No spooling, we’re sewing a table runner

Studio Collection Home Hobby and Design Table from H.A. Kidd is a welcome and space-saving addition to any sewing space. But, when folded up and not working, it’s a bit plain. We’re quilters and this just won’t do. So, no “spooling”, we’re making a table runner!

Let’s make my Only Spooling Around table runner. It fits the folded table, and makes it just a little bit more special.

Spool blocks are considered beginner blocks. They’re not difficult to put together, but they’ll put you through your paces in terms of cutting accurately and sewing perfect 1/4″ seams.

If you’re a regular reader of QUILTsocial, you’ll know I’m not a big fan of rules. However, in this one case, I have to tell you, the Spool Block is unforgiving to quilt scofflaws like me. But, they’re so darned cute, I force myself to behave like a rule abiding quilter.

Many quilters like to use striped fabric for the center of the block to suggest lines of thread. Not me, I love polka dots.

I also like to use brown batiks for the “wooden” parts of the spool. I think it suggests a patina of age on vintage wooden spools.

Lastly, I like to sash the spool block, top and bottom, in a neutral print. I found a soft batik dot that compliments both the polka dots and the darker batiks.

For each spool block, you will need:

Cutting mat
Rotary cutter
Ruler

1    4″ x 4″ Polka Dot Square
2    2″ wide by 4″ long brown strips
2    2″ wide by 4″ long side beige strips
4    2″ x 2″ brown squares
4    2″ x 2″ neutral squares
2    1 1/2″ wide by 7 1/4″ neutral sashing

I cut enough pieces for five blocks.

It takes a while, but, on the bright side, the Studio Collection Home Hobby and Design Table from H.A. Kidd provides a clever, flexible cutting surface.

Come on back tomorrow when we put the spool blocks together. Seriously, no spooling, we’re sewing a table runner!