Betsy, Jo, Jan, Lisa, Carrie & I are all so excited you're joining us in our 48-week long BOW. The adventure begins with our first 6" block, Whirlygig. Try it on for size and post your block with the hashtag #modablockheads to all your social media sites.
The pattern is called "one hour basket" and best of all, it's free!
Thistle Farm Basket
David Schulz has been anxiously awaiting Blockheads BOW by making an adorable fabric basket out of my new Thistle Farm fabric collection. So fun! It's filled with a KT starter pack and lots more. Want more info? See the note below from David on how he adapted the simple instructions for patchwork.
The pattern is called "one hour basket" and best of all, it's free!
It really does only take an hour if you use plain fabrics, but of course I
used patchwork.
I selected 8 squares from my Thistle Farm layer cake and cut into 3"
square, and sewed together into a two grids (4 squares by 7 squares - the
pattern says you need two pieces of exterior fabric 10.5" x 16.5" - I trimmed
the patchwork to length when done). There were a few 3" squares left over for
the scrap basket.
Instead of fusing with fusible fleece (as directed by the pattern), I made
a quilt sandwich with my top, cotton batting scraps, and a "backing" of a medium
weight sew-in interfacing to give it some structure. Then quilted with some
simple straight line stitching in a bright pumpkin colour.
After that, I just followed the instructions. I skipped the handles. There
is a paid version of the pattern that gives additional sizes of the basket, both
smaller and larger, but the free version is perfect for fat quarters.
Thanks for sharing, David. Now, on to our first block.
Whirlygig by Lynne
For my first block, I've featured my layered patchwork technique to simplify a traditional Whirlygig block. Print the instructions here & follow along with Joy below for step-by-step layered patchwork instructions. With fewer seams and less pressing, your block should be flatter and perfectly sized every time. Let me know what you think. Comment to win a bundle of (8) tan fat 1/8's for more great backgrounds for your Blockhead blocks.
Block 1 - Whirligig - Kansas Troubles Quilters
 |
| Layer 2 light #1 triangles over each end of dark rectangle; topstitch. |
 |
| Layer 1 light #1 and 1 light #2 triangle over each end of gold rectangle; topstitch. |
 |
| Lay out layered rectangles as shown; sew together in pairs with light #2 in center. |
 |
| Pairs sewn together with light #2 in the center to create pinwheel. |
 |
| Whirlygig block 6 1/2" x 6 1/2" square. |
 |
| Back of block. |
I am really looking forward to this BOW. Love the first block. Thanks so much! And I think that little basket is so cute.
ReplyDeleteBoth squares are beautiful but leaning towards Joy's block. Anxious to try your method instead of matching 1/2 square triangles. Jan
ReplyDeleteI have been anxiously waiting for this to begin. Love the block, plan on using all of my KT scraps, probably have enough for 2 or 3 quilts. Cant wait for next week!! Thanks to all!!
ReplyDeleteYay, thank you Lynne:) Love your fabrics, so sweet<3 Whirlygig is a lovely block. I must make that little basket, so charming, Many thanks!
ReplyDeleteWhirlygigs--yeah!!
ReplyDeleteWell I am going to try this method.. Love the block!
ReplyDeleteYea! Can hardly wait to get home and make this block this afternoon. Happy to see a new technique here that I've never seen, as well. Thanks, Lynne!
ReplyDeleteGreat block and instructions.. thank you
ReplyDeleteDo the edges of the triangles fray?
ReplyDeleteThanks Lynn, what a beautiful block! This is gonna be so fun :0). Thanks for the chance to win some gorgeous background fabrics and Happy Sewing!
ReplyDeleteI am so inspired! Thank you for your help in getting started!
ReplyDeleteWhat gorgeous blocks! I love the design and fabrics!
ReplyDeleteSusie
Very nice block! Looking forward to the BOW!
ReplyDeleteOh my! This is going to be sew much fun! Thank You Lynn!
