Block 3 – Opposites Attract

Here is block three of the All My Heart Quilt Along; if you missed the previous block, here is a quick link – block 1, block 2.  For more information on the QA see the main page under the Quilt Along tab.

This block is a little bit late because it was giving me a hard time.  It looked like such an easy block, but I kept getting turned around.  So pay close attention to this one and double check yourself.

Step 1: Cutting Instructions

From each color (1 dark, 1 light, 2 mediums)

• 1 – 5″ square
• 2 – rectangles 5″ x 2 3/4″

Step 2: Apply Fusible

This is an applique piece and I did mine as raw-edge with fusible webbing.  You can do it needle-turn or any other applique method you prefer.  These instructions will go over how I did it.

On each of the 5″ squares apply fusible webbing to the wrong size; following the directions of the product you are using.  I used Steam-a-Seam Lite.

Step 3: Cut out Applique Pieces

Download the applique template here : http://www.sewstitchcreate.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Opposites-Attract1.pdf

I choose to use template plastic since it is the same shape six times.  I used the pattern template and traced it onto the plastic.  Then I cut it out.  Using a standard #2 pencil I traced the pattern onto the Steam-a-Seam; on the back of the fabric.  You need two sides of the heart out of every color.

This is where I ran into problems, so here a few tips to help.

1. Remember that you are tracing onto the back of the fabric, so the piece is in reverse.
2. Don’t forget about the 1/4″ seam allowance when cutting out your template.  Because I was doing raw-edge, I didn’t trace the seam allowance; but you need the seam allowance for the middle of the heart – the long straight side.  So I used a ruler and extended the lines 1/4″.  It would have been easier if my template was correct to begin with.
3. Refer to the patchwork diagram to know what side of the heart you need in each color.  I really got mixed up here and ended up with two of the same sided or opposites sides that didn’t match the pattern.  What I figured is you need to trace the templates two different ways

Step 4: Press on your applique pieces

Lay you pieces out and press the heart shapes onto the background fabric.  I put the tip of my heart 5/8″ from the bottom on all pieces so that they lined up in later steps.  It is crucial that they are all placed in the same spot on each background.  Us this diagram to know where to press each piece.

Step 5: Sew on your applique pieces

I used a blanket stitch on my machine to stitch the heart pieces to the background.

Step 6: Piece together

Stitch all the pieces together, press and you are done.  I pressed the seams through the hearts open so they laid flatter.

This is one of two applique blocks in the quilt.  Next week is paper piecing.

Don’t forget to share your progress in one or both of the groups; Flickr or Threadbias.

Stop by next Tuesday for block #4!