lfstamper

I have the rulers and book on kaleidescope quilts but am afraid to start! What tips do you expects have for taking this plunge?

maryb119

I taught my students to cut the fabric in half lengthwise first. Set aside half for the borders and then find you pattern repeat and cut it at the same place in the print for the number of repeats ou need with your pattern on the remaining half. By using half the width of the fabric, it is easier to cut and handle. Stack and Whack is fun to make....never know what you are going to get in the next block.

Tartan

Go to the tutorial section of QB and look for the OBW tutorial video. It show how to cut and stack the fabric for a One Block Wonder but the process is the same for Stack and Whack until you cut the shapes.
I will try to do a link but I am not very good at it. http://ifthesethreadscouldtalk.com/o...utorial-links/
click on the OBW gallery and tutorial button at the top of the site.

Elisabrat

pin pin pin pin and then pin keeps things in place no regrets later and if your cutting many repeats its important to not 'blow it' by a little shift. if you follow the book to a T you will not be sorry. its absolutely so fun to see who things change once you cut them like this

sushi

Following the instructions in the book "One Block Wonders" by Maxine Rosenthal, I've made two quilts (one hexagons; one octagons). While this isn't exactly the same thing you're doing, the principles are identical. And like you, I was afraid to make the first cut! Here's what I remember thinking was important:

1. Don't wash your fabric.

2. Do follow the directions exactly (lining up the fabric, using flat-headed pins, etc.).

3. Take extra time to be as accurate as possible. Accuracy is critical in making this type of quilt.

4. Remember that this is your first kaleidoscope quilt + you're only human = you are unlikely to achieve 100% accuracy (not that any mere mortal ever can). Also remember that if you never try, you have no chance of success. So dive in and begin learning. This one will be great and the next one will be even better!

5. Be sure to post a picture of the final result so we can admire, applaud, and (frankly) learn from any mistakes you're willing to confess.

6. Have fun

ManiacQuilter2

SO Correct with you can NEVER not have enought PINS !!!

gramajo

Starch the fabric before you cut. It keeps the layers of fabric more stable to make accurate cuts.

Grace creates

Staart with a new blade. Ask how I know that one.

Farm Quilter

Starch that unwashed fabric until it is as stiff as paper! When I did mine, I starched it 4-5 times and pressed it between each starching...the stiffer it is, the easier it is to keep it aligned. Lots of flower pins (because you can lay your ruler over them and the ruler stays flat) and a new rotary blade are essential.

BellaBoo

I glue basted my layers together. Cut through them just fine. My fabric didn't move one smidge.