Hello, and welcome to my third process post for the American Patchwork & Quilting Quilt Along. I’m going to talk a little bit more today about piecing the blocks. I have three blocks completed now, and I think I have figured out a pretty good system for how I’m going to piece the rest of the blocks.
For my first two blocks I used chain-piecing to piece segments and sewed the center 9-patch first (as I discussed in my last post). Then I worked on the blocks individually, gathering the segments and background pieces necessary.
This method worked well and allowed me to “hand-pick” the backgrounds so I can distribute them more evenly throughout the quilt. Pressing has been simple, too. I press the 4-patch sections, 9-patch sections, and side sections to the dark fabrics where possible. Then, when I’m sewing the sections together into rows I press towards the background sections. This means that when I sew the rows together the seams all next since everything has been pressed to the background fabrics.
Have I mentioned I really love these blocks?
Now, for what I’m doing different with the rest of the blocks. I decided to sew all of my four patch, 9-patch, and side sections together for each block. I think I’ll get to this point with all of my blocks before I sew any more blocks together. That way I can utilize more chain piecing. I have this orange and yellow block ready to go, and I can’t wait to see it go together though, I might have to put this together first!
Are you joining in? Be sure to look for additional posts on this quilt along from these amazing ladies:
Amy Ellis from Amy’s Creative Side
Anne Sutton of Bunny Hill Designs
Camille Roskelley of Simplify
Carrie Nelson of La Vie En Rosie
Jane Davidson of Quilt Jane
Kimberly Jolly of the Fat Quarter Shop Jolly Jabber
Lisa Bongean of Primitive Gatherings
Lissa Alexander–Moda Lissa
and Jennifer Keltner, executive editor of American Patchwork & Quilting, at All People Quilt
Thanks so much for stopping by!
Auntie Pami says
I've got the magazine by my chair. I still can't decide on fabrics, but I'm leaning towards red and white. Love the chain piecing.
Cynthia says
Love your blocks. They are probably the best colors I have seen so far. I made mine just a tad bit different! Not sure but where do I post my blocks to join in or is there no formal join in spot? Thanks for sharing your wonderful work. Cynthia
paulette says
WOW!! I Also LOVE your blocks!! This quilt is going to be gorgeous!
P
WoolenSails says
I have enjoyed seeing everyone who is making this quilt, it really is a beautiful piece.
Debbie
Kathleen OGrady says
Your blocks are so pretty and bright. Can't wait to see more. I wish I was joining in the fun, I have the magazine, just no time. So I will keep watching everyone else' progress.
Joan says
Your blocks are lovely and I appreciate all your tips. You are very organized. I have the magazine, just trying to figure out my fabrics so I hope to tackle this in 2014. Looking forward to your next post. Thanks!
em's scrapbag says
Love this block! So scrap friendly and I love the low volume background.
Anita says
Loving your blocks!
Karen says
This really is a great block. I haven't committed yet, but it's so tempting.
Liv says
Love those American Jane blocks cannot get to get started on this quilt!
Gretchen Portwood says
I'm loving your tutorials. Thank you