December, 2001
This block is a simple, appliquéd heart with a rough edge (explained below). It can be finished, from start to finish, in a matter of minutes, on either a machine or hand-sewn. The finished size is 8"; the unfinished size is 8.5".
There are two color fabrics in this block: Red (as the heart) and white on white (for the background).
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Using any heart pattern, cut a heart from a 6" square piece of pre-washed, red fabric. A heart pattern is provided by clicking this link, if you do not have one available.
Lightly press the 9" white on white square in half, then unfold and press in half again, going in the opposite direction, in a "+" fashion. This is used to center the heart.
Next, center the heart on the 9" square, using the pressed lines as guides, and pin (or baste) the heart into place. Do not turn under the edges. These are going to be left raw, hence the name of this block, "Ragged".
Sew inside of the exterior of the heart 1/4" inch. This can be any stitch that you want to use, whether a running stitch, or some type of decorative stitch, such as the feather stitch. It is important to note that is to be a fast and easy block with a ragged/tattered look, so decorative stitches are NOT required. You can merely sew them on using a simple stitch. However, if you wish to use some decorative stitches, there are instructions for learning on the Johanna's Needlework Stitches and Sharon B's Stitch Dictionary Web sites.
Once the heart is sewn onto the white on white background, turn it over and carefully cut the white background away from it. Be sure to only cut behind the heart where there is a double thickness. Also be sure to not cut through the heart!
Next, press the block flat, then trim the block to 8.5" square, keeping the appliquéd heart in the center.
Congratulations, you've finished the block!
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