Hello, it’s me again!
And it is time for another block in our “Patches of Blue” Quilt-A-Long. This is our last block and next time we see each other we will be putting the quilt together!
This month we will make an appliqued block called “Sleigh Bell” from page 110.
I know some of you like to stay away from applique like it is a picky cactus. Do not worry, I am going to make this as simply as possible!
We will need the pattern from page 116 and 117, fusible webbing (Lightweight Heat and Bond) 16-1/2″ x 24-1/2″ light fabric for background, one fat eighth in blue, Blue Sky Silhouette, and Blue Snowflake Silhouette.
We will start by tracing the sled to the paper side of the fusible webbing with a pencil.
You need to trace exactly on the lines.
Sometimes I like to use stencils to draw my designs on the fusible webbing. Since I have a little left over, I am going to use it to draw one Gingerbread Man and later on I will add him to one of the blocks I have previously made.
Once you finish drawing, rough cut your shapes leaving 1/8″ on the outside of your pieces.
If you would like, you can cut out the fusible webbing on the inside just leaving fusible on the edges. This will make your shapes nice and soft. I want my shapes to be a little bit firmer so I am keeping the fusible as my stabilizer.
With a dry iron, press your shapes to the wrong side of the blue fabric.
Using sharp scissors, cut out your shapes. (Stay on the LINES)
We have a lovely sled for some of the cold winter days. We will use Blue Sky Silhouettes for branches and berries to fill the sled.
Remove the paper from the back of the shapes and start laying out your applique following the layout. I place the long pieces first, then cut the stems to make winter branches. Make sure to tuck the edges under each other.
In the Blue Sky Silhouette package you will find two blues birds and even though they are not in the original design, I have included them in this block. I think they are so cute!
You are going to love the Blue Snowflake Silhouettes. In the package you will receive 3 large snowflakes and 3 small ones.
Gently peel the paper from the back and position the snowflake in the middle of the sled.
Gently press all pieces – be careful not to over press!
“Touch of Blue” Aurifil threads are perfect for stitching around the applique. There are so many beautiful shades of blue to choose from. I would love for you to watch this YouTube video before you start your applique, I think it will be very helpful.
I am going to use a blanket stitch around the edges of the branches and sled.
And a straight stitch through the snowflake.
Save every bit of the leftover branches from your Blue Sky Silhouette package. We will add them to some of our previously made blocks as we assemble our quilt next month.
The Gingerbread Man has found his cozy spot under the blue spruce block with some snowflakes.
Fusible applique is so much fun and provides you with quick and beautiful results during this busy time of the year…
As you travel to visit your family …
as you are decorating for the holidays,
and as you are waiting for someone special to visit.
I hope you enjoy all the Stars upon Stars this season has to offer.
Happy Quilting! Edyta