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| Mystery Quilt Block 2 |
Back to the Quilting Friends! With Block 1 laid down we now need to move forward in our creative journey through The Mystery Quilt designed by the great Monique Dillard of Open Gate Quilts. Block 2 is actually the beginning of the momentum in any mystery quilt. We're starting to see how our chosen fabrics are working together and the mystery has begun to deepen in the most gorgeous way.
Moving Design Elements:
Monique Dillard is known for her ingenious methods of construction, while Block 2 turns the spotlight to precision units that convey motion and geometry within the design. We are going to stress value placement a whole lot this week! Since we aren't sure what the finished top will look like, what will really be the key to making this block (and finished quilt) pop will be ensuring a crisp contrast between your light background fabrics and your rich medium or dark prints.
This block is a beginning of units demanding continuous cutting and flawless seam alignment. Monique's patterns may employ clever over-sized sewing technique, and then cut to size later. It is a fantastic method to guarantee the most ideal points each time, even with intricate angles.
To get the best out of Block 2:
Here are three helpful practices to put into place at the cutting table and sewing machine to make this second block sewing a fun and relaxing experience:
- Use a Specialty Ruler: When working with half-square or quarter-square triangles, a trimming ruler like Monique's signature “Fit to Be” Rulers will save you time and effort in getting things square.
- Keep Your Pieces Organized: When cutting, place your pieces on a design board or a piece of batting to see the value match-up before sewing.
- Pay attention to the pressing directions in the pattern: Press to Nest. Your seams will be pressed in alternate directions, which will make it very easy to nest your units.
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Mystery Quilt Block 2 is available for a free download from AllPeopleQuilt:
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Final Thoughts:
Block 2 is a great next step in our Mystery Quilt Journey. It is a challenge to our precision just enough to keep us engaged and yet gives us gorgeous and sharp points.
Do your points match up nicely, or do you need to make a little bit of adjustment? Please share in the comments below and share how you are enjoying your fabric with us!
