Category: Blog

Valentines Day Table Runner - Blog Header

Valentine’s Day Table Runner

8 Comments

The house always seems so sad and dreary after the Christmas decorations come down. I like to have some Valentine’s Day decorations ready to help spruce up the decor. I stumbled upon a really great free pattern, by Jen Daly, and decided to give it a try!  Take a look at this lovely Valentine’s Day Table Runner!

Valentines Day Table Runner Collage

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. ? Read my full disclosure policy here.

Materials List

Basic Supply List

Valentine’s Day Table Runner Assembly

Once you finish cutting out your pieces, the pattern is pretty simple to follow for assembly.

  • Valentines Day Table Runner

The trick is to take your time and keep your measurements true as you are sewing your sections together.  Before you know it, you will have your Table Runner top complete!

Quilting Your Table Runner

After I sandwiched my Valentine’s Day Table Runner top to my backing, I gave some thought about how I wanted to quilt it.  I have always loved Free Motion Quilting and wanted to try my favorite doodle on this project.  Ever since I was a young girl, I had doodled a string of hearts and was excited to incorporate this design into this table runner.  The doodle is quite simple.  It is just a continuous line of hearts!

Valentines Day Table Runner - Free Motion Quilting

I used this continuous hearts quilting design all along the outside border of the table runner.  I finished the table runner with some basic meandering throughout the center of this project.

Table Runner Complete!

This table runner is a great length for our long dinning room table.  The completed measurements are 21″ x 54″.  You can make this even longer by adding more rows of hearts!  I simply followed the pattern and love the results!

I hope you decide to try this out!  It is such a fun and easy pattern!  Let me know what you think in the comments below.

Happy Quilting!

Nicole Moore Blog Post Signature

Hugs and Kisses Quilt Block

8 Comments

The Hugs and Kisses Quilt block is a fun and versatile quilt block!  These blocks have also been called “X & O”.  How cute!  You can make an entire quilt with either the ‘X’ quilt block or an entire quilt of the ‘O’ quilt block.  It is even better when you mix up the quilt pattern with a little bit of both!  Check out the materials list and get your pattern and let’s make some fun quilt blocks!

To get your cutting measurements and specific sewing directions, you have a couple of choices:

Option 1: Download for free.

To download the cutting measurements & specific sewing instructions for free, you can subscribe to the Sew Much Moore Newsletter.  AFTER you sign up, you’ll get a confirmation email – and you have to confirm or my email service can’t send you the free pattern access email. But once you do confirm, you’ll get access to not just this but several other free patterns. Woot!

(PS – if you have trouble finding the pattern as a subscriber, please contact me)

Option 2: Purchase this PDF pattern

Use this link to purchase a pattern file. You’ll be emailed a download link for a file that references the instructions in this tutorial and provides the cutting measurements for this pattern.  You’ll also be able to download this file in my shop.

Hugs and Kisses X BlockHug and Kisses O Block

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. ? Read my full disclosure policy here.

Hugs & Kisses QUILT BLOCK SUPPLY LIST

BASIC SEWING SUPPLIES NEEDED

This amount of fabric will make more than (2) quilt blocks, but that’s ok!  We love extra fabric!!!

Check out this video to give you an idea of how to make the quilt block.  You will love how easy it is to make and want to make more!

What about doing an entire quilt?  Wouldn’t that be great??!!??

Hugs and Kisses Quilt Top

Be sure to show your completed Hugs and Kisses Quilt Blocks in my Facebook Group!

We would love to see your work!

Modern Quilt Block of the Month Group

Until next time, Happy Quilting!

Nicole Moore Blog Post Signature

 

 

 

How to tackle your UFO pile

6 Comments

An unfinished object is also known as a UFO.  Do you have a quilting or sewing UFO pile?  Are you a starter of projects and struggle with getting to the finish line?  Do you have so many unfinished projects that it almost seems overwhelming to get back to them?  I totally get that!  I want to help and show you how to tackle your UFO pile!  I am often inspired by new fabrics and patterns – which leads me to start new projects.  I can often be working on several projects at the same time!  I think that simultaneous projects can help keep the sewing room interesting and ward off boredom.  Let me show you a few of my tricks to accomplish that UFO pile.

