We’re ready for block one
For me, the first block in a quilt is always the most exciting. It’s the block where you see the fabrics come together for the first time, and it gives you a taste of what’s to come. So let’s pull some fabrics for block one, are you ready?
When you cut the background and applique fabrics from your kit, be sure and cut only what you need for each piece. You’ll have plenty of fabric if you follow the instructions. Most of the backgrounds in this block are directional fabrics so check before you cut. And when you come to the applique fabrics “fussy” cut when you can.
I’ve made a fabric guide for Merry Merry Snow Days that will help you identify each fabric used in the blocks. As you’re cutting fabrics, and you come to one you can’t identify from the photo, check this guide.
As I was working on the blocks, I wondered if the white snowmen fabrics would be too “see-through”. Once they were quilted, I was happy with the result. It’s fine to back the snowmen with a layer of Pellon interfacing (fusible lite). If you decide to try this, cut it the interfacing the same size as your snowmen templates and don’t add the seam allowance. This is a personal decision. Look at the fabric in the top photo and then see how it looks after quilting in the photo below.
When it comes to llama legs, you’re going to be so glad you made the 1/4″ bias. Just cut what you need, leaving a little extra to turn under on the bottom of the legs. When you start to applique, make sure those skinny little legs are even at the bottom.
I use the Spray Starch method of applique and because my quilts have to be made quickly, I’ve turned to machine applique (you’ll find a tutorial under “tutorials”). But, when it comes to the tiny things like llama ears, snowmen noses, and small star points I use hand applique.
All of the snowmen eyes are done using a few satin stitches, and the mouths use small French knots.
I’ve posted a schedule for the blocks and blog posts below. If you keep up with my schedule you’ll find it’s possible to complete this quilt by November. And yes, you can ask me questions as we go along. I’d love to hear how you’re doing. You’ll find all of the posts under “Categories” Merry Merry Snow Days.
June 19, Block Two
July 17th, Block Three
July 31st, Block Four
August 14th, Block Five
August 28th, Block Six
September 10th, Block Seven
October 9th, Block Eight
October 23rd, Block Nine
November 5th, Block Ten & Finishing
I hope you love working on this quilt! It’s one that I loved designing!
Anne
7 Comments
Kay Opilka
I have a question. I am cutting the fabric for the blocks background as suggested. I noticed on block two, page 8, the cutting instructions are maybe an inch off. The top left block is 7 1/2 x 5 1/2, the block beneath is 7 1/2 x 6 1/2. This also is in the blocks on the right.. Top block is 10 1/2 x 5 1/2 and the bottom block is 10 1/2 x 6 1/2. They look like they match in the picture. I just want to check , I already cut before I noticed. Also I noticed color 2948-18 calls for one 10 1/2 x 5 1/2., but not used in this block. Thank you, love the quilt and the fabric.
Anne
Hi Kay, Everything is ok, you’re just reading the dimensions wrong (I have to say you scared me at first). I always give the width of the block first, and then the height. 7 1/2″ is the width of both blocks on the left-hand side, and 10 1/2″ is the width of both blocks on the right. 2948-18 is the snow fabric with grey diamonds. It’s used for the upper right background and the llama background. Hope this helps.
Kay
Thanks for the quick response. Good to know width is listed first then height. I am working on putting the blocks together first then on to appliqué. Anne do you have workshops? Kay
mimisdarlins
What a fun project! Brings back the days of your early online BOMs :)