Anything Is Possible

I had been dreading making this block for a long time now. Shortly into my DJ project, I printed out the block and kept it in my notebook to study once in a while. I knew that I would have to use some sort of applique method or curved piecing and I dreaded the day I'd attempt it. This week I finally did.

This is "H-6, Pie Sale", an intermediate-level block that I rotary cut and used the raw-edge machine buttonhole-stitch method for the 3/4 circles.

After looking closely at the block, I decided to break it down into a nine-patch and quarter circles. I cut out the quarter circles and placed them on top of the nine-patch pieces and then sewed all the seams. That left me with having to sew down the outer edges of the quarter circles. No big deal, I had done that before with the buttonhole stitch around the raw edge. But what color thread? Dark thread would disappear on the dark fabric but be very obvious on the yellow. Vice versa for yellow thread. I certainly didn't want to change thread, so I decided to use monofilament with the buttonhole stitch. Not my favorite look, but it worked. I have other blocks that I made fairly early on in the quilt in which I used monofilament thread, so this won't be the only one.

After making this block, I think the remaining ones will be a breeze...

More Trickery

This is "J-5, John Jacob's Windmill", an intermediate-level block for which I used the raw-edge machine buttonhole-stitch applique method.

Again I used stitching to make it look like there are seam lines on the background fabric. See Jane's original block below.

Yet Another DJ Block

This is "I-5, Maria's Majesty", an intermediate-level block in which I used the raw-edge machine buttonhole-stitch applique method. The darker fabric is all cut as one piece as explained here.

Merry Christmas To All...

...and to all a Good Night!

Tricking the Eye

This is "K-5, Passing Through", an intermediate-level block that I rotary cut and used the raw-edge machine buttonhole-stitch applique method for the diamonds. The light-colored diamonds are not separate pieces of fabric. I just stitched the outline of the diamond on the larger piece of the light fabric. It fools the eye into thinking it's a separate piece.

My Sentiments Exactly

This is "M-6, Simplicity", an intermediate-level block that I paper-pieced and then used the raw-edge machine buttonhole-stitch method for appliqueing the center piece. Again, the appliqued piece was cut all as one piece of fabric; the placement of the stitching makes it look like 5 separate pieces.

The name of this block is perfect for this time of year. Remember, you (and your family and friends) will enjoy the holiday season much more if you remember to slow down and simplify.

Cute and Quick

I finally discovered whose yummy treats I've been munching on at a few guild events over the last several years. My friend Dori recently shared her recipe for this quick and easy goodie.

Place one candy melting wafer on top of a square or mini pretzel on a cookie sheet. Place in a 200-degree oven for 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from oven and quickly add an M&M or other little candy on top.

Thanks Dori!