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. ? Read my full disclosure policy here.

Make a list to tackle your UFO pile

You don’t really know what you have until you make yourself an inventory!  Giving your sewing space a good cleaning is the perfect time to start your list of UFOs.  While you are cleaning, you can also check out my tips on organizing your fabric!  But, back to our UFO’s…Some people consider purchased fabric for a pattern a UFO, while others consider cut or sewn fabric a UFO.  Whichever camp you fall into, it’s best to compile all these projects into one list.  You may surprise yourself once your list is finished!  You are one step closer to tackle your UFO pile!

Download your UFO List
UFO List

Organize your projects!

Once you’ve organized your list you might as well label and contain these projects in a way that makes them easy to identify and to find.  I love these storage bins and this label maker for just this purpose!  The bins are nice sized and stack very neatly.  I also love my label maker.  I use it for lots more than just labeling my bins.  I’m sure you can think of loads of things that need a label!  Be sure to order some extra label tape.  I need to remember to reorder some soon!

Plan your finishes!

Now that you have your projects identified, listed out and organized – the only thing we have left to do is to finish them!  Finishing a project can sometimes be the most challenging step in the process!  Whether you just need to find the perfect backing for a quilt or you just need to send your finished quilt top to the longarmer – make a plan to get it done!  When I made my UFO inventory, I also gave myself some suggested deadlines for each project.  Once you set a timeline for things, they are more likely to get done!  Make a practice of checking your UFO list each week and see if you can take small steps on just one or more projects and you might be amazed at the progress you can make on your whole list!  Finishing is my favorite way to tackle your UFO pile!

Make an adoption plan!

Sometimes, we just fall out of love with our projects. Sad, but true.  Do you have orphaned projects in your UFO pile that deserve to be finished? Don’t have the energy, inclination or passion to give them the life they deserve? It’s time to put that project up for adoption!  My local quilt guild recently helped it’s members with a way to let go of UFO’s that had no hopes of getting finished.  We called it The Orphaned Project.  We were instructed to prepare our projects (gather all the materials and the pattern, bag it and label it).  At the meeting, a committee member would check in the UFO and then the UFO orphan projects were displayed on a table.  Members would browse the adoption table and claim a project with the challenge to finish it within the next six months!  Such a wonderful way to bring new life to an otherwise forgotten gem.

So, what are you waiting for?  Now is the perfect time to get your sewing and quilting life organized!  In an effort to help you accomplish your goals, I’ve created a PDF Printable for your UFO list!  This is the perfect page to capture your projects and help you stay on track!

Once you get your UFO list filled out, be sure to share it on my Facebook Group.  Let’s cheer each other on as we knock out our UFO’s!  Yay!

Be sure to check out my video, where I showcase my own UFO list.  Be inspired and start today!

Happy Finishing!

Nicole Moore Blog Post Signature

Light it up – Slimline 3 Table Lamp!

1 Comment

I was so excited to receive my Daylight Company Slimline 3 Table Lamp. For the longest time, my sewing room needed to be brighter. No matter how many lights I added, it just wasn’t enough or adequate. I’ve heard and seen lots of great reviews for the Daylight Company and thought the Slimline 3 Table Lamp would be a great addition in front of my sewing machine.

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. ? Read my full disclosure policy here.

Slimline 3 Table Lamp

The Daylight Company Slimline 3 Table Lamp comes with a sleek table clamp and it’s super easy to attach to the side of the table. If you’re really feeling the need, you can take apart the clamp and drill it directly into your table. Either way it fits onto your table very securely.  Attaching the clamp to my table was a breeze.  Then, you just insert the lamp into the table mount and plug in your light.

Perfect Positioning

The Daylight Company Slimline 3 Table Lamp has flexible joints for perfect positioning.  There are two bendable joints on the body of the table lamp that allow you to position the lamp in limitless positions.    Assembling the lamp was super easy.  There are only 3 connection points.

