It’s week 2 in the Alphabet and Shirts Quilt Along. This week, let’s settle into our fabric choices and really get going on our projects. Here’s a look at some of what I’ve pulled over the last week–I’m feeling the scraps!
There’s something nice about working with a heaping scrap pile. Cutting into yardage and bundles can feel very precious, but a messy scrap pile just screams to be explored. I’m keeping this pile handy and right next to my sewing machine so I can pull and play as needed.
Shirts Progress
I have been making Shirts each day that reflect what I’m wearing. I’ve already re-worn an outfit from last year, but it’s such a favorite that I’m not surprised. Also, there’s no shame. We should be re-wearing our clothes. Our closets don’t need to be disposable. This shirt is one I didn’t get into the rotation last year. I wear it a lot, and so I love celebrating it.
I also made a couple of blocks that pay homage to my wedding last month. Here are the two shirts made from my dress fabric and Bobby’s shirt. I surprised him with a snakey shirt on the day of our rehearsal dinner. He loves snakes, and I love Leah Duncan–the designer of the fabric–so it was a win win.
Alphabet Palette Cleanser
When it came to Alphabet, I really wanted a palette cleanser to ease me back into things. Last week I mentioned being drawn to piecing out a quote, but that felt a little too overwhelming. Instead, this simple phrase that harkens back to a favorite song as a kid felt just right.
This little phrase was a perfect afternoon project where I could dive into my scrap pile and play with color. It got me thinking about making little pillows. Maybe this will become something for my other niece?
Moving Forward
This next week, I’m going to settle into the fabrics that I pulled and continue plugging away. With the twin-sized Alphabet project that I want to finish, I’ll nail down a timeline for getting it finished up. My templates for the other projects are printed and sitting by my sewing machine. Everything is in place so I can just sit down and sew.
Watch This Week’s Video
In this week’s video, I share more about all of the things above, and I also share some tips, thoughts from you that resonated with me and plenty of other good stuff too.
Happy sewing!
any tips for getting a flat block, especially with the 2 1/2” alphabet blocks? do you trim 1/8” seam allowance?
That’s a great question! I’ll make sure to mention it in the next video. Yes, you can trim to 1/8″ SA if you’d like. I do use 1/4″ just because I’m in the habit, but you’re going to have some bulk to deal with no matter what–those pieces are tiny! Press adjoining seams open as much as possible. Of course you can’t do that when FPP, but you can when joining any sections together. Use a hot, steamy iron, and I like also using a wool pressing mat. The flatter you can get the pieces, the better you are doing to be. Hope that helps!
I love how the letter colors pop especially the I in SHINE! Heading on a cruise but will work on more when I get back. You inspired me with your wedding mementos to create something combining our names (Steve and Linda = STENDA) – maybe a small wall hanging!