ReplyDeleteI love the block, but I am a little confused since I have never done this glueing method before. Do you top stitch on the raw edge or do you iron the edge under first?
ReplyDeleteThe triangles are layered on top of the rectangles, right side up, then glued in place and topstitched. There is no raveling since the cut exposed edges are bias. After washing, there's a soft fraying effect that adds dimension and a primitive look I love.
DeleteThank you for that info. I missed the bias cut detail! What glue do you use and will glue ever cause discoloring later on?
DeleteI really like Sewline glue pens. It's a good quality fabric glue, does not make your fabric stiff or discolor, washes out easily and is refillable. More info on layered patchwork next week. Thanks for your questions.
DeleteThank you for all of the info! I tried your method and I really love it! In fact, I decided to keep it instead of doing the traditional method! Thanks for teaching me something new!!
DeleteI'm all in for flatter and perfectly pieced! Can't wait to try your layered patchwork technique.
ReplyDeleteLove the block. Thanks for the chance to win.
ReplyDeleteThat block looks like so much fun. I can't wait to try it. Thanks for this Sew-a-long and the give away. That basket is so adorable!! I love doing these.
ReplyDeleteCute block! New patchwork technique! Bonus basket pattern! This is going to be a great adventure! Thank you.
ReplyDeleteLove your block! Thanks for the pattern
ReplyDeleteI'm so excited for this adventure with the blockheads! I've followed you for a long time, so I've seen your layered patchwork a lot, but I've never tried it. Today's the day!
ReplyDeleteA fabulous way to start Wednesdays! So amazing to see all of the different "dark side" combinations and tips/techniques. Thanks for sharing your talents!
ReplyDeleteWhirlygig!?! Perfect block to start off this BOM and bring in March! Lol!
ReplyDeleteLove that you didn't cut off background rectangle. This is my method as well.
ReplyDeleteExcited to get started. I plan to do one the traditional way and one using your layered technique. Hurrah!
ReplyDeleteThanks for at least trying my layered patchwork technique. I know the raw edges freak some quilters out, but with my rules for LP, it's difficult to tell layered from traditional. Be sure the let me know how you like it.
DeleteGreat technique. I am excited to get started on these blocks. Thanks for a great block and the chance for some great background fabrics!
ReplyDeleteGreat block Lynne, and so fun to make!
ReplyDeleteLynn - I've never tried Layered patchwork but looks like now is the time for me to give it a try!
ReplyDeleteExcited to be starting this project. Great block to start us all off.
ReplyDeleteGreat block - I'm heading off to my sewing room this morning! (SO dang excited for this BOW!!)
ReplyDeleteWhen I first saw this block, I thought it was constructed from lots of half square triangles. This looks much easier! Off to do some sewing--thanks!
ReplyDeleteLayered patchwork? New to me but I've loved your fabrics forever. This is a must do.
ReplyDeleteJust finished my first block of the week,,,lovin it!!
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteWhat fun. Your Fabrics always inspire me and my first block is going to be made today.
ReplyDeleteI love your block and it's so great that this fun sew-along finally starts. Can't wait to ake your block:-)
ReplyDeleteThis sew along will be a challenge for me due to the 6" finished blocks but I'm looking forward to sewing with my favorite pattern designers. clara-chandler@att.net
ReplyDeleteEven I might be able to do this. My first block was going to be just that. A square block. But with your method I might survive! I plan to make a basket like David's but use mini-charm squares. He is an inspiration!
ReplyDeleteI love small blocks, so may have to get started. I only have a small stash, so would love to win your giveaway to give me more options. Thanks for the opportunity!
ReplyDeleteYAY! I'm so glad The Block Heads, block #1 has finally started. Thanks so much for all the photos, having less seams is wonderful. I LOVE the layered patchwork, your books are fantastic. I feel so BAD like I'm a real rebel breaking all the quilting rules I was taught. Thanks for showing me and allowing me to break out of my comfort zone. It's taken a while, I really always follow the rules, even if they don't make any sense.
