Last week I started on a new little project hosted by Temecula Quilt Co. called Marvelous Mini Monday.
It's a twelve week sewalong and I'm doing well so far on week 2...
I did not fussy-cut the centre...but it sure looks like it!
I haven't had a great history on working in mini-sized blocks, but have learned a bit along the way to improve my work.
I am one to press to the dark side, but on small work...such as HST's 1-1/2" or smaller I press open to help the block lay flatter....
On this block I tried using starch on the fabric for the HST's before using it....and I think that helped.
I also reduced my stitch size. I'm not sure that helped, but I tend to think so.
And...what would I do without my lovely stiletto made for me by a friend?? It really helps hold things in place as they are sewn. I hadn't realised how much I rely on the stiletto until recently when I did not pack it for a Retreat.....I kept reaching for it, but it wasn't there. I recommend trying to get used to using one, you will love it.
When the block was done I gave it another light spritz of starch and pressed it...what a lovely flat block I had in the end.
I hope some of you have decided to join in on this sewalong!
Linking up today with Quilt Fabrication for Midweek Makers, Confessions of a Fabric Addict for I May Have a Scrap Problem and with Sew Fresh Quilts for Let's Bee Social.
Have a great day!
I pressed my seams open too on such a little piece and starched and my center is still a mess LOL - I am making three of each so I hope my next two are neater than the first.
ReplyDeleteThat's a cute little block. Hope you're enjoying your sew-a-long
ReplyDeleteThe spider on one block seemed so real.. I reflexively did a "Yikes".. thenn I noticed the web-like background. Anymore I like the old=fashioned 'calm' quilts.. tho Marston and Moran have done lovely avant garde stuff.
ReplyDeleteGreat work on the teeny tiny block! Eventually, you may want to trim some of your seams to 1/8" and press open - been there, done that! Thanks for sharing this on Midweek Makers
ReplyDeleteOh, you should totally take credit for fussy cutting that wee block!
ReplyDeleteBack in the 90's I had a miniature quilt phase where I made all kinds of itty bitty blocks and quilts. I'm trying to remember some of the tips and tricks I learned back then, like trimming seam allowances after stitching. I normally don't press seams open, but it looks like a good strategy here!