Welcome to Block 4!! We are already 1/3 of the way through this quilt and so far it’s been a BLAST seeing what you’ve created. Water is another favorite block of mine AND it’s a fun block because it is a little bit of review and our first steps into something new:
That’s right…we’ll be back to bias for our watering can handle and getting started with our first of three months with curved piecing.
Get Ready…
If you haven’t already, make sure you finish up blocks 1, 2, and 3 before moving on to block 4:
Get Set…
Supplies for the month
If you’re curious about the supply list for this month, I’ve got everything listed for you below. I’ve included paper templates for you in your pattern, but if you’d prefer a hard template be sure to grab one below!
- 28mm Rotary Cutter
- Light Box (optional)
- Tear away stabilizer*
- Erasable Fabric Marker
- Monofilament Thread*
- 8/60 Microtex Needle*
- Iron
- 1/2″ bias tape maker
- Heat-n-Bond Tape (optional)
- Elmer’s Disappearing Purple Glue
- 5″ Quarter Circle Template by Rachel Rossi Design (optional, paper templates are included in your pattern)
This month I have a special just for BOM members! Get my Quarter Circle Template and/or my Water’s Edge pattern for 25% off! Just use promo code Month4 at checkout.
Get Sewing!
Yes, this block will take a little longer than the super-fast Seed Block last month, but I have a feeling you’re going to LOVE this block one you’ve knocked it out!
Cutting Curves
We’ve gone over basic cutting for the first three months, if you need a quick review, head on back to Month 1 cutting to check yourself, but I’m guessing that by now you know what to do!
NOW onto cutting curves. It’s really not scary AT ALL, I promise! If this is your first time or if you’ve tried it before with no luck, I’d highly suggest checking out my video on cutting with my quarter circle templates:
It’s also good to note that cutting circles (especially if using templates) is made much more accurate by using a small rotary cutter. I prefer the Martelli 28mm cutter, but other brands work as well! The only one that I have found doesn’t work well is the Fiskars brand.
Sewing Curves
Sewing curves also has a bad reputation, but once you learn my glue basting trick, I think you’ll be hooked! Check out this video below to see how I do it:
What made the big difference for me was GLUING my curves. Pinning or just winging it are no fun and I’ve never had good luck with it. So go ahead, give it a try! You’ve only got to make two…you got this!
Creating the Handle
This month I want to encourage you to try a new method for creating the bias handle on your watering can. Instead of molding the bias on top of your template, I want you to try tracing the design directly onto your block and ironing straight onto that. I’m REALLY curious to see which method you prefer but wanted to make sure that I also show you both ways…because both have their merits, depending on the situation!
Need a reminder on how to appliqué this handle on? Check out the video below or back to my blog post about Invisible Machine Appliqué:
Curious about those appliqué leaves? Don’t worry, I didn’t forget! Those will be stitched on in month 12 as we finish up our borders.
Need some help?
If you’re feeling a little intimidated by all of this, why not join the virtual class?
In my virtual class, we’ll cover each and every step. I’ll talk you through new skills, explain why and how we are doing things, and make it a little less scary! I’ve also included printable cheat sheets for techniques that might be new to you…great resources for down the road!
Now that you’ve got the know-how it’s time to sew! I’d love to see your progress in the Facebook group or on Instagram!
What’s Next?
