Grandma Short made entire quilts with these hand pieced blocks. To try the life changing magic of slow sewing and a new technique (2017 Goal), I decided to hand piece one block for a hot pad. The life changing magic of slow sewing does about as much for me as the life changing magic of tidying up (not a great deal of life change). Even though it's hand pieced I lost the points of the stars, but luckily the fatness of the pot holder makes the star bend around the edge and disguises the lost points somewhat. I'm not sure how Grandma churned out these blocks. Guess I have to practice a lot more!
What I learned:
- The thread you use is very important. I tried several and found Bottom Line from Superior Threads to be the best. It glides through the fabric, doesn't tangle, and the stitches don't show.
- The needle is equally important. The pattern says "medium size" needle. Again, I tried several to find one that is easy to use. I have heard that Milliner's Needles, Size 11 are the best to use. Maybe I'll try those next time.
- Size: Approximately 9" Square
- Batting: Insul-Brite. It makes a crunchy sound, which is annoying!
- Pattern: Hot Pad from Dahlia Quilts and Projects by Cheryl Bennerand Rachel T. Pellman
- Piecing by Patty
