Resurrection of a Decomposed Block

Last week I showed how I decomposed a block using Electric Quilt.  As a reminder this was the block I drafted.

The Pythagoream Theorem in Action

I was asked for a better explanation of the Pythagorean theorem.  Let me give you an example with the block I drafted last week.  I knew I wanted to put the block on point.  This means I needed to figure out the size of my new block.

Here is what we know:

• a is the same size as b
  
• c is equal to 12.5 (without seam allowances)
  
• the a/b lines form a right angle (which is why we can use Pythagorean)

Here is the math to solve for "a" after filling in the information we know:

Coming Up with a Layout for the Flower Box Block

I mentioned that I wanted to come up with my own layout using Electric Quilt.  I decided to use a Lady of the Lake type of setting (yes a gazillion half square triangles).  It was a great opportunity to make a slight dent into my scraps.  No new fabrics were used in the half square triangles!

This weeks video will include information on rotating the block, creating some additional blocks using the grid and line tools in Easy Draw, adding a block from the library, creating a new layout and setting the larger block on layer two.

Piecing those Half Square Triangles

As you are probably aware, I love over-sized piecing trim-down techniques.  I definitely decided I needed that for these half square triangle units.

The finished size of each unit is 1.75" by 1.75".  That meant I couldn't use Tucker Trimmer 1.  But no fears -- that is why I also have a Tucker Trimmer 2.  The Tucker Trimmer 2 works the same way, but in 1/4" and 3/4" increments.

• Cut all squares 2-3/4" x 2-3/4".
  
• On wrong side of the Background squares draw a diagonal line corner to corner.  
  
• Stitch 1/4″ from the drawn line on both sides. 
  
• Cut on the drawn line.  
  
• Make two half-square triangle units.  
  
• Press seam toward the Dark fabric.
  

Trim all units to 2-1/4" x 2-1/4" using the Tucker Trimmer 2™ or your favorite square ruler.  Trim the top and right sides.  Rotate the unit and line up cut edges with the 2-1/4″ marks on the tool or ruler.  Trim the other two sides keeping the diagonal seam aligned with the marking on the tool.  

I'm not sure I care to count how many retreats I worked on these triangles.  I don't think I ever actually worked on them at home.  I will say that it was very exciting to finally see the quilt come together.

Now for the reveal----

My Finished Quilt

Flower Box Variation by Kari Schell

Flower Box Close Up

Flower Box Close-Up

Featured Pattern - Smiling Irish Eyes

For this week I decided to feature a pattern that used the Tucker Trimmer 2 tool.

These miniature quilts have an Irish theme – shamrocks, a Celtic quilt block and Irish chain blocks.  Instructions provide for oversized units that are cut down with the use of the recommended rulers.  This makes miniature quilts a breeze.  The table topper finished 21" x 21" and the vertical wall quilt finished 8" x 20".

The pattern is a steal at $8.  Click here to purchase.

Are you also interested in the Tucker Trimmer 2?  Click here to purchase.

Happy quilting.

Kari

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