Built to Last

The lamp itself is brushed steel and the light source is the LED lights. These lights are rated for a lifetime of 50,000 hours.  I had to stop and do the math on what 50,000 hours could mean to me.  I guess if I sewed eight hours a day, every day of the week for 17 years I’d still have a couple hours left over.  Needless to say, this table lamp is going to work for me for a really long time.   In fact, there are 4 different light settings that can easily be activated with the touch dimmer.

Take it with you

The Daylight Company stands behind their products with a 2 year warranty.  You really have nothing to lose when you get your own slimline three table lamp. I am a huge fan and highly recommend this light! I recently brought my lamp out to my dining room table so I could attach binding to a large quilt. This lamp is perfect for taking with you to retreat or even the dining room table!

These lamps not just for sewing or quilting you can also use it for needlework, fine arts and crafts, reading and desk work. Even nail artist and hair salons are using this light as well. I will continue to use this lamp to help me with my quilting and sewing. Here’s a quick snapshot of some quilt blocks I put together at a Sew Day with Quilty friends. I had to take my Daylight Company Slimline 3 Table Lamp with me. It just makes everything brighter and better!

Be sure to watch this video that demonstrates the assembly and all the features this Table Lamp has to offer.

Take advantage of the special coupon code and receive 20% off your entire Daylight Company purchase! You can even add in a Wafer One Lightbox!

Let me know in the comments how you would like to use a Slimline 3 Table Lamp. I would love to hear from you!

Happy Making!

Nicole Moore Blog Post Signature

Pinetree Forest Quilt Block

2 Comments

Have you ever needed a quilt block that wasn’t quite Holiday specific, but still works throughout the entire winter season?  This is what I love about the Pinetree Forest Quilt Block!  Let me tell you about this versatile foundation paper pieced pattern so you can make one (or several)  for yourself and others!

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. ? Read my full disclosure policy here.

Materials List

Supply List

Making the Quilt Block

The construction of this quilt block is pretty straight forward and can be easily accomplished by the confident beginner.  If you have never tried foundation paper piecing before, I recommend watching my YouTube video to help you understand the basics of this technique.  You can also try your hand at this simple pattern to get your feet wet.

The Pinetree Forest Quilt Block pattern includes a Coloring Page, which is useful to help you determine what colors you like and also to help you keep track of which fabric to use for which piece.  I like to attach my tree fabrics to each tree to help me remember which color I am using for each Pinetree.

The pattern is sectioned into 5 “strips” for easy assembly.  I highly recommend printing your pattern on special paper and also using the Add-A-Quarter Acrylic Ruler.  These two products will make quick and accurate work of any foundation paper pieced project!

Once you have your sections trimmed, you simply sew each section together.  I have found that leaving the paper on for the section assembly will help to keep your pieces properly aligned.

Finishing your Quilt Block

Once you’ve completed the assembly of your Pinetree Forest Quilt Block – the sky is the limit on how you want to use it!   I will probably make a few more of these and use them as the focal points of some throw pillows on my living room couch!  I can leave them out until it’s time to decorate for Valentine’s Day!

Leave a comment below on how you will incorporate your Pinetree Quilt block into a project. Some ideas off the top of my head would be to make several in a row for a lovely winter scene table runner. You could make a single block as a nice table topper or make several to create a Pinetree Forest Quilt top!

I hope you enjoy making the Pinetree Forest Quilt Block!

Happy Quilting!

Nicole Moore Blog Post Signature

Maker’s Gift Guide

3 Comments

As Makers, we love to have all the latest tools and techniques to keep us evolving and creating!  I’ve been a Maker for some time now and have worked in and around the Sewing and Quilting industry long enough to see many of the newest and latest trends & notions on the market.  I have divided this Gift Guide into several categories.  Whether you are looking for everyday essential Tools, a great Pattern, Notions, Equipment or simply some inspiration – There is a little bit of everything for every Creative Person.  Let’s dive right in!

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. ? Read my full disclosure policy here.

Essential Everyday Tools

This is the time to take stock of what you have for essential, everyday tools. What items do you use everyday that might be getting worn out. Does your cutting mat have deep grooves or do your rotary blades need replacing? Have your rulers seen better days? Maybe you are just looking for a good reason to get that size you always wish you had! Whatever the case, click on the images below to get a better idea of this products and how you can use these for everyday sewing or quilting.

