03/13/09

July 06, 2004

Rectangle Method

     This is another one of the easiest, and most common, methods of making Flying Geese.  This method, however, only yields one (1) Flying Geese block using this process, so must be repeated as many times as you need.  It also tends to be a little slower than other methods.  However, as stated above, it is one of the easiest.

     The instructions given below allow you to make any length of Flying Geese that you want.  To take the "math" out of it, though, refer to the chart at the bottom of the page for measurements.    

1. Determine the finished size of the Flying Geese block that you need.  For example, 8" finished is the length size being used for this tutorial.

2. Divide by 2 to get the width.  For example, 8" finished divided by 2 = 4".  So, the finished size block will be 4" x 8", which means that the unfinished size is 4.5" x 8.5".

3. Cut 1 rectangle from the geese fabric that is the unfinished size of the block.  For example, cut a 4.5" x 8.5" rectangle. 

4. Cut 2 squares from the background fabric that measure 4.5" x 4.5".  This measurement will always be the same as the width of the rectangle.  At this point, you should have one rectangle and two squares.
   

5. Draw a line on the wrong side of the fabric of each square, diagonally.
   

6. Lay one of the squares in the left corner of the rectangle, right sides of the fabric together.  Make sure that the diagonal line drawn on the square is going in the same direction as the photo shown below:
   

7. Sew exactly on this drawn diagonal line.
   

8. Lay the ruler on top of the sewn unit so that the sewn line is lined up with the 1/4" line.  Cut off the excess, as shown.  Be sure to cut on the side that will cut off two small triangles!
    

9. Open the sewn unit and press flat.

10. Lay the other square on top of the sewn unit, making sure the diagonal line goes in the same direction as shown below:
    

11. Sew exactly on the diagonal line.
    

12. Again, line up the ruler so that the 1/4" line is on the sewn line and trim off the excess, as shown:
    

13. Press the block flat.  It should measure the length determined in step 1, plus .5" (for the seam allowance).
    

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