Welcome to the Party!
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Here are a few tips to help make this the best party you've ever been to.
Even when you're working with small pieces of fabric like the ones in your block kits, we recommend that you cut strips first, then cut the triangles, etc., from strips. To determine the strip widths needed for the various shapes, refer to the cutting layouts in the patterns, to the From Marti Michell Perfect Patchwork Template Set B or D product sheet, or to the full-size patterns in each block kit. More information is included in The Best Way to Measure and Cut Strips.
Cutting layouts are drawn to scale. Pieces are arranged to show you how they fit on the fabrics in your block kits. Cut carefully, as there is little extra fabric, and save all your scraps in case you need a small piece later.
Several of the blocks in this Party feature "swirl pressing". We have expanded the directions for swirl pressing Sunset Canoes in a downloadable PDF. The same technique(s) apply to any instances (in these blocks and any other quilting projects) where swirl pressing will enhance pressing and distribute excess bulk.
Triangles can be cut with the legs or the hypotenuse on the straight grain of the fabric. This decision on where to place the grainline is based on the construction technique and the position of the piece in the block. The arrows silkscreened on the templates are the suggested grainlines for most blocks. If you are using the templates, the grainline arrows printed on them are the recommended grainlines for most blocks. When you see an arrow in the cutting layout for a particular piece, ignore the arrow on the template and cut as shown on the cutting diagrams. Paper patterns show the proper grainlines for these blocks.
The names of the blocks suggest a story. They are all original blocks designed for this Party, and when they are reminiscent of a traditional or well-known block pattern, we have included a reference in the block name (such as Friendship Card, which made us think of the popular block Card Trick). We suggest making the blocks in the following order to build skills:
| 1. | Champagne Toast | 7. | Star Struck | ||
| 2. | Waltzing Together | 8. | Chance Encounter | ||
| 3. | Moonlight Reflection | 9. | Lovers Lane | ||
| 4. | Fantasticks | 10. | Where's the Diamond | ||
| 5. | Friendship Card | 11. | Sunset Canoes | ||
| 6. | Engagement Party | 12. | Ta-Dah! |
All blocks are 12" finished. Feel free to print this page for reference as you collect your block kits.
We have also prepared a downloadable color fabric key, which may be helpful in identifying the fabrics in your block kits, and a color page showing all the blocks that you can use as a checklist to keep track of which blocks you have ordered. Don't forget the Party closes on June 15, after which block kits will no longer be available.
Have fun making your blocks and selecting a finishing kit for your beautiful quilt!
Marti Michell
