A clever block………..

Sometimes the simplest of blocks can be transformed into something that appears quite complex. I included this idea, when I posted here about my Monday quilt gathering. The photo below shows my friend, Carol’s, block…….    The finished block options (simple pinwheel, framed small pinwheel, and churn dash pinwheel) are the result of this process……………………….

First, take 2 contrasting 10” (layer cake?) squares of fabric   and place them right sides together. Stitch around all 4 edges (I used a shorter stitch length…2.25) and a scant 1/4” seam allowance………………..  Taking this to the cutting board, carefully rotary cut diagonally, in both directions, being careful not to move the pieces between cuts.   Press the seams to the darker side remembering that all the outside edges of the hst (half square triangle) are bias and subject to stretching. I did not find this to be a major problem but I was gentle when handling the pieces. The resulting hst blocks should measure 6&3/4″ (seam allowances included).

   Arrange these in a pinwheel pattern and stitch together. I “broke” my stitching at the center to allow the bulk of all the seam allowances, coming together at a single point, to press/flatten more completely after all the stitching is completed. The completed pinwheel block will measure 12&7/8″ (seam allowances included). 

Take this back to the cutting mat and measure 2”&1/8” either side of the center seam, both horizontally and vertically, and carefully cut. Do not move the fabric between cuts. A revolving/lazy Susan style mat is nice to have at this point.

And now it’s “play time”. Arrange and rearrange the pieces until you are happy with the placement, then stitch………. Option #1

Option #2……….

And, I’m sure there are others…….. There’s the original, basic pinwheel, too! I chose this second arrangement………

The unfinished block measures 11”&1/2”, which is a nice size to work with. I will be making more of these (from the “Gypsy” fabric), since I have some b’days coming up and table toppers are the gift of choice in this family!!!!!

Any questions about this tutorial, feel free to comment.

Til next time……………………………..