Quilt Tips: Sewing Strips to a Block

Hello Quilters! Many times a patchwork block needs a frame or two in a quilt design. A narrow strip can introduce a bold accent color.  A wide strip in a tonal or solid will separate your prints from other prints. Use two borders to pull together busy fabrics or to make the quilt larger without making more blocks.

Sewing Strips to a Block:  Many blocks consist of a center unit and strips that border the center to complete the block. Here are a few tips to complete this type of block successfully:

–      Always sew the side strips first, then the top and bottom strips.

–      Find the center of the block and strip by folding each in half; finger press a crease, match centers and pin.  Align and pin each end, as well as the remaining space.

–      Sew slowly over seams.

–      Press seams toward the strips as they are added.

Indigo Square Block 9 is a good example of how a simple 9-patch can grow from an 8″ to a 12 1/2″ block with strips.