September 27, 2004  Original Blocks

Appliquéd Flower Quilt

     This quilt will consist of approximately 10-12 blocks, given about every four to six weeks, each one being a unique appliquéd flower.  

The blocks!

     Here is one sample setting for this quilt, put together by Mary Lynn, WA!

     Here are a couple of important points about this quilt:

  • It doesn't matter if your blocks are exactly the same size as they should be or not!  So, this is a good way to introduce yourself to appliqué and practice on accuracy... but if you don't quite hit the mark on all the blocks... it doesn't matter!
  • This class teaches basic button-hole appliqué by hand.  However, you could button-hole appliqué using your sewing machine or you could even choose any other decorative stitch that your heart desires. 

     Here are things you need to know and/or have on hand in order to make this quilt:

  • Appliqué needle (packages of needles state that they are appliqué)
  • Appliqué thread.  The thread you use is entirely up to you.  If you are doing this by hand, then you have a couple of choices:  Either use three strands of embroidery floss or use one strand of Perle Cotton.  I prefer Perle Cotton because you only use one strand (and it doesn't tangle) plus, it has a sheen on it that is gorgeous when used in appliqué.  Now, if you are doing this by machine, then you can use any type of decorative embroidery thread (I use Sulky) or you can use the "invisible" nylon thread, so that sinks in and disappears.  Lots of choices!  Do what you want to do!
  • Fabric selections.  100% cottons.  This is an excellent project for you to use up all of those scraps!  Or you can use FQs that you have collected.  Or, if worse comes to worse, you may have to go shopping to buy a few FQs.  :)  I am using all batiks and/or hand dyes for mine and if you choose to use either of these in yours, I highly recommend that you pre-wash them!
  • Fabric colors.  For the background, choose a very light color, such as white or cream or white on white or cream on cream, etc.  The flowers themselves can be done in any of your favorite colors!  For the background, I do recommend approximately 2 yards.
  • Tools.  Rotary cutter for the background pieces only.  Other than that, you'll need a pair of sharp scissors for the appliqué pieces.  Either needle and threads or sewing machine.  You will need double-sided fusible webbing OR water-soluble glue stick.  I prefer the webbing, but the other will work in a pinch.  You will find it VERY helpful if you have an appliqué pressing sheet.  These are made from a substance that nothing will stick to, and isn't limited to webbing.  It's very versatile!  You can even do hot glue projects on it and the excess glue will peel off when cool... and more.  It costs about $15 and is worth every penny.  If you don't have one of these, then you'll be pressing directly onto your block.  OK, you'll also need a black permanent marking pen.  Off the top of my head, this is all I can think of.  I may update this later.  :)
  • The quilt.  So, what's this quilt going to look like when finished?  Well, it's going to be entirely made up of floral blocks, however the blocks themselves are not going to be the same size.  This will give the quilt a unique look so that the eyes move around the quilt.

     This pattern would look great made from scraps.  Have fun!

  

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