OmniGrid Ruler Pack is perfect for everyday use!

TrueGrips keep my rulers from slipping!

I’ve used my 17″ Rotating Cutting Mat for YEARS!

The 45mm Rotary Cutter is my Go-To size!

Press it Real Good

We all know that pressing is an important part of our making process. Heat and steam play a vital role in the results we hope to achieve! Getting those fantastic results is much easier when you have the right tools. Take a look at my favorite tools and notions that help me achieve flat seams and take my pressing to the next level!

The Oliso Mini Iron is one of my favorites!

Wool Pressing Mats can make all the difference!

Best Press is my favorite spray starch.

Snip Snip Here, Snip Snip There

Gingher Embroidery Scissors are the perfect size!

Karen Kay Buckley Scissors are precise!

Gingher Shears are perfect fabric scissors!

Do you see what I see?

Slimline 3 illuminates your sewing machine!

Luminos Adjustable Lamp is the brightest!

Take your projects to the next level with a Wafer 1 Lightbox!

Cricut Makes it Easy!

The Cricut Maker even cuts your fabric!

Restock your Cricut Fabric Mats!

Grab your favorite Cricut Tool Set!

Level Up your Quilting!

Use these Quilting Disks to help with Free Motion Quilting!

Curved Safety Pins for Quilting

Don’t forget the Basting Spray!

Cutest Fabric Bundles in Town

Night of the Nutcracker Fabric Bundle

Bunny Trail Fabric Stack

Botanicals Super Bundle

Patterns to Keep You Sewing

Make Your Own Scalloped Placemats

Make this classic Quilt Block – Drunkard’s Path Quilt Block Pattern

Make the Necessary Clutch Wallet

Inspiring Projects

Personalized Zipper Pouches

Mini Boxy Pouches

Make a Mini Barn Quilt

I hope you found some inspiration and ideas in this collection of goodies! I hope you can get yourself, or someone you love, something very special this year!

Happy Stitches!

Nicole Moore Blog Post Signature
Personalized Zipper Pouch

Personalized Zipper Pouch

4 Comments

Everyone loves personalized gifts! Having your name or your initials on an item is a great way to personalize any handmade gift! This Personalized Zipper Pouch is the perfect size for pencils, markers or pens. You can also fill it with makeup or anything to help keep you organized in style. Let’s take a look how to make this fun and simple project!

personalized zipper pouch

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. ? Read my full disclosure policy here.

Materials List

  • Qty (2) Exterior fabric pieces: 9′′ x 5.5′′
      • I used 100% Cotton Duck Canvas Fabric
  • Qty (3) Accent/Interior fabric pieces: 9′′ x 5.5′′
      • I used fabric from my online shop
      • We will use one of these pieces for the exterior Letter and Accent
  • Zipper Tab fabric: 2′′ x 4′′ (I used the same fabric as the interior/accent)
  • Qty (1) 9′′ Nylon zipper – I get all my zippers right HERE
  • Optional label – Check out Dutch Label Shop

Supply List

Cutting The Personalized Letter

Place the accent fabric on your Circuit FabricGrip Machine Mat, right side up. Use a seam roller or a brayer to secure the fabric onto the mat. Program your Cricut Machine to cut your Personalized initial. I made sure the size did not exceed 4” in height. Once you cut the shape, remove your mat from the machine. Use your Cricut weeding tools to remove your cut shape.

Cutting The Personalized Letter

Clip off a piece of your Misty Fuse and Parchment paper to prep the wrong side of your cut shape. Using your iron, fuse the Misty Fuse and remove any access residue. Place your cut shape onto one of your exterior fabric pieces.

ps – If you don’t have or use a Cricut Machine, you can simply print out a letter, trace and fuse as well. Don’t let the machinery stop you from making this fun project!

Making the Zipper Tab

Cut your zipper to 8”. Fold and press fabric rectangle in half lengthwise , wrong sides together. Open it back up and fold each side to the center; press. Trim the ends of the zipper. Slip the zipper end in between the folded fabric to create a sandwich.

