Take two blocks, slice them in quarters and switch two quarters and we have an even more interesting block. To end up with either a 1" or 2" squares in the centre of the block we need to upsize our starting blocks to allow for the seam allowances.
Start with a 5" centre square and surround it with 1" strips and follow up with 2"strips. The challenge with this block is piecing and pressing the 1" strips around the centre square.Whilst it would seem to be simple, an over or undersized seam allowance is even more noticeable when you are sewing 1" strips.
Ensure you don't veer off the 1/4" seam allowance at the beginning and the end of the strip. Refer to my April 4th post for more information on "veering off" our seams.
Save yourself some "unsewing" and check your seam allowances before your sew the 1" strips.
Once sewn, take care not to distort the 1" strips with your pressing. A careful finger press before pressing with your iron, will help to reduce distortion of this small strip.
Apply a light touch of starch from an Acorn Easy Press Pen to help the strips lie flat before you add the next strip. Don't overwet the block with starch.
The distortion of the 1" strips will be more noticeable in the the corners of the block.
Pair the first block with a block with a 3" centre square and reverse coloring. Again we surround the centre square with 1" strips, followed by 2" and 1 1/2" strips. As we increase the number of surrounding strips, the potential for distorting the block increases.
Slice the blocks into quarters and make the switch of two quarters and we have an even more visually interesting block.
This week we will make 3 pairs of two contrasting blocks; slice, switch two quarters in the pair and sew the blocks back together for 6 - 8 1/2" blocks for the quilt.
Download the instructions for Step 6 from the link below:
Scrap Basket 2 - Step 6
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