Rhythms Quilt Along Week 4: Block 4
We’re almost done! How does it feel? This week we get to combine the skills learned over the past two weeks to put together Block 4 of the Rhythms Quilt. This block utilizes strip piecing (like Blocks 3 & 4) and curves (like Block 1) to create a stunning portion of the Rhythms Quilt design. Be sure to refer back to the Week 2 blog post and the Week 3 blog post to if you need a refresher on the tips to improve these techniques.
We’re almost done! How does it feel? This week we get to combine the skills learned over the past two weeks to put together Block 4 of the Rhythms Quilt. This block utilizes strip piecing (like Blocks 3 & 4) and curves like (Block 1) to create a stunning portion of the Rhythms Quilt design. Be sure to refer back to the Week 2 blog post and the Week 3 blog post to if you need a refresher on the tips to improve these techniques.
This week will give a quick synopsis of the last two weeks, and ONE BIG TIP that will make a huge difference in the final product! Just like last week, I recommend you give yourself plenty of time to do this block correctly.
Review 1: Strip piecing
- Pair them into sets of 2. Sewing in pairs will minimize distortion in the final block.
- Press strip pairs. If you have a wool pressing mat and/or a tailor’s clapper, they are helpful in creating crisp, flat seams.
- Sew the strip pairs into the complete block.
- Square up the edges of the completed block.
Piecing Block 4:
- Follow the instructions and diagrams in the pattern to piece the blocks together.
- A scant 1/4” seam is so important!
- Do not trim blocks until you have reached the end of the block! If things are not lining up correctly, go back and re-read the pattern or phone a friend to verify you have followed the instructions correctly. If you trim and/or square-up too much along the way, the final block will not align correctly.
- It is more important to match the seams than it is to have an even edge. The edges can be trimmed, but a misaligned seam will cause this design to lose a little of its shine.
Block 4 is complete! How are you feeling so far? This block is such a great opportunity to expand your sewing skills and become a more proficient quilter. As always, I am accessible through email (wellspringdesignsco@gmail.com) or Instagram, so feel free to reach out with any questions or comments. I am excited to start seeing your Rhythms Quilts come together. Remember to post a photo this week of Block 4 and use the hashtag #RhythmsQAL to be entered to win the grand prize at the end of the QAL. And this week, be sure to use the discount code to shop the gorgeous bundles at Liza Taylor Handmade!
Review 2: Cutting and piecing curves
- Fold blocks in half twice (right sides together). Take your adhesive spray (this is the one I use) and lightly coat the back of the template. Align the template with the folded edge. Use your 6” x 6” ruler to guide and stabilize the rotary cutter as you cut along the template.
- Align the creases of a background curve to the creases of the circle. Align the edges and pin the corresponding creases together. Stitch slowly along the edge, lightly arranging the fabric as you go. Do not pull on the background piece, it will distort the final shape. A video is provided below to demonstrate sewing a curve.
- Trimming curved blocks: Here comes the BIG TIP!! Only trim from Piece AO (refer to pattern) when squaring up Block 4 curved blocks!! If you trim from both sides of the block, the stripes will not be a consistent width across the section.