Making the Zipper Tab

Straight stitch along the edge. Trim off ends of fabric from zipper tab. Open zipper and repeat steps 3 & 4. Be sure to line up the zipper straight across the top opening before attaching the zipper tab.

Assemble the Personalized Zipper Pouch

Place the front of the exterior fabric piece, right side up. Place the zipper along the top raw edge, the wrong side down. Clip in place and cover this with the interior fabric piece. Clip all together and sew along the top edge with your zipper foot. Be sure to secure this side with topstitching. Next, follow the same steps on the back side of the pencil pouch.

Assemble the Personalized Zipper Pouch

Finally, OPEN YOUR ZIPPER! (This is important). Secure the exterior and interior pieces together (right sides together) and secure with clips. Sew along the entire perimeter of the project, but leave a 3-4′′ opening on the middle of the interior fabric side. Now you can flip your project right side out and sew the opening closed.

Just take a look at this video and see how fun and easy it is to make these Personalized Zipper Pouch!

I got carried away and decided to make several of these for my family. They really make great gifts. I filled them with age related items. Colored Pencils for my young niece and some makeup compacts for my older nieces. So much fun to make them special for each person!

Let me know in the comments who you would make a Personalized Zipper Pouch for. I would love to hear from you.


Just Keep Sewing!

Nicole Moore Blog Post Signature
Daylight Wafer Lightbox

Daylight Wafer Lightbox

3 Comments

Ever since I started using the Daylight Company Wafer 1 Lightbox, my Foundation Paper Piecing projects have elevated to the next level. The Daylight Wafer 1 Lightbox is sleek, modern, compact and brilliantly bright. This is not your Grandma’s Lightbox. You know the one I’m talking about! The old lightbox that is big, bulky and emits yellow light. Let me show you all the smart and useful ways to incorporate the Daylight Wafer 1 Lightbox into your sewing studio.

Using the Best Daylight Wafer Lightbox

Daylight Wafer Lightbox

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. ? Read my full disclosure policy here.

Tracing Images using Daylight Wafer Lightbox

I recently used my Daylight Wafer 1 Lightbox to trace an image for a Holiday quilting project. I needed the image to be reversed and the only way to do this was to turn the paper over and trace the outline.

Tracing image - Wafer One Lightbox

Thanks goodness I had my Daylight Wafer 1 Lightbox. With the lowest ultra light setting, I was able to easily trace the outline for a transposed image and finish designing my masterpiece.

Foundation Paper Piecing

Before I had my Daylight Wafer 1 Lightbox, I had to make sure I had adequate natural sunlight in order to see through the pattern paper. This isn’t always possible if you are a night owl, like me. Using the Daylight Lightbox, in conjunction with my Perfect Piecing Paper, Add-A-Quarter Ruler and Seam Roller, made quick work of an otherwise tricky project!

Foundation Paper Piecing

I love being able to see the lines of my pattern and the designs of the fabric at the same time. It was a bonus to also have the Daylight Wafer 1 self healing cutting mat as well.

Weeding Vinyl for Cricut projects

An unexpected bonus was when I discovered I could very easily use my Daylight Wafer 1 Lightbox to help with weeding the vinyl I had cut with my Cricut Maker. If you are a Cricut user, you know how tiresome weeding vinyl can be on your eyes.

Weeding Vinyl - Wafer One Lightbox

When I place my cut Vinyl sheet on top of my Ultra Illuminated Daylight Wafer 1 Lightbox – it was like the angels in heaven were shining through the project and showing me where to lift and peel. Talk about a game changer!

Just take a look at this video and see how much easier your life can be when you add a Daylight Wafer 1 Lightbox to your Sewing Space!

These Lightboxes come in 3 different sizes and each size also has an optional cutting mat, which can be added separately. I am using the Daylight Wafer 1 Lightbox and Daylight Wafer 1 Cutting Mat in this video. This size is perfect for my small sewing space and provides a nice size for fussy cutting. If you need a larger size, not to worry. These also come in 2 bigger sizes.

Checkout the Daylight Wafer 1 Lightbox and be sure to use my special coupon code to receive 20% off your order!

