MAY BORDER BLOCKS

[Susan B.]

When I was faced with a block coming out too big, I reviewed for the 3rd time, my 1/4 inch seam, following Margo's tutorial. I have one border block that I'll probably do over because I cut it down to size & the resulting seam allowances are probably going to be too small.

I've learned to analyze the way I sew each seam as I go along & measure frequently as I piece...catching mistakes before the block is complete. If a piece doesn't look right, I'll measure again and re-cut if necessary. My blocks sure aren't perfect, but I feel like they are getting better, and sewing with patience is becoming easier.

I'm using Eleanor Burns' mini-flying geese template for the sawtooth stars.

If you decide to shrink the block, let us know how it turns out! Sharon Schamber has a free video on how to do this on SharonSchamberNetwork.com

[Diana U.]

Hi Sandy in CO,
I have gone beyond paper-piecing the HSTs. I have drafted the blocks in EQ and foundation piece the blocks in 5-6 sections. Wish it was fewer but it helps me with the accuracy.
Diana

[Susan B.]

Diana, what an intriguing idea. I had already drafted a border block using my fabric colors to keep me straight. A foundation pattern in eq6 shows 6 strips that don't look any harder than the feather medallion center block. I'm going to try one and time it, because I think a lot of my inaccuracy comes from cutting. I'm not sure how to fix that issue. I keep trying to be very observant. Has anyone else paper-pieced an entire border block?

[Susan B.]

Yahoo Mountain Dew, the four big May blocks are done and posted! No hair pulling this month, just a few goofs that could be corrected easily.

[Susan B.]

What a great idea - Thanks for your suggestion. Jan

Hi Sandy in CO,
I have gone beyond paper-piecing the HSTs. I have drafted the blocks in EQ and foundation piece the blocks in 5-6 sections. Wish it was fewer but it helps me with the accuracy.
Diana

[Diana U.]

One of things that helped me, both on the May blocks and feathered star, was Carol Doak's instruction to not remove the paper until the whole block was together. Sometimes that works, other times the paper would be buried in the block so I pull that piece. Let me know if you have any suggestions for laying them out.