Rosyhf

ok, just hang in there. I just did a paper pattern of the 60d diamond and ruled it. Tomorrow I will post the new dimentions of the diamond. Everything still remains the same.

plainpat

I didn't get started, but hope to make one today.You use freezer paper,right? I have done PP,but the not sewing thru the paper method is something I've only read about...lots of new ways for me.

Rosyhf

yes freezer paper and follow the direction just the way I wrote it. Cut a strip 11 3/8 out of freezer paper and cut a 60d angle, turn and measure 13 3/8 from the point and cut the other 60d angle and then start ruling like the previous instruction say. You're going to start ruling from the edge of the diamond up. Make sure to include the 1/4 seam allowance on the first four lines and then follow the instruction for the rest.

Rosyhf

Ok we are ready...that is, me and Teddy lol...he lives under my cutting table and he is pleased as punch right now and waiting for scaps to fall so he can steal them. Only this time there are no scraps.

The pattern is ready. I think I will measure each strip and make a note on the pattern.

ok, I picked about 14 lights and 16 darks and will just pick them at random as I sew. For this kind of piecing, because they are 1 and 1 1/4 strips, I will tear the strips. I am tearing along the straight of grain. I hardly ever cut accross the grain of fabric, as that is not the correct way (sorry about that).

I prefer to tear as this is just too much cutting and I can tear up lots of strips very fast and get going.

I have put a mat by my machine with my small old iron, so everything is ready. I will do three blocks before I post again so you can see how they will nest.

I am now going to go and put a back belt on (one like workers use) because I will be doing a lot of sitting and the belt will help so I don't get back pain. I do try to remember to get up at least every half hour or so. I dont' have a bad back or anything, I just try to avoid one lol.

Rosyhf

ok, I did three blocks. Each block takes one hour. This was an interesting layout, looks like a baby block but you can see now how they fit together.

There are two types of blocks so far as I can see. As I go along I will post what is different. The strips on the blocks that go between the star points are arranged differently, so hang in there with me.

There I have the first three together and will make the next three tomorrow and then do the ones that go on top.

Tip: I took the pattern and drew the shape of it on my ironing pad that has ruled lines and angles. When I finish a block I trim it while it is on the freezer paper. I just trim what hangs over. Then I spray starch the block and block it to the pattern shape on my pad.

Those other two blocks on the right are the mistake blocks lol...cut at 45d. Not to worry, I have so much christmas fabric that I will use those in a lone star quilt too. And I love that baby block effect so I might make one of those too and finish out the christmas fabric.

Rosyhf

There are two different blocks to this quilt so far. I just finished the other different block. First you have to go ahead and draft the pattern just like the first block. I just lined the first pattern up with the straight line on the freezer paper and traced around the pattern. Then I ruled it and numbered it and erased the extra lines. Remember to start ruling on the dark lines first and start from the bottom.

The ruling is different on this pattern. You start the ruling in the middle of the pattern. First the two dark lines and then the two light lines.

My goal today is to finish the whole center. That means 8 blocks and I think that is 8 hour of sewing, wishfull thinking, I think lol.

I love the baby block effect. You can do all sorts of things with these blocks.

Rosyhf

I finished the middle star. You can really see it now. Now I need to make four of the other style to complete the middle. I will do those tomorrow.

I love all the motion that is happening with the blocks because of the prints.

When you look at the star, you can see the baby blocks forming, but that is because of the prints. If I had made it like the amish one it wouldn't have that effect. I do like this effect of seeing more than one design.

Rosyhf

The middle star is done. What do you all think of using Christmas fabrics?

plainpat

Very nice.I'm thinking if I was to try your technique, wouldn't use holiday fabric.Regular colors would let me show it off as a table topper.
There's been a lot going on with DH's eye Dr appts & my new meds, but still want to make this.So pretty & thank you for doing this tute.Just hoping I can do it.Think I'll do as usual, make one & decide.Thanks,again.

JudyG

It's absolutely gorgeous, Rosy. Thanks for doing the tute. This is something I want to make out of holiday fabrics for next year (would never get it done in time this year).