Be There, Get your Square – Block #4

lucretia
Lucretia Coffin Mott Block

So I know I said the next block would be Jackie Kennedy….but she is still a work in progress.  I need to convert ONE part of that block to smart piecing and the math proved to be my undoing last night.  So I set Jackie aside and started on the next block in the series.  The block to the left is the “Lucretia Coffin Mott” block.  This was an easy block, however I decided to get “jazzy” and change up some of the colors from the original layout (The layout I used is also in the book.)

I’m using the “Nifty Notions” rulers designed by Kaye England (who also wrote the book we’re using for the BOM).  For this particular block I used the “Half-Square Triangle” ruler as well as the “Quarter Square Triangle” ruler.  They are available individually in 8″ versions, or there is a 4″ set version also available.  I will be adding a tutorial on using these rulers soon.  But I really LOVE these rulers for making flying geese units, and half square triangle units.  Makes it quick and easy!!  So head out to your local shop to get them, or if they don’t carry them you can get them using the links provided here.

On my last trip out to see my friends in Washington state, I got a set for my friends Cindi, and Charisma.  They use traditional piecing techniques, so I had a little demo with them.  (Can you tell if I really like something, and think it works great, that I feel the need to share, and talk it up?)

So 2 more blocks to go and I will be all caught up for my BOM, which will be a nice feeling.  I hate getting behind!  😀

Block of the Month Information:
Voices of the Past II – Women in History” by Kaye England
Hosted by:  Inspired to Sew in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Fabric Auditioning with GIMP

Here’s my first attempt at a techie tutorial. I use the free program GIMP to help me audition fabrics for quilt ideas and blocks. Please watch the video below for the complete tutorial. Nothing better than NOT having to buy a piece of software!

Also I apologize in advance for the spa music in the background.  I had my headphones on to use the mic, and didn’t realize I still had the music on and turned down low.  😛

Be There, Get your Square – Block #3

Anna Eleanor RooseveltWell I have to admit I got a tad behind on my block of the month (BOM).  I missed out on several weeks when I went on vacation.  So after getting back, getting a few projects finished etc, I’m back in the saddle and finished my 3rd block the other day.

This particular BOM is being hosted by Inspired To Sew (previously known as Pine Needles Sewing Center).  If you remember this BOM is all about women in history , so this block was named for Anna Eleanor Roosevelt.  My photo didn’t turn out as well as it looks in person.  The robin egg’s blue fabric has polka dots on it and there are hints of that color in the batik that borders it.

Anyway the block went together fairy quickly.  I believe it took about an hour.  I had to do some un-sewing to get my points “perky” but I am really happy with how it turned out.

Remember if you are interested in these blocks, the book can be purchased from Kaye England’s site.

The blocks are a tad complex, and the pieces are small (for me) some are an inch and a quarter.  But I think you’d be surprised at how nicely they go together, and you do feel a bit more confident after you’ve constructed a block.  The other nice thing is if you HATED making the block, you don’t have to make it again and you can move on to the next one.  😛