Square Dance - 2 - Block #2

This session you will be making 16 (24, 34, 40) Blocks #2.
 
You will need:
              - the pattern: Square Dance by Wanda’s Designs
              - 6½” squares of fabric A
              - 2½” x 6½” and 2½” x 10½” rectangles of fabric B
              - pins (optional)
              -The Cutting Gizmo (optional)

The instructions for Blocks #2 can be found at the bottom of page 2 of your pattern. Follow the steps carefully. Here are some tips to help you along:

1. A true ¼” seam allowance is very important. Our machines all differ therefore before beginning, please take the time to test the accuracy of your seam allowances. All machine models have specialized feet for ¼” seam allowance accuracy. It is well worth the purchase.

 
A specialty foot with a blade allows you to consistently guide the fabric (fig.1).  These feet are also available without a blade. In this case, the sewer guides the fabric along the edge of the foot.

  
If no specialty foot is available, find a line on your machine’s standard foot to follow or adjust the needle to the right or left so you can use the outer edge of the foot.

2. Step #1 - There is no need to lock stitches at the beginning and end of each piece. Chain piece. The knotting that occurs between the pieces is enough to lock the sewing line.

For quick cutting apart of the pieces, The Cutting Gizmo is recommended.

 Press...do not iron! Since the seam allowances are to be pressed towards the rectangles, lay the piece down on the ironing surface with the large square on the bottom. Gently move the iron to the right and left to flip over and press the rectangles.

2. Step #2 - To pin or not to pin! Quilters will always take a short cut, so when joining small pieces, pins are generally not used. This is a personal decision. If you are more comfortable with pinning, go ahead. I usually do not pin anything which is less than 10” long. But if I am matching seams ,then I always pin regardless of the length of the piece.

Step #2 requires adding to the units made. It is a general rule, that the piece with the most seams is on the top. This way you can guide the seam allowances in their proper direction.

 Next post is June 15th. Mark your calendar.