Monday, April 8, 2013

3 more layouts...........

This layout is the reverse of the colors in yesterday's post for quilt number two.  I have had inquiries about the pattern.  It is a combination of 2 patterns plus my own methods added.  I was first introduced to this 2 quilt pattern by Marilyn Doheny in the early 1990s so I have notes from that class as well as a more current pattern.  Then I have changed all of the things that I teach in my Trip Around the World classes that make the construction easier.  Maybe I can do a tutorial later.
This layout has three extra rows inserted to make into the Boston Commons version.
This is the reverse color sequence in the rectangular version.  I will sew this one in this version.  I have enough leftover strata cuts to add 2 rows to the other one so they can both be rectangles if I decide I want them to be.  I have church sewing circle this afternoon and several errands to run so I'll see if I have enough energy to get one of them sewn together tonight. 
Several people have asked how I get the seams to match so well on this project.  You MUST cut straight and sew straight in the stratas to get the seams to match.  Sew all of the stratas on the same sewing machine.  I always told my students to sew at the pace that they can make straight seams, no faster.  Also having the area around the machine the same height as the bed of the machine makes a huge difference.  If you don't have your machine in a cabinet or have a Plexiglas type table to fit around it, build up the area with magazines or books in back so the stitched fabric flows straight out, not dropping over the back edge.  I like the area in front at the same level as the machine too.  My accuracy improved dramatically with a level surface around my machine.  Also there are seams every 2.5" to match. You need to stretch or ease if necessary and MAKE them match.  If one doesn't match exactly but the next one does, I'll let it be off a little, but if the next one doesn't match either you need to analyze your problem.

15 comments:

Katie said...

Love that bottom choice it really sets off all the colors well.

Gene Black said...

Thanks for sharing the information. A tutorial would be great.

Sewing Junkie said...

Using the same machine is really a good tip. I have seen several take a small machine to a class and come home to finish on their regular machine. The seam widths don't match.Also correct needle position is very important. Chris

Debbie said...

I remember the technique from way back when, but your color selection really enhances this. I love how they all sparkle. And great info and reminder on straight sewing. Thanks

Anonymous said...

I know it must be a ton of work, but I would love to see a tutorial on how you make these TAW quilts. I would love to make a Quilt of Valor like this. Your quilts are lovely!

Karen - Quilts...etc. said...

you are so right on making your seams match - it is a must. Love your colors!

Mary said...

I also would love a tutorial. All your layouts are beautiful.

Karendianne said...

Enjoying the eye candy!

Michele said...

I think I have that pattern somewhere. I am really loving your color choices and hope you find time to do a tutorial.

JJM said...

Oh Wanda ~ what a great Monday post... I never dreamed you could do so many layouts with a strata.

JJM

Anonymous said...

I was wondering about the pattern also, so I would really appreciate a tutorial if you have time. My very first quilt class was by Marilyn Doheny. It was actually a class learning to cut different shapes with rotary cutters, which were fairly new at the time. I then took a year long class, meeting once a month, where we did a different pattern each month, most using strata which was her big thing at the time. I was a beginner quilter and did not keep up on all the new projects but I learned a lot from her. She was a little dynamo. :) Wonder what she is up to these days.

Valerie

Elaine/Muddling Through said...

You are a natural teacher, Wanda. I've learned so much from you just reading your blog. Thank you for all you do!

Brown Family said...

I love both lay outs. You are right about making those seams fit!

Ruth said...

Please, a tutorial! Pretty please!

Needled Mom said...

The variations are so interesting. It has to be fun to play around with them once you have them cut. Which layout are you going to use?