Coupon Code Graphics

Let me know in the comments how you would use a Daylight Wafer 1 Lightbox and Daylight Wafer 1 Cutting Mat in your next sewing project. I would love to hear from you!

Just Keep Sewing!

Nicole Moore Blog Post Signature

BRIGHTEN YOUR SEWING STUDIO

Leave a comment

Are you sewing in a dark or dimly light area?  Do you wish you could Brighten your sewing studio and relieve stress on your eyes?  Do you want to see better when you are sewing or quilting?  I know exactly how you feel and have been working on this problem for a while now.  I’m so excited to share my 7 tips to brighten your sewing space!  These are practical ideas that can make an immediate difference to your time in your sewing room.  Let’s dive in and don’t forget to watch the video too!

Brighten your sewing studio

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. ? Read my full disclosure policy here.

Natural Light

Using natural light is one of the easiest ways to brighten up a room.  You can have the sun shine even brighter in your room when your windows are clean!  Yes, we know. This one seems a tad obvious, but simply cleaning your windows can have a major effect on how much sunlight streams into the room. The less dirt, dust, and splatters on your windows, the more sunshine can peek into your room. (Plus, cleaning a window is way easier than installing more windows.)  This is also a good time to dust the window sill and blinds (if you have them). 

Natural lights

I use white blinds in my window and this works well to reflect light in the room, allows light to come in and also provides adequate privacy when closed.  In the image, you can see what a difference it makes to have lighter colored window treatments!  Consider changing to a lighter shade of window treatment too!

Wall Paint

Since light is easily reflected, it is recommended to have very light (or even white) walls in your sewing space.

Wall Paint

This isn’t the space to try out a moody, dark color palette. Think back to sixth-grade science: The lighter the color of your walls, the more light they’ll reflect.

Flooring

There are tons of choices for flooring, but when a space is in need of additional light, it’s best to choose light wood (or carpet) flooring to brighten up the room.

If changing out the carpet or flooring is not in your immediate budget, consider adding a large white or cream colored area rug. 

Ceiling

Aren’t most ceilings white?  I think so, but it’s worth mentioning that having a white ceiling is another way to ensure that you maximize the light being bounded around the room.  Most of us have the builders grade popcorn ceiling, and that is just fine.  If you ever want to upgrade, they have some amazing Ceiling Tile Accents that would take your space to the next level.

Ceiling
Ceiling
ceiling

Although my ceiling is packed full of video equipment, I chose to use white PVC Pipes and brackets.  To learn more about my ceiling setup, check out this article.

Change Your Bulbs

A simple thing, like changing your light bulb, can make an instant and amazing difference!  The difference between Daylight Bulbs and Soft White bulbs is simply remarkable!  I recommend using Daylight Light Bulbs for your Sewing Studio!  These are white lights that really brighten your sewing space!

change your bulb

Another great thing about the Daylight Bulbs is that they do not emit heat.  We all know how warm it can get in a sewing room.  I mean, that iron isn’t cool and can really heat up a space.  So, don’t add to the hot box by using the soft white bulbs.  Switch to Daylight Light Bulbs ASAP!  Ps – they even make Daylight bulbs for your sewing machine!!!!

Embrace Minimalism

Let’s face it.  We all have a lot of stuff!  We have even more stuff when it comes to our sewing and quilting supplies!  We have fabric, tools, notions, machines (not to mention the cutting tables, ironing boards and more).  And then we pack it all into a single room!  Take a look at my space before I switch to minimalism.

Embrace minimalism
Embrace minimalism
Embrace minimalism

We also love to showcase our work by hanging up our mini quilts and sometimes trying to fill up all the empty spaces.  While this is very pretty and can also be fun, all these colorful projects can absorb the light in the room.  Take a look at the difference when I remove most of the mini quilts and change to a minimalistic decor.  The space has definitely brightened.  I did leave a single mini quilt on my wall, but will keep my other mini quilts handy so I can change them out on rotation.

Add the Slimline 3

I just love my Slimline 3 Table Lamp.  I have this clamped on the side of my Sewing Table.  My light illuminates my sewing machine.  Because  it has a swivel base, I can swing it around to my ironing board as well!  This lamp has two flexible joints so I can position it in the perfect place for my task. 

