a 3/16" guide for my machine and PRESTO! A block that measured exactly right!
I think I will give some of the stretching tips a try on my undersized blocks. They may be saved yet. And if not, I'm feeling some Christmas potholders coming on.
08-31-2009, 09:48 AM
#14
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Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: Clay Springs AZ
Posts: 3,229
The best advice I can give a new quilter is to use Quilt in a Day patterns.
Eleanor Burns makes things oversized then squares up to the right size so you get perfect blocks.
Her half square triangle method makes 8 perfect HST from large squares.
Her triangle square up ruler is a must have for HST and quarter triangle squares. It gives measurements for making both up to 6 1/2 inch sizes.
Eleanor Burns makes things oversized then squares up to the right size so you get perfect blocks.
Her half square triangle method makes 8 perfect HST from large squares.
Her triangle square up ruler is a must have for HST and quarter triangle squares. It gives measurements for making both up to 6 1/2 inch sizes.
08-31-2009, 10:07 AM
#15
Super Member
Join Date: Jun 2009
Location: Lost in a quilt shop :-)
Posts: 1,342
While classes certainly have benefits and value, practical hands on experience is the best teacher. The confidence and self satisfaction are priceless. You did a great job on your blocks.
Do you hear a quilt calling out to be made? I do! :D
Do you hear a quilt calling out to be made? I do! :D
08-31-2009, 11:27 AM
#16
Senior Member
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: Lake Colorado City, Texas
Posts: 672
I think your blocks are terrific. If you still feel unsure about accuracy, you might try using "Thangles" for your half square triangle. I have used them and it is hard to go wrong using them. Check out this link as they provide pictures and great instructions on how to use them:
http://www.thangles.com/howtheywork.html
Keep up the good work and good luck!
http://www.thangles.com/howtheywork.html
Keep up the good work and good luck!
08-31-2009, 04:36 PM
#17
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Thread Starter
Join Date: Aug 2009
Location: The middle of an IL cornfield
Posts: 7,014
Originally Posted by Jaynie
I think your blocks are terrific. If you still feel unsure about accuracy, you might try using "Thangles" for your half square triangle. I have used them and it is hard to go wrong using them. Check out this link as they provide pictures and great instructions on how to use them:
http://www.thangles.com/howtheywork.html
Keep up the good work and good luck!
http://www.thangles.com/howtheywork.html
Keep up the good work and good luck!
08-31-2009, 06:40 PM
#19
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Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: Salem Iowa
Posts: 15,666
Your blocks are terrific looking!
The best advice I would give anyone of any level of experience is to pay attention to making sure your seams are straight and even. Whatever size your seam allowance is if your seams are at all crooked it will show in the finished size of your blocks. Also pay close attention to making sure your seams meet accurately and things will fall in place like they should!!
I like to take the time to tack a stitch instead of using pins when I am joining blocks together. A stitch is less likely to allow the fabric to move and pins don't always keep the fabric in place well enough when you are matching seams. I tack everywhere 2 seams meet and at the ends where the seam will go through. If you place your tacks where the seam will go through you don't have to take them back out and you don't have to mess with pins.
Keep up the good work!! Your blocks are looking great!!
The best advice I would give anyone of any level of experience is to pay attention to making sure your seams are straight and even. Whatever size your seam allowance is if your seams are at all crooked it will show in the finished size of your blocks. Also pay close attention to making sure your seams meet accurately and things will fall in place like they should!!
I like to take the time to tack a stitch instead of using pins when I am joining blocks together. A stitch is less likely to allow the fabric to move and pins don't always keep the fabric in place well enough when you are matching seams. I tack everywhere 2 seams meet and at the ends where the seam will go through. If you place your tacks where the seam will go through you don't have to take them back out and you don't have to mess with pins.
Keep up the good work!! Your blocks are looking great!!
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