ReplyDeleteSo excited to try this method. Our oak trees are shedding what we call Whirlygigs--they are a pest, but this block will be fun. Thank you for participating in this great project. How do you do just one?? So many choices.
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to the BLOCKHEAD blocks being revealed one by one! I am excited to try your layered patchwork technique...it makes so much sense to reduce bulk. Kristy soardkgatfusedotnet
ReplyDeleteYour block is fantastic. The "Blockhead" BOW is going to be so much fun.
ReplyDeleteI love the design, and haven't tried the layered technique before. That's interesting and could make things faster. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteLove the colors in this version. This is going to be fun.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad I haven't committed to another SAL as this one really looks perfect for me! Can't wait to see the blocks to follow! I think I'll sew the traditional way, though.
ReplyDeleteGot all my starter packs and can't wait to get started on Saturday (work full time so the weekend is my sewing time)!! Have used the layered patchwork method on several other Kansas Troubles projects and will try it on this one also. Thanks for the giveaway!
ReplyDeleteReally like the Block. Will make mine scrappy but will sew the traditional method.
ReplyDeleteLove this block! This will be a fun project.
ReplyDeletethe block looks great no matter which fabric you use. It's hard to chose
ReplyDeleteI this is going to be such a fun party! Great block to start it off...
ReplyDeleteI love your block and can't wait to try your method. If you say it is easier & lays flater then I will definitely try it!
ReplyDeleteI was just thinking- since there are two ways to make this block- that I am going to make one with Kansas Troubles fabrics using your layered method- and one with Jo Morton fabrics the traditional version! Fun Fun Fun!
ReplyDeleteOh my - I can't get to my stash for hours! I am going to have so much fun - thank you to all the designers for sharing this with us!
ReplyDeleteSo excited to start this project! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteSo excited to start this project! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteWhoo hoo I am going to try your layered instructions for this block. And thanks for the info on the basket.
ReplyDeleteGorgeous block and can´t wait to try your tutorial.Thanks you.
ReplyDeleteThanks for a great block and a new technique to try!
ReplyDeleteLove your block. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the new technique. Have been waiting patiently for March 8th for the Block Heads to begin. Thank you for a beautiful block.
ReplyDeleteI like the fabrics you used to make your block. I am new to quilting and at first I could not understand the first two directions. The white space in the pictures looked like fabric to me. When I looked at the next picture of those sections finished and then at the completed block, I understood what you were saying. Thanks for the new technique to try.
ReplyDeleteI think I prefer the traditional way of piecing this unit. I don't like the layers of fabric it creates with the fold method. It is a rather unique idea though. I guess I am just old school.
ReplyDeleteLove the step by step pictures. Thank you for a great block. Juel Bagaason
ReplyDeleteThis is my first visit to Kansas :) I am very interested in your method of raw edge patchwork. I might just have a go at it! Thank you for the tutorial.
ReplyDeleteThis is a good start to this fun outing! Thanks, Lynne.
ReplyDeleteFINALLY! The Blockheads BOW has begun!!! Your block is a great one to start off us off - thank you for your block instructions. David's basket is great using your fabrics I like it! Thanks again! HUGS... and stitches
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to try this new technique! What an awesome block to start off with! Thank you:)
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to try this new technique! What an awesome block to start off with! Thank you:)
ReplyDeleteI'll be trying this cute block out soon too - thanks so much for sharing. What a great idea for Moda and all of you to do this!
ReplyDeleteI love the idea of a flatter block. Looks like a fun technique.
ReplyDeleteI love the block, and the basket. Thanks!!!
ReplyDeleteThis is so exciting - I have been wanting to try your layered technique!
ReplyDeleteI've been waiting impatiently for your block to appear! I'm in love with the block and the colors! The basket looks wonderful in your Thistle Farm line. I will have to make a couple of them.
ReplyDeleteI love this block!
ReplyDeleteGreat kickoff block for Blockheads! And who can't use more lights for this project! Thank you.
