Did you have fun with January’s block? Well, here is block number two…it is a good time, spent with half square triangles…
This block will build your skills and confidence!
You will need four fabrics or comparable contrast scraps….
I used scraps but fat quarters work perfectly too….
Block 2 of the Bernina Group BOM 2021Cutting Instructions:
Cut 4 Green (or your color) squares 3 7/8″ x 3 7/8″( these are your outer block triangles )Cut 4 squares 3 7/8″ x 3 7/8″ ( these are the windmill blades )Cut 2 Center print squares 3 7/8″ x 3 7/8″Cut 6 White or background squares 3 7/8″ x 3 7/8″ All squares should be the same 3 7/8″ square. When you are making half-square triangles add 3/8″ to the size of the square size you need for piecing. For example we need a 3 1/2″ square to piece the block, so we would add the 3/8″ to that measurement.
Using a ruler and pencil, mark a diagonal line on the wrong side of each of white squares and two of the center print squares. With right sides together, match up two of the windmill blade squares with two of the center print squares. Match rest of the colored print squares with white background squares. Sew 1/4″ seam along each side of the marked pencil line. Repeat this with all of the squares.
Using your rotary cutter and ruler, cut each square right on the pencil line. IMPORTANT – If you don’t want to do what I did, Press open your half-square triangles. Usually you press all seams to the dark side. But to create less bulk you will be pressing a few to the white or background side. Trim off the dog ears and TRUE UP the half-square triangles. The squares should be 3 1/2″ square – you won’t have much to trim off. Use the diagonal markings on your mat or your ruler to line up the diagonal seams. You want the diagonal seam to be right in the center of the corner of each square. That way when you sew your 1/4″ seams, the points will be perfect.
Lay out the squares forming the windmill. Sew the squares together in rows. Press the seams of each row in opposite directions. This way they will nest together when you sew the rows together. Backside view of pressed seams. unless you pressed all your seams open, Note how each row has alternating seam directions. This will help all of those squares nestle together. Sew each row together matching points and seams. Your block is all finished
Have fun!
Fiddlestix And Stitches 