Welcome to the Block Party … Tutorial that is! I’ve included step by step instructions in each chart, but sometimes we visual learners need picture cues! No problem. Somehow I managed to remember to take photos during the finishing process of HOME!
The full tutorial is shown below but you can also download a PDF here.
Enjoy, Cathy
Press & trim completed stitching 5/8” away from the backstitching on all 3 block pieces (top, bottom & side panel). Be sure to check that you stitched the correct number of backstitches (top & bottom are 58×58 and side panel is 232 stitches wide!
Cut & apply lightweight fusible web to the 3 pieces. It should fit just inside the backstitch line on the back side of your stitching. Follow manufacturer’s instructions.
Trim the WDW wool to fit on the Smyrna Cross diamond on the top panel. (approx. 2 1/4”) It will cover some of the Smyrna cross rows (I didn’t want to have any linen showing between the wool & the stitching)
Attach wool with a blanket stitch or applique stitch.
Finger press along backstitch line for all 3 pieces.
Be sure that you design that flows from the side panel to the top panel matches up
Match up the lower left corner of the block top & the upper left corner of the side panel (marked with an ‘A’ on the chart). Lace the top & side panel through matched backstitches with 2-ply of matching floss. Needle should run under the backstitches & not pierce the linen.
Continue lacing all the way around the top of the square & down the seam in the side panel.
Attach the bottom panel of the block in a similar manner, starting at the corner. I start at the corner with the seam as it is easier to end tie-offs & knots here.
Lace all the way around & before closing up, stuff with wool or fiberfill. Be sure to fill your corners first & shape your block as you go.
I prefer wool roving as it holds it shape well & is good for you needles!
Don’t forget to embellish your Block Party pincushion with it’s very own Just Another Button Company 4-letter word pinset! Be sure to ask at your shop or visit the website: www.justanotherbuttoncompany.com
Block Party Finishing Tutorial©2015 Hands On Design & Cathy Habermann. Permission is granted for Shops & Stitchers to print & distribute for classes and personal use. Reposting is permitted with proper reference to http://www.handsondesign.biz These instructions are complimentary & not for resale. Images are the property of Hands On Design & Cathy Habermann.
I don’t know how mUch wool roving to order. Approximately how many ounces will the block (meow) take?
Dorothy – it depends on how firm you like to stuff your pincushions. I usually order at least a pound at a time to have some extra on hand – I stuff everything with it! Cathy