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to get started. The background fabrics will be perfect.
ReplyDeleteI've never tried the layered technique, so now might be the time to give it a try. Love the block design and colors - cozy!
ReplyDeleteI am sew excited to follow along and make all the blocks. I really like this block pattern. I can see a whole quilt made with just this block. thanks for the giveaway.
ReplyDeleteSuper cute & super simple!! Thanks!
ReplyDeleteI'm anxious about the raw edge, but I'm game to give it a try!
ReplyDeleteThis will be fun! And the raw edge piecing is interesting.
ReplyDeleteCan see these colors and pattern in our new log home we are building....thanks for your energies and beautiful colors.
ReplyDeleteI LOVE this!! This is a new technique that somehow I have never seen before and I am excited to try it! So, I will be making 2 blocks... one of each method to try it out! Thanks for the info and keeping it fresh and easy!!
ReplyDeleteThis square makes me nervous. I hope they won't all be for the super skilled quilters. I may end up with a smaller quilt in the end but I'm still excited to be a part of this adventure.
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to get started on this block. I looked at the other bloggers blocks and they all look great.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the photo tutorial. I am anxious to get started!! So fun to have something to look forward to each week for almost a year!!
ReplyDeleteI know these blocks are going to make a spectacular quilt. Thanks for getting things started with a great block!
ReplyDeleteInteresting way to put the pieces together
ReplyDeleteI also love the little 'bucket'!
So happy that the Blockheads BOW has started! Can't wait to try your layered technique with this block!
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing the basket pattern, and for the Blockhead pattern!!! Beautiful!
ReplyDeleteFascinating technique. Looking forward to trying it with this block.
ReplyDeleteI keep saying, No more projects! Then another great Block party starts and I can't resist!
ReplyDeleteHave been looking forward to the BOW and am delighted that you are one of the designers- love your technique and glad to get the first block done!!!
ReplyDeleteI plan to give your way a shot. I love learning new ways to do things. Thanks for the opportunity to continue my quilting education.
ReplyDeleteI did it and I love it! Wish all the blocks were done like this. Would be a really cute quilt when finished. Love love love!
DeleteLooking forward to quilting along with all you ladies! Very interesting, the layered patchwork. At first I was, no way! But, I think I am going to give it a go. Making this quilt for my daughter, she will love the fuzzies.
ReplyDeleteI am so behind with my quilting projects that I decided not to participate in the Blockheads, then I saw on FB a lady shared her block in your fabrics and using your wavy edge finish. LOVE 💖 I'm hooked, and plan to finish all blocks using your raw edge finish. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteI love the block. I am a huge fan of the Kansas troubles line of fabric. Made quite a few quilts using that line of fabric. I am going to have a lot of fun making these blocks.
ReplyDeleteWill all the block patterns have both the layered and traditional piecing instructions? I am excited to do this BOW!
ReplyDeletei have not tried layered piecing so this will be a new adventure
ReplyDeletelayered piecing - looks like fun!
ReplyDeleteThank you for showing how to do the block in layered piecing. I much prefer using your method to make the block. I hope that you will show how to do the other blocks in layered piecing as each one is posted. Many thanks, Jen
ReplyDeleteThis looks easy! (But i've thought that before!) gonna give it a shot anyways, thanks for showing us!
ReplyDeleteI am a visual learner and these pictures help so much. Sometimes when you read the directions, it all becomes a blur....but by posting the pictures, it helps immensely. Love your line of fabric...always have!
ReplyDeleteQuestion of the week regarding preference on pressing seams. I usually press to the dark side, though, I would like to press seams open. Seems like I can match up the seams easier that way. Always pressing to the dark side, then alternate pressing on rows can get to be a cluster when you join all the rows together. But I am a beginner. I actually do a hybrid and maybe that is why some of my block backs look like a cluster. :)
ReplyDelete
ReplyDeleteAwesome blog!
ตารางคะแนนพรีเมียร์ลีก