This month's blocks were definitely challenging. I made the ones that Gay at Sentimental Stitches provided but my friend, Dawn, decided to make some changes including re-drafting blocks so they looked more like the originals. Lots of pics! Enjoy!
Still bouncing around . . .
Original Block 45 attributed to Anna Marie Coles, Gloucester (Sentimental Stitches website)
My block came out way too dark and 1/4" short on two sides. I actually added 1/2" background strips but they are not visible in the photo.
With minor changes like curving the triangles and spiraling the center points, Dawn's block looks just like the original.
Original Block 46 attributed to Lydia R Deacon (Sentimental Stitches website)
My block. Read on to see how I tackled this one.
The first thing I did was print the entire pattern on freezer paper and cut out the individual pieces. I ironed those on the wrong side of the appropriate fabrics and used the paper pieces as a guide to sew the petals together.
That was not only a real time-saver but proved to be an accurate method for sewing all those small pieces together. I appliqued this ring to the background then sewed the entire center unit in place.
But look what Dawn did. She tweaked the center petals so they were narrower at the base leaving a space between each one. Love that little change!
Original Block 47 attributed to Susan B Haines / Rancocas (Sentimental Stitches website)
I made this block which Gay substituted for the original. I wasn't really sure how to approach making this block so I used the same freezer paper method for the center and appliqued that whole section to the points which I had already sewn on. The result was an uneven circle with bulky seams at the turning points. But I'm not doing it over, lol!
So, this is what it looks like when you take the time to re-draft it. What a fun quirky block, Dawn!
Original Block 48 attributed to Charles D Kemble / Jobstown (Sentimental Stitches website)
This is my version of the substituted block--sort of. There were 3-petal flourishes on each diagonal corner but they just didn't look right so I decided not to add them.
Isn't this block fantastic? Dawn really nailed it when she re-drafted the pattern. The corners work out fine on this one because there are 4 extra petals to even things out. Just beautiful!
So to recap--here are my blocks . . .
. . . and here are Dawn's.
Thank you Dawn, for letting me post your beautiful blocks!
Moving on to the next set . . . :)
Enjoy your week!
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Copyright 2020, Barbara Schaffer
Every time you post more of your gorgeous blocks I am reminded of how happy I am that I did not take on this monumental project. Your blocks are simply gorgeous! And, so are Dawn's.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful blocks but oh, how difficult! Way beyond my skill set though I sure enjoy seeing yours and Dawn's. You must be about halfway through the block construction at this point?
ReplyDeleteBeautiful blocks, indeed! Wish I had the ability and patience to even try them! ---"Love"
ReplyDeleteI can imagine how challenging and difficult these blocks must be, but at the same time so satisfying, and fun. I really like both sets. Beautiful work!
ReplyDeleteThese blocks are so challenging. I think each one gets more beautiful and more difficult, but both you and Dawn nailed it. I admire you persistent and skill!!
ReplyDeleteThese blocks leave me in awe! Yours or Dawn's--either one is beyond my comprehension, and they all look incredible!
ReplyDeleteSuch a joy to see Dawn's accurate versions, love the true to life look.
ReplyDeleteI agree! I love Dawn's accurate versions, too.
DeleteEach set is so beautiful! This is going to be an heirloom quilt for sure.
ReplyDeleteWhat a challenge. You are answering it beautifully! I really enjoyed seeing how each of you tackled the blocks.
ReplyDelete