For these lessons I will supply you with the patterns that can be printed onto freezer paper, just click on the picture of the block in the sidebar. However there are many options for making up your own templates.
All templates DO NOT include the seam allowance.
Accuracy in making your templates is the key to a well constructed block. Whether you are tracing a pattern or drafting up an original, take the time to have smooth clear lines and make sure the block measures to the "finished" size.
Also, keep in mind that you will be drawing your sewing lines on the back of the fabric and if your pattern is not symmetrical, you will have to make a mirror image of the pattern, before you trace it to your template medium. Personally, I don’t care if my block ends up swirling right or left as long as I do them all the same.
There are many mediums you can use to create your templates, these are:
1. Template Plastic - I use this only when I’m making a whole quilt, using one or two blocks repeatedly and the block size and/or template pieces are an odd shape or size.
2. Card Stock - I’ve even cut shapes out of cereal boxes, but the edges wear down and the shape will not retain an accurate measurement for very long. Good in a pinch but not a medium I would recommend.
3. Freezer Paper - I use this almost exclusively. It’s easy to see through for tracing and the pieces can be used over and over. If you have Electric Quilt, or any other quilt software program, you can print the block directly onto freezer paper. You can also use the PDF I'm supplying to print directly onto the freezer paper. DO NOT print onto freezer paper if you have a laser printer!!
4. No Template At All - If the block you are making has segments easily measured, like in 1/4 inch increments, and is a basic shape (square, rectangle or half square triangle), you can just draw the shapes directly onto the back of your fabric, using a ruler.
Crispy
