I have started another garden block. The first step to this block is adding the bias stems. I have made bias stems using the metal bias bars but I have learned about these Clover bias makers. If you have not tried them you should. Using it eliminates sewing. I like to get to the hand sewing part. The instructions tell you how wide to cut a bias strip. You feed it into one end and then slide it to the other end as you iron it. I like to spray a little bit of Magic Sizing on the fabric before I feed it through the maker. That way the edges stay nice and crisp.
Tip:
When sewing your binding on, start with the inside curve of the bias first. The do the outside curve. You will find that you won't have to fight the bias so much if you do them in that order. I learned that from one of my teachers. 
I have had a couple of comments about how fast I am sewing these blocks. I am not as fast as it looks. One of the blocks was done in the summer and then the other two were done in the fall. I did not want to give the impression that I am "Super Appliquer". I work on more than one project at a time. If I would stick to just one I would get a block done pretty fast. Hmm!! maybe..., no I like working on more than one at a time.
You might have noticed a new button on my sidebar. You have to check out this great free BOM from Anne Sutton at Bunny Hill Designs. The first block is so cute. I know the remaining blocks will be just as cute. Oh no!another project to start.
With Passion, Carrie P.
Measure wealth not by the things you have but by the things you for which you not take money. Anonymous
12 comments:
Carrie fantastic bias, so neat...
I can see why you're a teacher. Always great tips. I'm sure you've already helped many people become better appliquers.
Thanks for the tip, Carrie! I have some of those - just haven't used them yet! I've been doing it with the "Celtic strips" but I always burn myself if the iron gets too hot!
Cheers!
Hi Carrie,
I have this bias maker and thanks for all the hints. I still haven't used it, but now I'll just have to give it a try.
I'm with you on working on different projects, can't just do one.
Now I'm off to the BOM.
Keep Stitchen'
Bonnie
Thanks for the tip - your blocks are so lovely. Are you picking your own fabrics?
I have the bias maker, I have had problems with the tape. Do you use the tape? Your blocks are all wonderful. Thanks for the tip, I will use sizing.
Anne's BOM is adorable, :) add one more to the list.
Carrie
I've checked out your BOM links and oh how sweet! Wish I had more skill ... but I'm working on it!
Thanks for sharing your idea on college books. I'll begin shopping for Jase's books tomorrow!
Smiles,
Lea
Your bias looks great. I may have to dig out my bias makers and give it a shot (I too am always impatient to start on the applique!).
And thank you for sharing the Bunny Hill BOM. How very cute! It's definitely going on my list. :)
Thank you for telling me about Bunny Hill bom.
I am an applique lover also,so I was THRILLED to find your blog.
Good to know. I'd love to join Ann's block-a-long. This is one reason I need to do less. I want to have fun.
Someday when I try my first applique project I will know who to go to for help!
I had to come see what you are up to. Lots of good info and tips. Thank you so much. I am trying to improve my hand applique skills as well. I love doing any kind of hand work.
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