Slimline

My Slimline 3 from the Daylight Company has 4 different brightness levels.  I use the lower setting for sewing during the daytime and crank up the brightness for evening sewing and quilting.  And because I am a Daylight Brand Ambassador, I can offer you my coupon code for 20% off your purchase!  Just head over to the Daylight Company website and get your Slimline 3 today!   Use Coupon Code SEW20 for 20% off!

Watch the video to see all the ways to brighten your sewing studio!

I hope you can take some of these ideas and use them right away.  I would love to know in the comments which idea you like best!

Keep Sewing Brightly!

Nicole Moore Blog Post Signature
Oh, Christmas Tree

Oh, Christmas Tree Pattern and Tutorial

2 Comments

Making Christmas Tree quilt blocks is a fun and simply way to add cheer to your home. You can turn these blocks into a simple mug rug (perfect for gifts), create a festive table runner or even make a bunch for your very own Christmas Quilt! How ever many you decide to make, I’m sure we can all agree that these blocks are timeless and fun! Be sure to check out the
video tutorial at the bottom of this article!

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. ? Read my full disclosure policy here.

MATERIALS LIST

BASIC SEWING SUPPLIES NEEDED

Oh Christmas Tree - I love using the Add-A-Quarter Ruler when Foundation Paper Piecing!

Prelude to piecing

To make the Christmas tree foundation paper pieced block, you’ll print your patterns on copy  paper. Take a look at the one inch mark and measure it with your ruler. I really like to transfer my copies onto foundation paper. I like the Perfect Piecing paper. It is really  transparent and rips out easily. I also like using the Add a quarter ruler. It has a nice quarter  inch which makes foundation paper piecing really easy using this ruler.

Oh Christmas Tree Pattern - Using a Daylight Wafer 1 Lightbox and cutting mat is a perfect way to make quick work of all your FPP patterns!

Starting the Christmas Tree Block

Each of these blocks have seven pieces and we’re going to start in numerical order. Piece  number one is the tree trunk and piece number two is the background. To start the block you’re  going to have the right side of your fabric be right against the backside of your foundation  paper piece pattern. And then you’re going to put block number two fabric (right sides together  with fabric number one), directly behind fabric number one. Sew the line between number one  and number two.

Now, fold that pattern paper piece back and use our add a quarter ruler. This little lip helps  hold it against that folded edge and gives you a one quarter inch seam allowance. Cut off the  excess fabric and then the seam roller to press out that seam.

Oh Christmas Tree Pattern - Using a Daylight Wafer 1 Lightbox and cutting mat is a perfect way to make quick work of all your FPP patterns!

Just keep sewing

Next we’re going to work through the remaining pieces. 

You’ll line it up to make sure you have at least a quarter of an inch past the line. And make sure  that you have enough fabric all around the edges also. 

We’re going to fold that back and trim away the excess and we’ll use our seam roller and press that back. And piece number four is done just like  piece number three.  

Using the Daylight Wafer 1 Lightbox comes in really handy for things like this. You can see all  the pieces behind you, even when there’s multiple layers. 

Pieces five, six and seven are larger and you might find it helpful to test the fabric placement,  before sewing. To do this, simply use sewing pins in lieu of stitches. Test the placement, make  adjustments if necessary and proceed with sewing.

Oh Christmas Tree Pattern - Since I used Perfect Piecing Foundation Paper - tearing away the pattern is easy!

Finishing the block

Now all that’s left is to trim away the excess fabric around the perimeter of the block. Now  you’re not going to want to trim right on the exterior line. You’ll give yourself a one quarter inch  outside of the line. I’m using the Add a quarter ruler for that I can see the lip of the one quarter  inch mark. 

Now all that’s left is to rip out the paper because the stitch length was 1.5″. It really makes a nice perforation on the paper. And this  paper is the perfect piecing paper because it’s a lot thinner than regular paper.  As a bonus – Perfect Paper is super easy to rip out!  

Watch the Video

This was a super easy and quick foundation paper piece block. Be sure to get a copy of the  pattern and start making your own Christmas Trees today! 

Happy Stitches, 

Nicole Moore Blog Post Signature