I’m Pam Voth, and I’m back with Block 4 of the Spectrum QAL on QUILTsocial. I’m completing my blocks using fabric from the Delightful collection by Riley Blake.
Pam’s version of Block 4 from the Spectrum QAL
To start, this block requires you to cut 2” squares. This is new as I was cutting 2½” squares for most of the other blocks. In quilting, precise cutting is so important. When you start with careful measuring and cutting, your block goes together with matching corners and seams with a lot less hassle.
Making the flying geese results in the creation of the half square triangles that you need to finish the block. Because the flying geese are large, careful sewing is required in order to ensure you don’t lose the tips of the geese in the center of the block (use an exact ¼” seam).
I created the center block first and then added the flying geese to create the middle strip of the block.
Next, I made the four squares on the outside of the block, and then I attached them to the flying geese to create a top and bottom strip to add to the middle strip. Carefully matching the seams, I sewed everything together at the end to create the block highlighting the X pattern that runs through the middle.
Block 4 really highlights the floral patterns in the Riley Blake fabric. When you use a fabric collection, you can put together any combination to create your block knowing that the fabrics will all work together. A quilt-a-long is a great place for a beginner quilter to start and I found this block, in particular, faster to sew, cut and assemble. It was a confidence booster! Enjoy working with some beautiful fabric and practicing your techniques, and don’t be afraid to use your stitch ripper. Taking things apart because you made an error is part of learning and growing! Take a risk…start today.
Please take the time to connect with me, and share your version of Block 4 by posting it with #TheSewGoesOn. Be sure to check out my previous version of the Spectrum Block 3.