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Flower 2 |
Flower 3 |
Flower 4 |
Flower 5 |
Flower 2 is essentially an elongated version of the first block you made and the directions are the same.
- Make the flower--random rose, petal flower, appliques, fabric image cutout, embroidered,etc.
- Position the flower into the first section and surround it with background fabric. You can re-shape the outer edge of the flower by the positioning of the background patches. You do not have to sew on my lines--use the shape of your flower as the guide.
- Pin Section 1 to the block layout and add the corner pieces in the order marked.
You will note that there is no stem for these flowers. You can add this as you piece if you wish or add it as you quilt. And it probably won't be noticed if you don't do either one.
If you have added a half inch seam allowance on the outer edges, you can trim any of these blocks to their 9.5" x 4.5" size at a slight angle for design variation.
Flower 3 has the basic flower shape set into one section of the simple 2-part leaf. Rotate your flower to the most pleasing position, fill in the background shapes around it and add the leaf/background patches. Sew the two completed sections together. Remove paper from the seam allowances and press this seam open, if you wish.
Flower 4 is a 3 section block.
Sew Sections 1 and 2 together. If necessary, straighten the seam edge that will match Section 3. (See the troubleshooting tips from Lesson One if necessary). Remove paper from the seam allowances and press this seam open. Then sew Section 1-2 and Section 3 together. Remove paper from the seam allowances and press this seam open also.
Flower 5 is a somewhat different style of block, but one that adds interest and a tiny interest point to your quilt.
Set the flower in place first, then add the leaf/background patches in order for Section 1. Add section 2 and position this on the layout. Add the lower leaf patches as you have done before.
You may use any flower circle instead of the one given, but will need to adjust the leaf positions if you want to keep the shape of your flower. Experiment!
Check the Gallery for an exquisite example of this block, made by a neighbor of mine, Dee Ann Neal. |
Congratulations! After completing these blocks, you can handle just about any paper piecing project that comes your way. And hopefully, you now feel yourself capable of creating a flower or leaf block of any size or shape without bothering with a pattern. Or, if not quite yet, you soon will.
If you still have questions about the process or what is or is not possible in designing your own version of these blocks, please be sure to ask. These patterns are only a starting point for more possibilities.
In the next lesson you will have a pattern for a very easy hummingbird, so be sure to have a vivid green available, if you wish to make one. Then we will talk about putting together a small wall hanging with the blocks you have already made.
Use your design wall and arrange and re-arrange. It is a good idea to take quick photos of arrangements you like (or at least make note of block order). This will free your blocks for more experimenting.
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