Block of the Month 2015

My Scrappy Block 1 is DONE!

If you’re just joining in, I’m on block #1 of this quilt…

Here is a picture of both blocks, the solid version from the completed quilt (above) and my new scrappy block!

I love how colors and values can change the entire look of the block!

I started by choosing my fabrics, and decided on working from my (precious) Tula Pink Stash!  I planned out the placement of fabrics for my first block and if you’re switching up colors like me use this  block 1 color diagram so you don’t get too confused while piecing!

General Notes for getting started:

Press your fabric and get out all those folds/wrinkles.

Square or trim your fabric so you have a straight edge to work with.

Remove selvages before you begin.

Test your 1/4″ seam for accuracy.

Carefully press as you go with a dry iron and avoid dragging your iron around on your pieced unit to keep from distorting any bias edges.

Ok!  Let’s get going!  Get your pattern and cut all your pieces.

For step 1 we need to center the long edge of the triangle units on the edges of the center block.  I did some finger pressing to mark the center of each edge.

I did the same with the triangle ‘B’ units from the pattern.  Then matched the center marks up with the center block.

You could chain stitch some of these units together to speed up the process… but be careful with keeping track of your piece ‘B’ placement.

In an effort to reduce bulk I pressed the first two seams (above) open.  Some people like to press open, some don’t.  When I have lots of seams, it helps my block lie a little flatter and also helps when I’m quilting.  SO, do what suits YOU best.   The second two seams (below) are pressed to the side, away from the center block.  Also note (again) that the triangles long edge is cut on the bias so take care in pressing – don’t distort your seam with over ironing and definitely don’t steam (control yourself )!  Sometimes I use a little Best Press (I love the Caribbean beach scent!) on seams that don’t want to like flat.

I have this perfect ruler (below).  I didn’t purchase it for this pattern but it absolutely came in handy.  It’s perfect for nine patch blocks.  If you plan to follow along, I will likely use it with every block, but you can achieve the same results with any quilters ruler that measures at least 4.5″.  Now trim/square up your unit and get ready to join them!

Once you have your nine units complete, Check your pattern diagram for placement and join units in rows of three.

I pressed the two joining seams open.

Next join your three rows and press the seams open.

Admire your beautiful block!!!

Want to follow along?

Here is the full Power of Nine Quilt Pattern in my shop.

Want to make a single block?  Find the Block 1 Pattern here on Craftsy.

You can find all the related posts below…

Modern Block of the Month & Festival!

Power of Nine ~ Block of the Month

Block 1 ~ Power of Nine BOM

Quilt As You Go Tutorial ~ Part 1

Block 2 ~ Power of Nine BOM

Block 3 ~ Power of Nine BOM

Quilt As You Go Tutorial ~ Part 2

Block 4 ~ Power of Nine BOM

Quilt as you go Tutorial ~ Part 3

Block 5 ~ Power of Nine BOM

Block 6 ~ Power of Nine BOM

Block 7 ~ Power of Nine BOM

Block 8 ~ Power of Nine

Quilt As You Go Tutorial ~ Part 4

Block 9 ~ Power of Nine BOM

Quilt as you go Tutorial ~ Part 5

Block 10 Power of Nine BOM

Block 11~ Power of Nine BOM

Block 12~ Power of Nine BOM

Quilt as You Go… Block of Month… Finished!