2019 Gypsy Wife QAL - Section 1 Hourglass Block with two borders

Before beginning each block, I strongly suggest you read through the entire directions and look at the pictures to be sure you understand each step and to ensure that you cut correctly.

As always, remember your accuracy in cutting…

keeping the measuring line of your ruler ON the fabric.

If you have the First Edition copy of the pattern, be sure to check the Errata page.

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We begin with the Hourglass block with two borders.
Directions and cutting measurements can be found on page 21.  Do not add seam allowance to your cutting...  sizes given include seam allowance. 

#tip #Hourglass corrections on pg 21 are for the right hand column smaller size block NOT the top left column larager size we need for section 1

#tip HINT>>>> When making the #hourglass block... the pattern indicates you need to make 2 blocks. You can make them both at this time....   Only one will be used in Section one....
be sure to add the two border rounds as indicated in the top right hand column page 21.. . . . . . . . . . .
The borders added in the bottom left hand column will give you the incorrect size block for section 1, but will be used elsewhere in the quilt.

We start by cutting our two squares and laying them together facing each other.
Draw a diagonal line.

  

 



I also drew a faint line 1/4inch on either side of the diagonal line.  Our goal is to stitch  beside  the outside lines for a scant 1/4 inch.

You will then cut on the  center line forming two triangles.

Open the triangles and lightly press to form two Half Square Triangles (HSTs)   
 


Next you will lay the HSTs on top of each other with opposite colors facing each other and butting the center seams together.

 Draw a line diagonally across the center seam.  Again,  I drew a light 1/4 inch line on either side of the center.  Stitch a scant 1/4 inch seam by sewing just to the inside of both outer lines.  Cut on the center line.

 If you gently pick out the 2-3 stitches in the seam allowance on both sides of the block, you can then "spin" the seams for a flatter block.  You can see a tiny 4-patch in the center if you do it correctly.

Give a light pressing and you have two Hourglass Blocks.

 

You can check your measurement at this point.  In your pattern booklet, the dark printed line below the title "Hourglass blocks" tells you the finished block size.  Add 1/2 inch to that number to find what these unfinished blocks should measure, and you can trim them to size.

To add the two borders to this block we go the the top right hand column on page 21.   We will be adding two rounds of strips.

Round 1:
Sew the top and bottom strips on first.  

HINT:  You can check your measurement here... The top to bottom measurement should be the same as the length of the two side strips you will add on next.


Next we will add the two side strips.

     

Hint: Your block should square up to the size of your next border strip length.

Round 2:
Sew the top and bottom strips on first.

HINT:  Again... you can check your measurement top to bottom... it should be the same length as the two side strips you are about to add.

Add your two side strips and you are done.









Your block will measure 6in when finished in your quilt. Add 1/2in for the unfinished size.


And you will have an extra hourglass block that can be use for a filler block elsewhere in the quilt.



One thing I have begun doing as I make a quilt is to save some shavings and bits/pieces.  I found some clear plastic hollow ornaments at Hobby Lobby or WalMart.   I fill them with fabrics from the quilt.  When I'm done I will add a piece of paper stating the name and date of the quilt.  It will be a nice memory to hang on my tree each Christmas.

You can leave comments and questions below.  I will reply ASAP

Thanks for following along.   Click on "newer post" to see the next block.